Summer in Perry County, Indiana, is a delightful season filled with an array of family-friendly activities. From outdoor adventures to cultural events, Perry County offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, you’ll find plenty of ways to create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Explore the Great Outdoors
Perry County boasts stunning natural beauty, making it the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities.
Hiking and Biking Trails
Explore the scenic trails at Hoosier National Forest. The forest offers various trails suitable for all skill levels. The German Ridge Recreation Area is particularly popular for hiking and mountain biking, offering picturesque views and the chance to spot local wildlife.
Cannelton Locks & Damn and Eagle’s Bluff Overlook
Enjoy a picnic or a leisurely walk at Eagle’s Bluff Overlook and the Cannelton Locks and Dam. The area provides a unique opportunity to learn about the Ohio River’s history and enjoy the beautiful river views. Fishing enthusiasts will also find the Locks & Dam a great spot to cast a line.
Shubael Little Pioneer Village
Water Activities
Cool off and have fun with a variety of water-based activities in Perry County that range from a public pool to lakes all around the county
JFK Pool
The JFK Pool in Tell City, Indiana, is a perfect summer destination for families looking to beat the heat and have some fun. This well-maintained public pool offers a refreshing retreat with its large swimming area, diving boards, and a splash pad. There’s a dedicated splash pad for younger children, ensuring safe and enjoyable play for all ages. The pool area features shaded seating, picnic spots, and vending machines, making it easy to spend a whole day enjoying the sun and water. With its welcoming atmosphere and variety of amenities, the JFK Pool is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike during the summer months.
Tipsaw Lake Recreation Area
Tipsaw Lake Recreation Area is located six miles south of Interstate 64, off of Indiana 37. It offers opportunities for both overnight and day use, with three camping loops, two group camping areas, a picnic area with two shelters available for reservation, a beach with modern bathhouse, Tipsaw Lake, which offers paddling, fishing, and boating (electric motors only) opportunities, and a 5.9 mile trail around the lake for hiking and biking. A boat launch with large parking area is provided. This area is operated by a concessionaire under a special use permit issued by the Forest Service from mid-April through late October.
Ohio River Boating
Boating on the Ohio River in Perry County, Indiana, offers a fantastic way for families to enjoy the great outdoors and take in the scenic beauty of the region. With over eight well-maintained boat ramps providing easy access to the river, including popular spots like Tell City and Cannelton, it’s convenient for boaters of all experience levels to launch their vessels. The Ohio River provides a tranquil setting for a variety of water activities such as fishing, water skiing, and leisurely cruises. The expansive river offers plenty of space for exploration and relaxation, making it an ideal spot for family outings
Cultural and Historical Activities
Immerse your family in the rich history and culture of Perry County with museums of different types, local art activities and more.
Museums in Perry County
The Tell City Historical Society Museum is a must-visit, showcasing an array of artifacts and exhibits that chronicle the region’s development from its early days to the present. The museum provides engaging displays on local industry, notable figures, and everyday life in Perry County. Additionally, the Rome Courthouse, built in the 19th century, offers a unique historical perspective with its preserved courtroom and local government artifacts. These museums along with the Perry County Museum, provide educational and enriching experiences for visitors of all ages, making them excellent destinations for family outings and history enthusiasts.
Tell City Regional Arts
Tell City Regional Arts in Tell City, Indiana, is a vibrant hub for family-friendly artistic and cultural activities. This dynamic center hosts a variety of events, including art exhibits, workshops, and performances, that cater to all age groups. Families can enjoy exploring the diverse range of artworks created by local and regional artists, participate in hands-on art classes, and attend community theater productions. The center often organizes special events like art fairs and festivals, providing fun and interactive experiences for children and adults alike. Engaging with Tell City Regional Arts is a wonderful way for families to foster creativity, appreciate the arts, and enjoy quality time together.
Perry County Public Library
Summer Events and Festivals
Perry County comes alive with festivals and events during the summer months.
Perry County 4-H Fair
The Perry County 4-H Fair is a highlight of the summer season. This weekend long event features livestock shows, tractor pulls, food vendors, and live entertainment. It’s a quintessential summer experience that offers fun for all ages.
Bristow Car Show
Indoor Family Fun
Rainy days don’t have to be dreary. With these rainy day indoor activities for kids, your little ones may actually look forward to stormy days!
Cinema 66
Movies are shown Monday through Sunday evenings. Matinees Saturday and Sunday. A video arcade is located in the lobby. Find us on Facebook to find summer listings or more information.
The Salt Room
Their advanced and updated facilities include Himalayan salt, infrared saunas, and an oxygen bar therapy, ensuring an exceptional experience. Dry salt therapy, or halotherapy, is a holistic, drug-free, natural therapy using micro particles of salt to promote better breathing, healthier skin, sounder sleep, improved physical fitness, endurance and feelings of overall wellness. Dry salt therapy also may help to alleviate symptoms of many respiratory and skin conditions.
Salt therapy is as simple as sitting in a special room that recreates the conditions of a salt cave above ground. Salt rooms provide an allergen and pathogen-free environment, giving the lungs an opportunity to heal.
Tell City Bowling Center
In the heart of Tell City, the Tell City Bowling Center stands as a vibrant hub for bowlers of all ages and skill levels. With league sign-ups available year-round, enthusiasts can join competitive leagues or casual groups to hone their skills and build camaraderie. Looking to host a memorable event? The center offers versatile event rental options, perfect for birthday parties, corporate gatherings, or team-building outings. Additionally, patrons can anticipate themed specialty bowling nights, adding a touch of excitement with glow bowling, cosmic bowling, and other creative twists on the classic game.
Nearby Family – Oriented
Perry County’s diverse things to do include some nearby attractions. Below you will find some great things to do within an hour drive.
Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari
Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari offer two world-class parks for one low price. Plan for two or more days of family fun at the world’s first theme park! Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari is known for its friendly staff and clean park. Plus, these parks offer great value. Enjoy free soft drinks, free sunscreen, free parking, and free Wi-Fi. Holiday World is located in Santa Claus, Indiana, just a short 20 minute drive from Tell City/
Marengo Cave
These caves are located in next door county, Crawford County in the small town of Marengo, Indiana. Marengo Caves has two caves to explore: Crystal Palace – packed with formations. This easy 40-minute tour winds through formation-filled rooms and past huge flowstone deposits. Dripstone Trail – Big. Really Big. This 60-minute tour is known for delicate soda straws, totem pole stalagmites, and Penny Ceiling.
Wilstem Wildlife Park
Up-Close Animal encounters including Elephants, Giraffes, and Kangaroos! Lodging available on-site. Enjoy 1,100 rolling acres at this ranch that includes: Up-close Elephant Encounters with two levels of engagement available (March – December) Giraffe Encounters – open year-round Sloth Encounter – open year-round Otter Encounter – open year-round Roos & Crew barn – open year-round Drive-Thru Safari Park – open year-round 4,000-foot-canopy zipline tour, Horseback Riding, and Lodging available on-site.
Plan Your Adventure Today!
Perry County, Indiana, is a summer paradise filled with diverse activities that cater to all interests and age groups. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors, enjoying water activities, delving into local history, or participating in vibrant festivals, you’re sure to have an unforgettable summer with your family in Perry County. Plan your visit today and discover the charm and excitement that this beautiful county has to offer.
About the Perry County Convention & Visitors Bureau
The Perry County Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) is a not-for-profit tourism organization dedicated to become one of the top tourist destinations in Indiana The mission of the CVB is to promote quality of life through economic growth for our citizens through tourism, marketing, and destination development. The Perry County CVB is here to help make your visit as seamless as possible. We are readily available at our Visitor Center or by calling 812-547-7933. Our goal is to make sure you come as a guest, and leave as a friend. For more information about the Perry County CVB, contact the Executive Director via the below link:
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