Free Gas Cards, a State Park & Budget Family Fun in Indiana

Families often associate the state of Indiana with its kid-friendly attractions in Indianapolis, home of the famous raceway and a great children's museum. But the Brown County Convention and Visitors Bureau, just 50 miles away, thinks differently, and they want you to check out the diverse activities, scenic beauty, and quaint charm of their region.

Downtown Nashville shops and galleries

That's why they've launched a "Pack Up, Gas Up and Stay" promotion through August 31, 2011 that features special lodging deals and the chance to win $50 gas cards.

Throughout the summer promotion, special lodging deals will give visitors coupon codes to receive the special “Pack Up, Gas Up and Stay” discount, which is based on availability. Visitors to this Brown County CVB website can also sign up for the chance to win a free $50 gas card.

The budget-friendly promotion makes it even more inviting for families visiting the Midwest to experience what makes Brown County such a special place to visit. Outdoor enthusiasts will love Brown County State Park, the largest in Indiana's state park system.

All ages can participate in swimming, horseback riding along 70 miles of bridle trails and hiking over 12 miles of hiking trails. In fact, the southwestern and eastern parts of the park can be visited only by foot or on a horse. You can bring your own horse, or enjoy guided trail rides and pony rides at the Saddle Barn. Fishing, mountain biking and wildlife watching are just a few of the many diversions available at the Park. Families can also zip line at Holler Hoppin' Zip Lines at the popular Rawhide Ranch; and hike, canoe and play paintball at the Valley Branch Retreat and Paintball Valley.

There are also numerous children's summer camps taking place in Brown County, including the art-based Camp Steele at the T.C. Steele State Historic Site, a children's horse camp and photography camp at Rawhide Ranch.

Brown County Cultural Affairs

Brown County, with its variety of eclectic boutiques and galleries, live entertainment and special events, has long been a popular tourist spot. With a main town named Nashville, it's no wonder that music is what draws a lot of guests. But there are other cultural opportunities too.

Families can spend time in the historic Village of Nashville; hop on board the Little Nashville Express Train; enjoy old-fashioned ice cream and candy shops; pan for gems, fossils and arrowheads at the Copperhead Creek Mining Company; and watch the “Comedy Cabaret on Strings” at the Melchoir Marionette Theatre.

From many seasonal festivals, there are special events such as the Bean Blossom Gospel Jubilee (August 4 – 6), Clay Day at Spears Gallery (August 6), the Green-Stock Music Festival (August 12 - 13), Village Art Walk (August 13), Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre (August 13), Tour de Upland (August 20 – 21), Sub-9 Super D Race (August 21), Bean Blossom Blues Festival (August 25 – 27), and the Brown County Shrine Club Car Show (August 27). Visitors can also attend a variety of theatrical productions at The Palace Theatre of Brown County and live musical entertainment at numerous venues throughout Brown County.

Family Welcoming Hotels

Participating businesses in the “Pack up, Gas up, and Stay!” promotion include Abe Martin Lodge, Artists Colony Inn, Brown County Getaways, Comfort Inn, Cornerstone Inn, Green Valley Lodge, Hidden Valley Inn, Hills O' Brown Vacation Rentals, Honeysuckle Hideaway, House at StoneHead, Salt Creek Inn, The Seasons Lodge, and Shady Hollow Cabin.

For additional information about Brown County events, tourist attractions and lodging accommodations, please visit the Brown County Convention and Visitors Burea.