The summer season arrives once a year and brings with it the promise of drippy ice cream cones, colorful beach towels, al fresco dining and days that run well into the night. And, for me, summer means a long but curated list of "must do's" before the air chills and the school bus rolls.

This year, the Hamilton County Tourism team transformed into summer scouts, combing every nook and cranny of the county in search of the best activities for our summer bucket list.

Here is the first installment of our findings:

1. Enjoy waterfront dining - with two reservoirs and multiple access points to the White River, Hamilton County has a lot of water - and a lot of waterfront dining options. Get into vacation mode at Lazy Frogg on Morse Reservoir in Cicero with an outdoor bar and shrimp hut. Find Italian flair with a view at Bella Vita, located on Geist Reservoir in Fishers. Try famous baby back ribs at Wolfies Grill on Morse in Noblesville.

2. Splash around at The Waterpark at Monon Community Center - relax on the lazy river or hit the waves at The Waterpark! Kids can test their surf skills on the Flowrider, a wave simulator; climb the 3D ice wall and slide down one of three waterslides. For new swimmers, the zero depth activity pool and playground provides the perfect place to play and stay cool.

3. See a concert at Klipsch Music Center - a regularly top-ranked venue to see outdoor concerts; Klipsch (formerly known as Deer Creek and the Verizon Center) is a "must" for anyone who enjoys spending a summer evening outside. This season, 35 concerts will draw the masses to Klipsch's lawn and pavilion to rock out with names like Luke Bryan, Gwen Stefani and Jimmy Buffett.

4. Channel your creativity at Nickel Plate Arts - just because school is out doesn't mean creativity has to be! At Nickel Plate Arts in "hipstoric" Noblesville, both kids and adults can take a walk on the artsy side. Housed inside a charming historic home, guests can experience rotating art exhibits, classes, events and opportunities to meet the artists-in-residence.

Keep us in the loop while you check items off your summer bucket list! Tag #VisitHC in your adventures on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram!

Kenny Chesney Tix