The History of Switzerland County and Vevay, Indiana

Swiss immigrants, who established the first commercial vineyard and winery in the United States by bringing grapevines from Switzerland, formally organized Switzerland County in 1814. Vevay was established in 1802 by the Dufour family, who named it after the Swiss city of Vevey. It was officially platted in 1813. Because many of the town’s original buildings still exist today, it is also listed on the Indiana State Historic Register.

Vevay honors its Swiss and wine heritage through an annual Swiss Wine Festival featuring entertainment and other various events. The historic Switzerland County Courthouse, constructed between 1862-64, is considered one of Indiana's most beautiful courthouses. 

As of the 2024 census, Vevay’s population is 1,762, making it the largest of two incorporated towns/cities in Switzerland County ahead of Patriot (208). It is the 248th-largest city in Indiana. 

Things to Do In or Near Vevay, Indiana

Nestled along the Ohio River, Vevay offers a charming mix of small-town hospitality and unique attractions for visitors and locals alike. Plus, the town’s location makes it easy to explore the state of Kentucky. 

In Vevay, there are plenty of family-fun activities to enjoy. Strikers Bowling Center is a local staple with a friendly, family-oriented vibe. With its bowling lanes, arcade, bar, and event space, it's the perfect place to host a birthday party or social event. 

For outdoor activities, visit Markland Dam Park or Paul Ogle Riverfront Park. Both parks feature playgrounds, picnic areas, and open spaces perfect for a sunny afternoon. You can also explore the Ohio River Scenic Byway, Indiana’s first National Scenic Byway. Explore breathtaking views, with tons of outdoor attractions to enjoy such as caving, canoeing, ziplining, and more.

If you’re feeling lucky, there are several casinos surrounding Vevay. If you want something close and convenient, Belterra Casino Resort is only 7 miles upstream from Vevay in Florence and offers hotel accommodations, dining venues, and an 18‑hole championship golf course (designed by Tom Fazio) among its amenities. For a change of scenery or a larger casino resort experience, try Hollywood Casino & Hotel Lawrenceburg, less than an hour away from Vevay. This casino has numerous gaming positions and hotel-style amenities. 

If you enjoy local history and culture, don’t miss the Switzerland County Historical Museum or Life on the Ohio River History Museum in downtown Vevay. These fascinating museums highlight the county’s Swiss heritage, early pioneers, and river history. For art lovers, the Community Art Center of Switzerland County features local artists’ work and occasional workshops.

Places to Eat or Drink in Vevay, Indiana

For mornings, you can’t go wrong with breakfast at AJ’s Diner. This is a classic diner experience that serves up pancakes, French toast, crispy bacon, and eggs cooked your way to sandwiches and salads. Visitors give them a 4.5 star rating on Google and rave about its small-town charm and budget-friendly menu. 

Tequilas Mexican Restaurant brings the flavors of Mexico to downtown Vevay, making a great lunch option. The atmosphere is bright and cheerful, and the margaritas are legendary among locals. You’ll find all your favorites here – enchiladas, fajitas, burritos – and the portions don’t disappoint. 

If you’re looking for a quick bite, a cold beer, or a classic cocktail, Cuzz’s Tavern is worth visiting! As the second-oldest bar in the state, Cuzz’s brings that friendly, fun atmosphere with great food. The menu features classic pub fare – burgers, fries, and wings – alongside live music nights and plenty of TVs for catching the game. Grab a seat at the bar or challenge a friend to a game of pool or cornhole. 

Roxy’s Bar & Lounge is another bar option right in the heart of Vevay. This spot blends handcrafted cocktails with a creative food menu, offering a perfect mix for date night or a classy evening out. The staff are known for making everyone feel like a regular, and its house-made syrups and seasonal drinks make each visit a little different. If you’re exploring downtown Vevay and want somewhere with personality — Roxy’s offers something a bit different compared to standard taverns. Don’t forget to ask about their special events! 

If you’re craving hearty Italian food with small-town charm, Roxano’s Italian Restaurant in downtown Vevay is the perfect dinner destination. Located just a block from the Ohio River, this family-owned favorite has been serving locals and visitors alike for years. Roxano’s is voted the #1 restaurant in Vevay according to TripAdvisor, with a 4.5 rating. Inside, the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming — think red-checkered tablecloths, warm lighting, and the smell of freshly baked breadsticks in the air. The staff are friendly and attentive, often greeting regulars by name, which adds to the genuine hometown feel. The menu at Roxano’s is filled with Italian comfort classics. Guests rave about its freshly baked pizzas, signature hoagies, and homemade pasta dishes. And don’t even think about skipping the breadsticks — they’re soft, buttery, and have earned a reputation as some of the best in southern Indiana.

The Historic Schenck Mansion

The historic Schenck Mansion in Vevay is owned by well-known tattoo artist Kat Von D, who purchased it in 2020 and moved there in 2021. The property is her family’s private residence. So, why exactly did Kat close her tattoo shop in California and move to Vevay? She liked the town, nature, and of course, the mansion.

Vevay / Switzerland County High Schools

Vevay is served by the Switzerland County School Corporation (SCSC). The district serves over 1,400 students across four public schools – two elementary schools and one middle school that feed into the one public high school in Switzerland County, Switzerland County High School.

It opened its doors in the late 1960s following the consolidation of the Patriot Trojans and Vevay Warriors. The Warriors won six sectional championships in boys basketball (1927, 1931, 1937, 1955, 1956, 1958) before the consolidation. While it may be smaller than urban or suburban schools, they pride themselves on offering a broad curriculum that balances core academics with arts and other extracurricular programs.

Switzerland County High School is known as the Pacers, and they compete in the Ohio River Valley Conference. Its boys basketball team has won eight sectional titles (1975, 1988, 1994; 2A: 1998, 1999, 2006, 2013, 2024), girls basketball has six (1989, 1991, 1996, 1997; 2A: 2004, 2015), baseball has five (1979, 1980; 2A: 2013, 2018, 2025), girls soccer has three (1A: 2021, 2022, 2023), boys soccer has one (1A: 2022), and volleyball has one (2A: 2014), but the school has never won a team title at regionals.

That’s it for small town breakdown No. 43 of 2025. Where should we head next?