Cumberland Travel Guide

Explore the best of Cumberland, Indiana with this comprehensive travel guide that covers attractions, outdoor adventures, accommodations, local culture, and more.


Introduction to Cumberland

Cumberland is a charming town located in the Nine-County Region of Indiana, in the Midwest region of the United States of America. With its rich cultural heritage, outdoor recreational opportunities, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s an ideal destination for travelers looking for a slice of authentic small-town America.

List of Places to Visit in Cumberland

If you’re looking for things to see and do in Cumberland, don’t miss these top attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • (1) Cumberland Covered Bridge: Built in 1857, the Cumberland Covered Bridge is a cherished landmark and a testament to Cumberland’s history. Take a stroll across the bridge and snap a few photos to commemorate your visit.
  • (2) Hancock County Historical Society Museum: This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the region, with exhibits that showcase the area’s industries, coal mining, and contributions to the war effort.
  • (3) James Whitcomb Riley Museum: Located a short drive away in nearby Greenfield, this museum honors James Whitcomb Riley, known as the “Hoosier Poet.” Explore his life and works while also discovering the history of the area.

Natural Attractions of Cumberland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • (1) Cumberland Park: This beautiful park offers a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and picnicking. There’s also a playground for families visiting with children.
  • (2) Buck Creek Winery: Unwind and indulge in the beautiful surroundings of the Buck Creek Winery. Take a sip of their delicious wines while enjoying the picturesque view from the vineyard estate.
  • (3) Camp Sertoma: Located in nearby Anderson, Camp Sertoma offers outdoor activities, ziplining, archery, and more for the adventurous traveler.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cumberland

Cumberland is known for its stunning natural scenery, so it’s no surprise that there are plenty of opportunities for hikers and bikers to explore the great outdoors. Check out some of the best trails:

  • (1) Pennsy Trail: This trail is a picturesque 10-mile long route that winds through several towns in the region, beginning in Cumberland.
  • (2) Pleasant View Orchard: Hike through the majestic orchards and revel in the bounty of nature with trails that wind around the property.
  • (3) Geist Park Trail: This trail makes for a scenic, nearly six-mile long ride along the shoreline of Geist Reservoir. The trail is relatively flat, making it an easy and enjoyable ride for bikers of all ages.

Best Things to Do in Cumberland: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, Cumberland promises to be a destination filled with excitement and fun. Here are some must-try activities:

  • (1) Visit the farmers market: The local farmers market is one of the best places to taste delicious locally grown produce. Open on, Saturdays from 9-noon, make sure to drop by to find the perfect snack or cook-up inspiration.
  • (2) Antique hunting: Cumberland has many antique shops for those who love to hunt for vintage treasure. Among these, the Trader Baker Antique Mall and the Cumberland Antique Mall are stand-out destinations.
  • (3) Attend a community event: Cumberland’s town-wide events are iconic and really demonstrate its charm. The annual Old Settler’s picnic, 4th of July fireworks, and holiday festivals are not to be missed events.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cumberland

To help you plan your trip to Cumberland, here’s an itinerary that covers some of the best sights and activities in the area over the course of a week:

Day 1: Explore Cumberland’s downtown area, including the antique malls, farmers market, and local eateries.

Day 2: Take a hike/bike ride along the Pennsy Trail, stopping at quaint towns like Greenfield, New Palestine and more.

Day 3: Experience Indiana’s love for nature at its finest and go on a zipline adventure at Camp Sertoma.

Day 4: Learn about the area’s history at the Hancock County Historical Society Museum, followed by lunch at a nearby eatery.

Day 5: Indulge in some local wine at Buck Creek Winery after a hike through the orchards at Pleasant View Orchard.

Day 6: Get some exercise by hiking Cumberland’s natural trails, followed by a visit to the James Whitcomb Riley Museum.

Day 7: Attend the community picnic, bursting with music, good food, and fun activities for all.

Food and Drink Scene of Cumberland

If there’s one thing that defines Cumberland, it’s the delicious food and drink. From classic American diners to locally grown wines, here’s what you need to sample on your trip:

Must-Try Dishes

  • (1) Pork Tenderloin: Indiana is known for its Hoosier Pork Tenderloin and Cumberland probably has one of the best versions near it. Try some local restaurants offering it as their specialty.
  • (2) Sugar Cream Pie: No trip to Cumberland is complete without indulging in a traditional sugar cream pie. Try grabbing a slice at local eateries, they come in many tasty interpretations and referred to as Hoosier Pie.
  • (3) Corn on the cob: In Midwestern America, corn is king. Sink your teeth into grilled corn, slathered in butter and smothered in spices. Many restaurants, including the farmers market, offer this as a seasonal treat.

Local Beverages

  • (1) Indiana Craft Beers: From popular brands like 3 Floyds and Upland Brewing, to regional brewing houses in Cumberland like Fountain Square Brewery, Cumberland encourages taking a sip of their craft beer scene at every opportunity.
  • (2) Wines: Cumberland has its own vineyard, so it’s ideal to taste Buck Creek Winery’s product and feel like a local.

Where to Stay in Cumberland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many great accommodations in Cumberland, whether you’re looking for a cozy bed and breakfast or a luxurious hotel. Here are some recommendations:

  • (1) Hampton Inn: This is one of the top-rated hotels in Cumberland, offering modern amenities and spacious rooms.
  • (2) The Ashley-Drake Inn: This inn is located in a quiet residential neighborhood, and offers antique furnishings and cozy common areas.
  • (3) Fastbreak Inn: If you’re looking for budget accommodations, the Fastbreak Inn provides nightly and weekly rates, quality rooms at an affordable price.

What to Buy in Cumberland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Make your trip to Cumberland memorable by bringing home souvenirs and locally-made products. Here are some top picks:

  • (1) Handmade crafts: Indiana is home to many skilled artisans, and you can find everything from hand-crafted jewelry to pottery at local shops.
  • (2) Local food products: Pick up some locally made jam, traditional sugar cream pie, or craft beer as a taste of the region.
  • (3) Antique Finds: Cumberland has some great antique malls with one-of-a-kind items, offering many surprising and interesting items to take home with you.

Local Culture and Customs of Cumberland

Cumberland’s friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere are a reflection of the region’s culture and customs. Visitors are advised to be polite and respect the community’s values.

Best Time to Visit Cumberland

The best time to visit Cumberland is in the spring and summer months, when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its finest. Avoid wintertime as snowfalls can disrupt travel and tour plans.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cumberland

Here are some things to keep in mind to make your visit to Cumberland smooth and enjoyable:

Do:

  • (1) Use your manners: Locals are always appreciative of politeness and good manners, so always be courteous and friendly.
  • (2) Take care of nature: Cumberland is a natural wonderland. Let’s all be conscious, leave no trace of oneself, and help preserve the environment.
  • (3) Explore: The town and its surroundings are full of surprises, so don’t hesitate to go off the beaten path and discover the hidden gems of Cumberland.

Don’t:

  • (1) Overstay: Do not wander into private properties or consume anything that’s not yours.
  • (2) Be noisy: Respect your neighbors’ peace and quiet.
  • (3) Litter: Keep the city clean and maintain its beauty.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cumberland

Cumberland is a relatively safe town, but it’s still advisable to take normal precautions, such as locking valuables in your car and sticking to well-traveled areas.

Health in Cumberland

Cumberland has medical clinics and pharmacies open during business hours. In case of an emergency, call 911 or head to the nearest hospital.

Getting to Cumberland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cumberland

The closest airport to Cumberland is Indianapolis International Airport, which is approximately 23 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Cumberland

The nearest bus station to Cumberland is the Greyhound station in downtown Indianapolis, which is approximately 17 miles away.

Other Options

Cumberland is accessible via our local transportation web services such as Uber and Lyft or one can rent a car from a reputable dealer.

How to Get Around in Cumberland

The easiest and most convenient way to get around Cumberland is by car. Renting or having a car is ideal when visiting Cumberland, but taxis, Uber, and Lyft are also available.

Where to Go Next from Cumberland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Cumberland is conveniently located near various other Indiana destinations, perfect for day trips. Here are a couple of recommendations:

  • (1) Indianapolis: The bustling city of Indianapolis is just a short drive away from Cumberland. Visitors can check out the city’s many attractions, including the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Indianapolis Zoo.
  • (2) Newburgh: Take a scenic drive to explore the pristine landscape of Newburgh, a charming town with a rich cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Cumberland is a town that promises to leave visitors with a one-of-a-kind experience. Its historical sights, natural parks, delicious food, and welcoming locals make it a must-visit destination in Indiana. With this comprehensive guide, you’re now all set to plan a perfect trip to Cumberland!