Looking for the best things to do in Carmel with kids? This family guide highlights the top parks, playgrounds, museums, and rainy-day ideas in Carmel, Indiana, including favorites like Midtown Plaza, Movies at Midtown, Coxhall Gardens, Cool Creek Park, the Carmel Planetarium, and more.
Use it to plan easy playdates, weekend outings, or day trips. You’ll find free options, indoor and outdoor activities, and seasonal hits such as The Waterpark and the Carmel Christkindlmarkt, plus practical tips on hours, parking, and what to bring. Whether you live in Carmel or nearby Indianapolis, Fishers, Westfield, Noblesville, or Zionsville, these kid-approved picks make it simple to fill your calendar with fun.
Related Article: 101 Things to do in Indianapolis with Kids
1) Midtown Plaza Carmel
Carmel’s central hangout buzzes with energy: lawn games, splashy jets in warm weather, public art, and plenty of spots to grab a snack between play breaks. The Monon Trail runs right through the plaza, making it easy to stroll, scoot, or bike from one end to the other. Get the full family rundown in Midtown Plaza Carmel for Families.
2) Movies at Midtown (part of Midtown Plaza)
Yes, it’s technically part of Midtown Plaza, but the outdoor movie experience deserves its own spotlight. Kids love spreading out on the green, while parents appreciate the walkable dining and easy post-show treats. See times and planning tips in Movies at Midtown.
Know before you go: Pack chairs/blankets; arrive early for a good view; check the schedule for family-friendly titles and special screenings.
3) Carmel Clay History Museum (Hidden Gem)
Small, friendly, and surprisingly engaging, this museum turns local history into bite-size stories kids can connect with. It’s a great add-on when you’re already exploring downtown Carmel and a nice way to sneak in learning during your outing. Start with Hidden Gem: Carmel Clay History Museum.
Know before you go: Expect a shorter visit (30–60 minutes); pair with Midtown or a Monon walk; check hours before you go.
4) Children’s Garden at Coxhall Gardens
Designed for imaginative play, this whimsical garden encourages kids to dig, climb, and create their own adventures. Surrounding green space means you can linger for a picnic or a relaxed stroll after the garden fun. Details: Children’s Garden at Coxhall Gardens (Carmel).
Insider Tip: Pack sand toys (after a big rain, the “giant sandbox” is perfect for castle-building) and try to arrive on the hour so you can hear the 90-foot twin bell tower play a song while you picnic.
5) Carmel Planetarium
Bring space down to earth with family-friendly star shows that make constellations and planets click for kids. Programs run on select dates and often sell quickly, so planning ahead is smart. Start here: Carmel Planetarium.
Know before you go: Grab tickets online and be at Carmel High School’s main entrance 15 minutes before showtime; seating (about 60) is first-come, first-served, and there’s no late entry once the 40-minute program begins.
6) Nature Adventure Playground at Jill Perelman Pavilion
This nature-themed playscape swaps plastic for logs, boulders, and open-ended challenges, perfect for confident climbers and creative play. Adjacent fields and paths make it easy to extend your visit without hopping back in the car. Explore Nature Adventure Playground at Jill Perelman Pavilion.
Insider tip: Park at the Jill Perelman Pavilion lot on 116th, walk behind the pavilion into the woods for the shaded zip-line playground, and aim for early morning or near dusk—summer day camps make midday the busiest.
7) DIY Bath Bombs at Bath Junkie
A make-and-take experience that doubles as a souvenir—kids choose scents and colors, mix ingredients, and leave with bath goodies they created themselves. It’s a fun indoor option that pairs well with lunch or a treat nearby. How it works: DIY Bath Bombs at Bath Junkie.
Insider Tip: It’s walk-in friendly, but on weekends go early and choose your scents first (there are 200+); you can scent each half differently, projects start at $10 and include two custom gift bags, and the Veteran’s Way garage is the easiest parking.
8) Cool Creek Park & Nature Center
Technically in Westfield but listed with a Carmel address, Cool Creek Park Nature Center still earns a spot on our Carmel list. Creek-stomping, kid-friendly trails, and hands-on exhibits make it an easy half-day adventure—especially for animal lovers and curious toddlers who like to touch, tap, and explore.Explore Cool Creek Park Nature Center.
Know before you go: Go when the Nature Center is open (Mon–Sat 10–5, Sun 1–5) so kids can meet the resident turtles and snakes, then head to the shaded Nature Play Area; pack water shoes and a change of clothes for creek-stomping, and use the paved loop if you need a stroller.
9) Carmel Clay Public Library (Main Library)
Light-filled spaces, a robust children’s area, and frequent story times make this a can’t-miss stop for readers and little explorers. Quiet nooks mix with activity areas, so everyone can find their groove. What’s new and improved: Carmel Clay Public Library Reopens: Expanded Main Library.
Know before you go: Check the events calendar for story times and family programs; bring a library card (or ID to sign up).
10) Flowing Well Park
A 15-acre gem. Fill jugs at the historic artesian well. Splash and creek-stomp in Cool Creek. Let kids wade for minnows. Walk the shady 1-mile loop with nature signs and spring wildflowers. Fishing is popular. Please don’t stack stones or build dams along the reinforced banks. Read more about Flowing Well Park.
Insider tip: Bring empty jugs if you want well water, then boil it for one minute and let it cool before drinking, as recommended by Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation.
11) Pawz Pet Cafe
Visit with adoptable cats at PAWZ Pet Cafe. Play in the Cat Lounge and sip boba while you relax. Walk-ins are welcome. Reservations help on busy days. Sessions cost $10 for 30 minutes or $18 for an hour. Keep reading about Pawz Pet Cafe.
Insider tip: Reserve the first session of the day for extra-playful cats, arrive a few minutes early to sign the waiver and sanitize, and peek at the “Adoptable Kitties” page so kids can greet favorites by name; walk-ins are fine, but weekends fill fast.
12 The Cake Bake Shop – Carmel City Center
For a special treat day, this sparkling spot delivers over-the-top cakes, charming décor, and pure “wow” factor. It feels like a celebration the moment you step inside—bonus points if your kiddo loves dressing up. Reservations/info: The Cake Bake Shop – Carmel City Center.
Know before you go: Book ahead for peak times; build in photo time; consider sharing slices—portions are generous.
13) Flix Brewhouse Carmel (Flix Junior)
Dinner and a movie is easier with Flix Junior showings, featuring lower volume, slightly brighter lights, and family-friendly picks designed for younger viewers. Parents appreciate ordering from their seats while kids soak up the big-screen magic. See what’s playing: Flix Brewhouse Carmel.
Know before you go: Look specifically for “Flix Junior” on the schedule; arrive early to settle in; preview menus for picky eaters.
14) The Waterpark in Carmel (Seasonal)
When temps climb, this is the place to be, with twisting slides, a lazy river, splash zones, and shaded spots for snack breaks. It’s easy to spend a full day hopping between attractions and cooling off. Family guide: The Waterpark in Carmel.
Know before you go: Opens seasonally; popular on hot weekends, so arrive near opening; consider swim shirts, reef-safe sunscreen, and water shoes.
15) Carmel Christkindlmarkt (Seasonal)
Old-world holiday charm lands on Carter Green with wooden huts, festive music, skating, and plenty of treats (save room for raclette and roasted nuts!). It’s as photogenic as it is family-friendly, with activities that make repeat visits a tradition. Preview the magic: Carmel Christkindlmarkt: A Can’t-Miss Holiday Market & Festival.
Know before you go: Weekdays and earlier hours are less crowded; layer up and bring gloves for skating; purchase rink times in advance when possible.
How to Plan Your Carmel Day
- Midtown + Movies: Spend the afternoon at Midtown Plaza, stay for Movies at Midtown.
- Play + Create: Pair Coxhall’s Children’s Garden with Bath Junkie for playtime and a crafty takeaway.
- Nature + Books: Start at Cool Creek Park & Nature Center, then wind down at Carmel Clay Public Library.
- Seasonal Switch-ups: Hit The Waterpark in summer and Christkindlmarkt during the holidays.
Pro tip: Save or bookmark this list and tap the linked guides before you go—hours, programs, and events can change, and a little prep makes family outings stress-free.
