Shelbyville Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and diverse town of Shelbyville, Indiana, with our comprehensive travel guide featuring must-visit attractions, outdoor adventures, local cuisine, best places to stay, and more!


Introduction to Shelbyville

Located in the Nine-County Region of Indiana, Shelbyville is a culturally rich and diverse town known for its historical landmarks, outdoor adventures, and traditional culinary scene. This charming town boasts a blend of small-town hospitality and urban conveniences, making it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a week-long trip. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, history buff, or simply looking to relax and unwind, Shelbyville has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll introduce you to the best places to visit, things to do, places to stay, and much more!

List of Places to Visit in Shelbyville

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Shelbyville is home to several museums and historical landmarks that offer visitors a glimpse into the town’s rich cultural heritage and traditions. Some of the must-visit attractions are:

  • Grover Museum - Located in the heart of downtown, the Grover Museum houses a collection of artifacts tracing the history of Shelby County. Visitors can also enjoy several interactive exhibits and events hosted throughout the year, including the annual Christmas exhibit and the Indiana Bicentennial exhibit.
  • Blue River Memorial Park - This scenic park offers visitors a range of recreational activities, including camping, fishing, picnicking, and hiking. Take a stroll through the various memorials dedicated to the veterans of different wars, visit the charming Butterfly Garden, or simply relax by the tranquil Blue River.
  • Indiana Grand Racing & Casino - For those who love a little adrenaline rush, Indiana Grand Racing & Casino is the perfect destination. From live horse racing to state-of-the-art casino games, this popular attraction is a hotspot for entertainment and excitement for locals and visitors alike.

Natural Attractions of Shelbyville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Shelbyville boasts beautiful natural attractions, including parks, trails, and scenic drives that offer breathtaking views of the town’s picturesque landscapes. Here are a few must-visit outdoor destinations:

  • Blue River Trail - This 6.5-mile trail winding through Blue River Memorial Park is perfect for hiking, biking, or birdwatching. With several waterfalls and scenic views along the way, the Blue River Trail is a great way to explore the natural beauty of Shelbyville.
  • Hoosier National Forest - Located just a short drive from Shelbyville, Hoosier National Forest is home to over 203,000 acres of various natural habitats, including forests, lakes, and streams. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and hunting, or take a scenic drive along the Charles C. Deam Wilderness Area.
  • Shelbyville Lake - Known for its pristine waters and natural beauty, Shelbyville Lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and other water activities. Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll around the lake and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shelbyville

Shelbyville offers a variety of scenic hiking and biking trails that traverse through forests, hills, rivers, and lakes. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced hiker, here are a few routes to explore:

  • Blue River Trail - This 6.5-mile trail is perfect for both hiking and biking enthusiasts, as it winds through the picturesque Blue River Memorial Park.
  • Shelbyville Parks and Trails - With over 200 acres of parks and trails, Shelbyville offers visitors a range of scenic routes to explore. The Shelbyville Parks and Recreation Department maintains several trails, including the Blue River Trail, Clear Creek Trail, and Figg Island Trail.
  • Flat Rock River Trail - Located just a short drive from Shelbyville, the Flat Rock River Trail is a scenic 10.8-mile trail that follows the Flat Rock River and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Shelbyville: Activities and Tours

Apart from the natural and historical attractions, Shelbyville offers visitors several other activities and tours that provide an immersive experience into the town’s charming culture and traditions. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Fountain Square Brewing Co. Tour - Take a tour of the Fountain Square Brewing Co. and learn about the brewing process and history of beer making. Visitors can also sample some of the brewery’s best beers and take home a souvenir pint glass.
  • Shelby County Players Theater - Enjoy a night of live theater at the Shelby County Players Theater, which hosts several plays and musicals throughout the year.
  • Shelbyville Antique Mall - For antique lovers, the Shelbyville Antique Mall is a must-visit destination. Featuring over 450 antique dealers from across the country, the mall is a treasure trove of unique and one-of-a-kind finds.

Week-Long Itinerary for Shelbyville

For visitors looking to spend an extended vacation in Shelbyville, here’s a week-long itinerary based on the best attractions and activities:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Grover Museum and stroll around downtown Shelbyville
2 Explore the Blue River Trail and Blue River Memorial Park
3 Take a scenic drive to Hoosier National Forest and enjoy hiking and outdoor activities
4 Visit Indiana Grand Racing & Casino for live horse racing and casino games
5 Enjoy a day of shopping at the Shelbyville Antique Mall and other local shops
6 Take a Fountain Square Brewing Co. tour and sample some of the brewery’s best beers
7 Relax and unwind by the Shelbyville Lake or other nearby water bodies

Food and Drink Scene of Shelbyville

Shelbyville offers visitors a range of traditional and innovative culinary experiences, from classic American comfort food to international cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pork Tenderloin - A regional specialty, the Pork Tenderloin sandwich is a must-try when in Shelbyville. Several local restaurants, including Kopper Kettle Inn, serve up this classic dish with their unique twists.
  • Fried Chicken - Another Southern classic, the Fried Chicken in Shelbyville is seasoned to perfection and served with a range of sides like cornbread and mashed potatoes.
  • Sausage Gravy - A popular breakfast dish, Sausage Gravy is made with homemade biscuits and a generous serving of savory gravy.

Local Beverages

  • Fountain Square Brewing Co. Beer - Try some of the best local brews at Fountain Square Brewing Co., including Workingman’s Pilsner and Backyard Porter.
  • Indiana Wine Trail - For wine enthusiasts, the Indiana Wine Trail is a must-visit destination. Explore the various wineries in nearby towns like Madison and Bloomington.

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

Shelbyville offers visitors several options for accommodations, ranging from hotels and motels to bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Hampton Inn Shelbyville - Located in downtown Shelbyville, Hampton Inn is a popular choice for visitors looking for comfort and convenience. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and other amenities.
  • Quality Inn & Suites - Featuring an indoor pool, fitness center, and complimentary breakfast, Quality Inn & Suites is a great choice for families and travelers on a budget.
  • The Molly Dattilo Guesthouse - If you’re looking for a more intimate and personalized experience, The Molly Dattilo Guesthouse is a charming bed and breakfast located just outside of Shelbyville.

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

Shelbyville offers visitors several unique and locally made products that make perfect souvenirs and gifts. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Indiana Soy Candles - Made with soy wax and natural fragrances, Indiana Soy Candles are a popular gift item among locals and visitors alike.
  • Shelbyville Themed Apparel - Several local shops sell Shelbyville themed T-shirts, hats, and other apparel, perfect for bringing back a piece of the town with you.
  • Handmade Pottery and Crafts - Visit the Shelby County Arts Council and other local shops for handmade pottery, crafts, and other unique finds.

Local Culture and Customs of Shelbyville

Shelbyville prides itself on its warm hospitality and friendly demeanor, making visitors feel right at home. The town celebrates several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Shelby County Fair in July and the Shelbyville Art Fair in September. The locals value their community and are proud of the town’s rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Shelbyville

The best time to visit Shelbyville is from late spring to early fall when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities are in full swing. The fall season also offers breathtaking views of the colorful foliage, making it a great time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shelbyville

Do:

  • Explore the Blue River Trail and other outdoor attractions.
  • Try the Pork Tenderloin sandwich and other traditional dishes.
  • Attend local festivals and events.
  • Interact with the locals and learn about their culture and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public areas or harm natural habitats.
  • Over tip the service staff.
  • Ignore the local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Shelbyville

Shelbyville is a safe town with low crime rates. However, visitors should take necessary precautions like locking their cars and not leaving valuables unattended.

Health in Shelbyville

Shelbyville has several healthcare facilities, including the Major Hospital and Physicians Urgent Care, that offer medical assistance in case of emergencies.

Getting to Shelbyville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Shelbyville

The nearest airport to Shelbyville is Indianapolis International Airport, located about 35 miles north of the town.

Bus Stations Near Shelbyville

Greyhound Lines and other regional bus services operate from Indianapolis, which is located about 30 miles north of Shelbyville.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Shelbyville via the Interstate 74 or other regional highways. Additionally, Shelbyville is a popular destination for cyclists, with several bike routes crisscrossing through the town.

How to Get Around in Shelbyville

Shelbyville is a walkable town, and most of the attractions are located within a short distance of each other. Visitors can also rent a car or bike to explore the outskirts and nearby attractions.

Where to Go Next from Shelbyville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Indiana, here are a few nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Indianapolis - The state capital of Indiana is located just 30 miles north of Shelbyville and offers visitors several attractions, including the Indianapolis Zoo, Canal Walk, and the Indiana War Memorial.
  • Madison - Located about 90 miles southeast of Shelbyville, Madison is a scenic town on the Ohio River with a rich history and several cultural attractions, such as the Lanier Mansion State Historic Site and the Madison Art Club Gallery.
  • Bloomington - Situated about 75 miles south of Shelbyville, Bloomington is a college town home to Indiana University and several unique attractions, including the Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center and the Monroe Lake.

Conclusion

Shelbyville is a hidden gem in the Nine-County Region of Indiana, offering visitors a range of attractions, activities, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, Shelbyville has something for everyone. From the scenic Blue River Trail and Hoosier National Forest to the charming downtown area and traditional culinary scene, Shelbyville is a destination not to be missed!