Winter in Indiana is a pretty amazing time of year; everything's coated in layers of fluffy white snow, buildings and homes are decorated in shimmering lights, and some towns really get to show off their festive side right about now. One of the best winter towns in Indiana is none other than the historic small town of Valparaiso, which is famous in the Midwest for having one of the downright best ice skating rinks in the country. This season, while it's cold, come out to Valparaiso and see what this beautiful little town does right during the winter (hint: everything).
Valparaiso has the fascinating distinction of being one of the oldest towns in Indiana.
It wasn't officially incorporated until 1856, but it had already been a valuable trading post since the late 17th century. These days, the locals lovingly call it "Valpo," and during the winter, they make sure it shines... literally and figuratively.
It all starts with the 30-foot-tall, beautifully lit tree erected at the center of town. Slowly, businesses and homes begin decorating for the season as well, ensuring that anyone who visits during the winter is sure to want to stay forever.
The other seasons are great and all, sure, but winter is where Valpo really stands out. It's been repeatedly called one of the ten "best small towns in the United States" and "best winter towns in the Midwest" by numerous outlets (including ourselves, because yeah... it really is).
Typically, folks hear about winter in Valpo when they look up where to go ice skating in Indiana.
Valparaiso is home to the famed Central Park Plaza, which is quite notorious for having the best ice skating EVER when it's chilly. It's perfect for a date night or a family outing, and it really helps you get into the spirit of the season.
January is typically the coldest month of the year, though if you come out to Valpo hoping for a white Christmas, you're likely to get one.
Browse the streets filled with charming little shops, local eateries you won't find anywhere but here, and so much more. Be sure to dress warm, though - the average daily high in Valparaiso hovers right around freezing (32 degrees) at the peak of winter.
Of course, for those who can't get enough of this beautiful, chilly white time...
...Valparaiso is like something out of a postcard or a snow globe, unlike anywhere else, and certainly something you won't want to go without ever again once you've experienced it.
For more information about this beautiful small town in Indiana, be sure to check out its official Facebook page for all the latest goings-on. Have you ever been to this gorgeous little winter town in Indiana? Let us know what you think in the comments. Not sure what to pack for a winter escape? No worries - our handy-dandy winter trip packing list ought to help.
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