Danville Travel Guide

Explore the best of Danville, Indiana with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover top attractions, hiking/biking routes, food, accommodations, and more.


Discover Danville: A Complete Travel Guide

Nestled in the picturesque Nine-County Region of Indiana, Danville is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and modern amenities. Whether you’re looking to explore the town’s rich cultural heritage, embark on an outdoor adventure, or simply relax and unwind, Danville has something for everyone.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ve put together a list of the best things to see and do in Danville, along with helpful tips on where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around. Read on to discover everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to Danville.

List of Places to Visit in Danville

From museums and historical sites to outdoor adventures and scenic views, Danville has plenty of attractions to keep visitors entertained. Here are some of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hendricks County Historical Museum – This museum showcases the rich history of Danville and the surrounding area. Visitors can explore exhibits on pioneer life, rural farm culture, and the Civil War.
  • Mayberry Cafe – This iconic restaurant is a must-visit for fans of the classic TV series, The Andy Griffith Show. The interior of the restaurant is designed to look like the show’s fictional town of Mayberry, complete with memorabilia and photo ops.
  • Bridges of Putnam County – Fans of the movie “The Bridges of Madison County” will recognize the covered bridges in Putnam County from the film.

Natural Attractions of Danville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ellis Park – This 82-acre park offers visitors a range of outdoor activities, including playgrounds, sports fields, a walking trail, and a public pool.
  • McCloud Nature Park – This park boasts over 6 miles of hiking trails, a playground, a fishing pond, an observation tower, and a nature center with exhibits on local flora and fauna.
  • Danville Conservation Club – For outdoor enthusiasts, the Danville Conservation Club offers hunting, fishing, and archery opportunities on private land.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Danville

Danville and its surrounding areas have some of the most scenic hiking and biking trails in the Midwest. Here are some of the best routes:

  • B&O Trail – This trail is built on the old Baltimore & Ohio Railroad line and runs for 17 miles from Indianapolis to Amo. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the countryside and stop at local attractions along the way.
  • Sodalis Nature Park – This park features over 4 miles of trails that wind through forests, wetlands, and meadows.
  • Avon/Washington Township Trail – This paved trail runs for 4.4 miles from Avon to Danville and offers a scenic route for cyclists and walkers.

Best Things to Do in Danville: Activities and Tours

In addition to the attractions mentioned above, here are some other fun activities and tours to consider:

  • Balloon rides – Take a hot air balloon ride over the scenic Nine-County Region for a breathtaking view of Danville and the surrounding areas.
  • Danville Ghost Walks – Explore the spooky side of Danville on a walking tour that takes you to some of the town’s most haunted sites.
  • Horseback riding – Local stables offer guided trail rides through the stunning countryside surrounding Danville.

Week-Long Itinerary for Danville

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Danville, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore downtown Danville. Visit the Hendricks County Historical Museum and enjoy lunch at Mayberry Cafe.
Day 2 Go horseback riding at a local stable and enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Ellis Park.
Day 3 Take a hot air balloon ride over the Nine-County Region and enjoy a picnic lunch at McCloud Nature Park.
Day 4 Explore the outdoor exhibits at the B&O Trail Interpretive Center and hike the Sodalis Nature Park trails.
Day 5 Experience the Bridges of Putnam County and enjoy lunch in picturesque Greencastle.
Day 6 Take a ghost walk tour of Danville and enjoy dinner at one of the town’s farm-to-table restaurants.
Day 7 Spend the day at the Danville Conservation Club and enjoy hunting, fishing, or archery on private land.

Food and Drink Scene of Danville

Danville has a thriving food and drink scene with plenty of great places to eat and drink. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pork tenderloin sandwich – This Indiana favorite features a breaded and fried pork cutlet on a bun with your choice of toppings.
  • Sugar cream pie – Also known as Hoosier pie, this creamy, custard-like dessert is a staple of Midwest cuisine.
  • Pitmaster sandwich – You haven’t truly experienced Danville until you’ve tried one of the town’s famous pitmaster sandwiches, featuring slow-cooked pulled pork on a bun with barbecue sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Sun King Brewing Co. – This Indianapolis-based brewery has a tasting room in downtown Danville where visitors can sample a variety of craft beers.
  • Cedar Creek Distillery – Located just outside of Danville in Martinsville, this distillery specializes in corn whiskey and fruit brandies.
  • Winery at Walnut Creek – This family-owned winery in nearby Mooresville offers tastings of locally produced wines in a picturesque setting.

Where to Stay in Danville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Danville has a variety of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. Here are some top picks:

  • The One Thirty One Guest House – This charming bed and breakfast offers comfortable rooms and a lovely garden for guests to enjoy.
  • Best Western Plus – This modern hotel features updated rooms and amenities, including an indoor pool and fitness center.
  • Camping – For outdoor enthusiasts, Danville has several campgrounds with RV and tent sites, including Ellis Park and Twin Bridges Park.

What to Buy in Danville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Danville is home to several unique shops and boutiques that offer locally made products and one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Here are some places to check out:

  • Square Rootz Boutique – This trendy clothing store features styles that are perfect for a day out in Danville.
  • Simply Sweet Shoppe – Indulge your sweet tooth with treats like fudge, candy, and locally made popcorn.
  • Prestwick Country Club Pro Shop – Golf enthusiasts can pick up Danville-themed souvenirs and gear at this pro shop.

Local Culture and Customs of Danville

Danville has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its landmarks, traditions, and festivals. Visitors should take note of the following customs and traditions:

  • Covered bridge festivals – Danville and the surrounding areas have several covered bridges that are celebrated with festivals throughout the year.
  • Outdoor recreation – Hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities are a big part of life in Danville, and visitors should come prepared with appropriate clothing and gear.
  • Farm-to-table dining – Danville has embraced the farm-to-table movement, with many restaurants featuring locally sourced ingredients on their menus.

Best Time to Visit Danville

The best time to visit Danville is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the foliage is at its most beautiful. Summer is also a popular time to visit, but be prepared for hot and humid conditions. Winter can be cold and snowy, but it’s also a great time to enjoy winter sports and other cold-weather activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Danville

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Danville:

Do:

  • Do explore the town’s rich cultural heritage at the Hendricks County Historical Museum.
  • Do take advantage of the town’s many outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to hunting and fishing.
  • Do try the local cuisine, including pork tenderloin sandwiches and Hoosier pie

Don’t:

  • Don’t leave without taking a hot air balloon ride over the scenic Nine-County Region.
  • Don’t forget to pack comfortable shoes and clothing for outdoor activities.
  • Don’t miss the opportunity to visit some of the area’s picturesque covered bridges.

Safety and Health

Danville is a safe and healthy destination, but visitors should take note of the following tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip:

Safety in Danville

  • Be aware of your surroundings, and avoid leaving valuables in your car.
  • Stay hydrated during outdoor activities, especially during hot weather.
  • Follow local safety guidelines for hunting and fishing on private land.

Health in Danville

  • Bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent for outdoor activities.
  • Seek medical attention if you experience any unusual symptoms while visiting Danville.
  • Be aware of any local health advisories or warnings related to illnesses like Lyme disease and West Nile virus.

Getting to Danville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Danville is easily accessible by car or public transportation. Here are some options for getting there:

Airports Near Danville

  • Indianapolis International Airport – located about 20 miles from Danville, this airport offers a wide range of domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Danville

  • Greyhound and other bus companies operate out of downtown Indianapolis, and several local bus companies also serve the Danville area.

Other Options

  • Car rental – several car rental companies operate out of Indianapolis International Airport and other locations in the area.
  • Taxi and ride-sharing services – Services like Uber and Lyft operate throughout the Nine-County Region.

How to Get Around in Danville

Danville is a relatively small town that is easy to get around on foot or by bike. However, visitors may also want to consider renting a car to explore the surrounding areas and attractions.

Where to Go Next from Danville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Danville is a great base for exploring the Nine-County Region and other nearby destinations. Here are some places to consider visiting:

  • Indianapolis – The state’s capital and largest city is just a short drive from Danville and offers a range of attractions, including museums, sports venues, and cultural events.
  • Brown County State Park – This popular state park is located about an hour south of Danville and features hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities.
  • Turkey Run State Park – Located about an hour west of Danville, this park boasts scenic trails and stunning sandstone gorges.

Conclusion

Danville is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and modern amenities. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder why it has become a popular destination for travelers seeking a laid-back escape from city life. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has provided you with all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Danville, Indiana.