For a family getaway that’s jam-packed with fun and adventure, consider Brown County, Indiana. Explore the charming streets of downtown Nashville, discover the great outdoors at Brown County State Park, and find family-friendly places to eat and stay. There’s plenty to keep little ones (and parents!) entertained. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer vacation, here’s your guide to the best kid-friendly things to do in Brown County.

What to Do in Brown County: 
Family-friendly + Kid-friendly Activities 

Nashville has plenty of kid-approved stops, from gem mining and old-fashioned train rides to sweet treats and fun photo opportunities. Take your time exploring the eclectic streets, because there’s no shortage of fun around every corner.

Our Little World Studio

Families looking for a fun, creative experience in downtown Nashville should pop into Our Little World Studio. It’s a make-and-take makerspace where you can try hands-on projects, from creating sand candles and painting pottery to making slime and fusing glass. Next door is the gift and home shop, with toys and games, and handmade and locally crafted items. The gift shop is also attached to Percy’s Perk Arthouse Coffee, a relaxing coffee shop that features a nice range of coffee drinks, sweet treats and more.

Mossy Rocks Pottery 

Step inside the beautiful oasis that is Mossy Rocks Pottery, and you’ll immediately fall in love with this intentional, one-of-a-kind space. Mossy Rocks is the place to find plants, handmade pottery, beautiful planters and locally made gifts, all in one spot. Make sure to venture upstairs to the DIY Plant Bar, where you can get creative and make something beautiful by designing their own miniature garden. Just choose a container, plants, moss, rocks and decorative accents to create a unique living keepsake. Many of the mosses and rocks are collected from around Brown County, so you’re literally taking a piece of the area home with you.

Brown County Pump Track

Brown County Pump Track, located at Deer Run Park in Nashville, is a fun place for riders of all ages and experience levels. This free, public facility has a paved concrete track that can be used in any season, a flyover bridge, a drop-in zone that goes directly into the jump line, and lots more for adventurous bikers. There are lots of beginner-friendly features, too, so newer bikers can practice their riding skills and build confidence.

If you need a bike, Brown County Bikes in downtown Nashville offers mountain, gravel and hybrid bike rentals. It’s a convenient option for those who want to explore Brown County’s nearly 30 miles of world-class biking trails without bringing their own equipment.

eXplore Brown County

Adrenaline junkies, we’re looking at you! Adventurous families can enjoy multiple outdoor activities like ziplining, off-road ATV tours, paintball, Airsoft and ArrowTag at eXplore Brown County, while surrounded by the beautiful Brown County woods. They also offer cabins, retro campers and primitive camp sites for those who want to extend their stay.

Copperhead Creek Gem Mine 

Go on a little treasure-hunting adventure at Copperhead Creek Gem Mine, where all ages can mine for gems at a flowing water sluice. Just purchase a bag of mining material, grab a screen box, and sift to find gemstones, fossils and even arrowheads. Identification cards are provided to help you learn about your discoveries, and best of all: You get to keep your treasures! While you’re there, visit the Brown County Rock Shop to see and purchase gems and other natural beauties.

Nashville Express

All aboard the Nashville Express! Enjoy a fun and relaxing ride on this family-friendly train that will take you through the streets of downtown Nashville. The 25-minute narrated tour is a great way to learn about the history and attractions of Nashville as you travel past local shops, landmarks and whizz by the beautiful Brown County scenery. Keep in mind that admission is cash only (kids under 5 are free), and rides typically run May through October, weather permitting.

Yesteryear Old Time Photo

For those who love to play dress-up and mug for the camera, this place is for you! Yesteryear Old Time Photo is a unique photography studio that lets you step back in time, dress up in vintage costumes and capture a memorable keepsake. Choose from a variety of themed outfits, like Wild West, 1920s, and prairie-era clothing. Costumes are available for all ages and sizes, including very young children, so it’s a wonderful activity for families and groups.

Brown County State Park

Brown County State Park is Indiana’s largest state park, with almost 16,000 acres of hills, woods and scenic overlooks. The best way to enjoy the park is by hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing and camping in it, or even just taking a drive on the many winding park roads. Fall is an especially beautiful time to visit, because the hills come alive with autumn colors.

For a fun adventure, try the 7 Vista Challenge. This self-guided experience takes you to seven scenic overlooks: West Lookout Tower, Hesitation Point, Friends Trail, Weedpatch Vista, Nature Center Vista, CCC Vista and Hohen Point. Take a picture at each designated photo frame and share your pictures using #BC7VistaChallenge. Once completed, visit the Brown County Visitors Center in downtown Nashville to receive a special gift. It’s a wonderful way to experience some of the park’s most beautiful views!

Eats + Treats in Brown County 

GoJo’s Street Tacos

One of the newer restaurants to hit Nashville is GoJo’s Street Tacos, which serves up delicious tacos, birria, burritos and other Mexican food. The colorful and bright dining room is large enough for big groups, and the service is extremely friendly. It’s a great place to find a quick and fresh meal in downtown Nashville.

Big Woods

Big Woods is a local favorite known for its handcrafted specialty pizzas, pulled pork nachos and smoked wings. Established in 2009, Big Woods began as a small brewpub tucked away in a downtown alley, and has grown into a beloved Nashville restaurant destination. Adults can enjoy their meal with locally crafted Quaff ON! beers or a cocktail featuring Hard Truth spirits.

Olde Bartley House Coffee & Donuts

Olde Bartley House Coffee & Donuts is known for its volant: a layered pastry that’s like a combination of a donut and a croissant. You’ll also find sandwiches made with volants, as well as a large selection of coffee drinks and “Moonshiners,” which are house-made energy drink sodas.

Heritage Candy Store

Heritage Candy Store is Nashville’s oldest fudge shop, and has been a Brown County favorite since 1973. This old-fashioned candy store makes its own fudge and brittle right on-site, offering varieties like maple walnut and peanut butter fudge, and varieties of brittle like cashew. They also offer an assortment of nostalgic candies, like Bit-O-Honey, licorice laces and Lemonheads.

Where to Stay in Brown County 

The Hemwood is the perfect escape, tucked into the woods of Brown County, but only two miles from the action of downtown Nashville. This modern, Scandinavian-inspired cabin can accommodate up to six guests, and features three bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a living room with big windows that let in the natural light. Spend time enjoying the views on the deck, relaxing in the outdoor hot tub or gathering around the fire pit under the stars. The cabin includes many thoughtful features, and is the perfect, peaceful place to retreat to after a full day of exploring all that Nashville has to offer.