Winslow combines historical themes along the Patoka River with recreational offerings at Old Ben Aqua Park. The town’s former role as a port and the range of activities on and around the water are especially notable. These different highlights offer several starting points for planning a stay.

River history and historic buildings

In the 19th century, Winslow was a port town on the Patoka River. Flatboats transported furs and goods from there to New Orleans. The river thus represents a specific part of the town’s history: the transportation of goods and the connection to a distant destination.

There was also a ford on the Patoka River near Winslow before a covered bridge was built later in the 19th century. The bridge no longer stands. The port and crossing point illustrate different functions of the river: flatboats were used to transport goods, while the ford and bridge were used to cross it.

Palace Lodge is the oldest surviving commercial building in Winslow. It adds a distinct perspective on the town’s architectural past to its river history. Another historical chapter dates to the period after the Great Depression: Winslow was home to a CCC camp that worked on many projects along the river and in Pike State Forest to help put men back to work.

Activities at Old Ben Aqua Park

Old Ben Aqua Park brings together a range of activities on the water and in the beach area. On the water, there is an inflatable obstacle course measuring 300 × 150 feet. The park also rents paddleboards, kayaks, and pedal boats. You can choose between an obstacle course and a rented watercraft—two different ways to enjoy the park’s water activities.

The beach area includes sand volleyball, a 40 × 25-foot jumping pillow, a bounce house, and various outdoor games. The Dome at the park features a high ropes course and a climbing wall. The choices range from the water obstacle course and watercraft to activities in the beach area and The Dome. The availability of equipment in the beach area may change, so check which offerings are available before your visit.

Winslow Community Day

Winslow Community Day includes an annual Light Parade. Refreshments are sold at Miller's Field during the event. If you want to plan your stay around this event, check the current event date before traveling.

Plan your stay around what matters most

When looking for a vacation rental in Winslow, you can first decide what you want your stay to focus on: the town’s history along the Patoka River, the range of activities at Old Ben Aqua Park, or Community Day. If you’re planning around the festival, the event date matters; for the park, check the availability of equipment in the beach area.

For the broader travel overview: Pike.