ALBION — The World Atlas thinks the world of Angola.

World Atlas recently named Angola one of the nine prettiest towns in Indiana.

Northeastern Indiana is well represented with Albion and Shipshewana also making the list.

According to its website, “Indiana, known as ‘The Crossroads of America,’ is a state full of history, with rolling farmland and dense woodlands filling its landscape.

“Located in the Midwest, Indiana has bustling cities like Indianapolis and Fort Wayne but is also full of quiet rural towns full of character.

“Indiana offers a blend of opportunities for both relaxation and outdoor adventures, and you can find them in the towns that dot the land.

“These nine small towns are some of the most beautiful places you will find in the state.”

Here’s how the website describes Angola:

“This town is located all the way in the northeast corner of the state, only a 10 to 15-minute drive from both neighboring states Ohio and Michigan.

“The most iconic location in town is the Soldiers’ Monument a striking 70-foot-tall structure erected in 1917. On top is a bronze statue of Columbia, commemorating local veterans of the Civil War.

“The memorial, known to locals as ‘the mound,’ sits inside a traffic circle in front of the county courthouse and city hall.

“The town is full of fun festivals to see, like ‘Taste of the Town’ and ‘Thunder on the Lake’ which both show off the town’s lively spirit.

“For a quick adventure outdoors, the nearby Lake James has clear waters and a beautiful shoreline to relax on your boat, or just hook some fish.”

The website goes on to describe Albion:

“This quiet and peaceful town is found in Noble County, and is only about 40 minutes north of Fort Wayne.

"Main Street is the heart of the town, with old trees lining the streets, and buildings showing off their 19th and early 20th-century architecture.

"The Noble County Courthouse in Albion is a striking historical structure from the late 19th century. Its imposing brick façade towers over Main Street. This iconic building stands as the town’s central venue for legal matters and community gatherings.

"If you are in the mood for some outdoor fun, Chain O’Lakes State Park is just a short drive away. The park is the perfect getaway for nature lovers, with nine connecting lakes at your disposal.

"Also, just to the southwest of town lies the Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center, offering educational programs and nature trails, helping people reconnect with the nature around them.”

The website describes Shipshewana:

“The surrounding areas of Shipshewana are full of quiet soft hills, with pastures in the distance and the occasional horse-drawn buggy trotting along.

“Shipshewana offers an experience you might not find in any old place. The town has long ties to the Amish and is famous for its authentic Amish craftsmanship.

“If you want to bring some high-quality products home, visit the Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market, which draws visitors from all over the area.

“This is not your ordinary flea market, spanning over acres of land, and is one of the largest flea markets in the Midwest.

“The Menno-Hof cultural center is a museum providing an interesting insight into Amish and Mennonite culture, with exhibits illuminating their distinctive place in American history.”

The website goes on to describe Albion:

“This quiet and peaceful town is found in Noble County, and is only about 40 minutes north of Fort Wayne.

"Main Street is the heart of the town, with old trees lining the streets, and buildings showing off their 19th and early 20th-century architecture.

The Noble County Courthouse in Albion is a striking historical structure from the late 19th century. Its imposing brick façade towers over Main Street. This iconic building stands as the town’s central venue for legal matters and community gatherings.

"If you are in the mood for some outdoor fun, Chain O'Lakes State Park is just a short drive away. The park is the perfect getaway for nature lovers, with nine connecting lakes at your disposal.

"Also, just to the southwest of town lies the Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center, offering educational programs and nature trails, helping people reconnect with the nature around them.”

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