In 2025 we are highlighting 52 small towns across the state of Indiana in 52 weeks. To start the new year with our first small town breakdown, we’re heading to Jasper, located along the Patoka River in Dubois County in southwestern Indiana.
Jasper's History
Jasper was founded in 1818. Two decades after its founding, German Catholic priest Joseph Kundek wrote letters to Germany to convince fellow Germans to move across the pond to the growing community. Fast forward to present day, and you’ll find that Jasper — which became the county seat in 1830 — is the most populated town in Dubois County with 16,757 Hoosiers, many of German descent.
Things to do in Jasper
In terms of attractions and entertainment, the historic Astra Theatre should be on your list when visiting Jasper. It initially opened in 1936 and operated as a family-owned movie theatre for the next 66 years. It closed in 2002 and re-opened in 2018 after undergoing a renovation for nearly $1.7 million. If you’re looking to attack some pins, Sultan’s Run Golf Club is a hidden gem. It hosted the 2023 Senior LPGA Championship and was recognized as the 2024 GolfPass #1 Golfers’ Choice Public Course in Indiana. It would be a huge miss if we didn’t mention the feast you can enjoy at The Schnitzelbank. The salad bar is robust, so tread lightly while you select one of many German dishes from the menu. For the late-night crowd, Odd Fellows, a speakeasy and cigar lounge, offers crisp cocktails and the perfect escape, and Old Homestead Distillery is a must-visit. Jasper is also home to an amazing town square with dozens of shops, and the “Wood Capital of the World” features an abundance of furniture stores including Kimball International, Englerts Home Comfort Center and Casual Home, among others.
Fun spots in Dubois County
While you’re in Dubois County, be sure to visit the sprawling 8,800 acres of Patoka Lake. After you get out on the water, enjoy tastings at Patoka Lake Winery and reserve a silo suite — yes, you can sleep in a renovated grain bin!
Jasper & Dubois County's Legacy
Lastly, fans of America’s pastime should add a visit to Jasper and Dubois County to their list. Jasper is home to the Indiana Baseball Hall of Fame and is also home to Scott Rolen, who was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2023. Rolen is a 1993 graduate of Jasper High School, which has nine state championships to its ledger including six in baseball (1996-98, 2000, 2006, 2021) and one apiece in boys basketball (1949), boys tennis (2000) and football (2001). In nearby Huntingburg, you can visit League Stadium, where “A League of Their Own” was filmed with actor Tom Hanks as coach of the Rockford Peaches.
That’s it for our first small town breakdown of 2025. Where should we head next?
