Authentically Kokomo: a beginner’s guide to what the locals love

Imagine yourself taking a road trip across Indiana, and the map on your phone mentions a city called Kokomo. Your curiosity entices you to make a stop, but your fears tell you that there’s nothing there. There are many exciting things to do in Kokomo whether you are here for a day, three days, or just for a few hours! Here are some things to check out to make your trip memorable.

Attractions

What is the largest animal you have seen? Visit one of Kokomo’s quirky roadside attractions: Old Ben, the World’s Largest Steer! You can find this massive steer in Highland Park in his own private pavilion. Are you more fascinated with insects? Check out the immense sculpture of KokoMantis before you head downtown!

Immerse yourself in history with the Seiberling Mansion. Tour this beautiful mansion, home of the Howard County Museum, to explore the local history exhibits and details within. The Seiberling is always beautiful year round, but the best time to visit is during the holidays when every room and corner is decorated for Christmas! Another local museum to visit is the Elwood Haynes Museum, where you can learn about Elwood Haynes and his innovative horseless carriage that changed history forever.

Discover a piece of Kokomo’s artistic heritage at Kokomo Opalescent Glass. This art glass factory offers tours to see how its famous glass creations are made. It is also the oldest art glass company in the United States. After your tour, you can visit the Op Shop to purchase a glass souvenir!

Food and Drink

No visit to Kokomo would be complete without food, and there are dozens of local and unique restaurants here for you to savor! You can find classic American eats at places like Yoke Social Table and Half Moon Restaurant and Brewery, or take a trip around the world with places like Zaika Indian Cuisine, 3 Amigos Mexican Grill, Martino’s Italian Villa, and Sokuri. In the mood for pizza? Give Oscar’s Pizza a try. Be sure to save room for dessert! Enjoy an elegant cake slice or cupcake at J. Edwards, or savor delicious ice cream at Scoops or Wally and Olly’s.

Of course, there are plenty of places to grab a coffee or a caffeinated beverage to help energize your day. The locals enjoy getting their coffee fix at Coffee Junkiez, Big Ben, and MO Joe Coffee House. In the evening, toast to a wonderful night with cocktails, beers, and wine at The Coterie, Cook McDoogal’s Irish Pub, and Sun King Brewery.

Shopping

Lastly, don’t forget about shopping! Kokomo has plenty of wonderful stores for you to explore! Kids of all ages will love Kokomo Toys and Collectibles for the expansive toy collection and Olde Thyme Mercantile for the variety of candies! Get your fashion on at stores such as Laura’s and Co. and Annmarie’s Boutique. Love to go antique hunting? Visit The Original Treasure Mart and Wild Ostrich Antiques to find unique treasures.

 

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