by Hailey Reynolds and Julia Spalding
Indiana Swifties have always had “that James Dean daydream look” in their eyes. To prep fans for the singer-songwriter’s stop in Indianapolis November 1–3, we suggest these six Hoosier destinations that prove once and for all: This is Taylor’s world— we just live in it.
Self Titled- Taylor Swift: Vincennes
This is where it all started, for both Taylor Swift and Indiana. Vincennes was founded in 1732 and was the first established city in Indiana. Head to George Rogers Clark National Historical Park, which marks the birth of the United States North of the Ohio River. Then explore the Red Skeleton Museum of American Comedy, where your trip will surely be “Tied Together With A Smile.”
Fearless: South Bend
On your drive into South Bend, you can't help but say, "Look now, the sky is gold," just like the shining dome at the University of Notre Dame. Why not "talk and window shop" along the East Bank Village or be a little "Fearless" as you navigate the Rum Village Adventures aerial park. During your trip to South Bend, you'll think to yourself, "Today Was A Fairytale."
Red: Bloomington & Brown County
Welcome to Monroe County, where "Red" is everyone's favorite color. Whether you're sporting a crimson lip to cheer for Indiana University or coordinating with fall leaves in Brown County, everything about Bloomington will make you want to "Stay Stay Stay." You can visit the "Holy Ground" of the two largest Buddhist Centers in the Midwest or "just keep dancing like we're 22" at The Bluebird.
1989: Indianapolis
“Welcome to Indianapolis, it’s been waiting for you!” As you approach the Capitol City, the skyline seems to say “nice to meet you! Where’ve you been? I can show you incredible things” like the exhibits at Newfields or race day at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Reputation: Terre Haute
Heading to Terre Haute .... “are you ready for it?” In the early 1900s, this thriving city along the Wabash River had a “big reputation” as a Chicago mobster hotspot and was referred to as “Sin City.” But now, “the old Taylor can’t come to the phone right now,” and under all that muscle and grit, Taylor and Terre Haute have a story of strength to tell. You can hear the stories of the genocide Eva Mozes Kor and her twin sister Miriam experienced during the Holocaust at the CANDLES Holocaust Museum and Education Center. Then stop by the massive statue of Larry Bird, whose game time digs and skill showed that “some boys are tryin' too hard, He don't try at all, though.”
Lover: Lafayette
There's so much to experience in Greater Lafayette. See the "waving homecoming queens" and "marching band[s] playing" at a Purdue University football game. If "You Need To Calm Down," enjoy a wine tasting at Wildcat Creek Winery. Heading this way for the holiday season? The Holiday Farmers Market "leaves the Christmas lights up 'til January."
Photo Credit: Paul Owens
Folklore: Fort Wayne
A visit to Fort Wayne will inevitably "lead [you] to the garden at Lakeside Park and Rose Garden. Hit a Sunday matinee at the Embassy Theatre, let "August [be] sipped away like a bottle of wine" from Two EE's Winer, or "be flused when you return" from a bike ride along Curly's Suspension Bridge or a winter's pass through Blue Jacket's Fantasy of Lights.
Evermore: Madison
"There'll be happiness after you[r]" visit to Madison, Indiana. Enjoy some shopping at The Rugged "Willow" or find a "Gold Rush" of treasure at Gold-N-Treasures. Feeling hungry? Visit the Thomas Family Winery and Rustic Bakery on a "Tuesday night for dinner and a glass of wine."
Midnights: The Region
When you experience the charm of northeastern Indiana, you will "just wanna stay in that lavender haze." In the winter months, you can take a walk at the Kankakee Sands, where the frost "can make the whole place shimmer," or head to the shores of Lake Michigan to see some "Snow on the Beach."
Tortured Poets Department: COMING SOON
