In October, thoughts turn to the strange, the odd, and the creepy. Some may even feel a bit braver, more curious, and ready to take some risks this time of year. In Southern Indiana, there are plenty of places to face fears and explore curiosities. Below we have outlined destinations that are odd, strange, or a little bit scary. Bring a friend and take a selfie tour, if you dare.

Strange Sites Perfect for Selfies

Henager’s Memories & Nostalgia, Buckskin (CST)

You’ll find some weird and unusual stuff here. See an eclectic mix of vintage comic books, movie memorabilia, antique music players and albums, rare photos, and bizarre movie posters. October is an ideal time to check out the Horror Movie Exhibit.

Twenty-two-foot Santa Claus Statue, Santa Claus, Ind (CST)

Year-round, you can visit this larger-than-life Santa Claus statue in – where else? – Santa Claus, Indiana. In fact, see if you can find ALL of the Santa Claus statues and take selfies with them all. Here is a hint:  search high and low!

Body Reflections Salon & Hair Museum, French Lick (EST)

Sure, you can get a great haircut and style here. However, the back of the salon may get a bit hair-raising. There you’ll discover a museum dedicated to the cosmetology industry, the only one of its kind in the world. Comb through over 100 years of hair history including treacherous razors, shears, weird hair tonics, mid-evil looking permanent-wave machines, and…hair. See a lock of Elvis Presley’s hair and a creepy framed hair wreath that dates back to the Civil War.

Whispers Estate, Mitchell (EST)

This is a documented paranormal attraction. Is it a ghost, a spirit, or a science anomaly? It is up to you to decide. When you visit the website, you can hear voices and see video of activity that have been classified as paranormal. Currently only overnight investigations are being booked. After watching the videos, you may have reservations about making those reservations.

Joe Palooka, Oolitic (EST)

Who was Joe Palooka and why is his statue in downtown Oolitic? Prior to 1940, Joe Palooka was a comic book character who was a good-hearted boxing champion. During WWII, his character enlisted into the military, becoming a Nazi fighting hero. This statue sits in downtown Oolitic, on State Road 37, north of Bedford. Bedford and the surrounding area is rich in natural limestone, hence, using limestone for this carving. Created in 1948, this status marked both the 100^th anniversary of the Indiana Limestone Company and the dawn of the Cold War. Erecting a gigantic statue of a comic book hero who was a military hero made sense at the time.

I am Your Mother, Jeffersonville (EST)

Created in the mid-1980s, this 20-foot woman was built with metal scraps and is entitled I am Your Mother. It resides along the railroad tracks at 1275 Dutch Lane in Jeffersonville. There is a rustic sign that explain the art piece in a poem, which is a moving explanation of how love outweighs everything else. Off the beaten path, this is a true gem that is worth the search. Bring your mother!

Rosie The Riveter Statue, Clarksville (EST)

We can do it! This statue honors Rose Will Monroe, one of the four “official” Rosie the Riveters during World War II. Monroe was a single mom who worked as a riveter in a Michigan aircraft factory. After the war, she settled in Clarksville, Indiana. This selfie spot is ideally situated in Clarksville, right off the Ohio River Scenic Byway with the city of Louisville in the background.

Daviess County Museum, Washington (EST)

Among historic school room memorabilia, war artifacts, and vintage fashion, you’ll discover a display dedicated to the history of funerals. This exhibit chronicles body preparation, caskets through the years, and how funeral services have evolved. Creepy or fascinating? You be the judge.

Odd and Unusual Shops

J & B Magic Shop and Theater, New Albany (EST)

Owner Brent Braun puts the “trick” in trick or treat. He has worked with several top magicians in the world and has been seen on “America’s Got Talent,” Netflix, “Penn & Teller: Fool Us,” and more. In the back of the shop is a theater where guests can see magic performed right before their eyes. In October, the shop carries especially creepy and terror-ific tricks.

The Odd Shop, New Albany (EST)

With a psychedelic 1970s vibe, The Odd Shop sells creepy collectables, goofy gifts, and strange vintage finds.

Raven’s Roost Boutique, New Albany (EST)

Grab your broom and reach for your pointy hat! This shop was started by a small coven of witches. Here you’ll find crystals, spell books, potions, tarot cards, oracle decks, and more. Keep an eye out for their special events like tarot card readings, the witch’s ball, and broom decorating contests.

Santa’s Candy Castle, Santa Claus, Ind (CST)

Step inside a room exclusively showcasing one of the largest PEZ selections in the country. Another room is entirely dedicated to Jelly Belly products. Need a gummy Jell-O mold with a stapler in it – as seen in an episode of “The Office?” They’ve got it! You’ll also find vintage candy like candy buttons, wax bottles, wax lips, and rock candy. Your shopping experience will be a strange, odd, and sweet walk down memory lane.

Curious Eats

Lady Tron’s, New Albany (EST)

Fun for kids, this retro outer space diner is as quirky as it is delightful. Specializing in soups and sandwiches, their food is out of this world! The prices are down to Earth, too.

River City Cat Café, Evansville

They say curiosity killed the cat, but not here! Sip a latte and a enjoy a sweet treat among roaming cats. Yes, you read that right. Cats routinely greet guests, get into some mischief, or lounge, as they do so well. Take one to go! These cats are also available for adoption.

Union Restaurant & Gameyard, Jeffersonville (EST)

This place is all about FUN! Located only a few hundred feet from the Big Four pedestrian bridge is a large patio with giant beer pong, basketball, bowling, ping pong, and cornhole. Here, they embrace playfulness. Boozy party pouches are served, which are basically adult Capri Suns. Oh yeah, and they serve flavorful food, too!

Schnitzelbank, Jasper (EST)

Experience traditional Germany where hearty meals consist of breads and pretzels, sauerbraten, beef rolladen, and wurst platters. The food and atmosphere are so authentic, you might actually believe you’ve crossed the pond to Germany!

The Log Inn, Haubstadt (CST)

Established in 1825, this is considered the oldest restaurant in Indiana. It is fabled that Abraham Lincoln once stopped here in November, 1844. Stop by for the history and leave with a happy belly full of family style comfort food.

Get curious. Turn up the creepy. Explore Southern Indiana in a way you maybe haven’t before. In Down Home Southern Indiana, you’ll experience the charm and the spectacular scenery as you explore the unusual. Have fun and post your selfies here!

 

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