It’s finally spring! As best-selling author John Green said in his novel-turned-film The Fault in Our Stars, “We Hoosiers are excessively optimistic about summer.” Anyone who has spent time in Indiana will attest to that statement, and there’s a very good chance you’ve already seen someone break out the shorts and sandals even though it still may snow any day. After this past winter we deserve some optimism now that it’s finally starting to warm up. So put away the winter coats and enjoy these local destinations!
Enjoy Nature
One great thing about Indianapolis and the surrounding area is that even though it is a major city, there’s still plenty of space to enjoy the outdoors not far from home. Take a walk or jog along the Monon Trail or White River Greenway[MD1] or head over to Strawtown Kotweewi Park. For equestrians, no matter the skill level, you can even experience nature on the back of a horse with the K-Trails Equestrian Adventures at Kotweewi Park.
Get Sporty
Just a short drive away in Westfield, Grand Park is a 400-acre sports campus with 26 baseball and softball diamonds, 31 fields suited for soccer, football, rugby, field hockey, and lacrosse, as well as two indoor facilities. There are also 10 miles of pedestrian trails for walking, running, or biking that connect to the Monon Trail. Another way to test out your sports skill is going to Topgolf in Fishers, where residents of Prairie Lakes Apartments can receive discounts thanks to our Neighborhood Passport Program.
Support Local Business
If sports or nature don’t interest you Hamilton County still has plenty to offer. For example, check out the Hamilton Town Center, an open-air mall with over 90 retail shops and restaurants in addition to an IMAX theater and other entertainment venues. The nearby Ruoff Home Mortgage Music Center is Indiana’s largest outdoor amphitheater and already has some big names booked for this spring and summer.
Have Fun Learning
Families can enjoy the warmer weather at several Indy-area destinations that make learning fun. Spend those rainy days at the Children’s Museum where their unique water clock will enthrall kids and kids-at-heart from the start. Another fun excursion for any weather is the Nickel Plate Express, a nonprofit that aims to preserve the railroad history of the area and provides themed rides from April through September. Spring is also the perfect time to experience Conner Prairie, a staple in many Indy-area childhoods, when they reopen their outdoor living history exhibits in late-March.
What are your favorite Indy-area springtime activities? Find us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to let us know!