Discover the Fun

Our state capitol, Indianapolis, is home to many sights and attractions. For baseball fans, take in a game at Victory Field, home of the Indianapolis Indians, the city’s professional baseball team for more than 120 years. “Victory Field is the perfect summer getaway for families in Central Indiana,” says Cheyne Reiter, Indianapolis Indians Director of Communications. “The ballpark experience – from the smells of concession stands to the sounds of the game and buying your first souvenir from the team shop – is second to none.” Friday night games include a firework show, and on Bark in the Park nights (June 9, July 6, August 25) fans can bring their canine companion and see the Eli, the team’s very own bat dog, in action.

While downtown, stroll through White River State Park, along the canal, and across the river to the Indianapolis Zoo, for a walk on the wild side. “The zoo offers a place to connect with nature, have fun with family and friends, and get closer to an elephant, tiger or orangutan than you would have ever imagined,” says Judy Palermo, director of public relations at the Indianapolis Zoo, home to more than 3,800 animals, including daring dolphins and colorful macaws. “The zoo is truly a special place to make lifelong memories,” she adds. This summer, visitors will delight in the new up-close encounter with Australia’s red kangaroos.

If you prefer a change of scenery, consider a road trip to the rolling hills of southern Indiana. The eclectic town of Bloomington is home to the picturesque campus of Indiana University, Oliver Winery, Lake Monroe, and over 350 restaurants, including International Row on Fourth Street, which is home to more than a dozen global eateries. “We have fantastic lodging options ranging from urban bed and breakfast, to full-service hotels, and eclectic places to stay like Graduate Bloomington located on Kirkwood Avenue,” says Erin White, director of leisure marketing and media at Visit Bloomington. She adds that there are also many nearby vacation rentals, ranging from wooded hideaways near the lake to urban retreats downtown, to make a vacation of your time away.

Summer days are meant to be a little more carefree, and you don’t need to go far to make new discoveries. A fast-growing, pedestrian-based dining, shopping and entertainment destination, Carmel City Center is worth spending time in whether you have an hour to spare or the whole day. From specialty shops like the newly added luxury lifestyle concept Addendum and the recently expanded designer children’s boutique Hey Little Diddle, to amazing eateries including 317 Charcuterie, and to the world-class Palladium at The Center for the Performing Arts, Carmel City Center offers an exceptional array of options for an unforgettable summer experience close to home.

Take to the trails with an afternoon e-bike rental at Pedego Carmel, where the mantra is fun. Owner Josh Freedman loves sharing his love of electric bikes with as many people as possible. “It’s a safe way to see the city. You can go further, faster,” he says. Rentals are available by the hour or by the day for riders 15 and older, and self-guided tours take you through Carmel, around Cool Creek, or along the White River without breaking a sweat.