story by GLENDA WINDERS
Cass County has been on the leading edge of progress and ideas for a long time. Thanks to the Michigan Road, Wabash-Erie Canal and railroads, it was once a booming trade center. It played a part in early automotive production with Bendix and ReVere, and over the years it has become a popular spot for shopping, dining, theater, outdoor recreation and having fun.
Now Logansport, the county’s largest city, has hit upon another great concept: Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA).
Here’s how it works: Over-21 patrons who visit any of the 8 DORA establishments are no longer required to stay inside those premises between 11 a.m. and midnight. Responsible drinkers now have the option to take their drinks outside and move around the DORA downtown district. Just asking for their drinks in an authorized DORA cup gives them this liberty.
In Logansport the DORA location stretches from Second Street to Seventh Street between the Eel and Wabash rivers. Some 15 other Indiana cities, including Fort Wayne, Huntingburg, Jasper, New Albany, Noblesville, Speedway and Winona Lake have also joined the DORA movement, which began in July 2023.
The project required several entities working together —Logan’s Landing, the State of Indiana, the City of Logansport, the City of Logansport’s planning department and Logansport Re-imagined. The process required filling out a detailed application to make sure local and state liquor laws were being followed. There is also a requirement for sufficient signage so that patrons know exactly where they can go.
The participating establishments are Avenue Tavern, Riverview Restaurant, La Fiesta, People’s Social, Old Style 6th Street Lounge, Science Project, Black Dog Coffee and Bonus Pints. They invite you to ask for your authorized DORA cup and then go outside to take a stroll and enjoy your beverage. For more information visit: loganslanding.com
