Out-of-the-ordinary in Wabash County
By: Julie Campbell, Travel Indiana
If you’re in search of some out-of-the-ordinary attractions for your upcoming staycation, explore the charming landscapes of Wabash County.
From the look of its quaint downtown area, visitors would never guess that the charming city of Wabash was once terrorized in 1942 by a 1900-pound runaway elephant named Modoc. As the legendary story goes, The Great American Circus was in the middle of a show when Modoc was frightened by some barking dogs and broke loose from her tethers. She bolted into town, hot on the scent of roasting peanuts wafting from Bradley Brothers Drugstore (which is now the site of Modoc’s Market & Espresso Bar).
After breaking through the drugstore door, knocking over the peanut roaster, and devouring the peanuts, she continued to evade capture for the next five days. The memory of Modoc the elephant lives on at Modoc’s Market & Espresso Bar in downtown Wabash, where visitors can enjoy homemade baked goods and try a latte with peanut butter syrup in memory of Modoc.
After your coffee has settled, check out a must-stop for booklovers, Reading Room Books, Indiana’s largest used bookstore specializing in rare and unique finds. The store features three rooms full of a well-curated collection of books. You’ll also find classics, full sets, and out-of-print treasures on the shelves.
With only a short drive to Roann and North Manchester, you can marvel at the historic beauty of two of Indiana’s remaining covered bridges. Originally built so horses would cross the water and not be scared by being able to see the rushing river below. Both Roann and North Manchester boast fully functional covered bridges.
While in North Manchester, explore a one-of-a-kind business, The Coop, a business incubator housing 5 different storefronts, that allows entrepreneurs and small businesses to have a presence on Main Street and access support services needed to grow their business.
Round out a day of adventure and find the locations of a larger-than-life version of Bumblebee and Hulk. Both are made entirely out of recycled scrap metal.
Two unique lodging options await travelers who are looking for an out-of-the-ordinary place to stay. The Carriage House is a full-service horse boarding facility with a completely remodeled antique barn that includes lodging. Visitors can board their horses while they stay overnight.
Just a few blocks from historic downtown Wabash, The Sanctuary is a renovated 1903 Gothic-style church turned overnight event hub complete with original stained glass windows. Whether you’re searching for an intimate wedding venue, a corporate event, or a boutique-style hotel experience, you’ll find it at The Sanctuary.
Swing by The Visit Wabash County Welcome Center and their friendly staff will offer even more recommendations on where to eat, shop, and explore.
If you want to explore a unique destination where the people truly care, Wabash County is it. From the beautiful downtown in Wabash that boasts charm to their expansive state parks with copious trails and wildlife, there is something for everyone, whether you’re traveling with your family, best friend, or exploring solo there is something to do for everyone.
