This Autumn Check Out These Places And ‘Fall’ In Love

I’ve lived in Southern Indiana most of my adult life and have always heard of the beauty of Nashville, Indiana, in Brown County. This is especially true in the autumn when the trees show off the brilliance of their fall foliage. Brown County hosts over 19 million visitors a year, and with its 150 shops, inns, restaurants, and more located in a four-block area, this is a very walkable destination that’s only an hour’s drive from Louisville. I turned to you, dear readers, for your best tips on the must-see places of Brown County, and I was excited to hear from so many of you! We visited your favorites (bonus points went to places recommended by multiple people), and we’re sharing your advice. Also, be sure to check out the Brown County Visitors Center in person (211 South Van Buren Street) or online (browncounty.com) for a wealth of information in planning your visit.

My friend Kelly and I agreed to make our first stop a brunch spot. Several of you had high praise for the Bird’s Nest Cafe at 36 West Franklin Street. With its indoor and outdoor seating and chandeliers in the shape of bird nests, this charming cafe is open daily from 9am to 3pm and serves breakfast, brunch, and lunch. We enjoyed the Blueberry Lemon Griddlecakes and Strawberry Basil Stack.

The Nashville Express Tour Train offers a 2.5-mile, 25-minute scenic tour of downtown Nashville. Our conductor shared local history and points of interest. This was a great way to get an overview of the town as we finalized our list of the shops we wanted to visit. The train boards at Fearrin’s Ice Cream Shop and runs in May through October.

As you explore Brown County, you’ll quickly notice handcrafted art on every corner. Brown County has long been known for its arts community. In fact, from the late 1800s, Brown County was recognized as a premier art colony, with many of the period’s leading artists and artisans coming to the area to pursue their passions. Noted Indiana painter T.C. Steele and his wife built their home in Brown County in 1907. Today their home is known as the T.C. Steele Historic Site, where visitors can tour the house, grounds, and studio of this well-known impressionist painter.

The Historic Brown County Playhouse Performing Arts Center offers a diverse program of live theater, concerts, movies, and special events. The 400-seat venue has been operating since 1949. Current shows can be found at its website.

Story and photos by Patti Hartog

P.S. You may also enjoy this outing: Take A Trip Back Into History At These Favorite Local Spots