A day trip in Pulaski County offers nature, wildlife, and small-town charm

A little curiosity can turn an ordinary drive into an extraordinary day. Tucked in the heart of Northwest Indiana, Pulaski County Westside enriches visitors with its blend of natural beauty, small-town charm, and local flavor waiting to be explored.

“Pulaski County is a community with a lot of opportunity waiting to be capitalized on,” said Nathan Origer, executive director of the Pulaski County Department of Community Development. 

With a population of nearly 12,400 residents, the county sits east of Jasper and Newton counties, and south of La Porte and Starke. For those seeking a rural day trip this fall, Pulaski County invites opportunities to explore the small-town magic, including fishing, boating, hiking, and bird watching. 

“This really is a rural retreat because of our location and our population,” Origer said. “Our primary tourism is nature-based, with places like the Tippecanoe River, Tippecanoe River State Park, and the Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area where crane viewing takes place.” 

The adventure can begin with a hearty breakfast at Anita Cup of Coffee in Medaryville, located off of US 421. The cozy spot is known for its homemade pies and friendly conversation. 

“If you’re an out-of-town visitor, stopping at Anita for biscuits and gravy and chatting with the table next to you is probably the best way to get the lay of the land,” Origer said. 

After a warm cup of joe, guests can venture out to the Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area at a perfect time to witness the annual Sandhill Crane migration through an observation tower. With migration lasting four weeks, visitors have the opportunity to appreciate the beauty and ecological role these large, majestic birds have in the ecosystem. 

“The Sandhill Crane migration is really something to see,” Origer said. “From mid-November to mid-December, you can have 15,000 to 30,000 birds out there. You could easily spend an hour or two just watching these birds and walking around the property for a little bit.” 

After taking in the views, guests embrace a variety of lunch options. The Montgomery Mercantile & Cafe in Francesville, a volunteer-run nonprofit, serves homemade meals with locally sourced ingredients and sells vendor goods. Other small-town favorites with a comfort-style menu include Clyde’s Burgers and The Patio Drive-In. 

“The Mercantile Cafe is a good place to stop to pick up a unique gift or grab a meal,” Origer said. “There are about 15 vendor booths in the back, selling everything from homemade frozen foods to children’s clothing, gifts, and knick-knacks.” 

Although Miss Kitty’s Orchard in Francesville has recently closed, other attractions such as the Peaceable Primate Sanctuary (by appointment) and Kersting’s Cycle Center & Museum remain open. Those seeking the great outdoors are also encouraged to visit Winamac Town Park, which features river access, sand volleyball, pickleball courts, and a 102-year-old pedestrian suspension bridge.

“Kersting’s is a full-service motorcycle and apparel sales and repair shop, but they have also built a museum that has hundreds of motorcycles from different decades and countries,” Origer said. “Winamac has done a phenomenal job with its main downtown. It does not have camping or high nature trails like the state park, but for no admission cost and proximity to downtown restaurants, it is an absolute treasure.”

Pulaski County offers visitors a slice of rural Indiana rooted in hospitality and natural wonder. Local tourism thrives with the county’s scenic river, parks, wildlife areas, and family-owned attractions. Collaboration is key to creating a welcoming visitor experience. With so many gems on the west side of Pulaski County and the surrounding area, visitors can easily fill a day with memorable stops. 

“Pulaski County is a quieter place with a slower pace of life, but there’s still a lot to do and plenty of potential for someone with an entrepreneurial spirit,” Origer said. 

For more information to help plan your next trip, visit pulaskionline.org/tourism.