Summer Things to Do in Hendricks County

Just west of downtown Indianapolis, Hendricks County is your summer playground.

Whether you are hunting for things to do near Indianapolis in summer, a warm-weather escape with the family, or the best summer things to do in Hendricks County, Indiana, our communities deliver premier waterparks, horseback riding, motorsports, open-air festivals, and small-town dining all season long. Explore our favorite summer escapes to map out your perfect warm-weather day trip.

Family Fun and Outdoor Adventures

Finding standout summer activities for families in Indiana is easy with Hendricks County's mix of aquatic parks, farm experiences, and outdoor adventures. You will find two premier waterparks near Indianapolis right here in the county — Splash Island Family Waterpark in Plainfield, offering thrilling water slides and a lazy river, and Murphy Aquatic Park in Avon, delivering an all-inclusive day of pools and splash play for all ages. Beyond the water, Beasley's Orchard in Danville opens its fields each summer for family-friendly pick-your-own adventures and seasonal activities. For those seeking wide-open spaces, Natural Valley Ranch in Brownsburg offers guided horseback riding experiences perfect for kids and adults alike.

Exciting Summer Events

Summer in Hendricks County means a packed calendar of can't-miss events. The Hendricks County Fair, held annually at the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds & Conference Complex in Danville, is a beloved tradition featuring carnival rides, livestock shows, live entertainment, and classic fair food. For motorsports fans, the NHRA U.S. Nationals at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park in Brownsburg is one of the most prestigious drag racing events in the country, drawing tens of thousands of visitors on Labor Day Weekend. The Hendricks County Rib-Fest & BBQ brings savory competition and live music to the region every summer as well. Browse our full Summer Events Calendar to discover music festivals, outdoor movie nights, and local farmers markets happening every week all season long.

Dining and Shopping Delights

No summer trip is complete without great food. Hendricks County's culinary scene is in full bloom all season, with locally owned restaurants, craft brewpubs, and charming coffee houses spread throughout Danville, Plainfield, Avon, Brownsburg, and Western Hendricks County. Visit a local farmers market for fresh Indiana produce, baked goods, and handmade goods straight from local makers. After exploring the outdoors, reward yourself with a farm-to-table dinner or a craft cocktail on the patio of one of the county's acclaimed dining destinations. Then stroll through Downtown Danville, Brownsburg, or Plainfield to browse boutiques, antique shops, and locally owned stores for unique Indiana finds to take home.

More to Explore

Don't let the warm weather pass you by. Hendricks County offers excellent outdoor summer fun in Indiana through an expansive network of scenic county parks, paved recreation trails, and open green spaces. Take a scenic bike ride or hike along the B&O Trail, a paved multi-use path in Brownsburg. For a dose of local history, the Hendricks County Historical Museum & Old County Jail in Danville tells the story of the area's rich past through well-preserved exhibits and artifacts. Whether you're out with the family or exploring solo, the outdoor spaces and cultural sites of Hendricks County make every summer afternoon worth the trip.

Top Summer Attractions & Activities

Horseback Riding in Hendricks County

If you love horseback riding, Hendricks County has two public locations with beautiful scenery to enjoy.

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Parks & Gardens

From large nature preserves including McCloud Nature Park in North Salem and Echo Hollow Nature Park in Plainfield to our active…

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Beasley’s Orchard

Beasley’s Orchard is a working, family-owned apple orchard that has become a beloved Hendricks County year-round destination.

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Murphy Aquatic Park

Boasting Central Indiana's largest wave pool and a water playground that is fully ADA-accessible, Murphy Aquatic Park is an all-inclusive summer…

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Splash Island

One of Hendricks County’s most popular destinations for family fun in the spring and summer can be found in Plainfield at…

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Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park

Owned by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park and the areas that surround it in Brownsburg…

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Frequently Asked Questions About Summer in Hendricks County

Hendricks County, located just west of Indianapolis, features premier family summer attractions including Splash Island Family Waterpark in Plainfield, Murphy Aquatic Park in Avon, guided horseback riding at Natural Valley Ranch in Brownsburg, and the annual Hendricks County Fair at the 4-H Fairgrounds & Conference Complex in Danville.

Yes. Hendricks County has two popular waterparks near Indianapolis: Splash Island Family Waterpark in Plainfield and Murphy Aquatic Park in Avon. Both facilities offer slides, splash areas, and full-day aquatic fun for all ages throughout the summer season.

For outdoor summer fun in Indiana just west of Indianapolis, visitors can bike or hike the B&O Trail in Brownsburg, go horseback riding at Natural Valley Ranch in Brownsburg, explore county parks and picnic areas, or attend events like the Hendricks County Rib-Fest & BBQ.

The Hendricks County Fair takes place in July at the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds & Conference Complex in Danville, Indiana. The fair features carnival rides, livestock competitions, live entertainment, and classic fair food. Check the official events calendar for exact dates each season.