Group tours encounter lots of fun in Anderson/Madison County. Set in east-central Indiana, Anderson is located 35 miles northeast of Indianapolis, at exit 226 off Interstate 69.

“In Anderson and Madison County, we create a unique blend of activities: music and theater, local cuisine, seasonal adventures and shopping all rolled into a perfect group mystery tour,” said Maureen Lambert, marketing/tourism director for the Anderson/Madison County Visitors Bureau.

Be sure to see The World’s Largest Ball of Paint in Alexandria. The attraction is now over 14 feet in circumference and weighs over 2½ tons. Under all those layers of paint is a baseball!

Check out Harrah’s Hoosier Park Racing & Casino in Anderson for gaming, dining, racing and entertainment.

TASTE

Good's Candy Shop, Anderson, Ind. Credit: Anderson/Madison County Visitors Bureau
Good’s Candy Shop, Anderson, Ind. Credit: Anderson/Madison County Visitors Bureau

Stop at Good’s Candy Shop in Anderson to watch the staff make chocolates, ice cream, popcorn and Randy Good’s newest creation: root beer. The Good family has been making candy since the 1940s. Good’s mission: “To make the lives of our friends, guests, associates and business partners just a little sweeter, one piece of chocolate at a time.”

TOUR

Paramount Theatre, Anderson, Ind. Credit: Anderson/Madison County Visitors Bureau
Paramount Theatre, Anderson, Ind. Credit: Anderson/Madison County Visitors Bureau

Visit The Paramount Theatre Centre & Ballroom in downtown Anderson for a guided tour. The John Eberson-designed atmospheric theater was almost demolished in 1989, but citizens rallied to save the 1929 landmark. It has been restored to its original splendor, featuring a magical night sky complete with hundreds of twinkling “stars.”

DISCOVER

Pure & Simple Restaurant, Gaither Family Resources, Alexandria, Ind. Credit: Anderson/Madison County Visitors Bureau
Pure & Simple Restaurant, Gaither Family Resources, Alexandria, Ind. Credit: Anderson/Madison County Visitors Bureau

Gaither Family Resources is a full experience that can include a tour, dining and specialty shopping. It’s located in Alexandria, the hometown of gospel music greats Bill and Gloria Gaither. Browse the vast selection of hand-chosen gift items, tour the Gaither Recording Studios, view Gaither memorabilia and enjoy lunch or dinner at Pure & Simple Restaurant.

SHOP

Downtown Pendleton, Ind. Credit: Anderson/Madison County Visitors Bureau
Downtown Pendleton, Ind. Credit: Anderson/Madison County Visitors Bureau

As group members stroll Historic Downtown Pendleton and visit all of the unique locally owned shops, look up and notice the historic facades and building architecture from over 100 years ago. Founded in the 1820s, Pendleton fuses small-town charm and bold, modern thinking.

ASK
Anderson/Madison County Visitors Bureau
800-533-6569
visitandersonmadisoncounty.com