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Peru, Indiana: Where Fun and Adventure Await! The Best Places to Visit and Things to Do!

The circus museums and the air museum are the two anchors of the town. Both of them sit inside the town and will take a morning each. The Nickel Plate Trail runs 21.3 miles if you want the full walk. The Circus City Festival fills the whole town, so book ahead for it. You want a car and a weekend rather than one single day here.

Welcome to Peru, Indiana, a small city with more to it than the size suggests. Located in the north-central part of the state, Peru holds plenty for anybody after something genuine. Whether you read history, eat well or walk, Peru covers it.

One of the unmissable attractions in Peru is the Grissom Air Museum. With over 30 aircraft on display, this museum is where anybody who follows aviation ends up. You can also take a guided tour and get the history of the planes and the men and women who flew them.

When you are finished at the museum, Peru still has plenty left. From hiking to chocolate tastings, the days here do not go quiet. So pack the bags and give Peru, Indiana a proper run.

Key Takeaways

• The Grissom Air Museum is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts.
• Peru, Indiana offers a variety of fun activities for visitors, including hiking, chocolate tastings, and historical site exploration.
• Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or outdoor enthusiast, Peru has something to offer for everyone.

The Unmissable Grissom Air Museum

If military aviation is your thing, the Grissom Air Museum is the stop in Peru, Indiana. This non-profit organization works at setting out the history of the military base and the men and women who served there.

From the moment you walk in, the place puts you back in the golden age of aviation. The museum runs a broad set of exhibits, including vintage aircraft, historic artifacts and interactive displays that hold you for hours.

One of the reasons to go to the Grissom Air Museum is the chance to climb into the cockpit of a real fighter jet. Imagine yourself as a fighter pilot sitting in an F-4 Phantom, an F-16 or an A-4 Skyhawk. It’s not something you forget.

But that is not the end of it. The museum also runs simulators that give you the flight without leaving the ground. You can take off, fly and land a virtual aircraft in a simulation convincing enough to matter.

Travelers from across the world have left strong reviews of the Grissom Air Museum on sites like TripAdvisor. Many have picked out the knowledgeable staff, the collection of aircraft and the interactive exhibits.

So if you want a day in Peru, Indiana that teaches you something, take the Grissom Air Museum. It’s unmissable for anybody who follows military aviation and history.

Hiking Adventures in Peru, Indiana

You might not think of Indiana as walking country, and Peru, Indiana runs trails that will change your mind. Whether you walk seriously or want a slow stroll, Peru has the ground for it.

One of the busier trails in Peru is the Lost Sister Trail. Don’t worry, you will not actually lose your sister on it, unless you want to. The trail takes its name from a local story about two sisters separated in the woods, one of whom was never found. But that need not put you off, because the trail is well-marked and easy to follow. You’ll get long views of the Wabash River and enough shade to survive a hot day.

If you want a longer walk, check the Nickel Plate Trail. This 21.3-mile trail runs from Peru to Rochester and fills a whole day. You’ll pass through rural Indiana with wildlife on either side. Just carry plenty of drinking water, because there are no water sources along the trail.

For something harder, head to the Seven Pillars Nature Preserve. This 110-acre preserve runs a network of trails through forest, wetland and prairie. The trails are well kept, and be ready for steep inclines and uneven ground.

No matter which trail you take, wear comfortable shoes and carry plenty of sunscreen. And take the photographs, because the walking in Peru, Indiana deserves the record.

The Delicious World of Peru’s Cuisine

When you think of Peru, Indiana, the food is probably not the first thing that comes up. But let us tell you, friend, that Peru’s cuisine repays attention. From pizza to sandwiches, burgers to wings, this town covers every appetite.

If pizza is the want, the local favorite is Harvey Hinklemeyer’s. They’ve got the classic toppings, and their BBQ Chicken Pizza is the one worth ordering instead. Trust us, it changes the evening.

For something more formal, head to The Dam Landing. Their menu runs classic American fare alongside dishes like their Peruvian Chicken. It’s a blend of spices that puts you briefly on the streets of Lima.

But do not overlook the sandwich. The Pickle & Turnip is where lunch happens. Their Cuban sandwich is properly built, with ham, pork, Swiss cheese, pickles and mustard pressed together on a well-toasted roll.

If a burger is the target, the obvious answer is Burger King. Just kidding. We’re talking about the burgers at Mad Mushroom. These are properly seasoned beef with every topping you would want.

And there are the wings. Wings Etc. is where the wing question gets settled. Their sauces run from mild to “burn your face off,” so choose carefully. And order the waffle fries alongside.

In short, Peru, Indiana is a small town that eats a great deal better than its size suggests. With options running from classic pizza to Peruvian dishes, something here will land. So order properly. Your stomach will thank you.

A Peek into the Past: Historical Sites

Peru, Indiana carries real history, and the chances to work through it are everywhere. Whether you read history or simply want a day that teaches you something, the town covers it.

First, the railroad. The Wabash and Erie Canal once ran through Peru, which made it a hub for transport and commerce. The Peru Circus Winter Quarters and Museum is where you get the circus trains that used to come through town, and the Circus City Festival is the stop for anybody interested in the history of the big top.

If Native American history interests you, take the Miami Indian Cemetery. This burial ground is the final resting place of members of the Miami tribe, who lived in this country before anybody else. While you are in the area, the Miami County Museum runs exhibits on local history and culture.

Another historical site in Peru is the Francis Slocum Cemetery. Francis Slocum was a Native American woman taken as a child by the Delaware tribe, who later married a Miami chief. The cemetery is where she is buried, and it is where her life and what came of it are set out.

Finally, no visit to Peru is complete without the Historical Museum. This museum runs exhibits on local history, including the Wabash and Erie Canal, the circus and the Civil War. It’s where the people and the events that made this community are laid out.

So whether the interest is trains, Native American history or simply Peru’s past, this historic city holds plenty.

Circus City: A Fun Exploration

Peru, Indiana is known as the “Circus Capital of the World”, and it earns the title. With a long history in the circus industry, Circus City runs plenty worth seeing.

First, head to the Circus City Festival Museum. This museum holds photos, miniatures, displays and costumes out of the circus past. You’ll come away with the history and the magic of the industry in equal measure. Don’t leave without a photograph beside the life-size elephant statue out front.

Next, make your way to the Circus Hall of Fame. This museum works at keeping the history of the circus industry and honoring the people who shaped it. You’ll get old circus posters, elaborate costumes and even a replica of a circus tent. It’s unmissable for anybody who follows the circus.

Of course, no trip to Circus City is finished without the Circus City Festival. This annual event marks everything circus, with parades, performances and more. You’ll get acrobats, clowns and even elephants. It’s a day the whole family will take something from.

Whether you follow the circus closely or simply want something you have not seen, Circus City is where to be. So take the popcorn and the cotton candy and work through the history of it.

Outdoor Fun at Miami County Fairgrounds

Looking for outdoor days in Peru, Indiana? Look at the Miami County Fairgrounds. With this much ground to move around on, the afternoon looks after itself.

First, the picnics. The Miami County Fairgrounds runs plenty of picnic areas to choose between. Bring your own basket or take something from the on-site vendors and settle in for the afternoon.

But if you want something with more in it, try the fishing. The fairgrounds hold several ponds stocked with fish, so take the rod and see what comes up. And who knows, you might land one worth talking about.

And if you are in town during fair season, you have timed it well. The Miami County Fair is a week-long celebration of agriculture, with rides, games and the fair food that goes with them. So take a corn dog and get on the Ferris wheel.

Overall, the Miami County Fairgrounds is where the outdoor day goes in Peru, Indiana. Whether the want is a quiet picnic or a full day of fishing and fair, something here will suit.

The Circus Hall of Fame is the more serious one of the two museums. The Circus City Festival Museum is the one holding all of the costumes. The Grissom Air Museum is where the aircraft and the open cockpits are. The Seven Pillars are the outdoor half of that very same trip out. You pick two of those and the whole weekend arranges itself around them.

The Thrill of Escape Games in Peru

Looking for something demanding to do in Peru, Indiana? Look at the escape games. These interactive games test your problem-solving and work well with friends or family.

Escape games, also called escape rooms, are physical adventure games where players are locked in a room and must solve puzzles and riddles to get out before the time runs. The rooms are themed, running from a haunted house to a spy mission.

Peru runs several escape game locations, each with its own challenges and themes. Some of the names are AdventureRooms 123 Escape Games and Explore Room Escape Games. These venues run a choice of rooms, each with its own set of puzzles.

Escape games work for groups of friends or family after something demanding. They’re also used for team-building among coworkers or student groups. So gather the team and get on with it.

But that is not the whole of it. If you want more to do in Peru, Indiana, pair the escape game with the movies. The AMC Classic Peru Mall 8 is where you catch the latest blockbuster or something smaller. So after the escape game, sit down and let the screen do the work.

Overall, escape games are worth trying in Peru, Indiana. They’re demanding, they suit friends and family, and they work for team-building or a group outing. So gather the team, put the problem-solving to the test and get out if you can.

The Sweet Side of Peru: Chocolate Tasting

Peru may be known for its ancient ruins and vibrant culture, but did you know that it’s also a chocolate lover’s paradise? From dark chocolate pecan clusters to decadent gold bars, Peru has something for every sweet tooth.

One great way to experience the chocolate scene in Peru is through a chocolate tasting. Take a tour of a cacao plantation and learn about the history of Peruvian chocolate. You’ll get to taste different varieties of chocolate and learn about the unique flavours and textures that make Peruvian chocolate so special.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try a chocolate-making workshop. You’ll get to create your own chocolate creations, from truffles to chocolate bars. Who knows, you may even discover your inner chocolatier.

One must-visit spot for chocolate lovers is the ChocoMuseo. With locations in Cusco, Ollantaytambo, Pisac, Lima – Miraflores, and Lima – Historic Center, this museum is dedicated to all things chocolate. You can watch the chocolate-making process, take a chocolate workshop, or simply indulge in some of their delicious treats.

And if you’re looking for the perfect souvenir, look no further than the dark chocolate pecan clusters or the dark chocolate gold bars. These sweet treats make great gifts for friends and family back home, or just a little something to enjoy yourself.

So next time you’re in Peru, don’t forget to indulge in the sweet side of this vibrant country. Your taste buds will thank you.

Exploring the Seven Pillars of Peru

You’re in Peru, Indiana and you want something to do. Why not take the Seven Pillars of the Mississinewa? These seven limestone pillars stand up to 25 feet tall and they hold you where you stand. As you walk along the Mississinewa River, you come on ground the Miami people of Indiana have held sacred for centuries.

The Seven Pillars are an unusual geological formation, and the signs along the way set out the history and what the place means. You’ll get the limestone, how the pillars formed and what they carry for the Miami people.

As you walk among the pillars, you will pass others doing the same thing slowly. There’s a settling quality to being surrounded by that much country, and the Seven Pillars give exactly that. Take a breath and let it work.

While the Seven Pillars are the stop to make in Peru, Indiana, remember to be respectful of the ground and what it means. Take only pictures and leave only footprints. And remember the Seven Pillars are one of many things to see in Peru, Indiana. So what is keeping you? Get out there and start.

The Wine Culture of Peru

Peru may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of wine, but it’s time to change that. Peru has a growing wine industry that’s worth exploring. And what better way to explore it than by indulging in some wine tasting?

One of the best places to start your wine journey in Peru is Ica. This region is known for producing some of the best wines in the country. You can take a tour of the vineyards and learn about the winemaking process. And of course, you’ll get to taste some of the delicious wines.

Peruvian wine is not as well-known as some of its South American neighbors, but that’s slowly changing. The country has a unique climate and soil that produces some amazing wines. The most popular grape varieties in Peru are Quebranta, Torontel, and Italia.

If you’re a fan of Pisco, you’ll be happy to know that it’s also produced in Peru. Pisco is a type of brandy that’s made from grapes. It’s the national spirit of Peru and is used to make the famous Pisco Sour cocktail.

In addition to Ica, there are other regions in Peru that produce wine, such as Lima and Arequipa. Each region has its own unique flavour and style of wine. So, if you’re a wine lover, you’ll want to explore all of them.

In conclusion, Peru may not be famous for its wine, but it’s definitely worth exploring. From the vineyards of Ica to the unique flavours of Peruvian wine, there’s something for every wine lover. So, grab a glass and start your wine journey in Peru.

Offbeat Things to Do in Peru, Indiana

Peru, Indiana may not be the first name that comes up for offbeat destinations, and this small town runs plenty of odd and unexpected things to do. Here are the offbeat activities that will make the trip to Peru, Indiana stick.

Visit the Grissom Air Museum

If aviation is your thing, do not skip the Grissom Air Museum. This museum works at keeping the history of the Grissom Air Force Base, which sat just outside Peru. You’ll find a serious collection of military aircraft alongside exhibits on aviation and space exploration. Plus the museum runs guided tours from local pilots and enthusiasts, which gets you the insider’s version.

Explore the Bluespring Caverns

Did you know the longest navigable underground river in the United States sits in Indiana? It’s true. The Bluespring Caverns are the stop for anybody who follows natural wonders. You can take a boat tour of the underground river and see the blind and albino animals living down there. It’s an experience you will not repeat elsewhere.

Play a Round of Golf at Leaning Tree Golf Course

If you want something unexpected in Peru, Indiana, why not play the Leaning Tree Golf Course? This course is known for pizza that has no business being that good, so you can play and eat in one visit. Plus the course looks out over the surrounding countryside the whole way round.

Catch a Flick at the Roxy Movie Theater

The Roxy Movie Theater is a local institution in Peru, Indiana. This historic theater has been showing films since 1948 and it is still going. You can take the latest blockbuster or a classic in a room built for it. Plus the staff are friendly and the place is properly kept.

Get Lost in Gallery 15 & Studios

If you are in Peru, Indiana on the second Saturday of the month, do not miss Gallery 15 & Studios. This art gallery and studio space is where Peru’s 2nd Saturdays happen. You can work through the local artists, watch live demonstrations and make something yourself in the studio. It’s a creative way to spend an afternoon in Peru, Indiana.

These are only some of the offbeat things to do in Peru, Indiana. Whether the interest is aviation, the outdoors, art or simply a good day, this small town will turn something up.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the deal with Peru, Indiana? Why is it named after a country in South America?

Well, nobody is entirely sure why the founders of Peru, Indiana named their town after a country in South America. Maybe they liked llamas and Machu Picchu. Or maybe they simply wanted to confuse people. Regardless, Peru, Indiana is a small town worth the visit, ancient ruins or not.

Are there any good spots for a picnic near Mississinewa Lake?

Absolutely. Mississinewa Lake is ringed with parks and picnic areas. You can pack a basket and head to the Miami State Recreation Area, which runs tables and grills, or take the Frances Slocum State Recreation Area, which has a beach and plenty of shade.

What are some unique souvenirs to bring back from Peru, Indiana?

Well, you could take a bag of popcorn back from the Circus City Festival, or a jar of homemade apple butter from the Amish Acres Historic Farm and Heritage Resort. If you want to work for it, you could try to find the elusive “Peru Peppers,” a spicy little pepper grown only around here.

Can you recommend any offbeat museums in the Miami County area?

Absolutely. If vintage cars and trucks are your thing, do not skip the Grissom Air Museum, which runs a serious collection of military aircraft and vehicles. Or, if local history is closer to it, take the Miami County Museum, which covers everything from Native American artifacts to the circus.

What’s the best way to beat the heat in Peru, Indiana?

Well, you could swim in Mississinewa Lake, or take one of the town’s parks for the shade. But if you want to cool off properly, head to the Peru Municipal Pool, which runs a giant water slide and plenty of lounge chairs.

Are there any hidden gems or secret spots to explore in Peru, Indiana?

Well, we are not giving all of it away, and we will say the Miami County Courthouse is worth a look for its clock tower and its stained glass. And if you want more, drive some of the town’s back roads, where things turn up that nobody writes down.

Frequently asked questions about Peru, Indiana

Is the Grissom Air Museum worth a full morning of it?

Yes, it is. The museum runs over 30 aircraft, simulators you can fly and cockpits you can climb into, and the guided tours come from local pilots rather than a script. It sits just outside the town on the old air base. The children will spend far longer in it than you expect. You go on a dry day, because some of it stands outdoors.

How long is the Nickel Plate Trail out of Peru?

It runs 21.3 miles. The trail goes from Peru through to Rochester across rural Indiana, which makes it a whole day rather than an afternoon, and there is no water on it at all. The Lost Sister Trail is the shorter option to take instead of it. The Seven Pillars preserve is much the harder ground of the two. You carry everything you need with you, because nothing is out there.

When does the Circus City Festival take over the town?

Once every year. The festival runs parades, performances, acrobats, clowns and elephants through the town, and it is the week Peru actually earns the title of Circus Capital of the World. The Circus Hall of Fame is open through the rest of the year. The winter quarters museum covers the same ground rather more quietly. You book the beds early on, because this town is a small one.

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