JASPER — The Dubois County Museum is stepping into the spotlight on a statewide stage, securing a spot as a top-three finalist in the 2026 Indiana Connection Magazine Readers’ Choice Awards for “Best of Indiana.”
The Jasper-based museum, known for being the largest county museum in the state of Indiana with over 50,000 square feet of exhibit space, finds itself in prestigious company. It is going head-to-head against two heavy hitters located in the state’s capital: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and the Indiana State Museum.
Indiana Connection, a monthly publication distributed by the Indiana Electric Cooperatives, originally asked its readers to nominate their favorite local spots across ten different categories. Editors have since narrowed down the field to the top three fan-favorites in each bracket, sparking a friendly but fierce competition for the ultimate bragging rights.
The public can vote for their favorite by downloading a paper ballot at goiec.org/48bCk40. Readers who receive a copy of Indiana Connections can use the QR code on page 13, and ballots are also available at the museum. Ballots can be mailed to the Indiana Connection at 11808 Pennsylvania Street, Carmel, Indiana 46032. The voting deadline is June 5.
Southwest Indiana Represented Across the Board
The museum isn’t the only local gem receiving recognition. Several other favorite spots across Dubois County and neighboring areas have made the final cut in their respective categories:
- Brewery: Patoka Lake Brewing (Birdseye) and St. Benedict’s Brew Works (Ferdinand) are representing local craft beer.
- Campground: Patoka Lake Modern Campground (Birdseye) is competing for the top outdoor stay.
- Place for Live Theater: The historic Lincoln Amphitheatre (Lincoln City) is among the final three.
- Place to Take the Kids: Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari (Santa Claus) is nominated as a premier family destination.
- Restaurant: Jasper’s iconic Schnitzelbank Restaurant is a finalist in the dining category.
