11 Things to Do in Jeffersonville, Indiana, This Winter

Red Yeti; Photo credit: SoIN Tourism

With its location just across the river from Louisville, Kentucky, the cozy mini-metropolis of Jeffersonville, Indiana, offers visitors and residents much to do and see. Situated on the north banks of a pair of bends in the Ohio River, the city, affectionately referred to as “Jeff,” is steeped in history, culture and recreation.

The city traces its origins back to a 1786 army installation, Fort Finney. Established in 1802, the city was designed around a grid pattern by its namesake, Thomas Jefferson, who was president of the U.S. at that time.

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Today it’s home to about 50,000 people. Jeffersonville’s downtown and NoCo Arts & Cultural District are just two of the many points of interest within the city limits. Most everything is within walking distance or a short drive.

Enjoy a roundup of some popular destinations to highlight your next visit.

Big Four Bridge; Photo credit: Nathan Lambrecht

1. Big Four Bridge

Built in 1895 as a six-span railroad truss bridge, the Big Four Bridge was repurposed as a pedestrian and bicycling bridge, with the Jeffersonville end opening in 2014.

“It quickly became one of our most popular locations,” says Anna Rosales-Crone, communications manager for SoIN Tourism.

The bridge is colorfully illuminated at night, often with seasonal themes. The bridge connects Jeffersonville and downtown Louisville, with parks and playgrounds at both ends and great views throughout.

NoCo Arts & Cultural District; Photo credit: Nathan Lambrecht

2. NoCo Arts & Cultural District

Named for its location (north of Court Avenue), the revitalized and walkable district is a hub for artists, historians, inventors and other creatives. Rosales-Crone also mentions the fun variety of outdoor art exhibits. And in the winter months, The Depot, a unique event venue, hosts an ice skating rink.

Vintage Fire Museum; Photo credit: SoIN Tourism

3. Vintage Fire Museum

This volunteer-run attraction provides a fascinating look into the history of firefighting, with engines and artifacts dating back to 1756. Interactive exhibits let visitors extinguish a staged kitchen fire (“Not a real one,” emphasizes Rosales-Crone).

See more: Eiteljorg Museum Shares Amazing Stories of American Indians and Western Art

4. Ohio Riverfront

Dining and beverage options abound along Jeffersonville’s riverfront. Upland Brewing Company’s family- and dog-friendly patio boasts spectacular views of the Louisville skyline, riverboats and barges. Upland features inventive brews and a delicious pub menu. Harry’s Taphouse & Kitchen and other popular spots also dot the corridor along Riverside Drive.

Photo credit: Pearl Street Game & Coffee House

5. Pearl Street Game & Coffee House

Proudly described on their website as “a gathering place for nerds and coffee connoisseurs of all ages,” this thriving community hub on one of Jeffersonville’s main thoroughfares welcomes most any kind of gathering, from work meetings to knitting circles to birthday parties and more. Bring your own gear or choose from a wide selection of games and cards.

Red Yeti; Photo credit: SoIN Tourism

6. Red Yeti

A destination restaurant and bar, the Red Yeti is housed in a historic building constructed in 1881. Featuring an inventive menu – with seasonal changes – from acclaimed Chef Michael Bowe, the Red Yeti is a star among Jeffersonville’s culinary adventures. Where else can you find baba ghanoush and cornbread pudding on the same menu?

RiverStage; Photo credit: SoIN Tourism

7. RiverStage

Managed by Jeffersonville Parks and Recreation Department, RiverStage features plentiful amphitheater-styled lawn seating and a stage mounted on a barge floating in the Ohio River. Every Friday from June to mid-August, the free Jammin in Jeff summer concert series is a popular draw for residents and visitors.

Schimpff’s Confectionery; Photo credit: Nathan Lambrecht

8. Schimpff’s Confectionery

Open since 1891, Schimpff’s features a ’50s soda fountain and lunchroom. Its museum features candy-making demonstrations throughout the day. Tours are available, too.

“You can see them make their hot cinnamon candies using the same methods as when they first opened,” Rosales-Crone says.

See more: Brown County Offers Festive Fun During Your Holiday Vacation

9. Spring and Chestnut Streets

Even before Jeffersonville’s revitalization in recent years, this part of the city represented the business and shopping center of downtown. And it retains that vitality and character to the present day. Shopping, dining, parks, lodging and more are all conveniently located along these streets.

10. Sugar Maples

A dazzling and eclectic assortment of antiques and vintage items – from furniture and housewares to collectibles and curios – is on display and for sale at this historic downtown retail space. Recent upgrades have added even more booths to this popular shopping destination.

Union Restaurant & Gameyard; Photo credit: SoIN Tourism

11. Union Restaurant & Gameyard

Show off your skills at any number of competitive endeavors in this fun-filled indoor/outdoor activity center that provides fun for the whole family from video games, foosball and pingpong to darts, bocce ball, giant Jenga and more. Great food and drinks are on the menu. And like most of Jeffersonville’s attractions, it’s mere steps from the city’s other popular destinations.

See more: Brown County Offers Festive Fun During Your Holiday Vacation