The 812 List, | May 02, 2017
Eight reasons you should visit Indiana’s smallest county
There is an abundance of activities to do in Ohio County.
Tucked along the Ohio River in southeastern Indiana, Ohio County has plenty of attractions worth visiting.
The people are friendly and welcoming, says Kendal Miller, executive director of Ohio County tourism. “It is a place that will feel like your second home.”
812 worked with Miller to compile a list of eight reasons to visit Indiana’s smallest county.
Dagaz Acres
12444 Antioch Road, Rising Sun
(812)594-2727
Get your feet off the ground on their two zip-line courses. Check out the premier course, consisting of seven zip-lines that gradually increase the space between your feet and the ground. It is an hour-long course, and $45 per person, ideal for a first-timer or a group with different skill levels.
Mac’s Seaplane Service
308 S. Front St., Rising Sun
(812)654-3600
Take flight in a vintage Cessna float plane for a scenic air tour. Mac’s Seaplane Service also offers special-occasion charters and seaplane instruction. A seat on the 30 minute River Tour costs $60. A seat for the hour-long City Tour is $90.
“This is unique to our county because our Main Street ends at the Ohio River,” Miller says. “It is a beautiful area.”
Walk Along the Waterfront
Near the pavilion, where Main Street and Front Street meet, Rising Sun
Miller suggests strolling along Rising Sun’s new brick walkway. Every few steps, you’ll find a historical marker about the area. One reads, "Local Historical Figure William Clore--Originally from Boone Co., Ky., he moved to Rising Sun and founded Clore Plow, a manufacturer of farm equipment. It was a key company in our young nation. Up to 400 flatboats left Rising Sun daily each spring with goods going to southern ports."
Rising Sun Mayor Brent Bascom also suggests checking out the new trail, part of their recent riverfront project.
Ohio County Historical Society Museum
212 S. Walnut St., Rising Sun
(812)438-4915
http://www.ohiocountyhistory.org
The museum is home to Hoosier Boy, the racing boat that holds the record roundtrip between Cincinnati and Louisville of 267 miles in 267 minutes and 49 seconds. You can also find its sister boat Hoosier Girl. They also have an auto-harp, which is a coin-operated music player on display.
Rsing Star Casino Resort
777 Rising Star Drive, Rising Sun
(812)438-1234
The resort has live country or classic rock music on Fridays and Saturdays in the Pavilion. Or you could grab a bite at Big Vic’s Pub and Grub, which serves sandwiches, pizzas, steaks and salads. Mayor Bascom recommends golfing at The Links.
Ohio County Courthouse
413 Main St., Rising Sun
(812)438-2610
http://www.in.gov/judiciary/2913.htm
The oldest continuously used courthouse in the state, the two-story Greek Revival brick building was built in 1845. Its northeast corner was the first court house cornerstone laid with Masonic ceremonies in the state.
Red Wolf Sanctuary
3027 Interstate 262, Rising Sun
(812)438-2306
This non-profit organization is dedicated to the preservation and continued existence of North American wildlife. It has wolves, eagles, cats, bears, raptors and other predators. Admission and tours are by appointment.
Harps on Main
222 Main St., Rising Sun
(812)438-3032
Take a self-guided tour to see the colorful harps being handmade. This store is home to Rees Harps, Inc., and sells harps and the portable Harpsicles. All-Ireland Harp Champion Máire Ní Chathasaigh owns a Rees harp.
