Top Five Places to Visit on a Trip Between Bloomington, Indiana and Mooresville, Indiana
If you're looking for a road trip that lets you explore some hidden gems of southern Indiana, consider taking a drive from Bloomington to Mooresville. Along the way, you'll find unique museums, stunning natural vistas, and great places to eat. And what's more, the whole drive takes less than an hour! Here are five stops that you won't want to miss.
Halfway Point: Martinsville, IN
Before we get into the rest of the list, let's talk about Martinsville. This charming small town is a perfect halfway point between Bloomington and Mooresville, with plenty of things to do and see. If you're into history, head to the Morgan County History Center, where you can learn about the county's early settlers, explore a restored one-room schoolhouse, and see exhibits on local industries like brick-making and limestone quarrying. If you're hungry, grab a bite to eat at Zydeco's Cajun, which offers authentic Louisiana cuisine like jambalaya, po' boys, and crawfish étouffée. And if you need to stretch your legs, take a stroll on the Morgan-Monroe State Forest Trail, a paved path that winds through the woods and meadows south of town.
1. Monroe Lake
Our first stop is Monroe Lake, a beautiful reservoir just a few miles north of Bloomington. If you're a nature lover, you won't want to miss this spot. Take a hike on the Salt Creek Trail, which winds through the lake's hilly hardwood forests and offers stunning vistas of the water and the surrounding countryside. Or rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the lake from the water. There are also plenty of picnic areas and campgrounds if you want to make a day of it.
2. T.C. Steele State Historic Site
About halfway between Bloomington and Martinsville, you'll find the T.C. Steele State Historic Site. T.C. Steele was a prominent Indiana artist who lived and worked in Brown County in the early 20th century. Today, his former home and studio are open to the public as a museum, showcasing some of his most famous paintings and giving visitors a glimpse into his life and work. The site also includes several hiking trails and a tranquil garden that Steele designed himself.
3. Indy South Greenwood Airport
If you're a fan of aviation, you won't want to miss the Indy South Greenwood Airport, located just east of Mooresville. This small airport is home to the Vintage Aircraft Company, which offers rides and tours of vintage World War II planes. You can take to the skies in a B-25 bomber, a P-51 Mustang, or even a Stearman biplane. If you'd rather stay on the ground, visit the airport's Aviation Museum, which has exhibits on the history of flight and the role of Indiana in aviation.
4. Mooresville Park
Mooresville Park is a great place to take a break and enjoy some outdoor activities. The park includes a playground, horseshoe pits, and basketball courts, as well as several picnic areas and a nature trail. But the main attraction here is the Pioneer Museum, a collection of historic buildings that were moved to the park and restored. You can explore a log cabin, a one-room schoolhouse, and even a general store from the 1800s. It's a great way to step back in time and get a sense of what life was like in rural Indiana in the 19th century.
5. Gray Goat Bicycle Co.
Our final stop is Gray Goat Bicycle Co., a bike shop located just off the highway in Mooresville. Even if you're not a serious cyclist, this shop is worth a visit. They carry a wide range of bikes, from entry-level commuter bikes to high-end road bikes and mountain bikes. And if you're not sure what you're looking for, the friendly staff are always happy to help you find the perfect ride. Beyond bikes, the shop also carries cycling apparel, accessories, and gear, as well as providing a comprehensive repair and maintenance service.
In conclusion, for a quick day trip between Bloomington and Mooresville, there are plenty of interesting and unique things to do and see. Whether you're into history, art, aviation, or just spending time outdoors, there's something for everyone. And best of all, the whole trip takes less than an hour, so you can squeeze it in even on a busy weekend.