In Hamilton County, Indiana – just north of Indy – our waterways, trails and green spaces are oh, so…open. When you’re ready to travel, the communities of Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, Westfield and the four Northern Towns are ready to welcome you, safely. Click here to learn more about our reopening guidelines.
Luckily, there are plenty of things to do outdoors in our destination, perfect for a weekend getaway with family or friends. Read below for our recommendations.
What to Do
Conner Prairie
Step into the story of 1800s Indiana at this nationally-acclaimed history museum in Fishers, Indiana. Explore the expansive outdoor grounds and learn what life was like for early settlers in the Hoosier State by visiting Lenape Indian Camp, the William Conner House, 1836 Prairietown and Civil War Journey. You can also interact with baby goats and sheep at the Animal Encounters barn, climb a four-story treehouse at Treetop Outpost and ride the 1859 Balloon Voyage, weather permitting, to soar to 350 feet above Conner Prairie.
Read more about Conner Prairie’s reopening policies.
Monon Trail
Bring your bike (or rent one from retailers like Pedego Electric Bikes in Carmel) to fully experience the Monon Trail, a 20+ mile rails-to-trails paved pathway ideal for walking and biking. The trail starts in Sheridan, Indiana and travels south past Westfield and through downtown Carmel, before connecting to Indianapolis. Grab a bite to eat in the Carmel Arts & Design District or Midtown Plaza at restaurants like Bub’s Burgers & Ice Cream or Fork + Ale.
P.S. Hamilton County has more than 600+ miles of trails! Learn more and map your route with our handy biking and hiking maps.
Monon Waterpark
Cool off from the summer heat at the Waterpark at the Monon Community Center. Open through Labor Day, the Waterpark includes pools, slides, a lazy river and the FlowRider® to test your surfing skills. Rent a cabana for the day to make the most of your visit.
Non-members are welcome to visit daily after 12 p.m. Learn more about the Waterpark’s reopening plan.
Strawtown Koteewi Park
Horseback riding, archery and ziplines? This park in northern Hamilton County has it all. Strawtown Koteewi Park is Hamilton County’s largest park, with 750 acres and more than 8 miles of hiking trails. Visit one of three attractions within the park to take your adventure to the next level. Book a guided horseback ride with Koteewi Equine Experience (and pony rides for the little ones), try your hand at using a bow and arrow at Koteewi Range: Sport and Target Archery Center and zipline through the trees at Edge Adventures Koteewi – Aerial Adventure Park.
White River Canoe Company
Canoe, kayak or tube down the White River with White River Canoe Company. Once you’re on the water soaking in the sunshine and listening to the birds chirping, you’ll forget you’re just a few minutes away from downtown Noblesville (with plenty of dining and shopping for after your day on the water). Pack your sunscreens, snacks and drinks – alcohol is allowed, but no glass containers. Remember to “leave no trace” and leave the river better than you found it!
Where to Eat
All that adventure is bound to make you work up an appetite. Many restaurants are continuing to offer curbside carryout and delivery, and outdoor patios are open for the summer months. Local favorites include Rosie’s Place, Field Brewing, Four Day Ray Brewing, Woodys Library Restaurant and more. Click here to browse a list of locally-owned restaurants.
Where to Stay
Summer Hotel Deals
An affordable weekend getaway is closer than you think. Local hotels are eager to welcome you with special hotel rates this summer. Browse the list of deals and book your overnight stay today.
Prairie Guest House
This charming bed and breakfast offers homemade breakfast and yoga studio on-site – plus, it’s located across the street from Conner Prairie.
White River Campground
If you want to truly make it an outdoor weekend adventure, bring your tent, camper or RV and make a reservation at White River Campground. Bonus: it’s conveniently located on the White River, as the name suggests, and adjacent to Strawtown Koteewi Park.
