Where to Shop in Brown County & Nashville, Indiana

Have you been planning a trip to the Brown County or Nashville, Indiana area? Would you like to do some shopping while you’re here? Well I’ve got you covered with this in-depth guide of my favorite local shops. While this post is focused on my favorite shops, I’ve also got a map of all the shops in Nashville, IN that you can access here.

What Makes Shopping in Brown County So Unique?

We get told all the time that coming to Brown County is like taking a step back into a simpler time, or like walking right into a hallmark movie, and we think you’ll agree!  Nashville was originally established as a pioneer artist colony, and it’s still known that way today. 

This fact is obvious in the style of the shops and studios here, along with the picturesque nature of the town.  And part of that legacy is that there is something for everyone here, with dozens - if not hundreds - of shops and studios to choose from.

NOTE: If you’re looking a map of ALL the shops and stores specifically in Nashville, IN, you should check out this post. Then keep reading here for for a more in-depth look about my absolute favorite shops around!

Important Things to Know Before You Plan Your Trip

One of the best parts about shopping in Brown County and Nashville, Indiana is that all of the shops are small, independent businesses.  While this can be a GREAT thing - and it means that you’re directly supporting the community with your purchases - it can also have some drawbacks. 

Although there are always exceptions, locally-owned businesses like the ones you’ll find in Brown County are usually either run solely by the owner, or they just have a small staff in place.  And, as small businesses, they can set their own hours and policies for their store.  

What does this mean in practice? Well, for starters, most shops here don’t open until 10 or 11a, and then close by 5 or 6p each day.  Some shops are only open Thursday or Friday through Sunday, or have other limited days or hours (especially on certain weekdays and during the winter months). 

So if there is a particular shop you definitely want to visit, I always recommend calling ahead or checking their Facebook page in advance.  That way you’ll know the most up-to-date hours and you can make sure there aren’t any unexpected closures due to weather, illness, or power outages.

Shops to Visit in Nashville & Brown County, Indiana

Like I mentioned above, there are literally dozens, if not hundreds, of different shops and studios that you could visit in the town of Nashville and throughout Brown County, Indiana. 

Given the reality of time and budget constraints, it would be impossible for me to shop at all of them - and it’s also just a fact of life that not every shop is going to appeal to every person - so on this page I’m highlighting the shops that I personally shop at, and know well enough to recommend. 

I really hope this information is helpful, but when you do visit Brown County? I’d encourage you to spend some time exploring town, going into any shop that catches your eye, and finding some new favorites for yourself. 

And you’ve got to promise me that if you find any great ones that aren’t already on this list, you’ll let me know - OK?  OK.  It’s a deal. So, without further ado, here are some of my favorite shops in Nashville, IN in alphabetical order…

At Home With Heartland

* CLOTHING * JEWELRY * HOUSEWARES *

This boutique is located at the edge of town, but it’s more than worth the walk to check them out.  I appreciate that they have women’s clothing (including extended sizing) and jewelry you’d expect, as well as housewares, candles, and men’s clothing as well.

| More Info | Facebook | Map |

Bear Hardware

* TOOLS * CAMPING & OUTDOORS * ANTIQUES * PLANTS * CLOTHING *

Bear Hardware is a true small-town hardware store that sells pretty much anything you could imagine or need.  In addition to the typical ‘hardware store’ stuff, they’ve got a selection of antiques, a large variety of Lodge cast iron, basic equipment for camping and fishing, classic toys, and even some bike parts.  Their staff is super friendly and helpful (and they have free popcorn!) so definitely keep them in mind if there’s anything you need while you’re in Brown County.

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Brown County Antique Mall

* ANTIQUES * ART & PHOTOGRAPHY * JEWELRY * HOUSEWARES * FURNITURE *

The Brown County Antique Mall is the perfect antique mall, in my opinion.  It’s big (over 7,000 square feet) without being overwhelming; it features a good assortment of furniture, along with the normal smalls, art, and décor 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 both the Brown County Barn Burner and my own home are furnished with lamps, art, and other décor from the Brown County Antique Mall.

| Website | Facebook | Map |

Brown County Art Guild

* ART & PHOTOGRAPHY * JEWELRY * CARDS & PAPERGOODS * LOCALLY-MADE ITEMS *

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.

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Brown County Back Roads Studio Tour

* ART & PHOTOGRAPHY * HANDICRAFTS * JEWELRY * CARDS & PAPERGOODS * HOUSEWARES * LOCALLY-MADE ITEMS *

The Back Roads of Brown County Studio Tour is a great way to explore the winding roads and spectacular scenery of Brown County that’s been responsible for inspiring so many artists through the years. 

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 weekend, but it never hurts to try.

| Website | Facebook | Map |

Brown County Bikes

*BIKES & BIKE PARTS * TOOLS * CAMPING & OUTDOORS * CLOTHING * ONLINE SHOPPING *

Located on the Jefferson Street side of the Brown County 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!

| Website | Facebook | Map |

Brown County Craft Gallery

* HANDICRAFTS * JEWELRY * ART & PHOTOGRAPHY * HOUSEWARES * CARDS & PAPERGOODS * LOCALLY-MADE ITEMS *

The Brown County Craft Gallery is an artist co-op, with work from dozens of local and area artisans.  Here you’ll find 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.

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Brown County Rock Shop & Copper Creek Gem Mine

* ROCKS & CRYSTALS * JEWELRY *

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?!  If not, it’s never too late to start…

| Website | Facebook | Map |

Brown County Toy Chest

* TOYS & GAMES * BOOKS * CANDY & CONFECTIONS * JEWELRY * ONLINE SHOPPING *

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, very 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.  They just moved to a new, bigger space and now they’re offering fun opportunities to explore different toys and experiment with craft kits.  Follow them on Facebook for lots of great ideas on how to incorporate more play into your life.

| Website | Facebook | Map |

The Candy Emporium

* CANDY & CONFECTIONS * SPECIALTY FOODS * CARDS & PAPERGOODS *

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) is always a good idea, especially if you have kids or someone with a sweet tooth in tow.

| Website | Facebook | Map |

Denny’s Magic Shop

* TOYS & GAMES * BOOKS *

Is there an age where you stop being amazed by well-done magic tricks?  I hope not but, if there is, I haven’t found it yet. I always love stopping by this store, especially because the owner will wow you with tricks from behind the counter while you decide what to buy.  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.

| Website | Facebook | Map |

Fallen Leaf Books

* BOOKS * CARDS & PAPERGOODS * ANTIQUES *

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.

| Website | Facebook | Map |

Gypsy Moon Flea Market

* ANTIQUES * TOOLS * FURNITURE * HOUSEWARES * JEWELRY * TOYS & GAMES *

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.

| Website | More Info | Map |

Holly Pots Stoneware

* HANDICRAFTS * HOUSEWARES * LOCALLY-MADE ITEMS * ONLINE SHOPPING*

I first met Holly as a vendor at the Nashville Indiana Farmers Market and I love that she’s expanded to having a storefront in town, as well as continuing as a farmers market vendor!  Her pottery style and glaze technique always have me adding just ‘one more’ piece to my collection, and you’ll want to do the same.

| Website | Facebook | Map |

Hoosier Artist Gallery

* ART & PHOTOGRAPHY * JEWELRY * HANDICRAFTS * HOUSEWARES * CARDS & PAPERGOODS * LOCALLY-MADE ITEMS *

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 totally different selection and spectrum of work here, when compared to the Brown County Craft Gallery, so be sure to check out both!

| Website | Facebook | Map |

Ironweed Floral & Gifts

* PLANTS * HOUSEWARES * CARDS & PAPERGOODS *

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.

| Website | Facebook | Map |

Lawrence Family Glass Blowers & Quintessence Gallery

* ART & PHOTOGRAPHY * HANDICRAFTS * JEWELRY * LOCALLY-MADE ITEMS *

I am always in awe of anyone that has a specific craft that they’ve honed over the decades and have figured out a way to share it with the world and make a living from it.  And ‘full of awe’ is exactly how I’d describe the feeling of walking into th Lawrence Family Glass Blowers and Quintessence Gallery shops and realizing the level of intricacy, skill, and artistry required to create everything they have displayed.

Full transparency though - as you might expect from two stores filled with hand-blown glass ornaments and other decorative items, this is NOT the place to take your children.  Save your blood pressure and go at a time when you don’t have to keep little hands from touching everything.  Pro tip: get some ice cream from Fearrin’s Ice Cream Shop (right next door) and leave the kiddos outside on a bench to eat while you check out the glass beauties inside these two shops.

| Website | Facebook | Map |

Moonshine Leather Company

* HANDICRAFTS * CLOTHING * TOOLS * LOCALLY-MADE ITEMS * ONLINE SHOPPING *

I have to limit how often I go in here because I know I’ll buy something every time.  Their leather work is beautiful and they have everything from belts and wallets to purses, bags, and larger items.  I love that they produce everything themselves and I’ve also used them for some leather repair and heavy-duty sewing that I’ve needed done in the past.  They also sell leather scraps, leatherworking supplies, and basically anything you could need for your own projects.

| Website | Facebook | Map |

Mulberry Cottage

* CLOTHING * JEWELRY * CARDS & PAPERGOODS * HOUSEWARES * TOYS & GAMES * ONLINE SHOPPING *

Mulberry Cottage has clothing for every style, size, and price point and I love them for that.  They also sell jewelry, pretty paper goods, and some housewares.  My oldest daughter loves shopping here, and I’ve got several items in my own closet as well.  They have a huge selection, which sometimes feels a little overwhelming to me, but that doesn’t seem to stop me from finding something to buy!

| Website | Facebook | Map |

Nashville Fudge Kitchen

* CANDY & CONFECTIONS * SPECIALTY FOODS * LOCALLY-MADE ITEMS * ONLINE SHOPPING *

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 that I’m aware of in town that sells gelato.

| Website | Facebook | Map |

Nashville Indiana Farmers Market

* SPECIALTY FOODS * JEWELRY * PLANTS * HANDICRAFTS * CANDY & CONFECTIONS * BATH & BODY * LOCALLY-MADE ITEMS *

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 artisans in Brown County, Indiana while you can.

| Website | Facebook | Map |

Nashville Spice Company

* SPECIALTY FOODS * BOOKS * CANDY & CONFECTIONS * LOCALLY-MADE ITEMS * ONLINE SHOPPING *

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, cheese, cookbooks, and more.  Any time I go to their store, I leave inspired and with something new to try in my own kitchen.

| Website | Facebook | Map |

Naughty Dog Books

* BOOKS * CARDS & PAPERGOODS * TOYS & GAMES * CLOTHING * ONLINE SHOPPING *

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.

| Website | Facebook | Map |

Plum Creek Antiques

* ANTIQUES * FURNITURE * HOUSEWARES * TOOLS * TOYS & GAMES *

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.

| Website | Facebook | Map |

Rivers & Roads Home

* HOUSEWARES * HANDICRAFTS * JEWELRY * BATH & BODY * CARDS & PAPERGOODS * LOCALLY-MADE ITEMS * ONLINE SHOPPING *

The duo responsible for Rivers & Roads Home is another set of locals that I first met when they started vending at the Nashville Indiana Farmers Market.  Just like Holly of Holly Pots Stoneware, they have since expanded into this wonderful storefront in downtown Nashville. 

They offer a wide variety of their own handmade products (including beautiful pottery from Gracie and the best beeswax candles in every shape and size from Adam) along with a curated selection of other locally handcrafted products and art.  Gracie also occasionally offers pottery classes and they have a studio at the back of the store where you can go and glaze your own pottery.  Definitely add Rivers & Roads Home to your list of stores to check out the next time you’re in Nashville!

| Website | Instagram | Map |

Sora Binti Boutique

* CLOTHING * JEWELRY * BATH & BODY * HOUSEWARES *

I don’t know how they do it, but Sora Binti Boutique has nailed everything about how I want a boutique shopping experience to feel.  It’s cozy without being overcrowded and their selection Is special without feeling exclusionary.  They specialize in offering women’s clothing (including extended sizes) and fun accessories, and this is always my first stop in town when I’m looking to add something to my closet.

| Website | Facebook | Map |

Touch of Silver, Gold & Old

* JEWELRY * ART & PHOTOGRAPHY * LOCALLY-MADE ITEMS *

If you’re looking for quality, custom, and estate jewelry, this is the store to check out.  They’ve got a broad range of jewelry styles in stock, and it’s all BEAUTIFUL and well-made.  This is not the place to come for “bargain” prices - they have quality items, and they know it - but if you’re looking for something unique that will last a lifetime, you’ll find something to love here.

| Website | Facebook | Map |

Weed Patch Music Company

* MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS * TOYS & GAMES * HANDICRAFTS * BOOKS * LOCALLY-MADE ITEMS * ONLINE SHOPPING *

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.

| Website | Facebook | Map |

The Wild Olive

* SPECIALTY FOODS * HOUSEWARES * LOCALLY-MADE ITEMS *

The Wild Olive primarily offers many different flavors of olive oil and balsamic vinegars from around the world.  But as a specialty gourmet shop, they actually have 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.

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Wood Fairy Apothecary

* PLANTS * BATH & BODY * HOUSEWARES * CLOTHING * HANDICRAFTS * LOCALLY-MADE ITEMS *

The Wood Fairy Apothecary is brought to you by the owners of the Birds Nest Cafe. 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.

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