In 2025 we are highlighting 52 small towns across the state of Indiana in 52 weeks. For our fourth small town breakdown in January, we’re headed from the county seat of Lebanon in Boone County to Spiceland in Henry County, located 45 minutes east of downtown Indianapolis.
The History of Spiceland, Indiana
Henry County was founded on June 1, 1822, and was named after Patriot Patrick Henry, governor of Virginia, who is credited with saying “Give me liberty, or give me death!” The saying became a war cry of the American Revolution. While the county seat of Henry County is New Castle, Spiceland is located south of I-70 on State Road 3 and was not incorporated until 1869. The community was named after a common spice bush found in the area by Quaker pioneers. Spiceland was also a station on the Underground Railroad before the Civil War. As of the 2023 census, Spiceland’s population was 956.
The next time you find yourself driving I-70 headed to or from Ohio, swing through Spiceland and pay the historic Indiana town a visit.
Things to See in Spiceland, Indiana
The Spiceland Grill & Venue is the perfect spot to enjoy American grill cuisine. Armed with an Executive Chef, Chef De Cuisine and Sauté Chef, this restaurant will take you on a culinary journey that all Hoosiers must explore. Sign me up for the 22oz Cowboy Ribeye.
Things to Do in Spiceland, Indiana
While it’s technically a New Castle address, New Castle Motorsports Park is located just south of I-70 on Highway 3 as you make the short trek to Spiceland. This state-of-the-art karting facility features a 1-mile road course, 60 rental garages, a kart shop, and the Racer’s Grill trackside restaurant. The track also hosts annual national karting touring events and is home to the Kart Racers of America, a club kart racing organization that hosts 14 races per year. You can watch races for free on weekends or get behind the wheel yourself with one of many rentals available.
Spiceland Freedom Days is an annual tradition worth attending. The festival first began in 1976 and is complete with food vendors and a parade. Portions of the funds raised go toward a scholarship to support seniors at Tri Junior-Senior High School along with providing aid to the Spiceland Volunteer Fire Department.
Local Business in Spiceland, Indiana
Established in 1902, Draper, Inc. manufactures projection screens, window shades, solar control solutions, video conferencing solutions, gymnasium equipment and custom AV solutions. It is the largest factory of its kind in the United States
Other Attractions in Henry County
In nearby Knightstown, you can visit the historic Hoosier Gym where the movie “Hoosiers” was filmed. If you head north on State Road 3, you’ll run into New Castle where the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame is located.
That’s it for small town breakdown No. 4 of 2025. Where should we head next?
