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Four Of The Best Girlfriend Getaway Ideas in Brown County, Indiana
Have you ever sat around with your girlfriends discussing how you all desperately need a weekend away? It is time to make that trip a reality. Do a little shopping, sip a little wine and take a scenic hike with a perfect girlfriend getaway to Brown County, Indiana. An easy two-hour drive from Cincinnati will give everyone just enough time to catch up before pulling into the first winery. Here are four things that we recommend for a great girlfriend getaway to Brown County, Indiana.
Explore Little Nashville
Known to many as “Little Nashville”, the town of Nashville, Indiana boasts trendy boutiques, charming restaurants, and local wineries. Imagine the most darling country store with a garden of beautiful wildflowers and turn it into a town; that is “Little Nashville”. Quaint shops full of rustic charm line the bloom filled streets. Every nook and cranny is home to a specialty shop that can’t be overlooked. Whether you want to glam up your wardrobe, take home that perfect antique or find an original piece of art in one of the galleries, you can find it here in Nashville.
During your shopping escapades, hunger will likely creep up. In town, there are many great dining options to choose from, including artisan coffee and candy stores scattered throughout. During our stint, we opted for lunch at Big Woods Pizza. Serving local brews from Quaff On! this pizza joint is the perfect spot to take a break from exploring the town. Big Woods Pizza came highly recommended with good reason. Their pizza is exquisite. Even while talking to locals during our stay, many asked if we had been to Big Woods Pizza. The restaurant is huge, offers patio seating and has big outdoor games to keep guests occupied. Take note that while it used to be, it is not the Hard Truth Distillery. The new distillery and tasting room are only about a mile down the road.
Brown County State Park
Brown County State Park is Indiana’s largest State Park offering scenic hiking trails, mountain biking, horse back riding and more. The beauty of the state park is not to be missed. From peaceful lakes to magnificent views there is the perfect trail to explore. Admission to the park is $9.00 for out of state non-commercial vehicles. If you are interested in camping or want to learn more about Brown County State Park click here.
We opted to do the Trail 2 to get those amazing panoramic shots of the treetops from the North Lookout Tower. This hike will take you through creekbeds, over stone bridges, and into majestic tree groves. Since it was over 90 degrees during our hike, we were exhausted at the end and called it a day. Remember to come prepared with plenty of water, sunscreen and bug spray. Returning in the fall is now on my bucket list, as witnessing the forest turning colors would be breath-taking.
Farmhouse Cafe and Tea House
If you go anywhere during your visit to Brown County, go here. The Farmhouse Cafe and Tea House is located off the beaten path and is serving up homemade classics with a side of history. This darling restaurant can be found in a restored historic farmhouse dating back from the 1800s. The original brick, wooden beans, and antiques add to the rustic charm, however, there is more to the story. Secret rooms and passages were discovered that pinned this house as a part of the underground railroad. The passages are still intact today. The full story can be found at your table, while you decide what delicious smelling entrees to order.
Come in the evening to enjoy a glass of wine on their beautiful patio shaded by a stunning pergola. Overlooking an endless sea of flowers it makes a for a peaceful spot to unwind. Stay to savor the freshly made entrees and garden-fresh ingredients. Come hungry as portion sizes are generous. Cobblers and homemade dessert round out your visit as these tempting treats are hard to refuse. After dinner stroll through the magnificent flower and herb barn to get gardening inspiration. Reservations are recommended, especially during the peak visitor season.
Sample and Sip
Wineries and distilleries can be found throughout Brown County inviting visitors to come in and sample their wares. While many offer complimentary tastings there are a few wineries that charge a minimal amount for tasting. Many will waive the fee if you purchase a bottle of wine. I recommend stopping in the local wineries in Nashville while shopping. Most of the wineries do close at 5 pm so keep that in mind when planning your day. Four wineries are within walking distance of each other.
Hard Truth Distillery
One spot you don’t want to miss is the Hard Truth Distillery. Located about a mile outside of the main street in Nashville, this new distillery is not only offering up tasty spirits but Quaff On! brews as well. Step into their tasting room, where the bartenders will take you on a journey through beer, coconut-flavored rum and so much more. Tastings are complimentary but be warned it is hard to leave here without buying anything. This is also the spot to come for some evening entertainment. We swung by here Saturday night to catch the live band and enjoy a few brews in the great outdoor area. There are plenty of food options available at their restaurant and snack shack.
The distillery also offers a unique tour that takes you on a tour of the entire property and into the woods for a special tasting. This has been added to my Brown County bucket list because it sounds amazing! They also offer a classic distillery tour that takes you through the daily operations and process of making their famous spirits and beer. Call ahead or inquire inside about tour times as they may sell out.
Sample everything Brown County has to offer by venturing out to Bear Wallow Distillery. We didn’t make it to this local watering hole, but from everything we heard their moonshine is not to be missed!
Where To Stay During Your Brown County Girlfriend Getaway
We stayed at the most darling 2-BR cottage, The Village Bungalow, located right in the heart of Nashville. The Village Bungalow is one of many delightful properties by Robinwood Inn. This bungalow is situated right next to the Birds Nest Cafe, which makes for a gorgeous backdrop of flowers, bird feeders, and gardens. Breakfast at the Bird’s Nest Cafe is included in your stay, which is perfect for those a little more budget savvy. The Village Bungalow places you within walking distance of shops, wineries and many restaurants.
Inside the bungalow, little touches have not gone unnoticed. Coffee that has been ground, an assortment of spices in the kitchen for those preparing meals, ice in the freezer. Waking up to watch the sunrise on the front porch swing with a cup of coffee is hard to beat. The cottages decor is a charming mix of many styles that blend into a stylish, retro welcoming display. The 1940’s kitchen is by far one of the highlights, as well the how comfortable the beds were! Don’t forget to sign the unique guest book, which is located in the smaller bedroom.
A Few Tips For Visiting Brown County
- Wi-Fi and internet service is patchy throughout the county. I recommend bringing a mobile hotspot if having internet is vital. I found it quite relaxing to be able to unplug for awhile.
- Peak tourist season is in the fall, because of the changing leaves. It is the ideal time to come as there is more entertainment, business stays upon a little later and town become more alive.
- Take note that many businesses close at 5 pm.
- There are no Ubers or ride-sharing options available. A taxi is a rare find, so drink responsibly and designate a DD. Otherwise, you might be catching a ride in the back of someone’s pick-up truck.
- There is plenty of street parking throughout the Village area of Nashville, however, it can get busy. Always keep some cash on you in case you need to pay for parking in a lot.
- Many shops are small locally owned businesses. A few require a minimum for a credit card transaction, so keep a few bucks handy.