As a resident of Hamilton County, you know how incredible our parks system is. Here we’ve rounded up a “best of” list highlighting just a few of the many fun destinations in our area perfect for a summer day.
BEST PICNIC SPOT
Coxhall Gardens, Carmel
The 125-acre park is a prime spot to bring your blanket and picnic basket while catching a view of the beautiful gardens, water and flowers. After lunch, take a stroll and listen to the sweet sounds of the Carillon Bell Towers.
BEST TRAILS
Richey Woods Nature Preserve, Fishers
Richey Woods Nature Preserve, which spans 127 acres and has a state-designated nature preserve, offers more than two miles of walking trails and a boardwalk. Cheeney Creek also meanders through the north end of the property and can be viewed from the Creek Ridge Trail.
BEST PLACE TO TAKE PHOTOS
MacGregor Park, Westfield
The 99-acre nature park consists of rolling hillsides, natural woodlands, a meandering creek and native prairies. MacGregor Park also has walking trails, wetlands and bridges and platforms over the creek – excellent for that Instagrammable nature shot.
BEST KID-FRIENDLY PARK
Flat Fork Creek Park, Fishers
Kids can burn some energy at Flat Fork Creek Park with five miles of trails, three treehouses connected by a paved trail system, boardwalk and a fishing pond. In the winter months, try the 50-foot sledding hill.
BEST ADVENTURE DESTINATION
Strawtown Koteewi Park, Noblesville
At this park you can try your hand at archery, ride a horse or pony on a guided tour, hike the trails or fly through the treetops. Your adventurous side won’t be disappointed when you visit the 750 acres of Strawtown Koteewi Park.
BEST PLAYGROUND
West Commons Playground at Central Park, Carmel
With 25,000 square feet of playground space, kids can swing, slide, climb and explore for hours. The playground includes towers and bridges, tunnels and coves and age-appropriate areas with a rubber safety surface.
BEST NEW PARK
Federal Hill Commons, Noblesville
Federal Hill Commons opened earlier this year and expects to be filled with crowds of concertgoers, farmers market shoppers and festival attendees. The new area has an amphitheater called First Merchants Pavilion, which has musical instruments for the public to try, a modern playground, a shelter and an event facility.
BEST PLACE TO COOL OFF
Forest Park, Noblesville
Besides the putt-putt golf course, the “Little Beauty” carousel and the playground, Forest Park has an aquatic center – perfect for those hot summer days. It features an Olympic-size pool, a slide, diving boards and an infant and toddler area. Kiddos must try the “Leapin’ Lizzie” pink frog slide.
BEST CONCERT SPOT
Cool Creek Park & Nature Center, Westfield
What better way to hear live music than in a natural setting. Bands will be playing all summer long during the Cool Creek Concert Series, where you can spend an evening outdoors listening to good music for just $5 for adults and no cost to kids 12 and under.
