Road tripping this summer has become our favorite way to delve into the fine state of Indiana for sure. Not only did we have the pleasure of dining at popular Indiana Foodways Alliance foodie spots, but with each city and town that we’ve called home for a night or two we learned what makes the state appealing for families, couples, and folks that love to travel! Last month was all about Southern Indiana and what it has to offer both its travelers and residents. Our second stop on this leg of our foodie road trips? Perry County, Indiana! Did you miss the first leg at Columbus, Indiana?
Disclosure: I was hosted by all of these amazing restaurants, cities, and CVBs to give you fine folks the scoop on what makes the Southern Indiana foodie scene so incredible. All opinions and photos are my own!
Perry County, Indiana, was like a taste of home for my family on this leg of our fun, foodie journey. Situated on the Ohio River (just like home!), the picturesque views and pretty spots were no trouble to find at all. The county is in the Central Time Zone (we learned that when we were early to our first stop) and there’s plenty to do, especially if you’re a fan of the outdoors. In fact, the Ohio River Scenic Byway goes right through the county- perfect for bikers and those that love the feel of the open road. The county prides itself on being a four seasons destination, so whether you dig wineries, water sports, camping, or even spending the night in a yurt, this is the spot to head to.
Winzerwald Winery
Our first stop on this leg of the trip? Winzerwald Winery. We definitely started this one off with a tasty bang, and while we did have The Kid with us (no worries- there were plenty of non-alcoholic slushies to keep her happy!), Mr. Locke jumped right in on sampling the Germa and Swiss- inspired varietals. The property sits on 85 gorgeous acres of lush, hilly land, has both indoor and outdoor seating (perfect for sunny days), and its location in Hoosier National Forest is ideal. The winery is 35 minutes away from French Lick and 15 minutes east of Holiday World – a great pit stop when visiting either.
So, with Mr. Locke at the wine wheel, he sampled several varietals including Forest Red, Chambourcin (this style’s not easy to find and happens to be his favorite so he was elated!), and, the bottle I came home with, Winzerwald Riesling. In addition to all of its great wines, they have a super cute gift shop and carry food items including sausages and cheese curds- yum!
Smackwater Cove Bar and Grill
After all of the wine tasting at Winzerwald Winery it was time for out first foodie stop of the day- Smackwater Cove Bar and Grill. Situated in Derby, Indiana and bang next to the Ohio River, the property is perfect for families, couples, and folks that love a good meal filled with comfort food. The bar and grill is separated into two areas- a bar area and dining- so families with children will have no issues at all with the liquor license.
If I can find a good Philly-style sandwich, I’m all for it. Smackwater Cove’s version was just as I hoped it to be- crispy beef, loads of cheese, and juicy green peppers.
If you’re a fan of loaded fries, you’ll definitely want to give these a go. Chicken gravy and bacon pieces? Yes, please!
High Celtic Cross
In between foodie spots, we had to make a pit stop to Cannelton, Indiana’s High Celtic Cross. Greg Harris (a local artist) spend two years hand-chiseling this gorgeous Celtic Cross out of a 20-foot tall boulder. You can either walk or drive down (We walked. It’s pretty steep so if you’re not up for adventure, drive.) and I know I was dumbfounded by its size and beauty.
Blue Heron Winery
Literally right up the road (and on the same property) from the High Celtic Cross sits Blue Heron Winery. An artist and wine-lovers dream, its owners are so incredibly talented, not only with decoration and vision but with wine as well.
There’s a steep-ish drive up to the winery, but once you arrive, it’s totally worth the effort. The views of the Ohio River are impressive, as is the massive wrap-around porch.
Full disclosure: Mr. Locke tried pretty much all of the winery’s varietals and from its Dry to its Mediums and Sweets, he really liked all of them. What I loved? Owner Gary gave a thorough explanation of what to expect in each varietal before sampling. And, while we’s have loved to go home with a bottle or two, the winery only takes cash so, with debit cards in hand and ready for purchase, we had to leave empty handed. But, we definitely have an excuse to revisit!
A quick pit stop at the Perry County CVB in Tell City, Indiana let us relax, enjoy the air conditioning (it was a scorcher that day!) , and The Kid couldn’t help but sit in its giant rocking chair!
Pour Haus Pub & Eatery
We hit the hotel for a super quick clean up and headed out for the last stop of the day- Pour Haus Pub & Eatery. Priding itself on having the largest craft brew selection in the area, the indoor/outdoor eatery is so much more than that. The atmosphere is fun and inviting, live music on select nights draws locals as well as visitors, and the food is amazing!
What a way to start off a meal, eh? BBQ Pork Nachos loaded with cheese, lettuce, peppers, sour cream, and of course, BBQ pork! I have to write, these starters could have been a full meal for me they were so massive.
Mr. Locke is a huge fan of Fish Tacos and these beauties were right up his alley.
A delicious brew menu!
And that’s a wrap on this leg of the tour! Did I miss your favorite spot in Perry County? Let me know in the comment section below!
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