This Charming Midwestern Town Boasts Fall Foliage That's Beyond Gorgeous

Today's Midwestern escape takes you to Nashville — but most likely not the one you're familiar with. No, this Nashville, although much smaller than the popularized honky tonk capital of the U.S., is an under-the-radar gem whose beauty shines in the afternoon glow of autumn leaves. Nashville, Indiana, nestled in the rolling hills of Brown County, about an hour south of Indianapolis, is a town that, during autumn, becomes surrounded by sweeping forests bursting with vibrant shades of crimson, amber, and gold. The fall season paints Nashville in such dazzling color that visitors often compare it to New England's famous fall scenery, only here, the experience comes with a side of Midwestern hospitality and small town charm.

As you drive into downtown, with its quaint but vibrant energy, you'll come across old wooden buildings turned into shops, cozy cafes, and galleries showcasing the work of local artists. Only a five-minute drive from Brown County State Park, a park affectionately known as the "Little Smokies" of the Midwest because of its forested hills resembling the Great Smoky Mountains, the landscape here makes fall nothing short of a magical experience.

For the most spectacular displays, plan your visit to Nashville between mid-October and early November, but you can also utilize this leaf-peeping map. During this period, the park's diverse hardwood forests create a breathtaking mosaic of colors.  Whether you decide to spend your time strolling through town, hiking on one of the many nearby trails, or simply sitting on a porch with a mug of something warm, this small town captures everything travelers delight in about the season. 

If you're here for the foliage (and let's be honest, that's the main attraction), your first stop should be Brown County State Park — Indiana's largest and one of its most scenic. The park offers nearly 16,000 acres of forested hills, ridges, and ravines that seem to glow during October. Hikers will be able to enjoy 70 miles worth of trails ranging from short, easy walks to more challenging routes that weave deep into the woods.

Visitors can also partake in the park's seven vista challenge, an event in which people can take photos of seven different vistas, and bring their photos to the nature center, Abe Martin Lodge, or Brown County Visitors Center in Nashville for a free sticker. According to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, the vistas included are West Lookout Tower, Hesitation Point, Friends Trail Vista, Weedpatch Vista, Nature Center Vista, Civilian Conservation Corps Vista, and Hohen Point Vista. Each of these locations offers stunning foliage views, perfect for leaf-peeping.

Outside of the Vista Challenge, hikers and those with families seeking a laid-back stroll can enjoy easy trails like the Ogle Hollow Nature Preserve, the Friends Trail, and the Discovery Trail, which are all under a mile. For more experienced hikers, try the HHC Trail, which crosses its way through a tree-covered valley, over creeks, and up hill to Ogle Lake. Those seeking a different and even more unique perspective of the stunning fall foliage can go horseback riding through the park's saddle barn, rent a mountain bike and explore over 30 miles of trails, or visit one of the small lakes in the park, like Ogle or Strahl.

Those looking to spend more than a day experiencing the beauty of Nashville's vibrant fall colors can choose from rugged experiences like camping or something more comfortable, such as one of the lodges in the park or hotels in the area. Inside Brown County State Park sits Abe Martin Lodge, which includes 84 rooms, a restaurant, cabins, and an indoor water park. The park also features an array of campsites, from more primitive setups featuring tent camping to electric hookups. Back in and around town, visitors have both comfy and unique stay options to pick from. Just a 15-minute drive from town, visitors have the fun and interesting opportunity to spend the night in a refurbished 1891 schoolhouse, complete with all the necessities and rustic, historic charm.

Feeling famished after a day spent in nature? The town features plenty of options to refuel, including quaint cafes, upscale restaurants, and delicious bakeries and coffee shops. Those in search of something to wet their whistle can stop off at one of the town's watering holes, like Bear Wallow Distillery, Brown County Winery, Country Heritage Winery, or Hard Truth Hills.

Although its music scene isn't nearly as large as that of Nashville, Tennessee, this small town surprisingly hits a high note when it comes to musical events and venues. For concerts and larger events, visitors can venture to Brown County Music Center or Brown County Playhouse, each offering an eclectic mix of musical events. For something more casual, numerous restaurants and bars host live music nights, adding to the charm of this small town. After a day spent hiking trails, exploring town, and soaking in the vibrant colors of autumn, it's easy to see why Nashville, Indiana, has earned a reputation as one of the best Midwest fall getaways.