Indiana County Seats Map - CCCarto

Indiana offers several picturesque and charming county seats, each with its unique blend of historic architecture, scenic parks, and vibrant community spaces. Here’s a look at some of the most photogenic and tourist-friendly county seats in the state, along with information about the largest and smallest counties and county seats by population.

1. Bedford (Lawrence County) is known for its beautiful courthouse and scenic charm. The Lawrence County Courthouse, completed in 1884, is an example of Romanesque Revival architecture, with its impressive clock tower and detailed stonework. Bedford’s courthouse square is a focal point of the community, surrounded by well-maintained parks and historic buildings. The town’s layout includes pleasant streets with local shops and eateries, adding to its photogenic appeal. The surrounding area features the scenic Oolitic Hills and several small streams that contribute to its natural beauty.

2. Bloomington (Monroe County) is another highly photogenic county seat, known for its vibrant cultural scene and stunning architecture. The Monroe County Courthouse, a neoclassical building completed in 1907, dominates the central square with its majestic dome and clock tower. Bloomington’s downtown area is lively, with numerous parks, including the popular Bryant Park, and the scenic B-Line Trail that follows the old rail line through the city. The nearby Clear Creek and other water features enhance the area’s natural allure.

3. Franklin (Johnson County) boasts a charming courthouse and a picturesque downtown area. The Johnson County Courthouse, completed in 1870, is an elegant example of Italianate architecture with its distinctive clock tower and detailed stonework. The courthouse square is surrounded by quaint shops, cafes, and the beautiful Franklin City Park. The nearby Blue River and various small streams contribute to the area’s scenic appeal, making it a great spot for photographs and leisurely strolls.

4. Corydon (Harrison County) offers a historic and photogenic setting, highlighted by the Harrison County Courthouse. Built in 1860, the courthouse features a classic design with a prominent clock tower. Corydon is also known for its historical significance as the site of the only Civil War battle fought in Indiana. The town’s charming streets, historic homes, and the nearby Battle of Corydon Memorial Park add to its scenic charm. The town is nestled along the banks of the Big Indian Creek, enhancing its picturesque landscape.

5. New Albany (Floyd County) is notable for its beautiful courthouse and vibrant downtown area. The Floyd County Courthouse, built in 1869, is an excellent example of Second Empire architecture with its ornate clock tower and detailed stonework. New Albany’s downtown is bustling with activity, featuring various parks, including the scenic Riverfront Amphitheater, and easy access to the Ohio River, which adds a dynamic element to its photogenic landscape.

6. Lafayette (Tippecanoe County) combines historic charm with modern vibrancy. The Tippecanoe County Courthouse, completed in 1882, features a striking clock tower and intricate architectural details. Lafayette’s downtown area includes several parks, such as the popular Columbian Park, and the scenic Wabash River provides a picturesque backdrop. The town’s blend of historic buildings and natural beauty makes it a favorite for photography and tourism.

7. Columbus (Bartholomew County) is renowned for its architectural significance, including the Bartholomew County Courthouse, which stands out with its distinctive clock tower. Columbus is known for its modernist and innovative architecture, including several public art installations and parks. Mill Race Park, with its scenic views and well-designed spaces, adds to the town’s appeal. The East Fork White River also flows nearby, enhancing the natural beauty of the area.

Population Information:
Indiana's largest county by population is Marion County, which includes the city of Indianapolis. As of the latest estimates, Marion County has a population of over 1 million people, making it the most populous county in the state. The county seat, Indianapolis, is also the largest city in Indiana.

Conversely, the smallest county by population is Ohio County, located in the southeastern part of the state. Ohio County has a population of just over 6,000 residents. The county seat, Rising Sun, is a small town with a population under 2,000, reflecting its status as one of Indiana’s least populous county seats.

For county seats, Indianapolis stands out as the most populous, reflecting its role as a major urban center in Indiana. In contrast, Rising Sun is among the smallest county seats by population, reflecting its small-town charm and quiet setting.

These counties and their county seats showcase a diverse range of Indiana’s architectural, natural, and cultural attractions, each offering unique photographic and tourism opportunities.