Brown County, Indiana: A Year-Round Destination Guide - Monthly Activities & Events
Chances are that if you’ve heard about Brown County, Indiana, you’ve heard something about the gorgeous fall colors. And while all the love for fall is well-deserved, I’ve learned since moving here in 2016 that there are great reasons to visit Brown County year round….the beauty, fun activities, and great people are NOT limited to just the fall months.
So, as I look forward to another year of living here, I decided it was time to compile a list of my favorite things to do in Brown County and Nashville, IN for each and every month of the year.
And while there are new things added each year, and I can’t control the weather in any given season, this is meant to be an overview of some of the tried and true constants that I look forward to every year. I’ll also share links to some related posts for each month that you might enjoy.
If you’re thinking about planning a trip, or already have one scheduled, hopefully this list will give you an idea of what there is to look forward to, whenever you decide to visit!
What to Do in Brown County, IN for Every Month and Season
I’m about to go into LOTS of details for things to do year round in Brown County, but I wanted to note up top that I cover a lot more general options in my posts about the Best Free & Cheap Things to Do in Brown County, general Things to Do in Brown County, and Example Itinerary Ideas, and I’ll be referencing specific sections from each of these posts below.
I’d encourage you to scroll and read more about all there is to do year round but, if you’re looking to jump straight to a particular month or season, you can just click one of the links:
WINTER || December | January | February |
SPRING || March | April | May |
January in Brown County, IN
If you’re planning a visit to Brown County or Nashville, Indiana in January, here are some of the activities, events, and other things to do that I always recommend:
Winter Hiking in the Brown County State Park
I’ve always loved hiking but - until I moved here - I never knew that winter hiking is actually the absolute best. Not only does getting outside automatically help cure my winter blues, but hiking in the winter also means you’ll have a clear view of Brown County’s vistas, you’ll sweat less, AND there won’t be any spiderwebs in your face or other bugs to worry about.
And if you’re lucky enough to hike after a fresh snowfall? You’ll also get to experience the peacefulness and unique serenity of time spent in a snow-covered wood. It creates the most magical hiking experience and is perfect for starting the new year with a fresh perspective.
There are plenty of great trails all over Brown County, but I especially like hiking at the State Park in the winter because the fall crowds are gone and its roads are well-maintained and easy to access, even after bad weather.
Cozy Nights In
Is anyone else basically ready to cozy up by 8:30 pm every night in the winter? Surely it can’t be just me…
Which is why January's slower, shorter days and longer nights are perfect for curling up with a good book. Luckily, Nashville has a few different options to get your book fix:
Naughty Dog Books is located in the Old State Bank Building on Main St. This independently-owned, mother-daughter bookstore is like something right out of a Hallmark movie.
From the mystery and thriller section in the old bank vault, to the kids reading room, to the comfy couches by the big fireplace, this is a bookstore you’ll want to explore and enjoy for hours. They’ve got all the best new releases and are always ready with the perfect recommendation.
Fallen Leaf Books is located on Jefferson St, just a few blocks away from the Brown County Barn Burner. If I told you to picture a “small town bookstore” in your head, I can almost guarantee Fallen Leaf Books is what you’d see.
They sell both new and used books, as well as a selection of local maps, memorabilia, and other paper-based collectibles. Their shelves are always stacked high with amazing reads, with narrow aisles and tight turns that give that perfect feeling of “organized chaos,” in book form. And I mean every bit of that last sentence as a compliment.
The Brown County Public Library is a fantastic community resource, for both locals and tourists alike. Located at the north end of town, their beautiful building highlights the work of many local artists and artisans (their wrought metal staircase is the coolest) and offers a cozy chair, a dose of peace and quiet, and free wifi for anyone that needs it.
The Friends of the Library group also operates a “Book Nook,” where you can browse and take home whatever you want after ‘paying’ via a donation amount of your choice.
Stunning Winter Sunsets
The winter sunsets in Brown County are truly something else, with the evening sky routinely painted in vivid shades of orange, pink, and purple. In fact, there’s actual weather science behind why the sunsets are so much more vibrant in Indiana November through February. But, no matter the reason, it’s something truly breathtaking to look forward to during your winter visit to Brown County.
Related Posts for January:
February in Brown County, IN
If you’re planning a visit to Brown County or Nashville, Indiana in February, here are some of the activities, events, and other things to do that I always recommend:
Enjoy the Snow
The weather in Brown County is anything but predictable, but typically February has plenty of snow (and also its fair share of 50+ degree days, so just you never know). But if you’re lucky enough to be here when there’s a layer of snow on the ground, you should definitely make time for sledding, cross country skiing, igloo making, and snowball fights.
If you’re looking for a public place to sled, check out the hill near the Brown County Schools Administration Building (next to the track and football field), or the hill at the north end of Yellowwood Lake. Because let’s face it, there’s something undeniably joyful about acting like a kid again, even if it’s just for an afternoon.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
It might be cold outside, but February is the perfect time to satisfy your sweet tooth in Brown County. Whether you're a candy connoisseur, a pastry aficionado, or someone who believes ice cream isn't just for summer, our local shops have got you covered. (Hint - You could even grab something special for your Valentine while you’re at it…)
First off, let's talk candy. If you've got a craving for chocolates, caramels, or anything in between, Brown County's candy shops are like stepping into a sugary dream. Places like The Candy Emporium, the Nashville Fudge Kitchen, the Candy Dish and more aren't just stores; they're experiences.
Picture bins brimming with every kind of sweet you can imagine (especially the nostalgic ones from your childhood), the scent of chocolate in the air, and the hardest decision you'll make all day is which treats to choose. Whether it's for a Valentine's Day gift or just to satisfy your own sweet tooth, these spots are a must-visit.
Or if you’re someone that leans more towards baked goods (hi, it’s me) then you’ll definitely want to check out some of the local spots serving up fresh baked donuts, cinnamon rolls, and other sweet treats daily. Add in a warm cup of coffee or tea from a local coffee shop and you’re working on the perfect start to any February day.
And let's not forget about ice cream. Sure, it might be cold outside, but is there ever really a bad time for ice cream? I think not.
Local spots like The Chocolate Moose keep the scoops coming all year round, serving up everything from classic vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous flavors that'll have you coming back for more. It's the perfect way to add a little bit of summer joy to your winter days.
Love Is In the Air
You don’t need to wait for Valentine's Day to show your love to the people in your life, but it’s as good an excuse as any! And February in Brown County is the perfect time to slow down, cozy up, and enjoy an evening (or a weekend) away with that special someone.
My favorite spots for a special dinner are the Story Inn, Cooper’s Alley, or the Nashville Chop House, so make your reservations and settle in to enjoy a delicious meal at a charming, one-of-a-kind local eatery.
Public Art Appreciation
Even in the colder months, when the trees are still bare, the public art and art galleries in Nashville add a splash of color and creativity to the landscape.
So bundle up and take a leisurely stroll through town to admire the murals, sculptures, and art installations that reflect the vibrant artistic spirit of Brown County (the “LOVE” sculpture in Franklin Square is especially perfect for February!)
You can also visit the Brown County Art Gallery or the Brown County Art Guild to warm up and see even more beautiful artwork by amazing local artists.
Related Posts for February:
March in Brown County, IN
If you’re planning a visit to Brown County or Nashville, Indiana in March, here are some of the activities, events, and other things to do that I always recommend:
Maple Syrup Season
Even though we typically start tapping trees in Brown County in late January or early February, March is still the month that’s considered “Maple Syrup Season” in the Midwest.
Regardless of the timing, March is a great time to taste and learn more about the syrup-making process. We made our own syrup for the first time in 2023, and I can’t wait to make more in the years to come.
If you aren’t lucky enough to have your own woods with large enough maple trees to tap, then you can get some Brown County maple syrup of your own from local producers like Nature’s Sweet Farms and Brown County Forest Farming.
Hello, Spring!
As March rolls in the woods start to wake up from their winter rest and we welcome another spring. The daffodils are one of the most noticeable flowers to start blooming in March, and you’ll often come across vast, naturalized swaths of them in the woods.
It’s always a fun surprise to come across these bright blooms while hiking, and their location usually marks the site of an old homestead. Be mindful and respectful of the area you're in - and keep an eye out for any old well holes - but otherwise use it as an opportunity to explore a little further into the woods than you might normally go.
Test Your Creativity
And it's not just nature waking back up in Brown County - businesses are too! Extended hours, new offerings, and events on the calendar all become more common as temps warm up and Spring Break visitors start to arrive in Brown County.
It’s the perfect time to test your own creativity, with “make and take” crafts from spots like Our Little World Studio, Rivers and Roads Home, or sign up for classes and workshops at the Brown County Art Guild or the Brown County Art Gallery, and tap into the artistic spirit of Brown county in the process.
Related Posts for March:
April in Brown County, IN
If you’re planning a visit to Brown County or Nashville, Indiana in April, here are some of the activities, events, and other things to do that I always recommend:
More Signs of Spring
While spring gets started in March, April is when nature really comes back to life. The red and pink blooming redbuds that are suddenly everywhere create a truly magical scene, making this one of my favorite times of the year in Brown County.
And if you’re feeling lucky, April is also morel mushroom season, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled anytime you’re in the woods.
Local Events:
Embrace all things spring with tons of different family-friendly activities and events going on throughout Brown County in April. The dates and specific events change every year, but usually you can count on events ranging from Easter Egg hunts, to the Wildflower Foray, to Earth Day celebrations, and more.
These events are the perfect way to enjoy the natural beauty of Brown County, experience the joys and connections of a small town, and also learn about and participate in environmental conservation.
To stay up to date with everything happening, be sure to check the:
The ‘Local News’ page of the Brown County Democrat for links to the weekly Community Calendar
Patio Dining Experiences:
April brings lots of warmer days to Brown County, which makes it ideal for restarting any and all outdoor dining. This could mean grilling out or cooking over a fire, packing a picnic to enjoy at a local park or nature preserve, or enjoying one of the many outdoor patios at local restaurants.
Some of our favorite restaurant patios can be found at the Brown County Inn, Birds Nest Cafe, the Nashville House, Rafters Food & Spirits, Ferguson House Bistro, or Hard Truth Hills.
Related Posts for April:
May in Brown County, IN
If you’re planning a visit to Brown County or Nashville, Indiana in May, here are some of the activities, events, and other things to do that I always recommend:
Farmers Market:
One of my favorite things about the month of May in Brown County is that the Nashville Indiana Farmers Market starts back up on the first Sunday! From there, it runs every Sunday through October, 11 am-2pm, rain or shine in the Brown County Inn parking lot.
At the Farmers Market you’ll find local producers, farmers, bakers, and makers selling a variety of foods like fresh produce, jams, baked goods, candy confections, roasted coffee, and more. Shop to support local and check out the next up and coming artisans and food stars in Brown County, Indiana while you can.
Bird Watching Expeditions
May is an excellent time for bird watching, as migratory birds return and many begin nesting for the season. The diverse habitats in Brown County provide perfect opportunities to spot a variety of bird species. Whether you're a seasoned bird watcher or just love the idea of spotting colorful feathers, our trails and parks are where you need to be.
Plan a self-guided outing in the Crooked Creek State Recreation Area and the backwaters of Lake Monroe, along the Salt Creek, at Yellowwood Lake, or in the Little Africa Wildlife Viewing Area on the east end of Lake Lemon. Or team up with a professional like IndiGO Birding for a more comprehensive bird watching adventure.
Splish Splash
Memorial Day marks the official start of summer in one of the ways that truly matters - the outdoor pool at the State Park reopens! It’s a great spot to cool off on the hottest days of summer.
The entrance fee for the State Park pool is relatively inexpensive at $3/person, but if you want to beat the heat for even less money, try exploring the creek near the parking lot at Strahl Lake or at the north end of Lake Yellowwood, along the Jackson Creek Trail.
Related Posts for May:
June in Brown County, IN
If you’re planning a visit to Brown County or Nashville, Indiana in June, here are some of the activities, events, and other things to do that I always recommend:
Ice Cream Season
While I personally don’t believe that there’s ever a bad time for ice cream, I think we can all agree that if there was an “official” start to ice cream season, it would be June. Luckily for anyone in Brown County, there are a lot of delicious options to check out in town!
The Chocolate Moose is our personal favorite (with extra bonus points awarded because they are normally open the latest in the evening), but Miller’s Ice Cream House, the Nashville Fudge Kitchen, and Fearrin's Ice Cream & Yogurt Depot (ride the trolley while you're there!) are all great options as well.
Biking Adventures
I’m always sharing about my love of hiking but honestly, as the temperatures warm up for summer (and the bugs come back out), I tend to switch to biking instead.
While I prefer road biking, Brown County is also renowned for its mountain bike trails. In fact, it's considered a Bronze Level Ride Center by the International Mountain Bike Association and easily has some of the best single-track riding in the Midwest.
So whether you prefer the thrill of road biking, gravel riding, or mountain biking, there are routes and trails for every skill level with plenty of beautiful scenery along the way.
Brown County Fair
The Brown County Fair used to be held in late July but, as of 2023, it’s now held in mid-June. It’s a true small-town county fair with everything you’d hope for from the experience - rides, a midway with games, exhibits showcasing local talents and crafts, animal barns, and a Grandstand area where they host demolition derbies, tractor pulling, and more.
Related Posts for June:
July in Brown County, IN
If you’re planning a visit to Brown County or Nashville, Indiana in July, here are some of the activities, events, and other things to do that I always recommend:
Soak Up Everything Summer
The long summer days of July are some of the best times to explore and experience all that Brown County has to offer. There’s something to do in every corner of the county, but some of my favorite summer activities include:
Hiking and biking through the woods on one of Brown County’s many trails
Swimming, boating, and creek-stomping at every available opportunity
Spending a few nights camping at one of the many area campgrounds
Getting up early to catch the coolest temperatures of the day and watch a summer sunrise
Visiting the stunning sunflower fields at Nature’s Sweet Farm outside of Bean Blossom
Attending summer concerts and music festivals
Shopping in some of the many local shops in Nashville (especially on the days where a little extra AC is appreciated)
Enjoying outdoor cooking over a grill or fire pit, or just packing a picnic to enjoy in the shade.
“Oohing” and “Aahhing” over the annual 4th of July fireworks
Get Out On the Water
July is a great time to hit the waterways of Brown County. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddler, the scenic lakes and streams offer a refreshing and adventurous way to spend a summer day.
There are several different options for paddling and boating in Brown County, including the lakes at the Brown County State Park, Lake Lemon, Yellowwood Lake, and Crooked Creek State Recreation Area. While the Salt Creek is technically navigable (and there’s a public boat ramp available at Deer Run Park), the water levels vary considerably throughout the year and there are often downed trees and logs blocking the way. If you do choose to paddle on Salt Creek, just be smart, be courteous, and don’t trespass on private property.
And whichever waterway you choose to explore, make sure you follow state and local boating laws and meet any necessary permitting or licensing requirements.
Related Posts for July:
August in Brown County, IN
If you’re planning a visit to Brown County or Nashville, Indiana in August, here are some of the activities, events, and other things to do that I always recommend:
The Last Bits of Summer
By the time August comes around it starts to feel like summer is winding down, but there’s still plenty of summer fun to enjoy. Many of the things I listed above for July are still great options for August, and now you’ve got the benefit of smaller crowds since school is back in session for many.
Fall will be here before you know it, so enjoy the warm evenings, soak up the sunshine during the days, and try not to wish summer away too soon.
Outdoor Adventure
For thrill-seekers, August in Brown County is the perfect time for an adrenaline rush. Get your heart racing with activities like zip lining, ATV adventures, mountain biking and more. These activities are exhilarating, fun, and require the rugged spirit that is so quintessentially Brown County.
There are lots of options to experience outdoor adventure in Brown County, but Explore Brown County and Brown County Bikes are two great places to start.
Stargazing Nights:
With clearer skies, still warm temperatures, and days that continue to grow shorter, August is ideal for stargazing. Venture out on a clear night to one of the county’s quieter spots - the Yellowwood State Forest is a great place to start - and marvel at the expanse of the universe.
If it’s been a while since you really got away from the lights of the city, you’ll be amazed at everything you can see. It's such a peaceful way to connect with nature and the universe and, if you’re lucky, a shooting star might just streak across the sky. Don’t forget to make a wish.
Related Posts for August:
September in Brown County, IN
If you’re planning a visit to Brown County or Nashville, Indiana in September, here are some of the activities, events, and other things to do that I always recommend:
Warm Days and Cool Nights
September in Brown County is a transitional period with warm days and cool nights, perfect for outdoor activities. It's an ideal time to hike, bike, or simply enjoy the changing scenery as summer gives way to fall.
And hopefully, the second round of sunflowers will begin blooming at Nature’s Sweet Farm in September too, making the perfect backdrop to soak up the warmth and joy of the last days of summer.
Live Music and Festivals
The last few days of summer as we head into fall are a great time to enjoy live music all over Brown County.
Restaurants continue to host live music multiple days a week (check out schedules at the Ferguson House Bistro, Hard Truth Hills, the Sycamore Saloon, and the Brown County Inn, to name a few). Plus there are larger music festivals hosted at the Bill Monroe Music Park & Campground, Harmony Tree Resorts, and Valley Branch Retreat. And don’t forget that the Brown County Playhouse and the Brown County Music Center host phenomenal musical acts year round.
With all these venues available in Brown County, there is truly something for every musical taste to enjoy.
Celebrate the Arts
Did you know that art (and especially plein air and landscape painting) has a long and rich history in Brown County? Well it does, and the annual Brown County Art Colony Weekend is a great way to celebrate the history and tradition of the arts in Brown County.
This event typically occurs sometime in September, and includes art workshops, an auction, a community painting event in Nashville, and an outdoor art contest at the T.C. Steele State Historic Site. If you’re an arts lover, it’s definitely an event worth participating in! Check out the Brown County Art Guild’s website to stay up to date for this event.
Horseback Riding
September is a great time to experience the beauty of Brown County on horseback. As the landscape begins to ease its way into fall, horseback riding offers a unique and enjoyable way to view the county's natural beauty.
If you happen to have your own horses, Brown County has dedicated trails for horseback riding and several horseman camps for overnight stays. Or check out the Saddle Barn at the Brown County State Park for guided trail rides and pony rides for kids.
Want to simplify things even further? Then take a horse-drawn carriage ride through town. Rides leave across the road from Fearrin’s Ice Cream & Yogurt Depot on Franklin St, in front of the Artist Colony Inn.
Related Posts for September:
October in Brown County, IN
If you’re planning a visit to Brown County or Nashville, Indiana in October, here are some of the activities, events, and other things to do that I always recommend:
Nashville Indiana Farmers Market
October is the last chance to visit the Nashville Indiana Farmers Market, before it closes for the season. As a reminder, the Farmers Market is on Sundays, May through October, 11 am to 2 pm in the Brown County Inn parking lot, rain or shine.
It's a bustling hub of fresh, local produce, artisan crafts, and lively music…a perfect place to enjoy the spirit of Brown County and pick up some unique, locally-made goods.
Brown County Back Roads Studio Tour
Did you know that in October you can explore the scenic backroads of Brown County while discovering local artists and their studios? The Brown County Back Roads Studio Tour is a free, self-guided event that’s designed to showcase “a true representation of the arts in Brown County, with a special glimpse into their lives as working artists and craftsmen.”
This event is held ONLY during the month of October and participating studios are are typically open Wednesday to Saturday, with many open Sunday as well. Depending on the stops you visit, you can see everything from stained glass to forged iron, fine art paintings and pastels to woodworking, pottery, needlecrafts, and more.
In my opinion, the Back Roads Studio Tour is one of the best ways to see all the fall beauty Brown County is known for, while also experiencing the amazing local art scene, AND avoiding any big October crowds.
Get in the Spooky Spirit
If you’re someone that loves “spooky season,” then October is a great time to visit Brown County. From the eerie production of “Sleepy Hollow” at the Brown County Playhouse, to the family-friendly fun at the Deer Run Park “Fall-O-Ween” event or Jackson Township Fire Department’s “Friendly Forest,” to over-the-top Halloween decor all over Nashville, there’s something to thrill and chill everyone in October. My family looks forward to Halloween in Brown County every year, so start planning your trip now!
Related Posts for October:
November in Brown County, IN
If you’re planning a visit to Brown County or Nashville, Indiana in November, here are some of the activities, events, and other things to do that I always recommend:
Fall Colors
November is your last chance to witness the stunning fall foliage colors in Brown County. While the exact timing of “peak” fall colors is different every year, a vibrant display of reds, oranges, and yellows usually hangs on (and might just be getting started) into November.
Whether you choose to enjoy the fall colors on a winding back roads drive, or take in the views from overlooks like Hesitation Point or the Bean Blossom Overlook, there are plenty of spots to relax and soak up the last bits of fall in Brown County.
Bonfire Season
Trust me, there's nothing quite like gathering around a bonfire on a crisp November evening in Brown County. It's the perfect time for storytelling, marshmallow roasting, and enjoying the company of friends and family under the starry sky.
You can build a fire of your own while camping (just pay attention to any burn bans that might be in effect) or enjoy the gas fire table at some local restaurants, or at lodging like the Brown County Barn Burner.
Gather and Celebrate
The holiday season starts to sparkle in November with local festivities and events. Start by embracing the spirit of gratitude and togetherness over Thanksgiving, and then head straight into the Christmas season with the Annual Community Christmas Tree Lighting at the Brown County History Center the day after Thanksgiving. From light displays to holiday markets, November kicks off a festive time of year in Brown county!
Related Posts for November:
December in Brown County, IN
If you’re planning a visit to Brown County or Nashville, Indiana in December, here are some of the activities, events, and other things to do that I always recommend:
Holiday Festivities
As December rolls in, Brown County transforms into a winter wonderland, brimming with twinkling lights and plenty of small town holiday cheer. The Christkindl Market and the Light Parade are just the beginning, and the month is filled with activities for everyone. There are so many opportunities to get into the holiday spirit, and I hope to see you here next December!
Shop Local
The small businesses and independently-owned shops around here are a huge part of what makes Brown County what it is. You can show your support during the holiday season (and honestly, year round) by choosing to ‘Shop Small’ at one of the many shops and stores in Nashville.
So make your plans to find the perfect holiday gifts while supporting local businesses. Nashville's unique shops offer everything from handmade crafts to artisan foods, ensuring you'll find something special for everyone on your list.
Winter Hiking
As winter sets in, the hiking trails of Brown County transform in December. With the leaves off the trees, you’re able to see further and enjoy vistas that are hidden during the summer months.
I talked more about my love of winter hiking above in the January section, but trust me when I say that the quiet woods, frosty landscapes, and stunning winter sunsets make for the perfect setting to reflect, recharge, and enjoy a different kind of beauty in Brown County.
Related Posts for December:
Your Turn - Tell Me Your Brown County Favorites
As you can see, each month in Brown County brings the charm and has plenty of activities to choose from for all ages and interests. Hopefully this guide helped you discover the best that Brown County has to offer, no matter when you visit!
One important reminder to wrap this up though…remember that the true essence of Brown County isn’t just in its scenic landscapes and events, it’s also in the shared experiences and the stories of those who explore it.
So, I’d love to hear from you! In the comments below, share your favorite memories or activities from your visits to Brown County. What month do you love most here? Have you discovered any hidden gems that you’re eager to share? I can’t wait to read all about them!
