Things to Do Near Indianapolis in Hamilton County, Indiana

Planning a trip to Indianapolis? Start your engines and your next adventure right here in Hamilton County, Indiana. We are perfectly positioned 20 miles north, with the cities of Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville and Westfield. If you’re visiting for a special event like the Indy 500, Indiana Black Expo 2021 or 2022 Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament, we welcome you to explore Hamilton County and see what we have to offer near the big city.

Food & Drink

Indiana is home to the breaded pork tenderloin sandwich, a classic dish featuring a thinly pounded, breaded and deep-fried piece of meat hanging over the edges of a too-small bun. The pork cutlet is often comically oversized, so you may need to eat around the edges or halve the meat and stack it before you dive in.

Beyond breaded meat, Hamilton County is home to a growing food scene with up-and-coming Midwest chefs. Try unique small plates and appetizers at divvy, sample the rotating vendors at the Fishers Test Kitchen, dig into a hearty breakfast or brunch at Rosie’s Place or dine at Chiba for sushi along Westfield’s Park Street, a foodie destination.

For drinks, check out more than 15 local breweries and a handful of wineries and distilleries like Urban Vines Winery & Brewery or 1205 Distillery North. For a memorable happy hour, grab a cocktail at 3UP Rooftop Bar or Sun King Carmel, both with rooftop patios overlooking downtown Carmel.

Traveling with kids? There are plenty of family-friendly restaurants in the area, ideal for groups and picky eaters.

Browse a full list of local restaurants.

Things to Do

Hamilton County has several downtown districts that serve as hubs for dining, shopping, events and entertainment. In Carmel, explore the Arts & Design District, Midtown Plaza and Carmel City Center, all conveniently located along the Monon Trail. In Fishers, check out the Nickel Plate District and new Fishers District, near IKEA and Topgolf. Explore the Historic Noblesville Square in downtown Noblesville along the White River. Westfield has great dining options along Park Street, near the Grand Junction Plaza – coming soon.

Need a shopping break? Hamilton County has lifestyle malls with name brands at Clay Terrace, Hamilton Town Center and the nearby Fashion Mall at Keystone at the Crossing. Shop local at one of the many boutiques or local retailers centrally located in places like the Arts & Design District or Historic Noblesville Square.

Explore outdoor activities and attractions near Indianapolis like the Monon Trail, White River and Strawtown Koteewi Park. Other popular parks include Central Park, Cool Creek Park and Flat Fork Creek Park. There are plenty of places for hiking, biking, birdwatching and kayaking.

Find a full list of things to do in Hamilton County.

Places to Stay

Hamilton County has places to stay and hotels near Indianapolis that are just a 30-minute drive from the Indianapolis International Airport, Banker’s Life Fieldhouse, Lucas Oil Stadium and more in downtown Indianapolis. Book a hotel room in Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville or Westfield for an affordable overnight stay with free parking. Many accommodations are conveniently located off of major highways like US-31, I-69 and I-465. You’re never far from the event, concert or conference you’re attending.

Find a full list of hotels, including hotels near Ruoff Music Center and hotels near Grand Park Sports Campus.

There is so much to experience in Hamilton County, Indiana. We hope you’ll make a pit stop and visit before, after or during your event in Indianapolis.

To learn more about things to do, dining and lodging in Hamilton County, request a free copy of our Travel Guide.