3 Unique Attractions in Anderson, Indiana

If you like to avoid run-of-the-mill attractions and experience something a little different, Anderson, Indiana, offers some unique places to visit. Whether you enjoy a little mystical history, a fright fest, or the downright odd, the area has something to offer you. 

Indy Screampark 

If you enjoy being scared out of your wits, the Indy Screampark on South New Columbus Road features five terrifying haunted attractions in one location. At the center of the park is The Monster Midway where you’ll find hot food, hot and cold beverages, craft beer and wine, fire pits, scary games like Zombie Paintball, and a gift shop. But don’t relax too much — horrific monsters will creep up behind you and catch you by surprise. 

You can join in with Killgore’s 3D Circus with its disfigured clowns or navigate dark, winding trails in an attempt to find your way out of the Backwoods. Find yourself enveloped in the complete darkness of the Nightmare Factory Blackout with the option of “marking” yourself to fully interact with the hideous creatures in Zombieland Unchained and Pandemic Mutation where you might be touched, grabbed, or even removed from your group. You’ll be glad to get back to the “safety” of the Monster Midway. 

The World’s Largest Paint Ball 

One of the area’s most unusual attractions has become one of Indiana’s most visited roadside features. Located in Alexandria, just 20 minutes north of Anderson, the World’s Largest Paint Ball started out as an ordinary baseball. In 1977, Mike and Glenda Carmichael decided to paint it and the first coat of paint was put on it by their three-year-old son.  

While the ball was small and easy to handle, it was painted many times each day. As it became bigger and heavier, they thought of it as a work of art. Since then, the ball has had more than 23,400 layers of paint and it now weighs in at over 4,000 pounds. Eventually, the ball got so big that they had to build a barn for it and it took a tractor and four people to move it to its new home. Admission is free but you need to call ahead for an appointment. 

Mounds State Park 

Located on Mounds Road east of Anderson, Mounds State Park features unique earthworks constructed by prehistoric Indians—the Adena and Hopewell people. The Great Mound is thought to have been built around 160 B.C. The mounds are believed to have astronomical significance and were used for religious ceremonies. The Visitors Center has an interpretive center with a display of the Great Mound, interactive exhibits, and a wildlife viewing room. 

As well as its history, the park offers a variety of leisure activities. You can enjoy six hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulty while the White River gives anglers the chance to catch catfish, bluegill, bass, and more. Picnic areas feature tables, grills, restrooms, and playgrounds. A fully-equipped campground is ideal for family camping. A large swimming pool is open in the summer season. 

These three unique locations couldn’t be more different, but they all offer a memorable experience in Anderson, Indiana. 

Image from pixabay.com

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