If you’re a fan of small, historic towns with a touch of style, then Lebanon, Ind., should definitely be on your need-to-visit list. Indeed, driving under the overpass with its brightly colored graphic along I-65 makes a traveler curious about what the region offers. About 30 minutes northwest of Indianapolis, Lebanon, with a population of 16,662, provides a glimpse into Indiana’s business future, specifically with the pharmaceutical landscape surrounded by the charming Midwest vibes. Driving the recent news is homegrown Eli Lilly’s October 2024 announcement of a $4.5 billion research and manufacturing complex in the area’s new high-tech LEAP District.
Like many Hoosier communities founded in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the town features a distinctive courthouse noted for its design. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this particular hall of justice is believed to have the tallest limestone Ionic columns in the United States. While the county building draws the square’s initial focus, the city’s heart beats with its growing food scene. Directly across the street from the courthouse, St. Adrian Meats & Sausage showcases the region’s deep agricultural heritage. Much more than a “local butcher shop,” St. Adrian specializes in Indiana-grown meats and provides a direct-to-consumer taste of old-world craftsmanship. The owners, born and raised in Boone County, prioritize sustainable practices to ensure their products reflect the state’s farming heritage.
Opened in 2021, Klooz Brewz & Public House, is known for a rotating selection of artisan beer and delicious food. Owner Patrick Klooz, known for experimenting with seasonal ingredients, crafts bold IPAs and easy-drinking lagers in a lively and charming atmosphere. Diners can belly up to the bar to enjoy live music or eat locally sourced tenderloins, artisan mac and cheese and specialty smash burgers and sandwiches made to pair with their flagship beers.
Named after the founding year of Lebanon and the founders, Kinnard & Drake’s 1830 Chophouse provides the classic American steakhouse with a focus on Boone County- raised meats as well as seafood and pasta. Chef Shawn Sublette uses locally farmed ingredients whenever possible at the 120-seat restaurant.
Also right downtown, Mel McMahon’s Indiana Gifts not only sells and curates Hoosier-made products, but also assists in empowering the state’s entrepreneurs in getting to market. The corner shop features items from South Bend Chocolate Company, Albanese Candies in Merrillville, Lafayette’s Copper Moon Coffee, New Castle’s Ollie Lue Soap Co. and more. If you can’t get to the store, the website features the products, furthering the mission to create stronger communities through Indiana crafters.
Lastly, a Lebanon visit calls for a stop at the family-owned, award-winning Titus Bakery. Over the last 40 years, the doughnut maker developed a cult following with signature confections such as their maple bacon long johns, winner of the Best Donut at the 2017 Indy Donut Festival. They also craft a variety of cookies, cakes, and seasonal goods, ensuring every Lebanon visit is a sweet one.
