New Carlisle isn't just a place to pass through. Situated 15 miles west of South Bend, it’s quaint and full of charm. Here are some of our favorite reasons to visit this quintessential Indiana small town.

Historic New Carlisle Museum

Start your visit to New Carlisle by visiting its museum and gift shop.

In the museum you'll find more about New Carlisle's roots as a place for commerce along the Lincoln Highway. Exhibits detail some of the town's historic figures, including former vice president Schuyler Colfax. There's also a gift shop. Consider the museum a hub for the rest of your visit.

Authentic Dining Destination

Another area where New Carlisle shines — through its dining destinations.

Moser's Austrian Café screams authenticity. Have you ever been served by waitresses wearing dirndls or had to "try" to pronounce menu items like jaegerschnitzel or zigeunerschnitzel? Since opening in 1999, Moser's Austrian Café has been serving up Austrian/German cuisine.

Another authentic experience awaits at Kate O'Connor's Irish Pub. Originally from Cork, Ireland, its owners wanted to bring a real Irish pub to the States. They’ve done it.

It's a cozy gathering place that bursts at the seams on St. Patrick’s Day. As for the food, you can't go wrong with shepherd’s pie or fish and chips.

RELATED CONTENT: Authentic Irish Eats in The Bend

Browse Can't-Miss Shops

Retail isn’t just part of New Carlisle’s heritage. Many historic buildings in downtown now hold small shops.

Feeney's Hometown Goods is an eclectic shop with goods from local artisans.

Explore Nearby Parks

Working off all that grub is easy as heading to one of the nearby parks.

Two St. Joseph County Parks — Bendix Woods and Spicer Lake Nature Preserve — aren’t far from New Carlisle's downtown. Both offer ample opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, especially if hiking is one of your pastimes.

RELATED CONTENT: Explore Our County Parks

Bendix Woods covers about 195 acres. Hiking and mountain biking are among the staple activities here. Visit during February and March and you’ll be around when maple syrup making takes place from trees in the park.

Spicer Lake Nature Preserve (320 acres), located just north of New Carlisle near the Michigan border, is a geologic wonder with a couple "kettle lakes." There’s a boardwalk that allows for exploration of some wetland areas. Both “lakes” include observation decks.