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30 ways to enjoy summer in Indianapolis

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30 ways to enjoy summer in Indianapolis

Welcome to Indianapolis, a vibrant city brimming with activities that make summer the perfect season for exploration and fun. As a local real estate agent, I know this city inside and out—which includes the top spots to experience all summer has to offer in Indy. Whether you’re a resident or planning to move here, this bucket list will help you make the most of your summer in our beautiful city.

  1. Root, root, root for the home team at Victory Field—The Indianapolis Indians have many home games on their schedule the whole summer long.
  2. Spend a day on the wild side at the Indianapolis Zoo—the only place in the Midwest where you can get in the water with dolphins.
  3. Climb the 330 steps of Monument Circle (or take the elevator for $1) and experience Indy’s most iconic monument at the physical and spiritual heart of Indianapolis.
  4. Take a staycation at Mystic Waters Campground or another Indiana camping spot.
  5. Go see a show at an outdoor music venue in the area: Ruoff Music Center, Rock the Ruins @ Holliday Park, Nickel Plate District Amphitheater, and Everwise Amphitheater at White River State Park.
  6. Stop by one of the city’s farmers markets (there’s 20 on this list).
  7. Visit a farm and pick your own produce.
  8. Go hiking in one of Indiana’s 24 State Parks, or the newest State Forest, Ravinia Woods.
  9. Take a day trip to Brown County (or somewhere else)!
  10. Take the kids (or not 😂) to the Indianapolis Children’s Museum (be sure to check out which exhibits will be going on during your visit).
  11. Enjoy the sounds of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra under the stars by going to Symphony on the Prairie, a series of concerts held throughout the summer at Conner Prairie’s Symphony Bowl.
  12. Hit up The Waterpark in Carmel on a scorcher of a day (or any of the city’s free splash pads for a $0 option).
  13. Cheer on the boys in blue at an Indy Eleven soccer match.
  14. Kayak, canoe or tube down the White River with the White River Canoe Company.
  15. Go on a scavenger hunt, guided by this book.
  16. Go ziplining in Eagle Creek Park!
  17. Watch a movie from the comfort of your car at Tibbs Drive-in.
  18. Go horseback riding.
  19. Indulge in your favorite fair traditions at the Indiana State Fair (Aug. 2-18).
  20. Celebrate Black Culture on Juneteenth at events throughout the city (June 15) or during IBE Summer Celebration (June 20-30).
  21. Beat the heat and watch a movie for $1 at Regal Theaters, Tuesdays and Wednesdays @ 11am.
  22. Go hunting for butterflies on Zionsville’s Butterfly Trail—try to spot all 12 butterfly wings painted by local artists (June 1 – Aug. 31).
  23. Spend a day on the Monon Trail in Carmel or the Nickel Plate Trail in Fishers.
  24. Rent a boat! Or a pool!
  25. Take a ride on the new Nickel Plate Express rail bikes.
  26. Go fishing! (Fish without a license on May 12, June 1-2, & Sept. 28)
  27. Go for a bike ride.
  28. Check out one of the many fairs & festivals going on throughout the summer around the city.
  29. Sign up for the Kids Bowl Free summer bowling program.
  30. Do a self-guided tour of Traders Point Creamery. Then, indulge in ice cream afterward.

Think something should be added to this list? Send me an email, text or call! I’m always on the hunt for new and exciting ways to enjoy summer in our beautiful city.