Founded in 1813 by 3 brothers from New York who named the settlement after their former home state’s capital, New Albany led Indiana in population and wealth into the mid-1800s. While other cities have surpassed it since, this community still shines with historical landmarks, riverfront green spaces, and a thriving downtown that’s earned comparisons to the Big Apple’s hip Brooklyn.
What to do
Stretch your legs and get the lay of the land with a scenic stroll along the Ohio River Greenway. The 7.5-mile multiuse path links New Albany with Clarksville and Jeffersonville to the east through parks, neighborhoods, wetlands, and forested terrain. Along the way, it passes landmarks like the K&I Railroad Bridge, the McAlpine Locks and Dam, and a riverfront amphitheater.
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Explore visual arts and the region’s past at the Carnegie Center for Art & History, including a moving exhibition about the Underground Railroad. Photo courtesy SoIN Tourism
After catching your breath, venture downtown to check out “Ordinary People, Extraordinary Courage: Men and Women of the Underground Railroad” at the free Carnegie Center for Art & History. This moving exhibit details the roles New Albany residents played in assisting fugitive slaves on their northward journeys before and during the Civil War.
The soaring Town Clock Church tower served as a beacon for escaping slaves as they crossed the Ohio River, and it still stands a few blocks away.
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Now a state historic site, the elaborate Culbertson Mansion was built in 1867 by William Culbertson, who was Indiana’s richest man at the time. Photo courtesy Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites
See how New Albany’s other half lived during the 19th century with a tour of the gorgeously restored Culbertson Mansion State Historic Site. William Culbertson—a local dry goods merchant, philanthropist, and at one time Indiana’s richest man—built this 25-room Second Empire–style home featuring a carved mahogany staircase, marble fireplaces, and elaborate decorative plasterwork. The $120,000 price tag in 1867 would equal about $2.4 million today. Adults, $11.
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Shop for an array of produce and crafts at the New Albany Farmers Market, which is held on Saturday mornings year-round in the City Square. Photo courtesy SoIN Tourism
The New Albany Farmers Market takes over City Square on Saturday mornings year-round, assembling a vibrant collection of vendors peddling locally grown produce and artisan wares.
Cap off your evening adventures with games and grub at Recbar 812. Enjoy pub fare and cocktails while you plunk tokens into any of 100-plus arcade games and
70 pinball machines.
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Where to shop
You can make your own candles at the Wimsatt Soap & Soy Candle Bar, which also sells a variety of bath and body products. Photo courtesy SoIN Tourism
In New Albany’s walkable downtown, find stylish apparel at Him & Her Boutique, art and quirky gifts at Regalo, and custom-scented products at the Wimsatt Soap & Soy Candle Bar.
Where to eat
Dine on breakfast classics and Mexican favorites at the popular Sleepy Rooster Morning Kitchen. Photo courtesy SoIN Tourism
Located across the Ohio River from Louisville, Kentucky, New Albany has been called “Louisville’s Brooklyn” for its revitalization, including a lively restaurant and bar scene.
Sleepy Rooster Morning Kitchen serves up chilaquiles, breakfast tacos, and other fare with Mexican flair. Feast on global flavors at Aladdin’s Mediterranean & Middle Eastern Cuisine for lunch, and dig into steaks for dinner in a trendy fine-dining atmosphere at Brooklyn and the Butcher.
Where to stay
Located in a restored building dating to 1851, the Pepin Mansion Historic Bed & Breakfast features 5 elegant suites. Photo courtesy SoIN Tourism
The Pepin Mansion Historic Bed & Breakfast maintains bespoke accommodations in a character-rich setting. Rates start at $149. Get a panoramic view of the Ohio River Valley from the Fairfield Inn & Suites New Albany. Breakfast is included. Rates start at $134.
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