Steuben County attracts visitors with a wealth of year-round recreational opportunities, thanks to more than 100 lakes – more than any other Indiana county – carved out by glaciers thousands of years ago. Angola and the surrounding area’s quaint towns charm visitors, young and old, with shops, restaurants and historic sites, while beautiful parks and natural settings offer peaceful spots to unwind.
While summer is the season for boaters, bikers and hikers, winter offers an array of exciting cold-weather adventures and activities with these eight things to do in Steuben county.
See more: Find Fall Fun with 8 Things to Do in French Lick, Indiana
1. Take an Icy Slide
The twin-track toboggan run at Pokagon State Park, the only one in the Hoosier state, thrills riders with icy quarter-mile spins over dips and valleys at speeds of up to 35 miles per hour. For the less adventurous, the 1,260-acre park offers cross-country skiing, sledding, ice skating, ice fishing and hiking (snowshoe rentals available). The park’s Nature Center is a popular spot, featuring several exhibits and its Woodland Window, which allows visitors to observe the comings and goings of a host of creatures.
2. ’Tis the Season
Catch the holiday spirit as Downtown Angola celebrates Christmas on the Square with family-friendly activities, shopping and, of course, a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Capping off the day is the transformation of the historic Soldiers’ Monument into northeast Indiana’s largest Christmas tree. The town of Hamilton also spreads holiday cheer with its Old-Fashioned Horse-Drawn Christmas Parade, featuring more than 40 decorated wagons.
3. History Highlights
When not decked out as a Christmas tree, the Soldiers’ Monument stands tall in Angola’s town square. Dedicated in 1917, the impressive memorial stands 70 feet tall, weighs 300,000 pounds and is topped by a statue of Columbia, who represents peace.
Adjacent to the monument is the Steuben County Courthouse, which was built in 1868 and is one of five buildings in Steuben County listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Also holding a valued spot in local history is the Brokaw Movie House. Opened in 1931, it has been restored to its art deco glory and now shows everything from current hits to cult classics.
4. All Aboard
Train enthusiasts will always find plenty to enjoy with a visit to the Indiana Rail Experience, where you can hop aboard vintage steam trains for a step back in time, starting at a 141-year-old railway station. But for a special winter excursion, make a reservation aboard the Christmas Train that departs Pleasant Lake for a 90-minute round trip through the countryside with Santa on board and a stop at the magical Santa’s Station.
See more: The French Lick Scenic Railway Transports Visitors Into a Winter Wonderland
5. Warm Up With Local Wine
Founded in the early 1990s, Satek Winery was Steuben County’s first official winery and continues to produce a range of award-winning wines that reflect the local terroir. Open year-round, the friendly staff welcomes visitors with free daily tastings, while a shop features wine, wine-related products and custom-designed items from local artisans.
7. Holiday Shopping
The town square in Downtown Angola offers an eclectic collection of shops, boutiques and galleries. The Bent Fork features a collection of hand-selected items, while Libby’s offers jewelry and home decor. The Gallery showcases a wide variety of artwork from more than 20 local and regional artists. Bargain hunters can head to the expansive Outlet Shoppes at Fremont, while those seeking antiques and vintage pieces will discover specialty shops around the county crammed with collectibles.
6. Walk on the Wild Side
Here’s your chance to meet a wild bison up close at Wild Winds Buffalo Preserve, where more than 200 roam across 400 acres of rolling prairie. Guided tours in open-air vehicles enhance the experience, and a log-hewn bed-and-breakfast provides a unique lodging experience, complete with buffalo blankets.
8. Eat and Be Merry
There’s nothing like a little winter chill to rev up your appetite, and restaurants around Steuben County are ready and waiting, whether you’re craving home-cooking, a spicy pizza, burger and fries, a vegan special, or a cozy upscale dinner. Other local shops can fulfill your needs for sweets, baked goods, coffees and teas. For more foodie insights, check out visitsteubencounty.com.
