Seymour Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and tips for safety and health during your trip to Seymour, Indiana.


Introduction to Seymour

Located in southern Indiana, Seymour is a charming small town known for its rich history, abundant natural beauty, and friendly locals. The town has a population of just under 20,000 people and is a popular destination for those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of big city life. With its quaint downtown area, numerous parks and outdoor spaces, and its proximity to some of the state’s most popular attractions, Seymour is the perfect destination for those looking to explore the beauty of the Midwest.

List of Places to Visit in Seymour

Seymour has a lot to offer visitors, from culturally important attractions like museums and historic sites to natural landmarks and outdoor adventures. Here are some of the must-visit places in Seymour:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Freeman Army Airfield Museum: This museum provides a fascinating insight into the military history of the area, specifically the Freeman Army Airfield, which played a key role during World War II.
  • The Southern Indiana Center for the Arts: A beautiful space for art lovers, the Southern Indiana Center for the Arts features rotating exhibits and offers classes and workshops for visitors of all ages.
  • The John Mellencamp Mural: Fans of the legendary rocker will want to snap a picture in front of the John Mellencamp mural, located in downtown Seymour.
  • The T.C. Steele State Historic Site: This beautiful historic site is the former home of famous Indiana artist T.C. Steele and features gardens, hiking trails, and an art gallery.

Natural Attractions of Seymour: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge: Located just a short drive from Seymour, this stunning refuge offers visitors the chance to spot wildlife, take scenic drives, and hike winding trails.
  • Starve Hollow State Recreation Area: This 280-acre park features a serene lake perfect for swimming, fishing, and kayaking, as well as hiking trails that wind through lush forests.
  • Brown County State Park: A bit farther afield, but well worth the drive, this state park is known for its stunning autumn foliage and offers visitors opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and camping.
  • Jackson-Washington State Forest: This dense forest is home to miles of hiking and horseback riding trails, scenic drives, and picturesque lakes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Seymour

Seymour and its surrounding areas offer an abundance of opportunities for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the top trails to check out while in town include:

  • The Muscatatuck Trail: This 4.5-mile hiking and biking trail winds through the beautiful Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge and offers stunning views of the surrounding wetlands.
  • The Hoosier Heritage Trail: A bit farther away, this 160-mile trail spans much of Indiana, but you can jump on the local Seymour stretch near Shields Park.
  • The Lost River Trail: This 3-mile trail takes visitors through a unique geological feature known as the “Lost River,” which disappears and reappears along the route.
  • The Jackson County Greenway: This paved 5-mile trail spans much of Jackson County and offers visitors the chance to take in the beauty of the region on a bike or on foot.

Best Things to Do in Seymour: Activities and Tours

In addition to its stunning natural beauty and cultural attractions, Seymour offers a plethora of activities and tours to keep visitors entertained. Here are some of the top things to do while visiting Seymour:

  • Take a tour of the Cummins Engine Plant: One of the town’s biggest employers, Cummins offers fascinating tours of its state-of-the-art engine production facility.
  • Visit a local orchard or winery: The region surrounding Seymour is home to a number of stunning orchards and wineries, offering visitors the chance to taste the local produce.
  • Attend a festival: Seymour hosts a number of events and festivals throughout the year, from the Labor Day Weekend Festival to the Oktoberfest and the Freedom Festival.
  • Take a scenic drive: The region surrounding Seymour is home to some of Indiana’s most picturesque countryside, making it the perfect destination for a leisurely drive.

Week-Long Itinerary for Seymour

For those with a week to spend in Seymour, here’s a sample itinerary to get the most out of your visit:

Day 1: Check out the Southern Indiana Center for the Arts and stroll around downtown Seymour.

Day 2: Visit the T.C. Steele State Historic Site and take a hike on one of the nearby trails.

Day 3: Take a day trip to nearby Brown County State Park for hiking, scenic drives, and autumn leaf-peeping.

Day 4: Visit the Cummins Engine Plant before heading out to one of the local orchards or wineries.

Day 5: Spend the day at the Starve Hollow State Recreation Area swimming, fishing, and kayaking.

Day 6: Take a scenic drive through the countryside before attending a local festival or event.

Day 7: Hike the Muscatatuck Trail before departing for your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Seymour

Seymour offers a number of dining options, from family-owned diners and classic fast food joints to upscale restaurants and trendy breweries. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to sample while in town:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pork tenderloin sandwich: A signature Indiana dish, the pork tenderloin sandwich is a must-try for visitors.
  • Sugar cream pie: This classic dessert is a staple of Indiana cuisine and can be found on menus throughout the region.
  • Fried chicken: Nothing beats a classic, crispy piece of fried chicken from a local diner.

Local Beverages

  • Beer from 450 North Brewing Company: This local brewery offers an ever-changing lineup of creative and delicious beers.
  • Wine from Best Vineyards Winery: Located just outside Seymour, this winery offers a variety of award-winning wines made from local grapes.
  • Coffee from The Red Yeti: This cozy local coffee shop is the perfect spot to grab a cup of joe before heading out on your next adventure.

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

Seymour offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, from budget-friendly motels to upscale hotels. Here are some of the top places to stay in Seymour:

  • Hampton Inn Seymour: This hotel features a heated indoor pool, complimentary breakfast, and a fitness center.
  • Cobblestone Hotel and Suites: This luxury hotel offers guests a range of amenities, including a fitness center, a bar, and a complimentary breakfast.
  • Knights Inn Seymour: This budget-friendly motel offers basic accommodations and easy access to local attractions.

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

Looking for the perfect souvenir or locally-made product to take home? Here are some of the best options in Seymour:

  • Handmade pottery from the Southern Indiana Center for the Arts Gift Shop
  • Local honey from Honey Heaven
  • Indiana-shaped cutting board from Seymour’s Gift and Home

Local Culture and Customs of Seymour

Seymour is a friendly and welcoming town, known for its hospitality and its commitment to preserving its rich history and culture. Visitors should be sure to take the time to learn about the town’s founding and its importance in Indiana history, and to respect the town’s traditions and customs.

Best Time to Visit Seymour

The best time to visit Seymour is during the autumn months when the leaves are changing and the countryside is at its most picturesque. However, the town is worth a visit any time of year, from the sunny summer months to the snowy depths of winter.

Do’s and Don’ts of Seymour

Do:

  • Take the time to explore the town’s history and culture
  • Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the region
  • Sample the local cuisine and drinks

Don’t:

  • Ignore safety precautions when engaging in outdoor activities
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions
  • Forget to pack for the season (Seymour experiences all four seasons)

Safety and Health

Safety in Seymour

Seymour is a safe town for visitors, but it’s always important to be mindful of your surroundings and take precautions when engaging in outdoor activities. Visitors should be aware of potential hazards like inclement weather and obey warning signs and advisories.

Health in Seymour

There are a number of medical facilities and pharmacies in Seymour, making it easy for visitors to access the care they need. Visitors should also take precautions to stay healthy while on vacation, like staying hydrated and listing to their bodies when it comes to rest and activity.

Getting to Seymour: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors to Seymour can arrive via car, bus, or plane. Here are some of the top transportation options and logistics to consider:

Airports Near Seymour

  • Louisville International Airport: Located just over an hour’s drive from Seymour, this airport offers daily flights to destinations throughout the US and beyond.
  • Indianapolis International Airport: A bit farther away but still within a reasonable drive, this airport sees frequent domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Seymour

  • Seymour Greyhound Station: This station offers daily service to destinations throughout the Midwest and beyond.

Other Options

  • Rental car: Visitors traveling by plane can rent a car at the airport to make their way to Seymour.
  • Taxi or rideshare: A number of taxi and rideshare companies operate in Seymour, making it easy to get around town without a car.

How to Get Around in Seymour

Seymour is a relatively small town, making it easy to get around on foot or by bike. Visitors can also take advantage of local taxi or rideshare companies, or rent a car if they plan to explore the surrounding region.

Where to Go Next from Seymour: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Seymour is a great starting point for exploring the rest of Indiana and the Midwest. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Columbus: This nearby city is known for its architecture, art, and history, and makes for a great day trip from Seymour.
  • Indianapolis: The state capital, Indianapolis is just a short drive from Seymour and offers visitors a range of cultural attractions and historic sites.
  • Mammoth Cave National Park: Located just across the border in Kentucky, this stunning national park is home to the world’s longest cave system and is worth a visit for its natural beauty alone.

Conclusion

From its vibrant downtown to its stunning natural beauty, Seymour is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of the Midwest. With its friendly locals, rich history, and an abundance of outdoor activities and cultural attractions, Seymour is the perfect destination for your next vacation.