Danville, Indiana, could quite possibly be the perfect spot on the west side of Hendricks County to visit on a day trip or even a weekend. The small-town feel of Danville is complemented by an original courthouse square with shops and a historical museum. From award-winning restaurants to family-friendly activities, the town welcomes visitors from all over the country for their popular festivals and events. Check out just a few of the stops you’ll want to make when visiting the first town in the county.
Danville Restaurants
Mayberry Café
Remember The Andy Griffith Show? Fans from all over the country have visited the restaurant for home cooked fare, televisions in the restaurant airing episodes of the classic show, and Barney Fife’s police car sitting out front.
Bread Basket Café
Stop by the Bread Basket Cafe for some biscuits and gravy, fresh fruit or eggs from their locally grown produce suppliers, or enjoy a quick lunch of chicken salad, grilled portobello or BBQ pork. Sit on the front porch and don’t forget to save room for dessert.
Stay Overnight in Danville
Marmalade Sky Bed and Breakfast
In the heart of Danville and a short walk to the town square, stay at Hendricks County’s one and only bed and breakfast. A full breakfast is served on Saturday mornings and continental throughout the week. The late 1800s home offers a glimpse of history with modern amenities.
Things to Do in Danville
Beasley’s Orchard
Check out the Beasley’s Orchard website for a variety of annual festivals. You’ll find fall festivals and pumpkin picking during the autumn, and sunflower photo ops during the summer. Daily, visitors can stop by and enjoy homemade and home-grown produce, pick seasonal fruits and try a cup of Beasley’s apple cider.
Hendricks County Historical Museum
Visit the Hendrick’s County’s first jail and sheriff’s residence, and see a variety of county artifacts dating back to 1866. Each room is decorated in a time period from 1900s to the 1950s.
Ellis Park and Gill Family Aquatic Center
This long-standing park in the center of Danville includes a pool with waterslides, lazy river and diving boards, hiking trails, playgrounds, picnic shelters and more. Ellis Park is home to the only public clay tennis courts in Indiana, and the grounds include baseball diamonds for both league and tournament play.
The Royal Theater
Give the kids a unique experience by catching a modern movie in a 1914 historic theater. Most films are family friendly, and popcorn, drinks and candy are for sale behind the old-fashioned counter. The theater also offers live entertainment, including concerts and comedy on occasion.
