Nashville IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Nashville, Indiana.
1. Brown County State Park
SCENIC NATURAL WONDER
Brown County State Park, nicknamed the 'Little Smokies,' encompasses nearly 16,000 acres of rugged hills, ridges, and fog-shrouded ravines that resemble the Great Smoky Mountains. Visitors can climb the 90-foot Fire Tower for a breath-taking view of the hills or explore rare flora like the endangered Yellowwood tree on Trail 5. The park offers numerous outdoor activities including hiking, wildlife viewing at the nature center, and picturesque vista points perfect for watching sunrises and sunsets.
2. Hard Truth Distilling Co.
CRAFT SPIRITS EXPERIENCE
Hard Truth Distilling Co. is Indiana's largest destination distillery nestled on 325 wooded acres in scenic Brown County. Guests can tour the distillery, hop on an ATV to explore the forested property, or enjoy live music at the Hard Truth on the Rocks terrace while sipping locally crafted beverages. The destination features a full-service restaurant, tours and tastings center, mixology classes, and various festivals throughout the year.
3. Bear Wallow Distillery
ARTISAN SPIRITS CRAFTING
Bear Wallow Distillery specializes in handcrafted artisan spirits using 100% Indiana grains, offering a farm-to-fifth experience. Visitors can take tours on Saturdays at 12:00, 2:00, and 4:00 p.m. to learn about their production process. After the tour, guests can sample their spirits or try a refreshing Moonshine Shake-up Cocktail.
4. T.C. Steele State Historic Site
ARTIST'S HISTORIC HOME
The T.C. Steele State Historic Site preserves the Brown County home and studio of renowned Indiana artist T.C. Steele, still filled with original artwork and furnishings. Visitors can experience the gardens and landscape that influenced so much of Steele's artistic work. The site represents the perfect intersection of art and nature, showcasing how the natural beauty of Brown County inspired one of Indiana's most celebrated painters.
5. Brown County Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING
Brown County Winery offers visitors a chance to sample locally produced wines in the heart of Nashville, Indiana. The winery features a tasting room where guests can experience a variety of handcrafted wines made from locally sourced fruits. Visitors appreciate the friendly atmosphere and opportunity to discover unique regional flavors that capture the essence of Brown County.
6. Bean Blossom Overlook
PANORAMIC VALLEY VIEWS
Bean Blossom Overlook is a free scenic viewpoint located right off State Road 135 that offers panoramic views reminiscent of those in Brown County State Park. From this vantage point, visitors can see for miles across the treetops looking westward. This easily accessible spot provides a perfect opportunity to appreciate the rolling landscapes that make Brown County famous without any entrance fees.
7. Bean Blossom Covered Bridge
HISTORIC WOODEN STRUCTURE
Bean Blossom Covered Bridge is a charming historic structure tucked away on a gravel road, just minutes from Bean Blossom Overlook. This covered bridge represents Indiana's rich architectural heritage, as the state is known for these distinctive wooden passages. Visitors seeking authentic local landmarks will find this off-the-beaten-path destination worth the short detour.
8. Nashville Downtown
ARTISTIC SHOPPING DISTRICT
Downtown Nashville is a charming artistic hub filled with unique shops, galleries, and eateries that capture the creative spirit of Brown County. Visitors can explore the area on foot, discovering local artisan works, handcrafted goods, and regional specialties around every corner. The pedestrian-friendly district invites leisurely strolls and unexpected discoveries, making it the perfect place to experience the cultural heart of Nashville, Indiana.
9. Brown County Visitors Center
INFORMATION AND EXHIBITS
The Brown County Visitors Center serves as the perfect starting point for any trip to Nashville, offering comprehensive information about local attractions, events, and accommodations. Inside, visitors will find exhibits highlighting the area's natural beauty, artistic heritage, and historical significance. The helpful staff can provide personalized recommendations to ensure travelers make the most of their time in Brown County.
10. Brown County History Center
LOCAL HERITAGE MUSEUM
The Brown County History Center preserves and showcases the rich heritage of Nashville and the surrounding Brown County area. Exhibits feature artifacts, photographs, and stories that illuminate the region's development from pioneer days to its evolution as an artistic colony. Visitors gain insight into the cultural forces that shaped this unique community, from its natural resources to the artists who found inspiration in its hills and valleys.
11. Pioneer Village
HISTORICAL SETTLEMENT RECREATION
Pioneer Village offers visitors a glimpse into the early settlement days of Brown County with authentic and reconstructed historical buildings. Guests can wander through the village to experience what life was like for the area's first European settlers, with demonstrations of period crafts and activities often available. This living history exhibit connects modern visitors to the challenges and ingenuity of those who first called this rugged landscape home.
12. Brown County Playhouse
LOCAL PERFORMING ARTS
The Brown County Playhouse is a beloved cultural institution offering live theater performances in downtown Nashville. This intimate venue hosts a variety of productions throughout the year, from plays and musicals to concerts and special events. Visitors appreciate the high-quality entertainment that reflects the artistic spirit of the community.
13. Spears Gallery
FINE ART SHOWCASE
Spears Gallery displays an impressive collection of fine art in the heart of Nashville's artistic community. Visitors can browse works by local and regional artists that capture the beauty and spirit of Brown County. The gallery continues Nashville's long tradition as an artists' colony, offering art lovers a chance to discover new works and potentially add to their collections.
14. Brown County Art Guild
ARTIST COLLECTIVE GALLERY
The Brown County Art Guild showcases the works of member artists continuing the region's rich artistic tradition that dates back to the early 20th century. Housed in a historic building, the guild features changing exhibits of paintings, sculptures, and other art forms that reflect the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the area. Visitors can appreciate the connection between the inspiring landscape of Brown County and the creative expressions it continues to foster.
15. Yellowwood State Forest
PRISTINE WOODLAND RECREATION
Yellowwood State Forest offers over 23,000 acres of pristine woodland for outdoor recreation near Nashville. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing in Yellowwood Lake, horseback riding, and primitive camping amid the forest's diverse ecosystem. The forest is particularly beautiful during autumn when the foliage transforms into a spectacular display of reds, oranges, and yellows against the backdrop of rare yellowwood trees that give the forest its name.