In the heart of Southern Indiana lies several charming small towns with an abundance of character and history. Take a step off the beaten path, explore the scenic countryside and discover your weekend getaway in Gibson County.
Home to Indiana’s largest barn quilt trail, a picturesque arboretum and botanical gardens, a state-of-the-art automotive production facility, one of the state’s last remaining African American pioneer settlements, and numerous unique shopping and dining options, Gibson County offers travelers a unique and relaxing experience in a beautiful part of Southern Indiana.
What to Eat
Breakfast:
Start your morning with an order of biscuits and gravy or a custom style breakfast skillet at Zack’s Diner. While you are enjoying your meal, expect hometown quality service and smiles all around the table. Zack’s Diner also offers lunch and dinner.
Lunch:
Known for having a different plate lunch special each weekday, The Palace Café is an exciting and tasty option for lunch. Indulge in one of the lunch specials, such as a Beef Manhattan with green beans, and don’t forget to stick around for the homemade desserts!
Dinner:
Family-owned and operated, The Log Inn is one of Gibson County’s hidden historic gems and has been named Indiana’s Favorite Hometown Restaurant by the Indiana Association of Cities and Towns. You’ll enjoy their famous fried chicken and delicious desserts. Guests may also order family style with your choice of meat and all of the fixin’s!
Where to Go
Barn Quilt Trail
With over 225-hand painted blocks adorning the landscape, the Gibson County Barn Quilt Trail provides the perfect opportunity to explore the countryside and discover the homespun beauty in the heart of southwestern Indiana.
The blocks, as big as 8 by 8 feet, are displayed on barns across the county. Each block is unique in its own way and presents its own pattern and distinctive coloring. The trail adds a touch of color to the serene countryside.
Follow the barn quilt trail guide and search for each pattern along the trail while visiting some of Gibson County’s must-see attractions along the way!
Azalea Path Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
With over 3,000 azaleas across 60 acres of land, the Azalea Path Arboretum is stunningly beautiful and without-a-doubt a must-see in Gibson County. Two spring-fed lakes, a waterfall, koi pond and several unique sculptures complement the beautifully landscaped trails that wind throughout the grounds. The peak azalea blooming season is late April into early May.
The arboretum and gardens originated back in 1979 with only 15 acres of land and a few azaleas. Beverly Knight became fascinated with gardens she had encountered in her past and decided to start one of her own. The Azalea Path Arboretum has grown to be one of the largest collections of azaleas in the Midwest.
Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge
Escape the stressors of the modern world and enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by nature at the Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge. Over 380 species of wildlife reside upon the refuge, including the nesting bald eagle and the endangered Indiana bat. The Refuge and its community work together to protect and restore these areas for the wildlife, so that it may flourish.
Spend the afternoon breathing in the fresh air and sharing space with wildlife. Whether you enjoy fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, birding, paddling or hunting, there’s a unique adventure waiting for you at the Refuge.
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana Visitors Center
Indiana’s very own Princeton is the birthplace of the Toyota Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, Sienna and Sequoia. Explore the history of Toyota from its early role in the textile industry to its position today as a standard bearer in automotive production and quality, right here in Gibson County!
The Toyota tour is perfect for friends and family alike. Go behind-the-scenes of the world’s leading automotive manufacturer and see the renowned Toyota Production System in action.
View a demonstration of an original Toyoda Type G Automatic Loom and learn the poignant story of how this loom is now producing backing for quilts donated to wounded American troops. Watch the sparks fly while taking a free tram tour through the Toyota manufacturing facility and observe the Toyota Production System up close!
Where to Sleep
The Maxam House Bed and Breakfast offers the most unique overnight accommodation. The staff of this family-run bed and breakfast love to get to know their guests and make them feel right at home. Built in 1884, The Maxam House is one of Princeton’s most charming brick residences. Each of the four rooms have a private bath, TV/DVD player, refrigerator, and include a tasty evening snack and delicious homemade breakfast.
You may also consider staying at one of the various hotels across the county including the Baymont Inn & Suites, Fairfield Inn, Hampton Inn and the locally-owned Diplomat Motel.
There are many more adventures to be had in this unique spot in Southern Indiana, one of which includes Lyles Station. Lyles Station was founded by free black men in the mid 1800s. The pioneer farming community instilled strong values of hard work and the importance of education in its residents. Today, the Lyles Station Historic School and Museum hosts a traditional family-oriented festival and corn maze each fall.
Whatever adventure you decide to embark upon, it is sure to be a special one. Remember, no matter how you spell “fun”, you’re invited to enjoy it in Gibson County, Indiana!
