As someone who has traveled all over the state by wheelchair, I have a special fondness for these…read moretowns and cities reviews. While I'm not a huge fan of actually "rating" a city or town, it's a great opportunity to talk about the many wonderful places in Indiana. I've been to Anderson a few times during my wheeling. I've also been for church and work events. Anderson is the seat of Madison County and has a population just under 55,000. As most know, Anderson was once an industrial hotbed and has at various times hosted the manufacturing of 17 different vehicles. While auto manufacturing really gave the city its fame, as that industry has declined in the area so has Anderson economically. Thomas Broderick Jr. has been the Anderson mayor since 2016. Major attractions include the lovely Paramount Theatre, Mounds State Park, Harrah's Hoosier Park Racing & Casino, concerts at Reardon Auditorium (Anderson University), and a few other museums and such. The Church of God is based here in Anderson. I have friends who live here, however, I'll admit that I don't really find Anderson to be a true "destination" city. While I'd easily do a day trip here, I'd be hard-pressed to make it a weekend getaway. The city is fairly accessible, though it's worth noting that downtown is a historic landmark. There are hotels/motels here, the curb cuts are decent, and I've generally found the people friendly here. I recently visited the Paramount again and it's definitely a downtown highlight with its historic marquee and incredible auditorium that was looking even better than remembered the last time I was in Anderson. Overall, I'd call Anderson a bit of a hidden gem. It has a few fun touristy spots, lots of nature, the remnants of its industrial past, some cool museums, and a growing restaurant scene. While I wouldn't necessarily call it a destination spot, a trip to Anderson, Elwood, and other small towns in Madison County could easily be worth a weekend.

Anderson was once a hot bed of industry that left behind beautiful architecture in downtown. From a…read moresmall park in the downtown area, I saw a mural, lovely fountain with backdrops of amazing and historic architecture. An iconic theater is alone Jackson Street. The area appears to be a host to downtown festivities. Unfortunately, the Historical Society was not opened during my Thursday morning visit. I would have liked to have learned more about the city and see if there is a walking tour. I was also disappointed that no restaurants were opened in the downtown area around noon time. There's plenty of free street parking but limited restroom options. I will return to learn more and report back.

I was on the campus of Anderson University, and I was intentionally looking for review…read morepossibilities. I spied this sculpture close to the Krannert Fine Arts Center, so I moved in closer and decided to check it out. As the late Yelper Ken N. noted, this piece was created by Jim Johnson in 1987 (excuse me while I faint realizing that was nearly 40 years ago). It's a 15' steel sculpture The sculpture is a metal arch with a keystone at the top in the middle. The "leg" of the arch on one side is slightly forward. The arch does not line up at the top, and the keystone is on a diagonal that points upwards. I won't repeat the inscription since Ken N. noted it, though it is somewhat worn. While I've been on campus before, I've never really had much time. It was cool to see this long existing public art. This was especially cool since I was on campus for artistic reasons, and I was utilizing their media lab. I don't know much about Jim Johnson, though I do know he has several pieces in Arkansas. This piece is pretty easily accessible to those who'd want to visit it - while much of Anderson's parking is by permit, they had pretty regular visitor parking around campus.

While exploring the campus of Anderson University, I found this unmarked abstract sculpture just…read morewest of the Krannert Fine Arts Center (north of 5th, between Executive & College Drives). The 15' structure is made of Cor-Ten steel that has been allowed to weather. The piece was created by artist Jim Johnson back in 1987. There are two arced pillars that appear to be legs supporting a rectangular shape that is angled up like a body being supported. I didn't find a plaque, but research indicates that there once was one that had the following statement: "The accomplishments of mankind are measured in the passage of time. Physical, mental, and spiritual growth, as experienced through an individual's life, is marked by evolving from one level of awareness to the next. The sculpture Passages, in its arch and keystone form, stands as a focal point symbolizing such transitions." (as quoted from the artist.) Review #3546

I've see this guy in a few different articles and online in a few different places, I was finally…read moreable to see him in person on a day off. It's a fun quirky statue, and upon further research I learned that it gets decorated for different holidays and will even be in parades! Fun roadside attraction to check out, I'm glad I can say I've seen it in person now :)

The Pink Elephant - Fortville is a whimsical side adventure in central Indiana. Located along a…read moredusty road in a small town, this elephant with a martini glass in his trunk is a funny attraction. There is parking next to the elephant so that you can get out of your car, take a picture, and be on your way. I highly recommend the Pink Elephant - Fortville.

Standard park with a shelter, tables, and a playground. There is a small parking lot along the…read morestreet which is conveniently located. To the east is a single basket court but it needs attention to remove all the weeds growing at the seems of the concrete slabs. Makes it kind of tough to dribble without watching! Plenty of green space beyond the park for running around or flying a kite. Nice for the neighborhood folks to use. Review #1097

We went to a concert last night at the Paramount Although this was not our first time there, I am…read morestill amazed and thankful that this historic building was restored. All the artwork, the lighting and the historic vibe are like taking a step back in time. They serve adult beverages and show treats. You can take them to your seat The seats are new and comfortable. You don't miss any creature comfort by being in this restored building The staff, made up of volunteers are helpful and greet you with a smile It is a nice evening out. Will we go back, 21 miles from home? You betcha

Amazing!!! Beautiful theatre!!! Staff was friendly and parking is easy!! Seats were comfy and not a…read morebad seat in the house!!

While downtown in Anderson, I happened to be in the area of the Historical Society/Museum of…read moreMadison County History on a day they were open. Although much of the signage is on the northeast end of the building, the entrance is nearly all the way to the west end. I entered into a small room that featured lots of photos from the Civil War time period and even a 100# siege ball that was from the war. To the right was the entrance to the genealogy library for tracing ancestors and records. The other door signage directs you to enter if you have any questions. It was there that I was greeted and given a tour of the museum. After seeing a library willed with the county's history and a meeting room for groups, I also saw they had an antique car (1908 Anderson Model E) that was one of the many autos produced in the area. We headed upstairs (using the elevators) to a new area that will be a permanent display of World War II era items. Lots of posters and examples of everyday items used then. Across the way, we also toured the athletics/school section where artifacts from each school in the area. Beyond that, there were rooms dedicated to large businesses (Delco Remy), a dentist's office, and an Afro-American room. We also headed down to the basement where there were two sections: The largest being for model trains and info about local train related history; the other being for doll houses. Some locals spend a great deal of time working on one or the other displays and they are interesting to look at (though I am not sure I understand the connection of the doll houses to the history of the county.) My tour guide escorted me through the entire place in about an hour, stopping to chat with some folks who specialized in each area for more info. Note that there was no actual charge for the tour and no set time other than coming on a day that the museum is open and has someone who has time to escort you. If you have doubts, you can call and make arrangements, especially with a group. It was a fun way to spend a cool/rainy afternoon while in Anderson. Review #3548

What a nice way to learn about local history and get a few hours of excellent storytelling. I was…read moreimpressed by the knowledge and friendliness these folks had to offer. I highly reccommend this place if you want to experience a different style of activity that leaves you with a new understanding of the area and its colorful past.

Parking is easy. Great experience for the price. On the…read moreoutside it looks small but they make great use of the space on the inside. Warning, you will have to crawl a couple times. The scares were good, it was long, snacks and drinks half way through. Line was moving quickly. We will def be returning next year.

It's okay. It's kinda cheesy for my taste. Good actors but it's just not as scary as I would have…read morehoped. I prefer ISP to this place.