By Leslie Radcliff
Corydon, Indiana: To most people, it might seem like just another map dot, but if you’re from anywhere in the tri-state area, you know better. Shopping, dining, and spirits are just some of what our town has to offer, and it’s easy to build your own getaway when you know what’s available.
Often hailed and increasingly well-known across the Midwest as Indiana’s First State Capital, Corydon is more than just an historic getaway. Corydon is a town committed to honoring its past but also equally committed to making its mark on the present and future.
Learn more about things to do in Corydon!
Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner
If you’re anything like me, the foundation of any trip is built upon food. I love eating at new places and trying new things.
For the best breakfast in Corydon, you must stop by Frederick’s Cafe. French toast made from fresh bread, fluffy eggs, and classic coffee. It’s a perfect way to start a day out. Not into French toast? No worries, they’ve got a full menu of diner classics and they serve it up fresh, hot, and with a smile.
You can't beat B3Q's pulled pork, brisket, and selection of sides for a relaxed and satisfying lunch. Stray just slightly off the beaten path to enjoy this lowkey BBQ joint.
For dinner, you can’t go wrong with 1816 Modern Kitchen & Drinks where Chef Scott regularly serves up his take on the southern classics like fried green tomatoes with green apples on a bed of smoked pimento cheese. Or walk down the street to Bistro on Chestnut for a delicious meal in a beautifully updated setting overlooking downtown Corydon.
But, sometimes, you just want your familiar favorites. For that, Beaver Street Brick Oven and Grill has you covered with the quintessential American cheeseburger and fries or a wood fired pizza (21+).
Shop ‘Til You Drop
When you think of shopping, Corydon probably isn’t on your bucket list—but it should be. Shopping in Corydon is far more than just trinkets and souvenirs.
You'll find the perfect gift or item for your home at unique stores such as Backroads Market, Corydon Home Collections 1883, and Olde Country Cupboard.
Do we have any antique and consignment lovers? If so, your day would be well spent roaming the Red Barn Antique Mall, Olde Country Cupboard, Picker’s Nest, Vintage Treasures, and Little Texas Consignment Shop. Seriously, on a beautiful sunny day, there’s nothing better than walking from shop to shop and perusing—and buying—all the neat and unique items from yesteryear.
A Match Made in Heaven
You’ve heard the phrase, “Happier than a kid in a candy store”? Well, at White House Candy Company even adults can recapture that feeling of nostalgia. Elegant and sophisticated, this old Victorian has been repurposed into a dream and boasts offerings of chocolates (so many chocolates), cookies, artisan popcorn, and more.
Walk down the street and you’ll run into KentJava Bar. They’ll have the perfect brew, hot or cold, to pair with the house-made candy you just found. At KentJava, owner Sherry Watson will serve up your favorite regional roast with a hug and a smile. Or her team of baristas will whip you up one of their famous lattes—can I suggest you try the coconut creme pie latte? Just trust me on this.
If you’re looking for something a little stronger, Red White & Blush is the place to go for wine and spirits. They’ll find the perfect red and the crispest white to pair with your chocolate truffles. They also offer gourmet cheeses from local vendors like Capriole Goat Cheese, if you’re feeling snackish.
Art & History
For a more cultured day out, you can learn all about the region’s best artists at the Artisan Center, or you can step into the studio of one of the most renowned artist families in the Midwest at Zimmerman Art Glass and see the beauty and art that our town has to offer as it’s made.
We would be remiss if we didn’t mention the historical value that Corydon has to offer, and tours of the Corydon Capitol State Historic Site include not only the first state capitol building but also the governor's headquarters. After that, if you’re interested in learning more about historic Corydon and Harrison County, head over to the Harrison County Discovery Center. There you’ll get the best education about a variety of historical sites around the town and county.
Nature
There are plenty of green spaces to visit while you’re in town. Bicentennial Park or the capitol building grounds, are ideal places to picnic, enjoy your coffee, or just take in the sights and sounds of Corydon.
Or, if you’re up for a walk and a workout, the Indian Creek Trail will get your blood pumping while you take in the beauty of all nature has to offer. As a bonus, you may spot one of the cranes, eagles, owls, and more that make their home near the waterway. Follow it to Corydon's newest public space, Rice Island.
If you’re still not sure about building a day trip in Corydon, or you want to learn more about what Harrison County has to offer, request a copy of our free Visitor Guide, today.
You can always give our visitor center a ring, and we would be happy to discuss more about your future trip to Corydon.
Start Planning Your Next Getaway
Request a download of our free visitor guide.
