Peru
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Peru

Peru, Indiana, United States

Welcome to Peru, Indiana, a charming city nestled in the heart of Miami County in the United States. Peru may be a small town, but it offers a wealth of attractions and activities that make it a must-visit destination fo…

#Small town#Midwest#Historic#Circus capital#Miami County
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Peru.

Top Hotels in Peru

Top Flights to Peru

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Peru.

Tours

Miami County Historical Museum

Explore the rich history of Miami County with exhibits ranging from Native American artifacts to 20th-century memorabilia.

Grissom Air Museum

Learn about the history of aviation and military aircraft at this museum, which features various planes and interactive exhibits.

Circus Hall of Fame

Discover the world of circus with fascinating exhibits and memorabilia from historic circus performers.

Shopping

Peru Antique Mall

Explore a wide variety of antiques, collectibles, and vintage items in this large shopping space.

Outdoor

Mississinewa Lake

Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating in this scenic area.

Maconaquah Park

A popular park featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails.

Kokomo Beach Family Aquatic Center

Cool off at this local water park featuring slides, pools, and family-friendly water attractions.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Peru.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
Approximately 32 million.
Languages
Spanish, Spanish, Quechua, Aymara
Average weather
Peru
Jan
sun
27°19°
Feb
sun
27°19°
Mar
sun
26°18°
Apr
sun
24°17°
May
cloud
22°15°
Jun
cloud
20°14°
Jul
cloud
20°13°
Aug
cloud
21°14°
Sep
cloud
22°15°
Oct
cloud
23°16°
Nov
sun
25°17°
Dec
sun
26°18°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Peru.

What people love

Peru, Indiana, is a small city located in the north-central part of the United States. While it may not be as well-known as its South American namesake, it has its own unique attractions and features that could be of interest to travelers. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Peru, Indiana:

  1. Circus Heritage: Peru, Indiana, is known as the "Circus Capital of the World" due to its rich circus heritage. The International Circus Hall of Fame is located here, celebrating the history of the circus and offering exhibits and memorabilia related to famous circus performers and acts.

  2. Annual Events: The city hosts the annual Peru Amateur Circus, a unique event where local children and teenagers perform traditional circus acts. This event typically takes place in July and is a beloved tradition in the community.

  3. Historic Sites: Peru has several historic sites and buildings, such as the Miami County Museum, which offers insights into the local history and culture. The museum features exhibits on Native American artifacts, pioneer life, and circus history.

  4. Outdoor Activities: The area around Peru offers opportunities for outdoor recreation. Nearby parks and natural areas, such as the Mississinewa Lake, provide options for boating, fishing, hiking, and camping.

  5. Small-Town Charm: Visitors can enjoy the charm of a small Midwestern town with its friendly community and slower pace of life. There are local shops, diners, and cafes to explore.

  6. Accessibility: Peru is conveniently located and accessible via major highways, making it easy to visit from larger cities in Indiana and the surrounding states.

While Peru, Indiana, may not have the same level of international tourism as larger cities, it offers a unique glimpse into American small-town life and is an interesting destination for those interested in circus history and heritage.

What to know

Traveling to Peru, Indiana in the United States may have some cons depending on your preferences and expectations. Here are some possible drawbacks:

  1. Limited tourist attractions: Peru, Indiana is a small town and may not offer as many tourist attractions or activities compared to larger cities. If you are looking for a wide variety of things to do and see, you may find Peru to be lacking in options.

  2. Limited dining and entertainment options: Peru may have fewer dining and entertainment options compared to larger cities, so you may have limited choices for restaurants, bars, and nightlife.

  3. Limited public transportation: Peru, Indiana may have limited public transportation options, which could make it more challenging to get around the town without a car.

  4. Limited shopping opportunities: Peru may not have as many shopping opportunities as larger cities, so you may find it difficult to find a variety of stores and boutiques for shopping.

  5. Limited cultural experiences: Peru, Indiana may have fewer cultural events, museums, and art galleries compared to larger cities, so you may have limited opportunities to experience local culture.

Overall, if you are looking for a destination with a wide range of tourist attractions, dining options, entertainment, and cultural experiences, Peru, Indiana may not be the ideal choice.

Peru, Indiana, United States, is a city with a rich history that dates back to its founding in the early 19th century. Here is a detailed history of this city:

Early History and Founding

  • Founding: Peru was founded in 1829 by Joseph Holman, who was one of the early settlers. It was officially incorporated as a town in 1848.
  • Location: The city is located along the Wabash River, which was an important transportation route in the early days of settlement, contributing to its growth.

Development and Growth

  • Railroads: The arrival of the railroad in the 19th century significantly contributed to Peru's growth and development. It became a crucial hub for transportation and commerce.
  • Circus Heritage: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Peru became known as the "Circus Capital of the World." The city was a winter quarters for several circuses, including the famous Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus. This heritage is celebrated with the annual Peru Amateur Circus and the Circus City Festival.

Significant Events

  • Flood of 1913: A major flood in 1913 caused significant damage to Peru, as it did to many communities along the Wabash River. This event marked a challenging period in the city's history.
  • Economic Changes: Like many Midwestern towns, Peru experienced economic shifts throughout the 20th century, particularly with changes in manufacturing and transportation.

Historical Figures

  • Cole Porter: The famous composer and songwriter Cole Porter was born in Peru in 1891. He is one of the most notable figures associated with the city and went on to have a significant impact on American music and theater.

Landmarks and Cultural Sites

  • Miami County Museum: This museum offers insights into the local history of Peru and the surrounding Miami County, with exhibits on the circus heritage, Native American artifacts, and more.
  • Cole Porter Birthplace: The house where Cole Porter was born is a point of interest for visitors and music enthusiasts.
  • Circus Hall of Fame: Reflecting Peru's history as a circus hub, this site is dedicated to preserving circus history and memorabilia.

Modern-day Peru

  • Community and Culture: Today, Peru maintains its cultural heritage through festivals and events that celebrate its unique history. The Circus City Festival is a highlight, attracting visitors from around the region.

Peru, Indiana, continues to embrace its rich history and cultural legacy while adapting to contemporary developments and challenges.