Near Indianapolis Is A Midwest City With Small-Town Charm, Tasty Restaurants, And Outdoor Fun

Considered a mere flyover state, Indiana doesn't always get the flowers it deserves. Travelers looking for new destinations off the beaten track should consider exploring everything the Hoosier State has to offer. Storybook streets aglow with twinkly lights can be found in the bustling city of Carmel, considered one of the best Midwestern destinations worth visiting more than once, while lovebirds looking for a couples retreat will find historic inns, wineries, and even the Indiana Dunes National Park among Indiana's most romantic destinations. Another underrated locale for small-town adventures is Shelbyville, just 40 minutes southeast of Indianapolis by car. Poised on the edge of Indiana's rolling countryside, Shelbyville offers a slower pace of adventure without sacrificing the comforts of the big city.

The gentle bends of the Big Blue River frame the north edge of Shelbyville, where outdoorsy travelers will find access to trailheads and tranquil parks. Anglers can bring their rods to catch all kinds of bass, crappie, and trout, while the river beckons kayakers for a day of paddling. Venture into downtown for a stroll around brick-paved pedestrian courtyards flanked by trickling fountains and shady trees. Abutting the courtyards are rows of nostalgic red-brick storefronts where shops, art galleries, and local eateries offer plenty of diversion.

Shelbyville's welcoming community makes any visit all the more pleasant. A local review on Niche, the city scoring website, stated Shelbyville is a "very great place with a bunch of nice people." Meanwhile, the neighborhood social networking site, Nextdoor, called Shelbyville a "peaceful, family-friendly town known for its clean environment and welcoming atmosphere." Mingle with the friendly locals at seasonal downtown events like the Shelby County Farmers Market in the summer, where stalls offer farm-fresh produce and live music fills the air. Embracing a small-town atmosphere, Shelbyville is an underrated getaway.

Sightseers should spend the day in Shelbyville's cozy downtown. At the heart of the town's oval-shaped Public Square is the Joseph Fountain, a fun backdrop for photos. Surrounded by a brick courtyard with benches and shrubbery, visitors can also stop here to rest in between sightseeing. Bookworms can pop into Three Sisters Books & Gifts, while history fiends might enjoy the Grover Center Museum & Historical Society. Step into the life-sized "Streets of Old Shelby" exhibit to travel back to the 1900s and experience the village as it appeared in the old days.

When hunger strikes, head to the Just Peachy Cafe near the Public Square. The wood and brick interiors feel rustic and welcoming, and "the staff [are] so nice and helpful," according to a previous visitor. Popular orders include pancake platters, breakfast burritos, and sweet potato fries. "Some of the best small-town food you can have," wrote another visitor. More homestyle cooking can be found at Grandma's Pancake House, which serves up everything from Belgian waffles and French toast for brunch to cheeseburgers and pork chops for dinner.

Stop for a refreshing cup of bubble tea at Boba Cafe, which a previous visitor says has "all sorts of fun flavors," or grab donuts and chocolate muffins at Linne's Bakery & Cafe. Enjoy tasty Mexican dishes at the Blue Agave Mexican Grill & Bar, where the staff is friendly, and portions are generous. Fill up on shrimp fajitas and fish tacos topped off with flavorful margaritas. Find good vibes, hearty sandwiches with salads, and evening karaoke at Cadillac Jack's, while anyone craving pizzas and grinders named after notorious outlaws should stop at Capone's Downtown Speakeasy, which a previous review describes as "probably the best night spot in Shelbyville."

Aside from small-town charms, travelers to Shelbyville will also find outdoor adventure. Breathe in the refreshing air around the Big Blue River at Sunset Park, where a paved loop traces the curve of the riverbank. Green lawns shaded by trees offer "a nice place to sit and eat ice cream with a friend," according to a previous visitor. Bring kayaks or canoes to launch into the water and spend the day paddling around. A playground with spiraling slides and climbing frames offers excitement for children, while wholesome family fun can be enjoyed at the park's disc golf course.

To grab a few Instagram-worthy snaps, head to the Blue River Memorial Park, where golden fields of sunflowers bloom during the summer. Hikers will also find more paved trails by the river here, while the park's splash pad is perfect for cooling off on a hot day. Mingle with Shelbyville locals during the summertime Music in the Park event, when live bands and food stalls fill the air with merriment. Hikers can also get on the Blue River Trail to trek (or even cycle) across Shelbyville's public parks while passing through tranquil river scenery.

Shelbyville's quaint local festivals also add interest to a visit. On Saturdays, the courtyard around the Public Square will be bustling with stalls for the Farmer's Market, which runs from May until September. Stop by in September for the annual Brewfest, when the Public Square turns into a family-friendly beer garden. Sample local brews while enjoying live music and games. Meanwhile, the Mistletoe Market heralds Christmas cheer in December, thrilling everyone with bright twinkly lights, carriage rides around town, and festive parades. For more festival fun, about two hours away is Clinton, Indiana's "Little Italy Festival town."