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What is Marion, Indiana known for?
- The birthplace of cartoonist Jim Davis and actor James Dean, the city of Marion in Indiana is not only home to Indiana Wesleyan University, but there are several other attractions for visitors and locals alike to see and do.
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What outdoor activities are available in Marion?
- For anyone who loves to spend a day strolling through beautiful gardens or having fun with outdoor recreation activities, Matter Park is a great choice for the entire family.
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Are there museums and historic sites to visit in Marion?
- Marion also has a number of museums and historic sites to explore, such as the Marion National Cemetery and the Quilters Hall of Fame.
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1. Gardens of Matter Park
Gardens of Matter Park in the city of Marion, Indiana spans across a little more than 100 acres and is home to a “Proven Winners Signature Garden,” a distinction given to just a handful of professional gardens throughout the United States. The Gardens at Matter Park feature seating, bronze statues, shade structures, and more than 7,000 annual plants. The park also consists of the Meadow, which includes an award-winning Butterfly Gardens and the Children’s Vegetable Garden. Several events take place in Matter Park as well, such as Magic in the Gardens, Ice Cream Socials, the Monarch Festival, and the Garden Education Series.
N River Rd &, N Quarry Rd, Marion, IN 46952, Phone: 765-662-9931
2. Marion Public Library & Museum
The Marion Public Library and Museum is home to a large collection of memorabilia and artifacts related to the history of Indiana’s Grant County. The “History Made Here” exhibit showcases the history of the natural gas boom that took place in the east-central part of the state and the effects it had on the communities in the county. Other exhibits on display in the Marion Public Library and Museum include the made in Marion 1952 Crosley Super Sport car, a military history exhibit featuring uniforms and photos, a Victorian exhibit, vintage clothing, children’s toys, and antique appliances.
600 S Washington St #1963, Marion, IN 46953, Phone: 765-668-2900
3. Marion National Cemetery
The Marion National Cemetery is the peaceful and serene final resting place of numerous veterans who have served during many different wars. Colonel George W. Steele, who was the congressional representative of Indiana at the time, persuaded his colleagues in the nation’s capital in 1888 that a “Soldier’s Home” was needed in Grant County. The 31-acre National Home’s Marion Branch opened in 1889. The first veteran buried here was Civil War veteran Henry Smith on May 29th of 1890.Along with being a burial place for veterans, the Marion National Cemetery also features a number of memorials and monuments.
1700 E 38th St, Marion, IN 46953, Phone: 765-674-0284
4. The Historic Wilson-Vaughan Hostess House
The Historic Wilson-Vaughan Hostess House is a historic, beautiful architectural landmark in the city of Marion, Indiana that is often used for special events, such as art shows, private parties, receptions, and weddings. The house is also open on weekdays for lunch and all proceeds go towards maintaining and preserving the historically significant building. Built back in 1912, the Wilson-Vaughan Hostess House was a wedding gift for J. Wood Wilson’s wife Peggy and was designed by African American architect Samuel Plato. Tours of the house are available upon request, and visitors can also browse the resale shop and gift shop.
723 W 4th St, Marion, IN 46952, Phone: 765-664-3755
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