Welcome to Richmond and Wayne County Indiana!
Wayne County is known as the Crossroads of American History with its bountiful history that helped shape America. At the Levi Coffin House, known as the Grand Central Station of the Underground Railroad, you’ll learn how more than 2,000 fugitive slaves were protected and ushered north toward freedom. In recent years, the Coffin House was ranked by The History Channel as one of the nation’s Top 25 Historical Sites.
The Historic National Road, which linked the eastern seashore with the western frontier in the 1830s, passes through the heart of the county offering a glimpse into our nation’s past. One artifact of the road would be the small town of Centerville known as the “City of Arches” for its rare, early 19th century Federal-style brick rowhouses with archways. Found at the Wayne County Historical Museum are other storied artifacts such as an original Conestoga wagon pioneers used as they trekked westward on the National Road and early 20th century Richmond-made airplane and cars.
Home of the legendary Gennett Recording Studio, Richmond made its mark with music superstars like Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington and Jelly Roll Morton. The Gennett Walk of Fame honors these and other legends. The three-dimensional bronze and colored tile mosaic markers on the trail are shaped like 78rpm records and are accompanied by a small bronze plaque identifying the artist and their contribution to the history of music.
Creative arts are celebrated with original exhibits throughout Wayne County. The self-guided mural trail directs you to a series of unforgettable murals that adorn area businesses, many telling the story of Richmond and Wayne County’s past. The internationally recognized Overbeck Pottery was handproduced in Cambridge City from 1911-1955 and is on display at the Museum of Overbeck Art Pottery.
Boutiques and unique shops add to Wayne County’s charm and provides endless shopping pleasures. Scott Shafer’s Stoneware offers an array of handmade pottery for everyday use, created onsite in his Centerville studio. Choose a great gift from Warm Glow Candle Outlet. These hand-dipped, made in Centerville, candles have a distinct appeal and come in 70 different fragrances and in a variety of sizes. Richmond’s Historic Depot District and downtown Richmond are booming with new eateries and trendy shops, including a 70-year old toy store and a famous chocolatier.
Wayne County has a bountiful range of outdoor recreation. Hiking at the Cope Environmental Center is available 365 days a year. A must see is the Richmond Rose Garden, an All-America Rose Display Garden. Our geocaching trail is a fun activity for the whole family.
Distinctive dining pleasures are all around. Relax at a trendy cafe where chefs create gourmet masterpieces. Tour a winery and taste award-winning wines. If chocolate is your pleasure, you’ll want to indulge in the Wayne County Chocolate Trail featuring chocolate in many different forms.
Relax and rejuvenate in the comfort of one of our affordable accommodations . . . charming B&Bs, cozy cabins, motels & hotels with all the comforts of home, and spacious campgrounds. Wake up relaxed. Enjoy a terrific breakfast, and then head out for a day of exploring. Be sure to check out our special lodging packages online for great values. We are committed to making your visit relaxing and memorable.
Enjoy!