Summertime is a season when school’s out, pools are open and it’s easy to lose track of the day of the week. Start making your summer bucket list – after all, there’s plenty to discover in Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, Westfield and beyond. We’re giving you a head start on planning your vacation in Indiana with these 10 ideas.
1. White River
The White River spans more than 25 miles in Hamilton County, stretching from Noblesville to Carmel and Fishers, and then to Indianapolis. Canoe, kayak or tube the river with a rental from White River Canoe Company. There are multiple river access points allowing for varied trip lengths. Walk scenic trails along the river at several parks including Strawtown Koteewi Park and Potter’s Bridge Park. Stroll along the Riverwalk in downtown Noblesville, then walk to Historic Noblesville Square for a bite to eat. Take in breathtaking views of the White River from the outlook at Conner Prairie, while exploring the historic experiences.
2. Nickel Plate Express excursion + Rail Bikes
Climb aboard Hamilton County’s family-friendly attraction this summer with excursions for all. Don’t miss the new Rail Bikes. Pedal along the rail line while enjoying a new view of Hamilton County’s scenic views.
3. Conner Prairie
With 1,000 acres for curiosity to run wild, Conner Prairie’s nationally acclaimed living history museum offers excitement at every turn. Explore the outdoors and immerse your family in a historic, interactive world of science, art, and nature while making some history of your own.
4. Strawtown Koteewi Park
Look no further than Strawtown Koteewi Park for outdoor adventures galore this summer. This 800-acre park includes aerial treetop adventures, archery, hiking trails, equestrian trails, a natural history center and archaeological exhibit.
5. 600+ Miles of Trails
There are many levels of trails and loops for families, beginners, advanced cyclists and experts. Be sure to include premier trails like the Monon Trail, Midland Trace Trail, Nickel Plate Trail and White River Greenway Trail in your plans. These well-marked, paved trails will lead you to shopping, dining, sightseeing and family fun.
6. Tenderloin Tuesdays™
Born and Breaded in Hamilton County, the Tenderloin Trail™, is celebrating 15 years of deals and delicious food. Claim your pass for tenderloin deals every Tuesday from June 25 – July 30.
7. Summer Concerts
From free to famous, this summer’s lineup is going to be music to your ears. National artists like Noah Kahan, Hootie & the Blowfish, Kenny Chesney, Tyler Childers, Dave Matthews Band, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Pearl Jam Luke Bryan and so many more are headlining the stage at Ruoff Home Mortgage Music Center. At Kroger Symphony on the Prairie enjoy shows like Star-Spangled Symphony and Let’s Sing Taylor – A Live Band Experience. And don’t forget about the countless community concerts in Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville and Westfield.
8. Favorite Festivals
Summer is synonymous with festivals and Hamilton County has plenty to choose. Mark your calendars for local favorites like Spark!Fishers (June 25-29), Carmelfest (July 3-4), Greekfest (Aug. 23-24) and Artomobilia (Oct. 5). For a complete look go to VisitHamiltonCounty.com/Festivals.
9. Outdoor Dining
Warmer temperatures can only mean one thing: patio weather. There’s nothing like the opportunity to enjoy a meal outside – drink in hand, of course – and soak up the sunshine. There are great options throughout the county including 3UP Rooftop Bar, 1933 Lounge by St. Elmo, Boathouse Kitchen & Swan Dive, Wolfies Grill (Noblesville), Bub’s Burgers & Ice Cream, Field Brewing, Four Day Ray Brewing and Juniper on Main
10. Colts Training Camp
Get up close with the Indianapolis Colts at Training Camp at Grand Parks Sports Campus. It’s free to attend and there will be plenty of opportunities for fans to see their favorite players and get autographs. Don’t miss the fan zone, kids area and theme days.
For more ideas on things to do in Hamilton County this summer, go to VisitHamiltonCounty.com. Be sure to follow @VisitHamiltonCo on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to see what’s happening before you #VisitHC.
Comments 1
Not the top ten. Farmers market, free concerts at federal hill/dillon park, dance on the square in noblesville, strawberry fest on Bob square,and strawberry picking at Spencer farm, duck drop on white river, mattress race, porch fest in Noblesville, art on the square. Kayaking white river with white river canoe, koteewi in winter for sledding, ham co fair at fairgrounds, 4th of July parades, the marathon in Carmel, those are the big events. Connor prairie concerts are popular.