Your Guide to Downtown Danville, Indiana
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A Great Place to Spend an Hour or a Lifetime isn't just Danville, Indiana's motto but a way of life. Danville, the "center" and foundation of Hendricks County, feels like a place out of a movie, a cute community enriched with history and tradition.
My all-time favorite movie is Back to the Future, and the historic Hendricks County Courthouse Square reminds me so much of the picturesque Hill Valley from the movie. I absolutely love that when I visit Danville, I feel like I'm going back in time.
Come along with me as I highlight what to experience in this little slice of Americana.
History & Architecture
If you are a history buff like me who loves historic districts and homes, you will love wandering downtown and seeing the variety of architecture, with many homes and buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The homes in the historic district were constructed between 1844 and 1920 and include notable examples of architectural styles including Greek Revival, Gothic Revival, Italianate, Queen Anne, American Foursquare and Bungalow / American Craftsman. Popular historic buildings include the Hendricks County Historical Museum, which served as the former Hendricks County Jail and Sheriff's Residence, and the Danville-Center Township Public Library, a Carnegie library.
A Place Full of Art
Throughout the downtown area, you can find vibrant art murals in the alleyways and on the side of buildings. Also on the square is the appropriately named Gallery on the Square, an art gallery that also features various art classes.
Don't miss an opportunity to visit Danville during the Plein Air Paint Out event, which brings many different artists to the area every summer.
Plan a Date Night
Enjoy one of the best movie deals in Hendricks County at the historic Royal Theater, where the movies are only $5. Complete your night out with dinner at Frank's Place, Square Burger or the iconic Mayberry Cafe and dessert at Danville Dips.
Other fun date ideas include enjoying some pizza at Two Guys Pies, getting coffee at Court House Grounds or Creation Cafe, enjoying a meal at Mokey's on the Square, The Beehive or the Bread Basket Cafe and Bakery, and those over 21 can enjoy a cold one at Central Normal Tap or The Kickstand Bar & Grill.
Community Events
No matter the season, there is always so much to do and see in downtown Danville. With the courthouse as the perfect backdrop, the community gathers here throughout the year.
Some of the holiday events include Christmas on the Square, Scares on the Square, where local businesses decorate scarecrows around the square, and the craft and artisan festivals of Destination Danville and Fair on the Square. During the summer months, Evenings in Danville concerts, First Friday Night Cruise-Ins and the Saturday morning farmers market provide so much to do and see around the square.
Shop Local
One of my favorite things to do in Danville is to shop! With so many different businesses around the square, there truly is something for everyone.
Book lovers will love The Author’s Patch and art enthusiasts will enjoy Gallery on the Square. Seize the Night Designs creates and sells custom jewelry, gifts and clothing. You can explore Petals From Kaye for beautiful floral arrangements and home decor, and Indiana Farmhouse and Forget-Me-Nots for gifts and handmade goods.
