Discovery

Things To Do in Winchester, Indiana

July 15, 2024

Located less than 15 miles away from the Indiana-Ohio border, Winchester is one of several state-line communities in East Central Indiana. Despite its proximity to the state boundary, Winchester fully retains its Hoosier identity, which is prominent across Randolph County’s largest city. From an acclaimed speedway to one of the region’s only remaining drive-in theaters, Winchester’s small-town Indiana charm shines through a variety of destinations and activities.

Discover some of Winchester’s finest sites below, and visit the Randolph County Convention and Visitors Bureau for a complete activities guide.

Create and admire at the Art Association of Randolph County

Nestled in a former train depot in Union City — just a short drive east of Winchester — the Art Association of Randolph County stands as one of the finest art repositories in East Central Indiana. Given its location on the state line, it draws art enjoyers from across Indiana and Ohio. The Art Association of Randolph County regularly hosts workshops for those interested in engaging their creative side, and it houses a permanent collection of work from local artists.

Union City is not only a home to fine visual art, but also to the performing arts. The Artisan Crossing amphitheater, which hosts concerts throughout the summer, is located just a block away from the Art Association of Randolph County’s headquarters. The Artisan Park Concert Series Facebook page houses information on upcoming shows.

Spend a sunny afternoon at Goodrich Park

Established in 1915, Goodrich Park has long been a recreational centerpiece in the Winchester community. The grounds are home to playground equipment, a pool, finely groomed baseball fields, plenty of green space, and more. Though its slew of amenities make Goodrich Park a modern recreation hub, its history is rooted in natural conservation, as the park was initially established as an arboretum. Today, more than 40 varieties of trees stand in the park, adding to its wide-spanning appeal.

The City of Winchester also oversees Beeson Park — a facility situated a few miles south of Goodrich Park — and rents some facilities and shelters for gatherings. Information on the city’s park and rentals can be found on the Parks Department site.

Enjoy a movie the old-fashioned way at Hummel Drive-In

Like many towns across East Central Indiana, Winchester has maintained the historical architecture around its downtown square. Unlike nearby cities, however, the community has also preserved its classic drive-in movie theater. Hummel Drive-In, accessible via State Road 32, stands as one of the region’s last operating destinations to catch a drive-in movie. The site retains all the features from a bygone era: a pair of screens, a snack stand, a playground, and more.

In contrast with its vintage layout, Hummel Drive-In screens the top modern films during the summer months. Visit the Hummel Drive-In website for information on upcoming screenings, admission prices, and more.

Get spooked at the Randolph County Asylum/Infirmary

Built in 1899 and used for a number of purposes since, the Randolph County Asylum/Infirmary has a unique history. The 50,000-square-foot facility has served as a psychiatric hospital and has filled other roles in its 125 years of existence, and another chapter of its story opened in 2016, when it was purchased for its paranormal appeal. The owners claim the building houses “a plethora of paranormal activity,” and the Asylum/Infirmary has been featured by a number of national television networks for its haunted halls.

Though informal views of the building’s exterior are permitted, visitors wishing to enter the facility for daytime or nighttime hunts must schedule an appointment. More information on the grounds and reservations can be found on its website.

See history come to life at the Randolph County Historical Society Museum

Randolph County’s formation dates back to 1818, when it was established just two years after Indiana gained statehood. The area’s rich history has yielded a number of stories and artifacts, many of which are housed in the Randolph County Historical Society Museum. A look through its exhibits is sure to be an enriching experience for all visitors, from seasoned history experts to those who are only casually interested in Indiana’s past.

The museum is located just a few blocks south of Winchester’s town square, and is open for normal operating hours during the week or by appointment. Visit the Randolph County Historical Society’s official website for up-to-date hours and contact information.

Satisfy your sweet tooth at Mrs. Wicks Pies

Perhaps Winchester’s most prized export comes from the oven. Wick’s Pies, a notorious Hoosier pie baker, has headquartered its baking operations in Randolph County since its humble beginnings in the early 1960s. Though the company’s factory products are shipped to destinations far and wide, visitors can get a taste of the famed pies in Winchester, at Mrs. Wick’s Bakery and Cafe.

Opened in 1986, Mrs. Wick’s serves a range of all-day breakfast offerings and, most importantly, 36 pie varieties. Patrons can enjoy the acclaimed pies in the restaurant, or take them home by visiting the adjoining retail outlet. Reference the Mrs. Wick’s website for up-to-date hours.

Take in a flick at Towne Square Cinema

Even while Hummel Drive-In is closed during the winter months, film fanatics can still enjoy a vintage viewing experience at Towne Square Cinema. The theater’s classic charm is evident from the entrance, where visitors are greeted by a bright marquee, to the well-preserved interior. The movie house features three screens, which show recent releases and are also available for casual gatherings or presentations.

As its name implies, the theater is conveniently located in Winchester’s historic downtown square. Some of the city’s top restaurants and shops are positioned within walking distance of Towne Square Cinema, opening up a number of possibilities for a fun-filled night on the town.

Hit the links at Winchester Golf Club

The Winchester Golf Club is the only golf course located within the confines of Winchester’s city limits, and it has emerged as a favorite destination for golfers in Randolph County and beyond. The club uniquely features three separate nine-hole courses, each of which with its own distinct layout and challenges. In addition to its unique design, the Winchester Golf Club also houses a pro shop, a state-of-the-art simulator, and more.

Reasonably priced membership plans are available for golfers who routinely visit the course, but the club is also open to the public for casual play and group events. Reference the Winchester Golf Club’s site for information on tee times, rates, and more.

Experience the thrill of racing at the Winchester Speedway

Outside the Winchester Speedway’s campus, located just a few miles west of the city, is a sign that asserts the track is the “World’s Fastest 1/2 Mile.” This claim is not hyperbolic, given the raceway’s uniquely high banks and quick turns. Cars fly around the acclaimed short track, and they have been entertaining racing fans for more than a century.

The Winchester Speedway hosts a number of events throughout the racing season, but its signature contest is the annual Winchester 400. The race has been a staple at the track since its first run in 1970, and it has grown to become one of the most prestigious competitions in short track racing. For the full race schedule and other information, visit the Speedway’s website.