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Classic Cool Indiana

Grant County will take you back to all things classic cool. Some may even say we are going all the way back to the 50s! If you are looking for a small town filled with old-fashioned fun, Grant County is the place to be. Cruise on over to classic cool Indiana and discover nostalgic goodies and outta sight events, only 90 minutes northeast of Indy.

Hollywood Icon James Dean

Take a road trip this spring to our small town and travel back in time to the hometown of Hollywood icon, James Dean. Born and raised in Grant County, Indiana, James Dean is one of the world’s most iconic movie stars. The Hollywood legend and his hometown share a passion for classic cars and vintage bikes. Here you can see the motorcycle shop where Dean bought his first bike, check out Jimmy’s own personal 1955Triumph on display at the Fairmount Historical Museum, and take home your own nifty 50’s gift from the Rebel Rebel gift shop at the James Dean Gallery.

In addition to celebrating James Dean, there are many other nostalgic places to visit in Grant County. If sweet treats are what you’re after, might we recommend riding on over to Thompson’s B-K Root Beer Stand? If you find yourself reminiscing about life back in the 1950s, Thompson’s truly takes you back to the days of the jitterbug, poodle skirts and drive-ins. Pull in and let the servers come to you while you relax in your car.

Cumberland Covered Bridge in Matthews, Indiana

Cruise on over to the Cumberland Covered Bridge in Matthews, Indiana and take a stroll across the last remaining covered bridge in Grant County. This 181-foot covered timbered bridge, built in 1877 and restored in 1999, spans the beautiful Mississinewa River. This scenic spot is the perfect serene setting for picnics or daydreams.

No matter how you choose to spend your time in Grant County, you’re sure to make some great memories. Whether it’s saddle shoes, classic cars, James Dean, vintage motorcycles or Garfield, we love everything classic cool. Marion, Gas City, Fairmount and our other towns are chock-full of nostalgic goodies and are just waiting for you to cruise on in to see.

To read more about Classic Cool Indiana, click here. Click here to learn more about Grant County’s nostalgic places.


Due to COVID-19, visitors are required to practice safe social distancing protocol when in public. Masks will be necessary to enter inside establishments and are to be worn in situations when social distancing is not possible. These safety measures should allow everyone to have fun, all while staying safe.

Grant County

About Grant County

Grant County, Indiana, is home to nifty attractions, outtasight events and rebellious celebrities. Whether it’s saddle shoes, classic cars, vintage bikes, James Dean, or Garfield, we love everything classic and cool. Have a blast just 90 minutes North of Indy.

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