15 Hidden Gems to Uncover

Posted on January 25, 2024

One of the most popular questions we get asked at the Visitors Bureau is, “What is there to do?” As locals to the area, we are required to be know-it-alls when it comes to travel tips and tricks, local hot spots, what’s open when, and some favorite places. There are tons of unique attractions in Santa Claus, Indiana, and sites throughout Lincoln’s Indiana Boyhood Home, that many people have not heard of... yet!

Uncover 15 Hidden Gems:

1. Sitting in the peaceful countryside, only five miles outside Santa Claus, the Saint Meinrad Archabbey is one of only TWO in the United States and eleven in the world. This majestic sanctuary is a rare and hidden gem that will take your breath away, no matter the season.

2. Lincoln Amphitheatre is a magnificent 1,500-seat outdoor venue and attending a play or concert is a one-of-a-kind experience. Stay tuned—the 2024 performance schedule will be announced on February 6!

3. The Santa Claus Post Office is the only operating post office in the world with Santa’s name! Don’t miss a photo op with the Santa statue right outside.

4. If you are curious about how this town got its name, visit the Santa Claus Museum & Village all year long. Or, read about some of the history here.

5. History buff? We have tons of sites celebrating President Lincoln’s 14 years spent in Indiana from 1816 – 1830. Visit the 2,026-acre Lincoln State Park and walk in the footsteps of young Abe.

6. Enjoy a beautiful and peaceful drive through the countryside on the way to New Boston Tavern. Located only 10 miles from Santa Claus, Indiana, and best known for their famous smoked pork chops!

7. Looking for fresh summer produce or the prettiest fall pumpkins? Local meats, cheeses, and other treats? Maybe a one-of-a-kind handcrafted gift? You'll find all that and more at Pumpkins and More Farm Market.

8. There are only about 300 drive-in movie theaters left in the U.S. We're lucky to have the Holiday Drive-In located just outside of Rockport, Indiana. Enjoy a nightly double feature on one of the six viewing screens—it's a perfect evening of entertainment at a family-friendly price! Open seasonally from May through September.

9. Shop 'til you drop at Evergreen Boutique & Christmas Shop, open seven days a week! Browse stylish women’s fashion and continue throughout the store to shop for Christmas décor all year long.

10. Did you know? Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial was named Best Historic Destination in Indiana. This national park offers a glimpse into the young pioneer life of our 16th president.

11. Enjoy the stunning view from the patio at Monkey Hollow Winery and Distillery, overlooking the vineyard and pond while sipping local wine or craft cocktails. Plan a group trip to receive a behind-the-scenes tour. And, the patio is pet-friendly, too!

12. Lakeview Orchards is a family-owned orchard near Rockport, Indiana. This farm offers a variety of fruits and vegetables spring through fall. Best known for juicy peaches, large pumpkins, and fresh apple cider.

13. Nearby Pepper’s Ridge Winery uses Lakeview Orchard peaches to make a local favorite, their sweet peach wine. Sip and sing along to live music on weekends throughout the year.

14. Visit the world’s first themed attraction, Santa’s Candy Castle, dedicated in 1935. Tantalize your taste buds with handmade and flavorful popcorn, hard-to-find candies, frozen hot chocolate, and more. This attraction is open seasonally – May through December.

15. There are 13 Lincoln-era replica cabins in memorial to Abraham Lincoln’s years spent in this area at Lincoln Pioneer Village & Museum. Explore such cabins as the Pioneer Schoolhouse, the Lincoln Homestead Cabin, and the Old Pigeon Baptist Church. This attraction is open seasonally—May through October—with some special events.

This list is just the beginning—the area is known for surprising visitors with hidden gems. But we can’t give away all our secrets! Take a trip to Santa Claus, Indiana, and explore sites throughout Lincoln’s Indiana Boyhood Home, to uncover a few of your own hidden treasures. Stay up to date on events throughout the year and see what's open when you visit.

See you soon!