Posey County has a rich history, including two prominent Utopian communities and a wealth of early pioneer experiences. Its unique history and environment were forged by the confluence of two great rivers and a vibrant cultural and spiritual scene. Posey County’s world class art and architecture, delicious restaurants and cozy places to stay draw visitors from across the Midwest.
Posey County is an important agricultural and industrial area with a rich historical past, especially in the town of New Harmony. The unique natural ecosystem provides visitors with a wide variety of sights to see as well as several cultural experiences.
What to Eat
Breakfast:
Hawg N’ Sauce is an award-winning Kansas City style barbeque rib joint. The tasty brown-sugar based sauce is a local favorite. In addition to delicious food, Hawg N’ Sauce features live music by both local and national artists on their large outdoor patio.
Hawg N’ Sauce is a family-friendly environment where you can bring your kids and enjoy the delicious barbeque and live entertainment. Every Saturday, visitors can enjoy brunch and several tasty options from the Bloody Mary Bar.
Lunch:
With a relaxed and distinctive atmosphere, the Yellow Tavern is one of New Harmony’s most beloved restaurants. The Yellow Tavern is a full-service restaurant and bar featuring cold beer and a delicious German menu, consisting of Bratwurst, Germain Bologna, Ruebens, Brain Sandwiches and more.
Visitors will also enjoy local favorites including burgers, pizza and barbecue pork. The restaurant features an old-style classic bar with beautiful woodwork and an impressive drink selection. This establishment is a tavern, so there are no minors allowed inside.
Dinner:
The Red Geranium is a quaint, local favorite, and has been Posey County’s premier fine dining establishment since 1964. With world-class steaks and chops, seafood, chicken and various pasta entrees, the menu has something to offer everyone. Museum quality art, including works of Picasso, grace the walls of the restaurant.
The atmosphere is as world class as the cuisine. The Sweet Chili Salmon is a popular dinner choice and will not disappoint.
Where to Go
Explore Historic New Harmony in Posey County
The historic town of New Harmony has been a great place of inspiration since the early 1800’s. New Harmony residents have been inspired throughout the years to build unique structures and surround them with art and natural beauty.
Much of the art and architecture in the city has been designed to appeal to humankind’s spiritual nature and offer a path to its deepening. Almost 30 historic structures remain as a testament to the devout and resourceful societies that once resided here.
Harmonist Labyrinth
The Harmonist Labyrinth is a re-creation of the original Harmonist hedge layout. The labyrinth was a very important symbol for the Harmonists and represented the deeper goal of finding a path to God. Anyone who follows the path is set on a journey to find eternal life in heaven.
On a beautiful day, visitors will enjoy resting in the center of the labyrinth and will appreciate the natural beauty of their surroundings.
Roofless Church
The Roofless Church is one of New Harmony’s premier architectural and spiritual treasures. The Roofless Church encompasses an atmosphere that welcomes people of all faiths, and was built on the principle that the sky is the only roof large enough to embrace a world of worshippers.
The most prominent feature is a dome covered in cedar shingles that covers a statue by Jacques Lipschitz, a Cubist sculptor. A peaceful balcony with stone benches provides a beautiful spot for visitors to observe the natural world outside.
In addition to being a wonderful spot for visitors, the Roofless Church is also a favorite venue for weddings and other events.
Harmonie State Park
Harmonie State Park is a local favorite, consisting of deep ravines, towering trees, abundant wildlife and modern campground amenities. Families and camping enthusiasts will enjoy picnics, fishing, swimming, hiking, biking and horse-riding, as well as boating on the Wabash River.
Where to Sleep
Affordable Accommodations:
The Four Seasons Motel is a locally-owned establishment offering a pleasant place to stay whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure. Standard rooms feature either one queen or two full sized beds. Deluxe rooms come with one king or two queen sized beds and offer amenities including a microwave with popcorn, coffee maker, refrigerator, recliner, high speed internet and a patio with a gas grill.
Guests can pack snacks, head down to the outdoor pool and enjoy the sun when the weather is warm. The local owners genuinely care for their lodging and guests, and that shows in details large and small.
Better Boarding:
Located at the Harmonie State Park Campgrounds, Harmonie State Park Cabins combine the best of fine guest houses and outdoor camping. Each cabin contains two bedrooms, one with a double bed and the other with bunk beds. Every cabin has a nice kitchen with all the necessities including a coffee maker, sofas, chairs, dining table and more. Camping has never been so comfy!
Luxury Lodging:
The New Harmony Inn Resort and Conference Center is an upscale and charming hotel with beautiful art and architecture. The hotel accurately captures the natural beauty, fine dining, fine art, culture and history that is the city of New Harmony. The resort integrates the quiet simplicity of the original Harmonists, the utopian dreams of the Owenites and the culture of present-day New Harmony.
The Inn’s two buildings house a total of 90 rooms, all of which feature beautiful, solid wood furnishings and unique art collected by Jane Owen. Premium rooms may include a fireplace, balcony or walk-out patio to the Cloister Garden, which features a small hedge labyrinth and a sculpture by celebrated American sculptor, Stephen De Staebler. The New Harmony Inn Resort and Conference Center is a popular spot for weddings, conference and other large events.
Posey County is a historic place to visit, one with eclectic charm and a unique flair. The rich history and culture have influenced the world with two centuries of innovative ideas and dedication to spirituality and the arts that continue to this day.