Looking for a place to spend a weekend where both kids and parents can find their fun? Welcome to Festival Country Indiana, a sovereign state founded on life, liberty and the pursuit of fun.
Since Festival Country Indiana earned it's name from the more than 1,000 festivals and events that take place here every year, we recommend checking our events calendar first and planning your visit around one of the fun festivals or concerts. But, no matter when you visit, here's an itinerary (crafted by locals) for a weekend of Festival Country fun that can be done almost any time of year.
Day 1: Franklin
Morning:
To start the day strong, you'll want a good breakfast. Locals love the classic breakfast spreads at Ann's Restaurant, the artisan pastries and beverages at Main & Madison Market Café, and the great gluten-free treats and drinks at 1823 Bakehouse.
Once you're fueled, it's time for a stroll (and a few photos). Franklin is home to three reimagined alleys with colorful murals and art on every side, and they're all just a short walk from each other. Click here for a map of the Franklin Arts District. Next to Kuji Alley, you'll find the Festival Country Indiana visitor center, which has interactive exhibits like a slide and an 11-foot apple, selfie opportunities, restrooms and plenty of information about the area.
A favorite place for kids is Toodleydoo Toys, a hands-on toy store where kids can explore and discover their new favorite things. Plus, the friendly toy experts on staff are always ready to help or provide a recommendation if needed.
Coming later this year, there will also be a free outdoor fun plaza in front of Toodleydoo, which will be complete with corn hole, giant Connect 4, foosball, table games and more.
Another great place to play in downtown Franklin is Youngs Creek Park, which has a walking trail, pickleball courts, a large playground with spaces suited to kids of different ages and abilities, a splash pad and a large amphitheater where concerts and festivals take place in the warmer months.
Afternoon:
By now, you might be getting hungry for lunch. If you like pizza, Greek's Pizzeria & Tapp Room is a favorite. Court Street Café is another great option with a variety of dishes like burgers, sandwiches, salads and flatbreads.
After lunch, it's time for a treat. Hoosier Cupboard Candy, Snacks & Ice Cream is a classic candy store with old-fashioned candy, hand-scooped ice cream, bottled sodas, truffles, taffy and more. Another Franklin favorite is Millie's Ice Cream Co., which serves loaded mini dutch pancakes, ice cream and more.
Choose your adventure:
10 Pins is a family-friendly miniature bowling alley, arcade and bar. They also show sporting events on TV, so it's a fun place to go watch a game.
The Historic Artcraft Theatre is another great option (and a Franklin classic). This 1920s-era theater shows classic movies on film at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. every Friday and Saturday, and they do fun giveaways and have characters dressed up before the show. See what's playing here.
Evening:
For dinner, locals love The Willard for its award-winning tenderloin and great outdoor dining, or Blue Cactus Tacos & Tequila Bar for a fun twist on traditional Mexican cuisine.
When you're done, settle into a comfortable hotel or bed and breakfast. Find our list of stays here.
Day 2: exploring Festival Country
Morning:
Next up, hop in the car and explore the other communities in Festival Country.
In Whiteland, Rascal's Fun Zone is an 11-acre attraction with indoor and outdoor go-karts, mini bowling, an arcade, bumper boats, mini golf and more. There are different go-kart tracks for big and little kids, so it's a great option for all ages.
Afternoon:
Greenwood is the next stop, and some great spots for lunch in the area are Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza (an award winner) and Oaken Barrel Brewing Company (the oldest craft brewery in Festival Country, and a good place for families).
Choose your adventure:
Depending on what your family likes to do, there are a few options for this afternoon. Greenwood is known for its parks, especially Old City Park and Craig Park.
For one of the sweetest activities in Festival Country, hop on the Sweets Trail and explore the 20 ice cream shops and bakeries.
Festival Country is also home to several hands-on experiences, like having a traditional English tea setting (the perfect activity for any tea party fans) at Sassafras Tea Room, or painting pottery at uPaint Pottery Studio. Check out the full list here.
That's a wrap on this family weekend in Festival Country. For even more ideas, explore our website here. If you'd like to share any photos of your weekend, feel free to tag us on social media using #festcountryin and @festcountryin. We just might feature one of your photos!
