Even before moving to Hendricks County, Indiana, we would visit the area to explore the amazing outdoor spaces and great restaurants.
Since living here, we've found even more favorite places and events! From festivals to restaurants to racing, there are many great reasons to spend time in the Hendricks County!
1. Destination Dining
Hendricks County is home to a variety of amazing destination restaurants to satisfy your cravings. From the Bread Basket Cafe & Bakery in Danville to Rusted Silo Southern BBQ & Brewhouse in Lizton to the legendary Mayberry Cafe, there are some great places to add to your culinary adventure.
One of Plainfield's newest restaurants, The Prewitt Restaurant & Lounge, has already won a few awards for its transformation from a historic theater to a fine-dining standout and made news with a recent article on Forbes for their Hot Pink Cocktails.
2. Budding Arts Scene
In recent years, we've seen more and more murals pop up around Hendricks County. These great unexpected places to find art showcase local talent and some are a fun spot for photos. Hendricks County also boasts some great performing arts groups and a venue to enjoy stand-up comedy can be found at Red Curb Improv Comedy Theatre.
But the newest addition to our arts scene, Hendricks Live!, could be a gamechanger providing a 600-seat entertainment venue to local, regional and national recording artists and other performers and offers a spot for visual arts as well.
3. Fun Events for All Ages
Hendricks County offers events for all ages and for a variety of interests. Whether it's a holiday event or a seasonal festival, there is something for everyone.
Throughout the summer, you can find a variety of farmer's markets and the annual Hendricks County Rib-Fest & BBQ.
Later in the year, Doctoberfest celebrates all things Doctor Who while the Heartland Apple Festival offers all things fall and the International Festival celebrates the diversity found throughout Hendricks County. But there's so much more throughout the year.
4. The Thrill of Motorsports
Brownsburg is home to Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park which hosts both oval and drag racing events throughout the summer. Some of the biggest events include Cleetus & Cars, the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race and the most prestigious event on the NHRA schedule, U.S. Nationals.
Brownsburg is also home to racing headquarters for Don Schumacher Racing, Vance & Hines and more race teams.
5. The Great Outdoors
McCloud Nature Park in North Salem and Sodalis Nature Park in Plainfield provide large nature preserves You can also find a variety of splash pads, playgrounds, trails and three waterparks, including Splash Island Family Waterpark and Murphy Aquatic Park.
Beyond the traditional parks, there are some beautiful, must-experience outdoor recreation destinations including Avon Gardens, which has been ranked as the top outdoor garden in the state by Midwest Living magazine.