Terre Haute, population 60,614, sits along the Wabash River. It is a shopping destination and stopping point for travelers entering and leaving the state. Historic National Road, a multi-state scenic byway, runs along Wabash Avenue. More than 15 retail centers feature national stores and antique shops. The town has a proliferation of national chain restaurants. The city is home to Indiana State University and Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, a private engineering school.

The city offers several visit-worthy museums. The Swope Art Museum features American artists and the Arts Illiana gallery features and sells work from local and regional artists. Locally made Clabber Girl baking powder is honored at the Clabber Girl Museum and Bake Shop, which also serves breakfast and lunch. The C.A.N.D.L.E.S. Museum and Education Center offers exhibits and educational programs exploring the Holocaust. Coral reefs and saltwater fish are on display at Inland Aquatics.

A side trip to Rockville, 35 miles north of Terre Haute, leads to covered bridges, 32 total. Each October the region celebrates these historic structures with the Parke County Covered Bridge Festival.

Terre Haute is 77 miles southwest of Indianapolis and 62 miles northwest of Bloomington. It is accessible via Interstate Highway 70 and U.S. Highways 40 and 41/150. Lodging options include national chain hotels and bed and breakfasts.