It is with good reason that Brown County has become the most popular autumn destination in Indiana. Not only do the rolling, wooded hills provide for spectacular viewing of the colorful foliage, but the world-class accommodations, dining, specialty shopping and entertainment make Brown County a tourist spot to rival any in the country.

For good old outdoor adventure, Brown County State Park, Indiana's largest state park, has everything you could ask for. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, camping, fishing, swimming, picnicking or just a scenic drive – you can do it at Brown County State Park.

Many people, however, enjoy spending time in Brown County without ever setting foot in the park. Tourists from all over the country come to Nashville for the artist colony heritage and the more than 350 specialty shops. There are painters, potters, woodworkers, sculptors – just about every kind of artesian you could imagine.

There are just too many great shops to mention them all, but one shop we always stop at when we're in Nashville is Huddleston Pottery. With his own kiln in the back of his shop you can often catch him experimenting with a new technique or firing process. He's also generally happy to talk about his craft. Part of the appeal of Nashville is the contact with the actual artisans and not just a clerk in the store.

When you've worked a good appetite from a full day of shopping, you have a great selection of excellent restaurants to chose from. Once again there are so many good choices that it's hard to recommend only one or two, but the last time we were there we had dinner at The Nashville House and loved it. They are famous for their fried biscuits and baked applebutter and it's easy to understand why once you've tried them – I couldn't stop eating them. And I also have to mention Hobnob Corner, my wife insists that we eat there at least once every time we're in Nashville; they have great homemade fare whether it's breakfast, lunch or supper.

After dinner you can spend an evening listening to nationally known or local musicians at the Little Nashville Opry, or perhaps a production at the Brown County Playhouse is more your speed. There are plenty of options in Brown County for your evening's entertainment.

Finally, when you've had enough excitement and are ready for a good night's sleep, Brown County has one of the most diverse selections of accommodations in the state. From primitive camping to luxury suites, your choices are limited only by your preference – and possibly your budget.

If you want to visit in the fall make sure to book well in advance. You may even have to book a couple of years in advance for the most popular spots. Another option is to stay in one of the neighboring counties and make the short drive to Brown County during the day. Bloomington is only 30 minutes away! Remember, there's good reason that Brown County is Indiana's most popular autumn getaway.