A Perfect Weekend Itinerary in Nashville, Indiana – Brown County’s Hidden Gem

If you’re looking for a charming escape filled with creative experiences, outdoor adventures, and small-town warmth, look no further than Nashville, Indiana in the heart of Brown County. Known as the "Artist Colony of the Midwest," this picturesque town blends rustic charm with modern flair—and I discovered it’s the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. Here’s my curated itinerary that covers all the must-do activities, unique experiences, and best eats around town.

See a highlight of our trip here.

Wake Up with Local Flavor

Start your day in Nashville the right way—with a hearty breakfast at Olde Bartley House, a cozy eatery known for its home-cooked goodness and warm hospitality. Sip on locally brewed coffee as you tuck into a classic breakfast spread in this charming, cottage-style restaurant that feels like a step back in time.

Explore the Artisan Heart of Brown County

After breakfast, head to downtown Nashville, where tree-lined streets and historic buildings are home to dozens of unique boutiques and artisan shops. Be sure to stop by:

Daisy Dotts Boutique for stylish, boho-inspired fashion.
Wood Fairy Apothecary, a whimsical haven filled with handcrafted herbal remedies, crystals, essential oils, and magical home goods.

Strolling through downtown feels like walking through a Hallmark movie set—perfect for snapping a few Instagram-worthy photos.

Where to Stay in Nashville, IN

We stayed at the Jefferson House owned by Moondance Vacation Rentals. Our studio apartment had it all! Including a hot tube and private patio area. It was centrally located so we were only a few minutes from all the best spots in Nashville. We walked to all the best shops, restaurants and attractions. It must also be mentioned that our condo came fully stocked! We had everything we needed to cook with, the bathroom was full of essentials and it was dog friendly to boot! You can find them on Instagram at: @moondancevr

Ready for a stylish, hands-on experience? Head over to Queen Hat Co., where you can design your own custom hat! This one-of-a-kind boutique offers personalized hat-making sessions where you’ll work with professionals to create a statement piece that perfectly suits your style. It's a memory—and fashion accessory—you’ll treasure forever.

Fuel Up for the Afternoon

For lunch, make your way to Rafters Food & Spirits, a local favorite with laid-back vibes and a diverse menu. Grab a table on the patio, enjoy a cold drink, and dive into hearty fare like burgers, salads, and Indiana-style comfort food.

Sip and Ride with Adventure

After lunch, prepare for one of the most unique experiences in Brown County—the ATV Bourbon Tasting Tour at Hard Truth Distilling Co.. You'll hop on an ATV and cruise through the wooded terrain surrounding the distillery, stopping at scenic points to sample Hard Truth’s signature bourbons and spirits. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and indulgence. See a highlight of our adventure here.

Relax with Scenic Views

Wind down your afternoon with a peaceful outing on the water. Book a pontoon boat experience on Monroe Lake with Pathfinder Outfitters. Whether you're cruising with friends or soaking up solo serenity, the wide-open lake views and fresh air are the perfect counterbalance to your morning of shopping and tasting.

All Aboard for a Charming Tour

Before the sun sets, hop on the Nashville Express for a guided tour of town. This quaint open-air train gives you a fun, relaxed way to learn about the history and highlights of Nashville, all while enjoying scenic views of the quaint village and surrounding hills.

Treat Yourself (Literally)

As the evening rolls in, head to Ooey Gooey Cinnamon Roll Café for a sweet treat you must not skip. Their famous cinnamon rolls are big, fluffy, warm, and loaded with frosting—a sugar-lover’s dream come true. Whether you enjoy one fresh or take a box to-go, it’s a must-try while in town.

Cozy Coffee and Autumn Vibes

Cap off your perfect Nashville day with a seasonal drink at The Daily Grind Coffee House & Café. Known for its cozy ambiance and creative seasonal menu, fall favorites like pumpkin spice lattes and maple mochas make it the perfect spot to relax and reflect on your day in Brown County.

Final Thoughts

From hat-making to bourbon tasting, boutique shopping to lake cruising, Nashville, Indiana blends rustic charm with rich experiences you won't find anywhere else. This itinerary gives you a taste of everything—arts, adventure, eats, and everything in between.

Don’t Forget to follow me here for more charming destinations!

#NashvilleIndiana #BrownCountyAdventures #QueenHatCo #HardTruthDistilling #MonroeLakeViews #OoeyGooeyCafe
#DaisyDottsBoutique #WoodFairyApothecary #PathfinderOutfitters #ShopSmallIndiana #MidwestRoadTrip #FallInBrownCounty #ExploreNashvilleIN #IndianaBucketList #TheHonestPassport

Brown County Itinerary