Fairmount Historical Museum

If you're a fan of James Dean, or want to introduce your kids to that Hollywood legend, Fairmount Historical Museum might have to be on your list of things to do in Indiana. This small museum in Fairmount has a collection of the town's history too, but really is a great tribute to Dean, whether you're a fan or not. It features the world's largest collection of James Dean's personal belongings, on loan from his family. Pretty impressive!

Kids can learn all about his life, documented through these incredibly personal items. You can see his schoolwork, as well as artwork, photographs, awards, clothing and even movie props.

The collection at the Fairmount Historical Museum also features two motorcycles that were actually owned by Dean himself!

Did you know that Fairmount was home to another icon? Jim Davis, who created that beloved cat Garfield, was also a resident of the town. In fact, he came up with the idea whilst living on a Fairmount farm with 25 cats!

The museum features a display that honors his awards, achievements and of course, that cheeky Garfield. 

So why not take a trip down memory lane, in a museum that is deeply personal to the town it's located in.  A great history lesson for the kids too!