Just south of Indianapolis lies a vibrant region brimming with festivities, charm, and endless entertainment: Festival Country Indiana. This hidden gem offers a unique blend of small-town charm, big-city amenities, and a calendar packed with exciting events. What should you do, see, and eat when you visit, you ask? Here’s my list of the best things to do in Festival Country, Indiana!
I’ve had the pleasure of exploring just about everywhere Indiana has to offer, happily. I’ve headed northwest to the Indiana Dunes region and south to Santa Claus. I celebrated Halloween in Indianapolis and checked out all of the spooky fun in Richmond. Festival County, however, was still on my bucket list until this autumn. Here’s a peek at the fun in the area and why you need to put it on your must-do Indiana list.
Why Visit Festival Country Indiana?
Festival Country Indiana offers a unique blend of small-town charm, big-city amenities, and a vibrant cultural scene. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, outdoor adventures, or a sampling of cool, local history, you’ll find it all in this delightful region.
If I had to pick the best time of year to visit, it would be during autumn. The area offers several u-pick pumpkin patches and farms, but the top of my list is Kelsay Farms. Complete with a giant straw climbing area, baby animal barn, and intricate corn maze, it’s an all-in-one spot for fall fun.
A Festive Spirit No Matter What Time of Year
Festival Country Indiana truly lives up to its name. Throughout the year, you’ll find a wide array (and by wide array, there are 1,000+ concerts, festivals, and events) of things to do that celebrate everything from art and music to food and local culture. Located roughly 30 minutes south of Indianapolis, if you’re looking at a Hoosier map as a human torso, it’s where the belly button would be.
If I had to choose a few of the more popular events, definitely check these out:
- GenCon – One of the world’s largest gaming conventions, attracting thousands of gamers. It’s the place you can absolutely geek out!
- Johnson County Fair – A classic county fair featuring livestock shows, carnival rides, and delicious fair food. Taking place each July, it brings a ton of locals and folks from out of town.
- Franklin Fall Festival – A beloved autumn event with a parade, live music, and a variety of vendors.
- Foodie Trails – The state of Indiana loves a good food trail, and Festival Country is no exception. When you visit, make sure to take a trip on the Coffee Trail, Indiana Tenderloin Tasting Trail (it’s the unofficial state sandwich!), and if you love a good cocktail, the Beer, Wine, and spirits Trail is a must.
Must-Visit Attractions
Beyond its vibrant festival scene, Festival Country Indiana offers a variety of attractions for visitors of all ages:
- Downtown Franklin – I adore this charming Midwest city so much. It’s filled with mom-and-pop shops and dining and has one of the coolest Visitor’s Centers I’ve ever seen. During my recent visit, my daughter and I walked around the city and made candles at Woven Co.
- Murals – There are over three dozen (38, if I’m being precise) beautifully painted murals in Festival Country. From Bargersville to Whiteland, they feature whimsical scenes and historical aspects the area provides.
Charming Towns and Quaint Villages
Festival Country Indiana is home to several charming towns and villages, each with a unique character. I personally love small-town America, and the area does not disappoint.
- Franklin: This historic town boasts a beautiful downtown area with boutique shops, art galleries, and excellent dining options. During my visit, I made a beeline to Blue Cactus Mexican Restaurant. Featuring authentic food from south of the border, the atmosphere is fun and the food delicious.
- Greenwood: A thriving city with a variety of shopping and dining choices, as well as several parks and recreational facilities.
- Bargersville: A small town known for its craft breweries and barbecue restaurants.