Discover Hendricks County: Your full family fun guide
This year theCityMoms have been exploring our homebase of Indiana and were immediately charmed by Hendricks County. From their extensive outdoor activities to comfort foods and unique cultural experiences, we know you will be too!
Discover more on their website.
Ready for your treasure map to fun and adventure in Hendricks County, Indiana?
Whether you are looking for a staycation or planning a road trip, a visit to Hendricks County is just what you need. Our family guide is split into four fun-filled categories: Outdoor Adventures, Child’s Play Central, Foodie Fun, and Cultural Discoveries. Let's dive in!
Image Credit Golden Cardinal Media
Outdoor Adventures
At the Park
Want to get your hands dirty? The McCloud Nature Park is 232 acres of pure outdoor joy. Trails, bird watching, fishing—it's like a deep breath of happiness. Oh, and that Nature Center? Totally interactive (we're talking fossils, here). In addition to a rotating exhibit of work by local artists, the Center includes a greenhouse, resource library, live reptiles, and hands-on activities.
Gather your motorsport enthusiasts and head over to Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park for some high-octane fun! Find high-powered diesel trucks, drag racing, and epic burnouts that will excite and entertain everyone in your (pit) crew. Some tickets even give you access to the pits for a close-up look at the rides and even an opportunity to talk with the drivers.
On the Farm
For all things furry, feathery, and cuddly, check out Oinking Acres Farm Rescue & Sanctuary, Montrose Farms Alpaca Ranch, and Natural Valley Ranch. Cuddle a rescued pig (and maybe adopt one?), feel the softness of an alpaca, or experience a horseback ride. Don’t miss one of their unique experiences from alpaca yoga to an old-fashioned hoedown!
Beasley’s Orchard offers a delightful day of apple picking and hayrides. The corn maze is a family favorite, providing both fun and a bit of challenge for the youngsters. There is no better Fall tradition than sipping cider slushies or shooting the apple cannon.
Beasley’s full Fall schedule of activities and festivities as well as a farm market, means you can bring the family again and again. Honestly, we could write a whole article about this family favorite, it’s just. that. good.
DON’T MISS A MINUTE OF FALL FUN:
With our Indianapolis 2023 Fall Festival Guide!
In the Water*
*OK, we know it’s the Fall family fun guide, but once you’ve been, you’ll be looking forward to your next Hendricks County adventure. So, bookmark these outdoor opportunities for next summer!
There is no shortage of giggles and squeals at Splash Island Family Waterpark and Murphy Aquatic Park! Splash Island boasts thrilling water slides, a lazy river for float-in-the-sun chill moments, and a fun-filled interactive play area.
Murphy Aquatic Park offers fun for everyone with purposeful design features like an ADA-accessible water playground. Swimmers of all ages will find their fave from thrills in the wave pool and water slides, right-sized activities in the toddler zone, and even a cabana rental to enjoy snacks in the shade.
Child’s Play Central
Get Crafty
The Tie Dye Lab is a rainbow dream come true! Pick up a t-shirt, socks, or even a canvas bag, and watch your kids' eyes light up as they create their wearable masterpiece. At Brightly Art Studio, the children can explore various art mediums such as painting, drawing, ceramics, and multi-media art.
Fun and Games
Help your kiddos burn off energy at Kids Planet, an indoor play center filled with trampolines, obstacle courses, and climbing structures. There are also interactive play spaces for your hands-on little ones like the ball cannon, legos, and toddler area.
Bigger kids will enjoy challenging the family at X-Golf, an indoor golfing facility with a virtual reality feel. It's perfect for both beginners and experienced golfers.
Little video game enthusiast? The Press Play Gaming Lounge offers all of the allure of gaming while encouraging your kiddos to get up and move! The gaming lounge has the usual suspects like PCs and consoles, but the real MVPs are their immersive experiences.
Multiple virtual reality games, BEAM (seriously check it out!), Foam Wars, and 3-Point Challenges will have you and your kiddos scoring points and breaking a sweat. And the best part? They have snacks, so you can refuel for more fun!
DON’T LET RAIN RUIN THE FUN
With this list of rainy day places to play near Indianapolis
Foodie Fun
Something Sweet
Step aside, lunchbox sandwiches! We've got Danny’s Mexican Ice Cream and The Fudge Kettle for delectable treats. Danny’s offers authentic Mexican ice cream that'll have the kiddos oo-ing and ahh-ing. And at The Fudge Kettle, indulge in homemade fudge that melts right in your mouth.
Visit the Schakolad Chocolate Factory, a haven for chocolate lovers. Enjoy the tantalizing aroma of fresh chocolates and pick your favorite from an extensive selection. Or, beat the heat with refreshing shaved ice from The Frigid Frog & More. Get adventurous and mix up flavors or stick to your tried and true favorite, either way, satisfaction guaranteed!
Or Something Savory
For main meals–breakfast, lunch, or dinner–make sure to drop by Mayberry Cafe or Oasis Diner. Mayberry serves up a blast from the past in their Andy Griffith-themed dining room, where the show plays 24/7. The charming (and walkable!) town square location is complemented by their hearty, homey meals.
Oasis makes you go ‘Ooh!’ with its throwback diner vibes, comfort meals, and shakes that are worth the bellyache. And don’t forget to try the tenderloin, voted consistently among the 10 best in Indiana.
Even More Reasons to Visit Hendricks County
Historical
Transport your family back in time at the Hendricks County Historical Museum. Located in an old sheriff’s residence and jail, it's an exciting encounter with the past that'll surely charm both young and old.
Theatrical
Don’t miss out on the Royal Theater for a unique movie-going experience. After you pass beneath the marquee, enter the vintage theater lobby where you will find plenty of art-deco inspiration from vibrant carpet to velvet curtains.
Looking to amp up the levity? The Red Curb Improv Comedy Theatre will have the whole family rolling with laughter at one of their kid-friendly, clean-material comedy shows.
(Pop)-Cultural
Who North America is a treat for all Doctor Who fans offering an immersive experience with cosplay, collectibles, and much more. They even host an annual DoctoberFest in the Fall featuring guests of honor, panels, and vendors. (Happening October 21, 2023)
Image Credit Golden Cardinal Media
Are you and your crew ready to make some lifelong memories in the heartland of America? From fun-filled activities to delicious treats, Hendricks County has got you covered.
