Labor Day Weekend Trip
One of the best weekends of the year to visit Hendricks County, Indiana, has to be around Labor Day, specifically because you plan your trip around two major events that happen here -- NHRA U.S. Nationals and North Salem Old Fashion Days.
And while these two events occur on the same weekend in the same county, they couldn't be more different.
So whether motorsports gets your motor running, you want to celebrate a small town or you just want to plan an authentic weekend getaway unlike any you've ever experienced before, this three-day, holiday adventure will offer all that and much more.
If you're looking more for inspiration instead of a detailed itinerary, check out our themed trip ideas to find which one is best for you!
Free Travel Guide!
Get your insider guide to all things Hendricks County by ordering a FREE Travel Guide. Download or order a print copy today!
Morning
If you get here early enough, I would suggest kicking off your holiday weekend in North Salem taking in their annual North Salem Old Fashion Days parade, which always begins at 11 a.m. running down Pearl Street in this out-of-the way, quintessential Indiana small town.
The parade, which is the longest in Hendricks County, includes everything you would expect from a small town and is something every age will enjoy.
Insider tip: Arrive earlier than 11 to get a good spot to view the parade and make sure you bring something to sit on like folding chairs or a blanket. Visitors can usually find free parking along Nebraska and California streets. You can get much more information and tips about the entire festival here.
Lunch
There's no reason to leave Old Fashion Days after the parade. This festival offers plenty of options for food, whether it's traditional fair food, pork chop dinner at the Christian Church or even getting a slice of pizza at the most popular restaurant in town, Perillo's Pizzeria.
Because so much is happening and there are so many people in town for the festival, actually getting a seat inside or on the outdoor patio at Perillo's is nearly impossible that weekend, but if you can swing it, we highly recommend it.
Afternoon
After grabbing a bite to eat, don't leave the festival without taking in a little shopping. Numerous vendors are set up throughout town offering antiques, handmade goods and much more.
Every afternoon and evening, visitors can also enjoy live entertainment on stage in the heart of town and experience other activities and fun contests like truck and tractor pulls, a car show, food-eating contests and more.
Every day is different, so you may want to check out their schedule (The 2024 schedule is usually posted closer to the event date, but you can get an idea by looking at this 2023 schedule) to determine which day or days you want to attend.
They even host one of the most unique events anywhere with their annual bed races, which are usually held on Monday of Labor Day Weekend.
Evening/Dinner
After a full day at North Salem Old Fashion Days, I'm sure your crew will be ready to check in to one of our great hotels in either Brownsburg, Avon or Plainfield. Freshen up or grab a quick nap before heading out for a nightcap.
For dinner, we recommend getting a reservation at one of our CRG restaurants. We have at least one in each of the towns with hotels.
In Brownsburg, you can dine at the eatery that started it all, Boulder Creek Dining Company or head into downtown to Bru Burger Bar.
In Avon, you will enjoy a night out at Charbonos, which offers a little bit of everything from steaks and seafood to soups and salads.
In Plainfield, you have three CRG options. All within The Shops at Perry Crossing outdoor lifestyle mall. If Italian fare sounds good, you will want to try Theo's Italian. Looking for an upscale burger, head to Bru Burger Bar. If you would prefer varied options, then head to Stone Creek Dining Company.
Sunday
Breakfast
We suggest waking up to a hearty breakfast by heading to Brownsburg to enjoy the best meal of the day at one of Big Bear Biscuits, The Breakfast Company or Flap Jacks Pancake House. All three have become local favorites, so you can't go wrong, and they are close to where we suggest you spend most of your Sunday.
Mid-Day
After fueling up, we recommend making Sunday race day. Even if you don't think you are a fan of motorsports or racing, we truly believe you will be converted with one visit to U.S. Nationals. We know because we've seen it happen.
Make sure to bring sunscreen, walking shoes and good ear protection for this earth-shaking experience. You will need a general admission ticket to get into the event at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park. This event has plenty to do and see. We also would suggest to go to one of the many food vendors and plan on eating lunch there or you can bring in coolers and plan for a picnic lunch.
Evening
After a long day at the track, we suggest heading back to the hotel to rest. Consider having food delivered to your room or if you want to go back out for dinner, Sunday nights can be tricky, so choose from one of these options and call ahead to make sure they are open or to check their hours.
Monday
Because this is a holiday, we want to leave this day up to you. It could be a travel day, but you could also return to one of the events you enjoyed or take in a scenic park. Here's a list of gardens and parks to get you started.
We have waterparks, nature parks where you can go for a hike and community parks with many more amenities.
Just as a refresher, if you really enjoyed North Salem Old Fashion Days, the bed race is worth checking out on Monday. True NHRA fans love Monday of U.S. Nationals because the winners are crowned in each category.