Small Town Shopping Trip
We get asked so often about authentic small towns in our county and the unique shopping that is available.
So, we decided why not put together an itinerary that had a little of both. If you're looking for a shopping trip that's fun. affordable and off the beaten path, you've come to the right place.
If you're looking more for inspiration instead of a detailed itinerary, take our quiz to find which one of our personalized trip ideas is best for you!
Free Visitor Guide!
Get your insider guide to all things Hendricks County by ordering a FREE Visitor Guide.
Morning
Let's kick this off with you creating a special gift instead of buying one at Hot Blown Glass. Lisa Pelo, an Indiana artisan, offers classes and workshops by appointment only in her home studio in Clayton.
Lisa does a wonderful job of teaching and allowing anyone regardless of experience to make a glass piece they will be proud to keep or give as a gift.
Plus, the memories made from this group experience will last forever.
Lunch
Within a 10-minute drive of Hot Blown Glass, you will arrive in Danville with a lot of restaurants to choose from.
Our top recommendation: the Bread Basket Cafe & Bakery for their amazing breads, made-fresh dishes and decadent desserts.
You also can't going wrong at The Beehive, Frank's Place, Court House Grounds or if you are a fan of The Andy Griffith Show, the Mayberry Cafe.
Afternoon
After lunch, there is no need to leave Danville as the shopping on the square provides many unique options.
Some of our favorites include the handmade jewelry and other wearables at Seize the Night Designs, the Indiana barn wood creations at Forget-Me-Nots and the vast array of art pieces at Gallery on the Square.
If you need to refuel or just need a break from shopping, you can stop for coffee wherever you didn't eat lunch, enjoy ice cream at Danville Dips or sip on a drink & sample a charcuterie board at Mokey's on the Square.
And if you run out of places to shop in Danville, check out one of our boutiques throughout the county.
Evening/Dinner
After a long day, we suggest heading back to your hotel to rest, recharge and freshen up before heading back out for one more shopping experience and dinner.
How about starting your evening by experiencing 37,000 square feet of pure shopping bliss at Gilley's Antique and Decorator Mall in Plainfield?
Peruse booth after booth of antiques, vintage, collectables, salvage, repurposed items, home decor, lighting, vinyl and much more.
Then enjoy upscale dining at a historic theater turned amazing eatery. You will absolutely love the atmosphere inside The Prewitt Restaurant & Lounge in the heart of downtown Plainfield.
Grab a nightcap and enjoy one of their signature dishes in one of three distinct dining areas. And if you show up on a weekend you likely can unwind with some live music to boot.
Day 2
Breakfast/Morning
You will want to start Day 2 with a nourishing breakfast, so depending on where your hotel is, we suggest these local favorites: Flap Jacks Pancake House in Plainfield and Brownsburg or Emmy's Pancake House in Avon.
From there, spend the rest of the morning at The Shops at Perry Crossing outdoor lifestyle mall in Plainfield.
If you have time before heading to lunch, we would suggest a stroll through the picturesque Avon Gardens, which does have some shopping options but is more known for its beautiful gardens featured in national publications that provide plenty of inspiration.
Lunch
We can't let you leave just yet without enjoying amazing family-style dishes at Hoosier Roots in Pittsboro. This magnificent, small-town eatery may not look like much on the outside, but inside the food is to die for. Fried chicken, roast beef, pork tenderloin and all the fixings can be shared by your group.
Last Stop
Since you are in Pittsboro anyway, why not make one last shopping stop before leaving town? The Pittsboro Candle Company offers a variety of candles and other sweet-smelling products made in-house that will send your nose into overdrive.