Johnson offers several distinct highlights for a trip of discovery: military and regional history, art, trails and natural areas. The following places each have their own focus.
Military and Regional History
You do not need access to the Camp Atterbury military installation to visit the Camp Atterbury Museum. As this access policy may change, check it before your arrival. Inside the museum, a historical timeline traces the story from before the military installation was established through to the present day. The Camp Atterbury Outdoor Museum displays military equipment from the period since World War II.
In addition to the museum, visitors can visit the Veterans' Memorial Wall, take a walking path and spend time at a reflection pool. The Camp Atterbury Prisoner of War Chapel, also known as the “Chapel in the Meadow,” commemorates the Italian and German prisoners of war held at Camp Atterbury during World War II. The Camp Atterbury Museum also hosts the annual Veterans' Memorial Commemoration; as dates may change, check the latest event details in advance.
The Johnson County Museum of History offers a different historical perspective: its exhibits span the geological beginnings, the pioneer era and the 1950s. A genealogy library supports research into historical topics throughout the county.
Art and Culture in Franklin
The Historic Artcraft Theatre is listed on the Indiana State Register of Historic Places. It screens popular films from various decades and hosts live events. The Franklin Arts District has more than 20 stops featuring murals, public art and artistically designed alleys. Individual installations may change. The “Art on the Trail” route also features colorful sculptures and exhibits; public art may change over time.
Self-guided walking tours are available in Downtown Franklin. Routes and maps may change, so it is worth checking the latest route information before setting out. This lets you tailor the tour to your interest in public art without assuming it follows a fixed event schedule.
Trails, Parks and Equestrian Sports
The Franklin Greenway Trail stretches for 17 miles through Franklin and passes through nine parks and wetlands. Johnson County Park has about five miles of wooded hiking trails, a disc golf course and two campgrounds. The Greenway is therefore considerably longer than the park’s wooded trails. As park facilities may change, check the latest information before your arrival.
Hoosier Horse Park has three dressage arenas, two stadium jumping arenas and a cross-country course. In Greenwood, the trail network and parks are suitable for walking, running and cycling. This means there are options for different kinds of exercise in addition to hiking trails.
Forests, Wetlands and Wildlife
Atterbury Fish and Wildlife Area covers 4,950 acres of habitat, including upland game habitat, marshes, flowing streams and shallow artificial ponds. Hunting is also possible there. If you are considering this activity, check Indiana’s current regulations before your visit.
Laura Hare Preserve at Blossom Hollow is part of a large, connected tract of deciduous forest that is important for migratory birds and birds that nest in the forest interior. The forest types described include high-quality oak forests on ridges and slopes, as well as bottomland forests in stream and river valleys. The transition from higher elevations to river valleys highlights the Preserve’s varied landscapes.
Wine Tastings and Events
Mallow Run Winery offers free wine tastings. It also hosts concerts in its amphitheater and offers outdoor yoga. Offerings and event dates may change, so check the latest information before your arrival.
Discover more destinations: Greenwood, Edinburgh, Tipton County, Newton County, Orange County, Montgomery County, Floyd County, Lawrence.
For the regional travel overview: Indiana.
