Things to Do in Evansville (2025)

Part pizzeria, part Thai kitchen, part gelateria, Pangea marries craft and curiosity—housemade gelato, Neapolitan pies, and rotating specials. Recognized among the Midwest’s top pizza spots by Yelp in 2024, and profiled for its in-house gelato by local press.

Downtown’s ramen-and-patisserie destination pairs silky broths with a thoughtful cocktail list and desserts from a serious bake program. Praised by the Evansville Regional Economic Partnership, it also shares a space with Pangea Pizzeria for mix-and-match dining.

Part coffee bar, part marketplace for local makers, River City anchors Main Street’s creative energy with pop-ups, classes, and its spirited 812 Day celebration. Featured regularly in downtown event roundups and known for championing Evansville-made goods.

A barista-owned staple since 1990, Penny Lane is the city’s community living room—two locations, eclectic art, and a devoted local following. Its downtown shop even made news for a playful free-latte promo tied to utility bill frustrations.

A downtown favorite for craft drinks and free-play arcade nostalgia, High Score expanded into a larger, sleeker space in 2023. Expect rotating pins, consoles, and community events that blend nightlife with a playful, Evansville-made vibe.

On historic Franklin Street, this locally owned kitchen shop hosts hands-on cooking classes led by area chefs. Newly celebrated for a 2024 ownership refresh, it’s where visitors cook, learn, and plug into the West Side’s culinary community.

A neighborhood taproom that pours small-batch beers and hosts arts-district happenings—from Pride trivia nights to bookish pop-ups. It’s an easy stroll to the First Fridays scene and the district’s murals, music, and maker energy.

A Haynie’s Corner fixture for gracious hospitality and polished cocktails, Mo’s layers in DJ sets and musician nights alongside seasonal drinks. Locals praise its welcoming vibe and inventive menu without the pretense.

Family-owned since 1967, this hometown bakery fuels early mornings with classic cake donuts, iced cookies, and strong coffee across several local shops. A true everyday ritual for many Evansvillians and a sweet stop for visitors.

Smoked low and slow since 1957, this family-run spot is famed for ribs, chicken, and hard-to-find mutton—just up the street from Bosse Field. Frequently touted by local tourism for its old-school pit and Tri-State roots.

Bookstore meets art-supply hub with author visits, workshops, and a resident shop dog. Featured by local news as a go-to indoor destination, it also partners on community events like Main Street’s Author Fest and Independent Bookstore Day.

An indie record shop and Record Store Day pledge signatory, Atmosphere hosts listening parties and midnight drops while buying and selling vinyl, CDs, and tapes. It’s a friendly dig through Evansville’s music culture, crate by crate.