Example Itinerary Ideas for Nashville & Brown County, Indiana
Are you trying to figure out what to do when you visit to Nashville, IN? Need recommendations for thing to do the next time you’re in Brown County? Well I’ve got you covered with this in-depth guide!
Each section below is grouped by interest and contains recommendations for specific shops to visit, tips on what you might find there, restaurant options to refuel at, and ideas for some bonus activities you might be interested in checking out.
Want more ideas? Be sure to check out our full shopping and restaurant guides, and feel free to contact me directly with any questions!
Why You Should Visit Brown County, Indiana
Brown County, Indiana is a one-of-a-kind location in south central Indiana, located mid-way between the cities of Bloomington and Columbus. The towering hardwood forests, steep hills and ravines, and long-range views of Brown County are a long way from what most people picture in their minds when they think of Indiana. It’s also home to the quaint town of Nashville, Indiana, which is filled with adorable shops and delicious restaurants. To know Brown County is to love it, which is why so many people choose to visit each year.
Planning an Itinerary for Your Trip to Brown County
I’ve been lucky enough to live in Nashville, Indiana since 2016 and have spent that time discovering and experiencing as many shops, restaurants, and activities as possible. I often get asked by our guests at the Brown County Barn Burner for recommendations of things to do while they’re in Brown County, so I’ve compiled all my top suggestions here - and even grouped them by interest, to make it easier to narrow down what might be the best fit for you.
Want to browse all the itinerary ideas? Keep scrolling to read all of my recommendations, or jump to:
| Back to Top | For the Antiques Lover | For the Artist or Arts Supporter | For the Bookworm & Cozy-Obsessed | For the Foodie | For Kids (or the Kid at Heart) | For the Outdoor Enthusiast or Adventure-Seeker | For the Plant Person |
Where to Shop:
Brown County Antique Mall - The Brown County Antique Mall is the perfect antique mall, in my opinion. It’s big (over 7,000 square feet!) without being overwhelming; features a good assortment of furniture, along with the normal smalls, art, and decor that you would expect; and overall the prices are good. Plus, there aren’t any booths that I would consider “flea market junk” (if you go to a lot of antique malls, you’ll know what I mean). I find something to buy almost every time I stop here, and multiple lamps, some art, and other items from here now live at the Barn Burner and at my own home.
Plum Creek Antiques - Plum Creek Antiques has what I’d call a ‘curated barn sale’ vibe, and it’s great for rustic treasures and hidden gems at reasonable prices. They’ve got everything from furniture and art, to garden items, barn wood, stoneware and cast iron, and a lot more. They are located in Bean Blossom, at the corner of IN-135 N and SR 45, and have more limited hours than some stores, so I always recommend checking their Facebook page for hours before you go. But they are typically open Thursday through Sunday, Spring through Fall, and closed in the winter.
Gypsy Moon Flea Market - The Gypsy Moon Flea Market is definitely a ‘pickers paradise’ and has a WIDE range of items - from hidden gems to straight junk. But, if you’re a true lover of antiques and the thrill of the hunt, then it’s a great spot to pass some time and search for treasure. It’s typically held on Saturdays and Sundays from 9am-5pm, April through October, but the days and hours vary for some vendors.
For the Antiques Lover
Where to Eat:
The Story Inn - If you love old things, and are up for a bit of a drive, the Story Inn is a great option - their motto is “One inconvenient location since 1851,” if that tells you anything. The town of Story and the Story Inn are pretty much one in the same, and now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, so it’s a really fun, immersive experience if you choose to make the drive. The Story Inn Restaurant highlights seasonal and locally-produced ingredients via a prix fixe menu for dinner on Fridays and Saturdays, or brunch on Sundays, and reservations are required. A more limited menu is also available at the Story Inn Tavern, where they also occasionally host live music, monthly comedy shows, karaoke, and game nights.
Hobnob Corner Restaurant - If you’d prefer something closer to town, but still want a full dose of old charm, then check out the Hobnob Corner Restaurant. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a menu of hearty classics and weekly specials. The Hobnob is located in the oldest commercial building in Nashville and you’ll definitely feel the history when you eat there.
Bonus Activities:
Brown County History Center & Pioneer Village - The Brown County History Center & Pioneer Village is located at the northeast corner of town and offers several interesting, free exhibits to learn more about Brown County’s pioneer past. The History Center is open varying days and hours year round (check their website or call ahead for specifics) and contains several exhibit halls, a reconstructed log cabin room with a fireplace, and a one room schoolhouse to explore. You can technically walk through the nearby Pioneer Village anytime year round, but the buildings themselves are only open and staffed with volunteers on the weekends, May through November.
Brown County Humane Society Barn Sale - I LOVE flea markets and barn sales (as evidenced by all the thrifted and antique furnishings at the Barn Burner) and the annual Brown County Humane Society Barn Sale is one of my favorites! It’s typically held Thursday through Saturday of the second weekend of August, and it’s where I found many of the best secondhand furnishings at the Barn Burner. There is always a huge amount of quality items to choose from, and you’re supporting the local humane society with your purchases. Pro tip: Get there at opening on Thursday, if at all possible.
Want to browse all the itinerary ideas? Keep scrolling to read all of my recommendations, or jump to:
| Back to Top | For the Antiques Lover | For the Artist or Arts Supporter | For the Bookworm & Cozy-Obsessed | For the Foodie | For Kids (or the Kid at Heart) | For the Outdoor Enthusiast or Adventure-Seeker | For the Plant Person |
For the Artist or Arts Supporter
Where to Shop:
Brown County Art Guild - The Brown County Art Guild displays some historical works in their gallery, as well as offering artwork for sale from some of Brown County’s most well-known artists, both past and present. A visit here is worth it for the inspiration and beauty alone, but maybe you’ll also decide to take home a one-of-a-kind piece for your own collection.
Brown County Craft Gallery - The Brown County Craft Gallery is an artist co-op, with work from dozens of local and area artisans. Here you’ll see almost every kind of artwork and handicraft that you can imagine, and you’re sure to find something totally unique to add to your home or to give as a gift.
Hoosier Artist Gallery - Another artist cooperative, the Hoosier Artist Gallery is filled with beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces created by local and Indiana artists. There is a different selection and spectrum of work here, compared to the Brown County Craft Gallery, so be sure to check out both!
Several skilled artisans have their studios and shops on the stretch of Van Buren Street, between Franklin Street and Main Street, including: the Quintessence Gallery and the Lawrence Family Glass Blowers, Moonshine Leather Company, Spears Pottery & Gallery, and more. Check them out and get prepared to be wowed by the artistry and skill of these craftspeople.
Where to Eat:
Nashville House or the Ferguson House Bistro - The Nashville House Restaurant and the Ferguson House Bistro are both owned by the same couple, but each restaurant has its own unique vibe and menu. The owners of each are the daughter-in-law and son of a well-known local artist, Patricia Rhoden Bartels, and a large selection of her artwork is prominently displayed for sale in each of these locations. Both buildings have a long history in Nashville, and historical photographs and other information are displayed in both. The food and service is great regardless but, if you’re a lover of the arts, you’ll appreciate the extra layer of history and local artwork featured at both of these locations.
Bonus Activities:
Back Roads of Brown County Studio Tour - The Back Roads of Brown County Studio Tour is a great way to explore the winding roads and scenery that’s been responsible for inspiring so many artists. The Studio Tour is held during the month of October and is an opportunity to visit and support local artists directly, in their homes and studios throughout the county. It’s probably impossible to hit all the stops in one day, but it never hurts to try.
Enjoy a taste of the performing arts by catching a play, concert, or music festival at either the Brown County Playhouse, Brown County Music Center, or Bill Monroe’s Music Park. The range of artists, genres, and atmosphere featured at each of these venues runs the full spectrum, so there truly is something for everyone to enjoy.
Want to browse all the itinerary ideas? Keep scrolling to read all of my recommendations, or jump to:
| Back to Top | For the Antiques Lover | For the Artist or Arts Supporter | For the Bookworm & Cozy-Obsessed | For the Foodie | For Kids (or the Kid at Heart) | For the Outdoor Enthusiast or Adventure-Seeker | For the Plant Person |
For the Bookworm & Cozy-Obsessed
Where to Shop:
Naughty Dog Books - Located in an old bank building (the mystery and thriller section is in the old vault!) this independently-owned, mother-daughter book store is the perfect place to find your next un-put-downable read. They also offer a monthly “Classics” and “Mystery” book clubs that you can find out more about by following them on social media.
Fallen Leaf Books - Fallen Leaf Books is just down the street from the Barn Burner and I love that they sell both new and used books, as well as a selection of local maps, memorabilia, and other paper-based collectibles. They also put a special emphasis on featuring works by local authors and they periodically host book release events and author signings in the store.
The Clay Purl - Need a break from reading, but still want to stay in the cozy zone? Check out the Clay Purl to get inspired and pick up the supplies for your next knitting or crochet project.
For Bare Feet - There is no way to get cozy if you have cold feet, so check out For Bare Feet for almost any kind of themed sock you can imagine. They actually operate two different stores in Nashville - For Bare Feet is located in Antique Alley, while For Bare Feet Too is right on Main Street, next to the soaring leaf sculpture.
Where to Eat:
If you just need a short break from shopping and a quick pick me up, grab a tea or coffee from Sweetea’s Tea Shop or the Daily Grind.
Ready for lunch? Grab a bite to eat and something to drink at the Heavenly Biscuit on your way up to the Library. They offer a delicious mix of baked goods, breakfast classics, along with sandwiches and other lunch specials.
Winding down for the afternoon? Check out one (or more) of the four wine tasting rooms in Nashville and grab a bottle to curl up with later, while you dive into your new books.
Bonus Activities:
Brown County Public Library - After a long day in town, you may find yourself looking for a cozy chair, or a small dose of peace and quiet. If you’re not ready to head back to your lodging yet, then the Brown County Public Library is a great place to find both of those things. The Friends of the Library group also operates a “Book Nook,” where you can browse and choose whatever you want and ‘pay’ however much you like, via a donation to the library. The Brown County Library is located at the far end of town, but it’s an absolutely beautiful space, filled with stunning local art, and all the peace and quiet you’re looking for.
Brown County Historical Society Pioneer Women’s Group Quilt Show - Nothing says cozy quite like a handmade quilt, so check out the Pioneer Women’s Quilt Show, which is held annually in June. The Quilt Show features various vendors, raffles, and the chance to learn more about the history and the art of quilt making.
Want to browse all the itinerary ideas? Keep scrolling to read all of my recommendations, or jump to:
| Back to Top | For the Antiques Lover | For the Artist or Arts Supporter | For the Bookworm & Cozy-Obsessed | For the Foodie | For Kids (or the Kid at Heart) | For the Outdoor Enthusiast or Adventure-Seeker | For the Plant Person |
Where to Shop:
Nashville Spice Company - The Nashville Spice Company mixes and bottles their own line of herbs, spices, blends, and rubs at their production kitchen in Brown County. They also offer a wide range of other gourmet food items, like jams, sauces, cookbooks, and more. Any time I go to their store, I leave inspired and with something new to try in my own kitchen.
The Wild Olive - The Wild Olive specializes in offering many different flavors of olive oil and balsamic vinegars from around the world. But as a specialty gourmet shop, they actually offer lots of other treats in addition to olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and it’s definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for new, quality ingredients to use in your cooking.
Nashville Fudge Kitchen - My mouth waters every time I walk by this building because everything they make smells SO GOOD. And it only gets better (or worse for your daily sugar levels?) when you go inside to check out the varieties of fudge, caramel corn, and other candies that you can watch them make in-house. They are also the only ice cream place in town that I’m aware of that sells gelato.
For the Foodie
Where to Eat:
The Brown County Inn - The Brown County Inn is our favorite restaurant in town and it’s always the first one I recommend to our guests. We love that they offer enough classics that everyone is sure to find something they’ll like, while also including inventive specials and other unique entrees that we can’t find anywhere else in Brown County. They accept reservations and are a very family and large group-friendly restaurant, plus there’s live music most Wednesday through Saturday evenings. The Brown County Inn is also one of the few (and maybe the only?) restaurants in town serving three meals a day, seven days a week.
Birds Nest Cafe - In my opinion, the Bird’s Nest Cafe easily has the most unique and inventive menu in town. It also offers the most vegan and vegetarian options, plus some delicious apothecary cocktails and gourmet coffee drinks. Not only is their food fantastic, but their seasonal decor is always over-the-top and delightful in the best way possible. They only serve breakfast, brunch, and lunch, so be sure to get there earlier in the day.
Bonus Activities:
Nashville Indiana Farmers Market - If you’ll be visiting Nashville on any Sunday from May through October, definitely plan to check out the Nashville Indiana Farmers Market! It’s located in the Brown County Inn Parking lot and runs from 11-2 on market days, rain or shine. At the Farmers Market, local producers, farmers, bakers, and makers sell an array of foods like fresh produce, jams, baked goods, candy confections, roasted coffee, and more. Shop at the Farmers Market to support local and check out the next up and coming food stars in Brown County, Indiana while you can.
Brown County Humane Society Chocolate Walk - The Brown County Humane Society Chocolate Walk is held once a year - usually the second Saturday in November - and provides an opportunity to stroll through town and sample chocolate-themed treats from dozens of local shops and restaurants. Tickets almost always sell out in advance, so be sure to start planning your trip early, and you can feel great about the fact that you’ll be supporting the local humane society with your ticket purchase!
Want to browse all the itinerary ideas? Keep scrolling to read all of my recommendations, or jump to:
| Back to Top | For the Antiques Lover | For the Artist or Arts Supporter | For the Bookworm & Cozy-Obsessed | For the Foodie | For Kids (or the Kid at Heart) | For the Outdoor Enthusiast or Adventure-Seeker | For the Plant Person |
Where to Shop:
The Brown County Toy Chest - The Brown County Toy Chest is Indiana’s oldest specialty toy store and is great for people of all ages. The staff is super friendly and knowledgeable with their recommendations, and they are sure to have something for everyone on your list. All of the games that we stock at the Barn Burner are from the Toy Chest and I do almost 100% of my kids’ Christmas and birthday shopping here. Follow them on Facebook for lots of great ideas on how to incorporate more play into your life.
Denny’s Magic and Fun Shop - What kid doesn’t love magic and jokes? Add in the fact that the owner will wow you with tricks from behind the counter while you consider what to buy, and you are in for a great time, no matter your budget or skill level. I got a simple magic trick from here to go along with my ‘fortune teller’ Halloween costume last year, and my kids are STILL begging me to know the secret.
The Candy Emporium or The Candy Dish - What is it about picking candy from bulk jars, bins, or a glass display case that makes it so much more fun? I don’t have an answer to that question, but I do know that a visit to either the Candy Emporium or The Candy Dish (or both - they are just across the street from one another, after all) will be a hit with kids of all ages, or anyone with a sweet tooth.
As an added bonus, both of these stores are within sight of the Village Green Playscape, so kids can climb and play for a bit to burn off the sugar rush, while adults take a moment to sit and rest. Use the free public restrooms at the Village Green to wash sticky hands and faces before you continue on with your day.
For Kids (or the Kid at Heart)
Where to Eat:
Brozinni’s Pizza - Also located on one of the corners of the Village Green area, Brozinni Pizzeria is an easy ‘Yes’ if you’re spending the day in town with kids. They serve pizza by the slice every day at lunch (and their slices are HUGE) along with a sure-to-please selection of salads, pasta, breadsticks, and garlic knuckles.
Brown County Inn - I’ve already talked about this restaurant on this list, but suffice it to say, it’s truly one of our favorites! Let me share some of the reasons why:
Their food is delicious, with plenty of classics alongside some more inventive options
They are very family and large group friendly - if you’re there with kids, they provide a coloring sheet and crayons or (if the weather permits) you can sit outside on their deck and kids can play mini golf, or on the nearby playground
They serve three meals a day, seven days a week, and take reservations
Bonus Activities:
Ride the Nashville Express Trolley - If you spend any time walking around Nashville, you’re sure to see the trolly making its rounds on the streets. If you have a train-obsessed kiddo, or just need everyone to take a break off their feet, then get tickets for the trolley and enjoy the 25 minute long scenic and informative tour through Nashville. There are certain spots that you can hop on and off during the ride, so this is a fun way to get to the Brown County Inn if you’re heading there for lunch anyway.
Visit the Nature Center at the Brown County State Park - The Nature Center at the Brown County State Park is tucked back, beyond the campground, but it’s well worth the drive to get there. The Nature Center is home to numerous exhibits, displays, and even some enclosures with native reptiles and amphibians! It’s a great way to engage kids in learning about the natural and geological history of Brown County, and you’ll pass some of the best views in the county (and quite a few playgrounds to enjoy) on your drive back. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for interpretive programming, guided hikes, and more.
Want to browse all the itinerary ideas? Keep scrolling to read all of my recommendations, or jump to:
| Back to Top | For the Antiques Lover | For the Artist or Arts Supporter | For the Bookworm & Cozy-Obsessed | For the Foodie | For Kids (or the Kid at Heart) | For the Outdoor Enthusiast or Adventure-Seeker | For the Plant Person |
Where to Shop:
Brown County Bikes - Located on the Jefferson Street side of the Barn Burner, Brown County Bikes offers bikes for rent and sale, as well as providing repair services, professional coaching, and guided tours. They can service almost any bike type, but they specialize in offering mountain bike and e-bike services. They also offer weekly co-ed and women’s-only group rides that are free to join if you’re interested in checking out some of the best mountain bike trails in the Midwest!
Weed Patch Music Shop - Looking to expand your musical skill set, or find something easy to pack and play around the campfire? Check out Weed Patch Music Company for a range of musical instruments, from harmonicas, to ukuleles, and lots of other options besides. They stock everything from beginner-friendly instruments to one-of-a-kind, locally-made heirlooms that are fit for a professional.
Brown County Rock Shop & Copper Creek Gem Mine - The Brown County Rock Shop sells gorgeous and one-of-a-kind rocks, gems, minerals, fossils and arrowheads. Check it out during your next visit and you’re sure to leave awe-inspired by the natural world, and hopefully with something shiny to add to your collection at home! You do have a shiny rock collection already started, right?!
Bear Hardware - Bear Hardware is a true small-town hardware store and sells pretty much anything you could imagine or need. In addition to the typical ‘hardware store’ stuff, they’ve got a large selection of Lodge cast iron, basic equipment for camping and fishing, classic toys, and even some bike parts! Their staff is super friendly, and they have free popcorn, so definitely keep them in mind if there’s anything you need while you’re in Brown County.
For the Outdoor Enthusiast or Adventure-Seeker
Where to Eat:
Hard Truth Hills - Hard Truth Hills is 325-acres and the flagship destination for the Big Woods Restaurant Group, Quaff ON! Brewing Company, and Hard Truth Distilling Co group of companies - all of which were started right here in Nashville. The Welcome Center offers opportunities for tours and tastings, while the restaurant and carry out window on the terraces offer great food and drinks, along with live music. There are ponds and trails and plenty more to explore outside during your visit to Hard Truth Hills.
Pack a picnic or grab a tasty lunch-to-go at Sugar Creek BBQ or from the hot food counter at the Nashville BP and then hop in your car to head to the Brown County State Park or Yellowwood State Forest to eat at an overlook or alongside a lake. Make sure you get something for dessert too!
Bonus Activities:
Hop on your bike or lace up your running shoes to test your endurance in one of the many races held annually in Brown County. Choose from ultra-long bike races like the Death March in the spring, or the Brown County EPIC in the fall. More into running? Try the Brown County YMCA’s Hilly Half, or the DINO Series Tecumseh Trail Challenge.
Or would you prefer something a little less adrenaline-fueled? Did you know can explore the beautiful and secluded corners of Brown County from the water? Schedule a paddle-boarding session with Simply Fitness, rent a kayak or canoe from Pathfinder Outfitters, or book a bird-watching outing with IndiGo Birding Nature Tours. Or bring your own watercraft with you and explore the waters of Brown County using the Indiana DNR’s Water Trails Guide and their map of public access sites for fishing and more.
Want to browse all the itinerary ideas? Keep scrolling to read all of my recommendations, or jump to:
| Back to Top | For the Antiques Lover | For the Artist or Arts Supporter | For the Bookworm & Cozy-Obsessed | For the Foodie | For Kids (or the Kid at Heart) | For the Outdoor Enthusiast or Adventure-Seeker | For the Plant Person |
Where to Shop:
Ironweed Floral & Gifts - I have a confession to make - my house is filled to the brim with houseplants and many of them are from Ironweed (it’s not an exaggeration to say that I’ve purchased 30 or more plants from here). All of their employees are great but one of them (Wendy) has a truly amazing knowledge of plants - their scientific names, light and water requirements, and so much more - and she is sure to help you find the perfect plant for your home.
Wood Fairy Apothecary - The Wood Fairy Apothecary is brought to you by the owners of the Birds Nest Café. Not only is this shop a delight for the senses and just plain fun to look at, it’s also FILLED with lush plants, divine bath and body products, and other hilariously cheeky products. My plant obsession truly knows no bounds, so I’d love this store just for that fact, but I’m also always burning candles from here and I enjoy many of their other products as well.
Rivers & Roads Home - At Rivers & Roads Home you’ll find everything you could need to give your new plant babies the perfect home. From handmade pots (you can buy one that’s already finished and glazed by owner Gracie, or choose to glaze your own in their on-site studio), to macramé plant hangers, and plenty of other beautiful, handmade items for your home this store is definitely worth checking out.
For the Plant Person
Where to Eat:
Birds Nest Cafe - If ‘cottage garden’ is at all your style, you’ll come away inspired AND nourished after a visit to the Birds Nest Cafe. The gardens and decor at the Birds Nest Cafe are always next level, and the food is amazing too. The menu here is a lot more inventive than most restaurants in Nashville, and it’s a great option if you’re vegetarian or vegan. The owners here also own the Wood Fairy Apothecary, so you can just walk around the corner to continue your shopping after you eat. The Birds Nest Cafe only serves breakfast, brunch, and lunch though, so you’ll want to plan to get here early.
Brown County Inn - If you’re looking for a more extensive menu, or up for a little longer walk to get to lunch, then the Brown County Inn is the spot for you. This is our go-to restaurant and is always the first one I recommend to guests. The Inn’s menu is delicious and varied, but has enough classic choices that you can be sure you’ll find something for everyone in your group. And from spring through fall you can tour their kitchen and cut flower garden, which is located on the old tennis court to the side of their patio seating area for the restaurant. On any day that the weather allows, you can easily take the Salt Creek Trail to walk to the Brown County Inn, or it’s an easy drive from town.
Bonus Activities:
Nashville Indiana Farmers Market - If you’ll be visiting Nashville on any Sunday from May through October, definitely plan to check out the Nashville Indiana Farmers Market! It’s located in the Brown County Inn Parking lot and runs from 11-2 on market days, rain or shine. Several vendors sell houseplants and plant starts, including Linnea’s Greenhouse, which is based out of Unionville, Indiana. Linnea always has a wide assortment of must-have houseplants, some perennials, and usually a fun selection of carnivorous plants too.
T.C. Steele State Historic Site - The former home of noted Brown County Artist, T.C. Steele, is now a state historic site and museum where you can visit the house and grounds that inspired Steele’s paintings. Plant lovers especially will love visiting the extensive landscaping, Selma Steele’s preserved gardens, and walking the trails of the Selma N. Steele Nature Preserve.
Plan Your Trip Today!
Each of these example itineraries are just a small taste of all there is to see, do, and experience in Brown County. I can’t even come close to listing every shopping and dining option or possible combination of interests, but I hope this guide helped give you an idea of where to start as you’re planning your next trip here.
If you want even more recommendations for things to do, be sure to check out my blog, or you can see a more extensive list and map of everything here - or you’re always welcome to contact me with any questions.
Stay at the Barn Burner
If you’re planning a trip to Nashville, Indiana, make sure to consider the Brown County Barn Burner for your lodging needs! We are proud to provide a one-of-a-kind lodging experience with four separate units, all in the same building near downtown Nashville, IN. We have a total of 9 bedrooms and can sleep up to 29 people, plus an Event Space.
While we specialize in hosting large groups and families, and have reservations available a year or more in advance, smaller groups can rent our individual units up to 90 days out.
Since we’re located just steps away from downtown Nashville, it’s easy to walk to almost every shop on this list and to figure out an itinerary that everyone in your group will enjoy. Learn more about our lodging units and book your stay here.