The small town known as Kokomo, Indiana, seems to have a lot going for it despite its overall small size; it’s an amazing little town filled top-to-bottom with amazing things to do, see and experience – many of which are a history buff’s dream come true. Hidden away in Kokomo is an incredible museum that documents the life and career of a brilliant American inventor: the legendary Elwood Haynes, for whom Indiana's Elwood Haynes Museum is named.  

Haynes was born in Portland, Indiana, in 1857. He was a bright child with a promising future, and a promising future he did indeed have – he became one of the most influential inventors of his day that changed life as we all know it forever. He has numerous amazing inventions to his name, such as the vapor thermostat and – get this – the modern automobile. Other discoveries he’s credited with include tungsten chrome steel and various alloys still used in auto manufacturing to this day.

In 1891, Haynes got another amazing idea: a horseless carriage that required no living animals to power it. This idea would blossom eventually into the modern automobile, and we all have a Hoosier to thank for it. Pretty cool, right? I think so.  

Today, you can still visit his home – in fact, it’s been turned into a museum that you can visit for free. The Elwood Haynes Museum documents the man’s life from start to finish and includes all of his most amazing inventions and discoveries along the way. When it comes to notable Hoosiers in history, it’s a shame that more folks don’t know his name – but at least we do. There have been a lot of things invented in Indiana - and we're proud to claim this man and his brilliance for sure. 

The Elwood Haynes Museum is closed on Mondays and open by appointment only on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from September 1^st until May 31^st. From June 1^st until August 31^st, it’s open Wednesday through Sunday (with Tuesdays by appointment). Donations are accepted, so please consider helping out with whatever you can afford without putting yourself out. Your Indiana historic sites appreciate you more than you know!  

For more information about this spectacular free-to-visit museum in Indiana, including a deeper dive into the history of Elwood Haynes, be sure to visit the official Visit Kokomo website. Do you find yourself needing more to do while in Kokomo? Check out all the awesome adventure ideas from our friends at Airbnb Experiences.  

Do you have a favorite thing to do for free in Indiana? Tell me about it in the comments!