A new year, another month, and another chance to get out and see everything that Northwest Indiana has to offer. Each month, we visit one of the towns in the area to showcase the unique, the charming, and the beautiful, all right in our own backyards. This month we turn the spotlight on Hobart, “Home of the Brickies.”
Anyone looking for a bit of small-town nostalgia would be hard-pressed to do better than Hobart. This quaint little town boasts plenty of charm, as just a short drive along the town’s aptly named “Main Street” will surely prove. Downtown Hobart is chock full of things to do and see. For instance, at the wonderfully quirky Librarium Cafe, visitors can imagine they’re sitting in a lounge at a magical place while they sip their favorite beverage in this board game themed coffee shop. Another draw is the historic Art Theater, which hosts regular events in addition to movie screenings, and is known for the elaborate artwork adorning theater walls.
Just a little bit up the road is a true gem of the Region, the Record Bin, owned by none other than Tom Lounges himself. The shop is crammed full of vinyl-fueled rock nostalgia, and Tom is a wealth of knowledge of rock music, from The Byrds to The Beatles and everything in between. They even offer free acoustic concerts most Sundays, but be sure to get there early—seating is extremely limited for these intimate performances.
And right next store is a gem of a bookstore. Green Door Bookstore features a plethora of used books at a low price. They even have local artwork for sale along with a small section of new books, for those looking for a great read. The store is perfect for bookworms of all ages.
Walking through Hobart’s historic downtown area, architecture buffs often stop to enjoy the classic turn of some of the area’s landmarks. Just off the main drag is St. Bridget Catholic Church and School, with its wonderful pillars and spire. And, of course, one would be remiss to overlook the famed Brickie Bowl. Once home to Friday night lights and homecoming heroes, the former Hobart High School football stadium now is now the site of regular festivals and events.
Perhaps the overwhelming key feature of downtown Hobart may very well be its lakefront area bordering Lake George, a medium-sized lake that lazily winds its way through town. Serving as both an attraction for many types of wildlife and for local citizens alike, Lake George was formed by George Earle, who constructed a dam on Deep River to power nearby sawmills and gristmills. The waterfront has also proven to be a popular place for people to gather during the warmer months. Countless marriages have been celebrated at the bandshell overlooking the 270-acre lake, and there is music and live entertainment in the park during summer months near the Clock Tower and at the Revelli Bandshell.
Speaking of Deep River, just a few minutes south of downtown Hobart is Deep River County Park. This 1,362-acre park features trails, a playground, gift store, its own wedding gazebo, hayrides, fishing, and, of course, the Historic Grist Mill. Deep River Park is a wonderful place to get outside and explore nature.
Hobart, Indiana is, without a doubt, one of Northwest Indiana’s hometown gems.