Are you curious about the history of industry and innovation? These are the top industrial heritage museums in Indiana:
1Indiana State Museum
Indianapolis, INThe Indiana State Museum, situated in downtown Indianapolis, offers a comprehensive look into the science, art, culture, and history of Indiana. From prehistoric times to the present day, the museum's exhibits provide a rich and diverse exploration of the state's past and present. Visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of topics, gaining a deeper understanding of Indiana's unique heritage. 2RV/MH Hall of Fame
Elkhart, INThe RV/MH Hall of Fame, located in Elkhart, Indiana, is a large museum dedicated to showcasing a variety of historical recreational vehicles. The museum houses a collection of vehicles from renowned American makers such as Airstream and Winnebago. 3Spring Mill State Park
Mitchell, INSpring Mill State Park, a sprawling 1,358-acre state park, is situated in the state of Indiana. It is conveniently located to the south of Bloomington and about 3 miles east of the city of Mitchell on Indiana Highway 60. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike. 4Mansfield Roller Mill
Carbon, INThe Mansfield Roller Mill is a state historic site, owned and managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of State Parks. The mill is operated by the Raccoon Lake Interpretive Services, which is part of the nearby Raccoon State Recreation Area. This ensures that the mill is well-maintained and provides educational and interpretive services for visitors. 5Elwood Haynes Museum
Kokomo, INThe Elwood Haynes Museum is a unique destination located in Kokomo, Indiana. It is housed in the former mansion of Elwood Haynes, a renowned inventor who is credited with the commercial production of cars in 1894. The mansion, which was built on South Webster Street, was Haynes' home until his death in 1925. 6The Gaar House
Richmond, INThe Gaar Mansion, also known as the Abram Gaar House and Farm, is a historic site located in Richmond, Indiana. This wooden Second Empire-style farm home was built in 1876 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The mansion's architectural style and historical significance make it a notable site for visitors interested in history and architecture. 7Indiana Transportation Museum
Noblesville, INThe Indiana Transportation Museum, also known as ITM, is a unique railroad museum that was originally situated in Noblesville, Indiana. However, it has since relocated and is now based in Logansport, Indiana. The museum is home to a variety of preserved railroad equipment, some of which are still operational today. It offers a fascinating insight into the history of railroads in Indiana and how people used to travel across the country. 8National New York Central Railroad Museum
Elkhart, INThe National New York Central Railroad Museum is a significant destination for those interested in the history of railroading. Located in Elkhart, Indiana, the museum is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the New York Central Railroad. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits that showcase the rich history of this iconic railroad. 9Hesston Steam Museum
La Porte, INThe Hesston Steam Museum is an outdoor museum situated in Hesston, Indiana. It is managed by the Laporte County Historical Steam Society. The museum's location is 1201 E 1000 N, La Porte, IN 46350, making it easily accessible for visitors. 10Old Lighthouse Museum
Michigan City, INThe Old Michigan City Light, a decommissioned lighthouse, is situated on Lake Michigan at the port of Michigan City in Lake County, Indiana. This historic structure, which once guided ships through the waters of Lake Michigan, now stands as a testament to the region's maritime history. 11Fort Wayne Firefighters Museum
Fort Wayne, INEngine House No. 3, a historic fire station, is situated in the heart of downtown Fort Wayne, Indiana. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city, offering a glimpse into the history of firefighting in the region. 12Science Central
Fort Wayne, INScience Central, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is an interactive science center. It offers a variety of exhibits and activities that engage visitors in hands-on science learning. The center is designed to inspire curiosity and exploration, making it a great destination for families, school groups, and anyone interested in science. 13Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum
Auburn, INThe Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum, opened in 1974, is situated in Auburn, Indiana, in the United States. The museum is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Auburn Automobile, Cord Automobile, and Duesenberg Motors Company. It is a significant destination for automobile enthusiasts and history buffs alike, offering a unique insight into the evolution of the automobile industry. 14French Lick Scenic Railway
French Lick, INThe Indiana Railway Museum, located in French Lick, Indiana, is a dedicated institution for preserving and showcasing artifacts that trace the history of railroads in Indiana. The museum's mission is to provide a comprehensive understanding of Indiana's railroad history through its extensive collection of artifacts. 15Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum
North Judson, INThe Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum is situated at 507 Mulberry Street in North Judson, Indiana. This location is steeped in history, as North Judson was once a significant hub for the railroad industry, with a large portion of the town's working population employed by one of the railroad companies. 16Evansville Museum of Arts, History & Science
Evansville, INThe Evansville Museum of Arts, History & Science is a comprehensive cultural institution located on the Ohio riverfront in downtown Evansville, Indiana. Founded in 1904, it is one of Southern Indiana's most established and significant cultural institutions, offering a wide range of collections in art, history, anthropology, and science.- 17
Greentown Glass Museum
Greentown, INThe Greentown Glass Museum is situated at 112 N Meridian Street, housed within the Greentown City Hall in Greentown, Indiana. This location is easily accessible and serves as the home for the museum's extensive collection of locally-made glass items. - 18
Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society
New Haven, INThe Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society (FWRHS) is a non-profit organization based in New Haven, Indiana. The society is dedicated to the restoration and operation of vintage railroad equipment, most notably the ex Nickel Plate Railroad's steam locomotive no. 765. This locomotive is a significant piece of railroad history and a key attraction for visitors to the society's facilities. - 19
Howard Steamboat Museum
Jeffersonville, INThe Howard Steamboat Museum, also known as the Howard National Steamboat Museum, is situated in Jeffersonville, Indiana, just across the river from Louisville, Kentucky. The museum is housed in the historic Howard Family mansion, a grand structure that reflects the wealth and prestige of the Howard family, who were prominent figures in the steamboat industry.