Angola Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Angola with this helpful guide including places to visit, hiking and biking routes, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, and transportation options.


Introduction to Angola

Located in Northern Indiana, Angola is a small and charming town known for its scenic beauty and outdoor adventures. It is the county seat of Steuben County and is surrounded by a number of lakes and state parks, making it a popular destination for fishing, boating, and hiking enthusiasts. Angola is also home to a number of cultural and historical attractions, including museums, art galleries, and historic downtown areas.

List of Places to Visit in Angola

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Civil War Monument: This towering monument located in the center of town honors the 1,329 Steuben County residents who served in the Union during the Civil War.
  • Steuben County Historical Society Museum: This museum features exhibits showcasing the history of Steuben County from prehistoric times to the present day.
  • The National Automotive and Truck Museum of the United States: This museum displays over 100 antique and classic cars and trucks.

Natural Attractions of Angola: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pokagon State Park: This state park is located just outside of Angola and features over 1,200 acres of rolling hills, rugged ravines, and several lakes. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, swimming, and cross-country skiing.
  • Lake James: This beautiful lake is located just 10 minutes from Angola and is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and water sports.
  • The Angola Trail: This scenic 1.5-mile trail runs through downtown Angola, and includes a picturesque boardwalk over the Maumee River.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Angola

  • Pigeon River State Fish and Wildlife Area: This area boasts over 12 miles of hiking trails with varying degrees of difficulty.
  • Potato Creek State Park: Located on the shores of Worster Lake, this state park offers both paved and unpaved biking trails.

Best Things to Do in Angola: Activities and Tours

  • Zollner Golf Course: This stunning 18-hole golf course is set among rolling terrain, pristine lakes, and lush landscapes.
  • Hog Hill Brewery: This local brewery offers a variety of signature beers, as well as seasonal beers and a cozy atmosphere.
  • Chain O’ Lakes Boat Tour: Visitors can explore the Chain O’ Lakes on a guided boat tour, learning about the area’s history and ecology.

Week-Long Itinerary for Angola

Day Activity
Day 1 Hike the Pigeon River State Fish and Wildlife Area
Day 2 Visit the Steuben County Historical Society Museum
Day 3 Explore the downtown area’s shops and restaurants
Day 4 Spend the day at Pokagon State Park
Day 5 Go fishing on Lake James
Day 6 Take a Chain O’ Lakes boat tour
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the scenery at Hog Hill Brewery

Food and Drink Scene of Angola

Must-Try Dishes

  • Powers Hamburgers: This local restaurant is famous for its sliders, which have been a favorite among visitors for generations.
  • Barb’s Centre Street Diner: This diner serves up classic American breakfast dishes, sandwiches, and homemade pies.
  • The Hatchery: This restaurant specializes in fresh seafood dishes.

Local Beverages

  • Hog Hill Brewing Company: This local brewery offers a variety of signature beers, as well as seasonal beers and a cozy atmosphere.
  • Metzger’s Tavern: This local bar has been open since prohibition and is known for its handcrafted cocktails and beer selection.
  • The Venue: This wine bar offers a wide selection of wines, as well as craft beers and small plates.

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

  • Potawatomi Inn: This state park inn features comfortable guest rooms, a restaurant, and a conference center.
  • ** Ramada by Wyndham Angola**: This hotel features amenities like an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast.
  • Lake Charles Motel: This budget-friendly motel is located near the lake and features clean and comfortable rooms.

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

  • Angola T-Shirts: Visitors can find a variety of Angola-themed T-shirts at local gift shops.
  • Stearns Kayaks: Stearns Kayaks are made in Angola and are popular among kayaking enthusiasts.
  • Steuben County Maple Syrup: Visitors can find locally harvested and produced maple syrup at several shops and farm stands in the area.

Local Culture and Customs of Angola

Angola is a small town with a friendly and welcoming community. Visitors should expect to encounter Midwestern hospitality and manners during their stay. Tipping is customary in restaurants and bars, and dressing casually is accepted in most settings.

Best Time to Visit Angola

The best time to visit Angola is during the summer months of June through August when the weather is warm and the lakes are ideal for swimming and boating. Fall is also a great time to visit when the leaves are turning and the temperatures are mild.

Do’s and Don’ts of Angola

Do:

  • Do visit the local museums and historical sites to learn about the area’s rich history.
  • Do take advantage of all the opportunities for outdoor recreation.
  • Do try the local cuisine and craft beer.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Don’t park in restricted areas or violate traffic laws.
  • Don’t forget to tip your service providers.

Safety and Health

Safety in Angola

Angola is a safe town with low crime rates. However, visitors should take the usual precautions and be aware of their surroundings, especially when hiking or exploring the outdoors.

Health in Angola

Angola has several hospitals and medical clinics that visitors can visit in case of an emergency. If needed, visitors can find a list of doctors and hospitals in the local yellow pages or by asking locals for recommendations.

Getting to Angola: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Angola

  • Fort Wayne International Airport (FWA)
  • South Bend International Airport (SBN)
  • Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport (AZO)

Bus Stations Near Angola

  • Greyhound Bus Station- Kendallville
  • The South Bend International Airport

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car to get around Angola and explore nearby destinations.

How to Get Around in Angola

Angola is a small town that can be easily explored on foot or by car. Biking and hiking are also popular means of transportation for those looking to get active and explore the area’s natural beauty.

Where to Go Next from Angola: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Shipshewana: This small Amish town is located just an hour’s drive south of Angola and boasts a vibrant farmers’ market, quilt shops, and antique stores.
  • Indiana Dunes National Park: Located just over an hour’s drive north of Angola, this national park boasts stunning sand dunes and beautiful beaches.
  • Barbee Lakes: Located about 45 minutes east of Angola, this cluster of seven lakes offers fishing, boating, and other water sports.

Conclusion

Angola is a beautiful small town with a wide range of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. From hiking and biking to exploring local museums and dining on delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Angola. Visitors can enjoy the town’s Midwestern hospitality and take advantage of the many opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

Downtown Angola as of 2005, including the historic Strand Theater Downtown Angola as of 2005, including the historic Strand Theater Powers Church, built in 1876 and still containing original wood-burning stoves Powers Church, built in 1876 and still containing original wood-burning stoves