Just a couple hours from Cincinnati on the northside of Indianapolis lies Hamilton County. And if you’ve never been there before, you’ll want to make a trip! Next time you’re looking for a fun weekend getaway, head across the border to the Hoosier state. Here’s an itinerary of what’s waiting for you.
Friday
Start off your trip in the city recently named the Best Place to Live in America*: Carmel, Indiana. Spend the day exploring the Arts and Design District, a state-designated cultural area where art galleries, eateries and boutiques align. Make sure to snap some touristy selfies with the 17 lifelike statues along Main Street. While you’re there, stop by the Evan Lurie Gallery for abstract art and The Museum of Miniature Houses. Feeling outdoorsy? Rent a bike and explore the 18+mile Monon Trail, a paved path stretching all the way to downtown Indianapolis. Along the way, visit Carmel’s Central Park for trails, boardwalks and natural wetlands. Getting hungry? Try the Jamaican Reggae Grill or Bub’s Burgers and Ice Cream, located right off the bike path. Or head to The Quirky Feather Confectionary for a late-night snack of tiramisu, raspberry tartlets or old-fashioned chocolate chip cookies.
Saturday
It’s the weekend so hit the snooze button and enjoy some ZZZs before heading to breakfast at Café Patachou for French toast, omelets and waffles or stop at Bub’s Café for a few homemade donut holes. You’ll need the carbs before you zip, trot and shoot at Strawtown Koteewi Park in Noblesville. This 750-acre park has guided horseback riding, treetop trails and zip lines and even an archery range. For dinner, head over to nearby Big Dog’s Smokehouse BBQ where baby back ribs, pulled pork and campfire s’mores will have you licking your fingers. Take a short drive up to Morse Reservoir to end the day with sunset views over the lake with your ice cream cone from Alexander’s on the Water.
Sunday
Wake up and head to Rosie’s Place on the historic square of downtown Noblesville for a unique spin on a Hoosier classic: the pork tenderloin benny with poached eggs and sausage gravy. Grab a gooey butter cookie on the way out from their irresistible bakery case. Once you’re good and stuffed, spend the day at Conner Prairie, an interactive history park in Fishers. Sail high up in the sky in their tethered balloon before floating down and visiting the farm animals and historic buildings below. In the fall, visitors can wind their way through the new seven-acre corn maze or see the Headless Horseman and a performance of the “Legend of Sleepy Hollow” during the Halloween festival. While you’re in Fishers, stop for lunch or dinner at Pure Eatery, a local spot for fresh food and soups and dressings made from scratch. And to top off your trip, climb the 60-foot hill at Flat Fork Creek Park to get a bird’s eye view of Hamilton County while you reminisce about all the fun you’ve had on your weekend getaway!
*According to Niche.com, www.niche.com/places-to-live/search/best-places-to-live