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Greenwood, Indiana: Where Fun and Adventure Meet! Best Places to Visit and Things to Do

Greenwood is a suburb of Indianapolis and it runs its own list rather than borrowing the city’s. Water goes to Freedom Springs Greenwood Aquatics Park, which has the lazy river, the lap pool, the diving well and the slides. Quiet goes to Summerfield Park. Retail goes to Greenwood Park Mall, over 150 stores across one million square feet, with a movie theater and an ice rink inside it. Beer goes to Oaken Barrel Brewing Company, brewing since 1994. That is the shape of it. Ice cream goes to the shop that has been scooping since 1950.

Planning a trip to Greenwood, Indiana raises the question of where to start. Greenwood carries a lot for its size, from outdoor time to shopping, dining and cultural stops. Traveling with family, with friends or alone, the city covers all three.

Golf people have several courses in Greenwood worth playing. For a slower outdoor day, pack a picnic and head to one of Greenwood’s many parks. Art lovers get the museums and galleries. Anyone who takes food seriously gets the local dining scene. And for retail therapy, Greenwood has the shopping.

Key Takeaways

• Greenwood offers a diverse range of activities, from golfing and picnicking to shopping and dining.
• The city’s cultural scene includes museums, art galleries, and community gatherings.
• Greenwood’s parks and water wonderlands provide opportunities for outdoor adventure and relaxation.

Golfing in Greenwood

For an easy afternoon outdoors, hit the links at one of Greenwood’s better golf courses. Seasoned player or complete beginner, there is a course here that suits.

Hickory Stick Golf Club is the popular course in the area. The 18-hole layout runs across open fairways with greens that will test your skills properly. For anyone working on their swing, the driving range is there to practice on.

Golfing is not only about the game. It is about the day around it. Hickory Stick Golf Club runs a pro shop where you can stock up on gear and apparel. When you are ready for a break, the clubhouse handles a bite to eat and a cold drink.

Hickory Stick Golf Club is not the only course in town. There are plenty of others, each with its own features and challenges. Grab the clubs and hit the links. You might come away with a new hobby.

Picnicking Paradise

Greenwood takes a picnic well. The parks and green spaces here run to a long list and finding a spot is never the problem. A romantic picnic for two or a family outing, the city covers both.

Summerfield Park is where to lay out the picnic. The sixteen-acre park has picnic areas with tables and grills, so you can cook burgers and hot dogs with the scenery in front of you. For anyone feeling adventurous, rent a paddleboat and take a ride on the lake.

Craig Park is the other option. The park has several picnic shelters you can reserve ahead of time, so there is no need to arrive early to claim a spot. Craig Park also has a playground and a splash pad, so the children can run around and cool off while you sit with a cold drink.

For somewhere more secluded, head to Westside Park. The wooded area there has picnic tables and a grill and it is quiet. With luck you will see some wildlife.

Freedom Park is the one for a crowd. The picnic shelter there accommodates up to 100 people, which makes it the spot for a large family gathering or a company picnic. Freedom Park also has a pool and a splash pad, so you can cool off after the meal.

Wherever you picnic in Greenwood, it works. Bring plenty of food, drinks and sunscreen.

Artistic Adventures

Feeling artsy, Greenwood has it covered. The city is home to the Southside Art League, a community of local artists who show their work and teach workshops and demonstrations.

For art, visit the Southside Art League Gallery. The work in there runs from paintings to sculptures across a broad range. You can buy pieces and take them home.

Feeling creative, take a workshop or attend a demonstration. The Southside Art League regularly hosts events where you learn new techniques and make something of your own. You might find a talent you did not know about.

There is more than that. Greenwood also carries several public art installations, murals and sculptures among them. Take a stroll through the city and see how many you can spot. It works like a scavenger hunt with art in it.

Art aficionado or someone looking for a creative afternoon, Greenwood has the options. You might come away an artist.

Foodie’s Fantasy

Anyone who takes food seriously will do well in Greenwood, Indiana. The city carries a set of restaurants and cafes that reward a proper appetite.

Start at Vino Villa, a wine bar that serves real food alongside a broad range of wines. The smoked ribs are the order. For something lighter, the sandwiches are a strong choice.

For a sit-down meal, head to Main Street Grille, where the dining is casual and it works for friends and family. The Cajun Jambalaya Pasta is the crowd favorite, and the burgers and chicken fingers are worth trying.

For a quick bite, the fast-food chain Mozzarella Sticks. The mozzarella sticks there are the best in town and the other finger foods hold up too.

Whatever the craving, Greenwood has something for it. Go ahead and indulge at these restaurants and cafes.

Let’s Get Active

Enough sitting around. Greenwood has plenty of ways to get moving. A leisurely stroll or a competitive game, both are covered.

Parks

Greenwood is home to several parks and the activities across them cover most interests. Summerfield Park is where to start. With 16 acres of space there is plenty of room to move around. The park has a playground, tennis courts, a basketball court and a volleyball court. Walk the trails or take a picnic in one of the shelters.

Aquatics

To cool off, head to Freedom Springs Greenwood Aquatics Park. The aquatic park covers every kind of swimmer. Swim laps, ride the water slides, or float in the lazy river. Swim lessons run there for anyone looking to improve.

Sports

Feeling competitive, check the sports facilities in Greenwood. Craig Park has pickleball courts, a softball diamond and a volleyball court. Bocce ball is played on the courts there too. For a more organized game, the Southside Art League runs basketball and tennis leagues for every skill level.

Fitness

For a more structured workout, head to the Greenwood Community Center. The fitness classes there cover yoga, Zumba and cycling. The weight room and the indoor pool handle the rest.

Whatever your activity level, Greenwood has something for it. Get up, get moving and enjoy it.

Retail Therapy

You have done the outdoors and the food, and now for the retail therapy. Greenwood has the shopping centers and malls for it.

First up is the Greenwood Park Mall. This indoor mall is home to over 150 stores, including popular brands like H&M, Forever 21, and JCPenney. With so many options, you’ll definitely find something that catches your eye. And if you need a break from shopping, catch a movie at the mall’s AMC theater or grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants.

If you’re looking for a more upscale shopping experience, head over to the Promenade. This outdoor shopping center has a variety of high-end stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Williams-Sonoma, and Pottery Barn. And if you’re feeling fancy, treat yourself to a meal at Eddie Merlot’s or Mitchell’s Fish Market.

But wait, there’s more! Greenwood also has a variety of specialty shops and boutiques scattered throughout the city. Check out Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza for some unique gifts and souvenirs, or stop by The Olive Mill for some delicious olive oils and balsamic vinegars.

Whatever your shopping style, Greenwood covers it. Put on the walking shoes and go.

Fun for the Little Ones

Greenwood takes children well. There are plenty of activities that will keep them going for hours. A rainy day or a sunny one, the city covers both.

Birthday Parties

For a birthday party, Greenwood has the venues. Something low-key or something more adventurous, both are available. The Bounce House is one option, with inflatable bounce houses, obstacle courses and slides that keep children entertained for hours. Sky Zone is the other, an indoor trampoline park built for children who like to jump.

Bumper Cars

Bumper cars never date. There is a place in Greenwood where you can take the little ones for exactly that. Greatimes Family Fun Park covers bumper cars, mini-golf, go-karts and more.

Upaint Pottery Studio

If the little ones are feeling creative, take them to Upaint Pottery Studio. They choose from a broad range of pottery pieces to paint and decorate. It handles a rainy afternoon, and the finished products end up on display at home.

Whatever the children are into, Greenwood has something for them. Birthday parties, bumper cars or pottery painting, the list is a long one. Plan a day out with the family and work through it.

Water Wonderlands

Greenwood, Indiana is not the first place that comes to mind for water parks. Do not be fooled. There are some genuinely wet spots in this town.

First is Freedom Springs Greenwood Aquatics Park. The place carries a lazy river, a lap pool, a diving well and a water slide. There is more: you can rent a private cabana to lounge in with a cold drink while the sun does its work.

For something more intense, the water park at Parrot Island in Fort Smith. The 20,000-square-foot park has a surfing machine, multiple water slides and a lazy river of its own. That one gets the adrenaline going.

Sometimes you want to float around in a pool and nothing else. Both of these places have the options for it. A lap pool for exercise or a regular pool for a leisurely dip, both are there.

The lack of an ocean nearby is not a problem. These water parks in Greenwood, Indiana cover the cooling off and the fun in the sun.

Community Gatherings

Greenwood is a small town that shows up for itself, and the community gatherings held through the year are where you see it. Festivals, concerts and farmers markets all run here.

Old City Park is the popular gathering spot. The park hosts events through the year, the Greenwood Freedom Festival among them. Live music, food vendors and a parade make that one worth timing a visit around.

For something more low-key, check out Craig Park. The park has a shelter, benches and a bridge, which makes it the spot for a picnic or a quiet afternoon in the sun.

For time in nature, Independence Park and Pleasant Creek. Both have walking trails and plenty of green space to work through.

For shopping and dining, head to Main Street. The downtown area is home to a range of local businesses, Four Willow Farms among them. That farm carries fresh produce and hosts events through the year, a fall festival included.

To host your own gathering, consider renting the gazebo at Westside Park. The outdoor space works for weddings, family reunions and other events.

Indulge in Local Brews

You cannot visit Greenwood without trying the local brews. The city carries a strong selection of breweries and bars covering beers, wines and spirits.

Oaken Barrel Brewing Company is the popular brewery in Greenwood. It has been running since 1994 and is known for its award-winning beers and its food. The house beers are brewed on-site and there is a rotating selection alongside them.

Beer drinkers should order the Razz-Wheat. It is light and refreshing with a hint of raspberry. It is the drink for a hot summer day.

If beer is not your thing, Greenwood has other options. Wine drinkers should work through the local bars and restaurants. A good number of them carry a strong selection of wines from around the world.

Feeling adventurous, try a wine flight. You sample a range and come away with a new favorite.

Whatever you choose, drink responsibly. Do not drink and drive. And remember, it is five o’clock somewhere.

Greenwood sits directly south of Indianapolis, in the northern corner of Johnson County. Old City Park and Craig Park hold the festivals and the picnic shelters. Summerfield Park is the big one at 16 acres. Freedom Springs is the water park. Greenwood Park Mall and the Promenade are the retail, and they sit on opposite ends of the same commercial strip with the restaurants between them. Main Street carries the local businesses. Everything else, the bowling alleys, the trampoline parks and the spas, is spread through the neighborhoods and none of it is far.

A Night at the Movies

For a Friday night in Greenwood, catch the latest blockbuster at one of the local theaters. Reclining chairs and strong sound systems put you inside the film.

Head to Regal Greenwood & RPX for the full cinema experience. With 14 screens, something will suit. Reserved seating means you get the seat you want.

There is more than the screens. Regal Greenwood & RPX runs a range of concessions, classic buttered popcorn through to candy and soda. Nobody leaves hungry.

For a more intimate setting, one of the smaller movie theaters in town. Fewer screens means a cozier room and a more personal experience.

Grab the popcorn, sit back in the reclining chair and let the evening run.

Sweet Treats

After a long day of exploring Greenwood, Indiana, a sweet treat is in order. There are plenty of options for it.

For classic ice cream, head to Mrs. Curl Ice Cream Shop. The place has been serving frozen treats since 1950. A scoop or two of the creamy homemade ice cream is the order. For something more indulgent, the Hot Fudge Brownie Sundae.

For cake, try the Strawberry Shortcake at one of Greenwood’s local bakeries. The dessert balances sweet and tart, with fresh strawberries and fluffy cake. It ends a meal or fills a midday gap.

For an unusual twist on a classic, the Chocolate Covered Banana at one of Greenwood’s candy shops. The sweet and savory combination is a childhood favorite that holds up. It also works on the hot days when you want something cold.

Whatever the sweet tooth wants, Greenwood, Indiana has it. Go ahead and indulge.

Pamper Yourself

You have been working hard and it is time for some relaxation. Greenwood has plenty of options for a little self-care. These are the places to pamper yourself in Greenwood:

Studio 135 Salon and Spa

For a full-service salon and spa, Studio 135. Haircuts and coloring through to massages and facials, the service list is a long one. The staff are friendly and know what they are doing, and you leave properly looked after.

The Woodhouse Day Spa

For a genuinely indulgent afternoon, head to The Woodhouse Day Spa. The menu covers massages and facials through to body wraps and waxing. The room is serene and the amenities are luxurious, and it shows from the moment you walk in.

Massage Envy

For a more affordable option, Massage Envy. They run Swedish, deep tissue and hot stone massages, along with facials and other skincare treatments. The location is convenient and the scheduling is flexible, which makes it easy to fit in.

Spaah

For a more unusual spa afternoon, try Spaah. The services run from traditional massages and facials to more specialized treatments like cupping and reflexology. The room is cozy and the staff are friendly, and you settle in quickly.

Wherever you go in Greenwood, you leave refreshed. Go ahead and treat yourself.

Explore the Great Outdoors

Greenwood, Indiana carries a lot of outdoor ground. A leisurely stroll or something with more adrenaline in it, the city covers both.

The parks are where to start outdoors in Greenwood. Summerfield Park is the first, with sixteen acres of green space, nature-themed play pockets and softball fields. Walk through the park and look at the scenery, or challenge the friends to a game of softball.

For something more adventurous, head to Freedom Springs Greenwood Aquatics Park. The aquatic park handles a hot summer day, with water slides, a lazy river and a splash pad. Working through all of the water activities takes most of an afternoon.

For a quieter outdoor day, hike the trails at Craig Park. The park is home to deer, foxes and birds. The trails are scenic and the walking is easy.

Whatever your outdoor interests, Greenwood, Indiana has the ground for them. Pack a picnic lunch, grab the sunscreen and go.

The Heart of Johnson County

Welcome to the heart of Johnson County, where the things to do and places to visit in Greenwood, Indiana are waiting. This area is not only a suburb of Indianapolis; it is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country. The history, the culture and the attractions between them cover most interests.

The Greenwood Park Mall is the highlight for a lot of visitors. The mall is one of the largest shopping centers in the area, with over 150 stores spread across one million square feet. Clothing and accessories through to electronics and home goods, it carries the range. There is also a 13-screen movie theater and an ice skating rink, which makes it a full day with friends or family.

For something more low-key, check out Summerfield Park. The 16-acre park handles a sunny afternoon. Take a stroll through the walking trails, picnic on the grass, or play a game of basketball or volleyball. There is a playground for the little ones.

Greenwood is also home to some strong restaurants. Pizza, burgers or something more upscale, you will find it here. Revery, Vino Villa and Oaken Barrel Brewing Company are the ones to try first.

No visit to Greenwood is complete without the rest of Johnson County. The area is full of small towns and open countryside. Take a scenic drive, go hiking, or visit one of the many museums and historical sites.

Come and explore the heart of Johnson County and work through the things to do and places to visit in Greenwood, Indiana.

Attractions and Festivals

Greenwood, Indiana is never short of attractions and festivals. Tourist or local, there is always something running. These are the attractions and festivals to know about:

Attractions

Freedom Springs Aquatic Park: This park is a must-visit for anyone who loves water activities. With its wave pool, lazy river, and water slides, you’re sure to have a splashing good time. Just make sure you don’t forget your sunscreen!

Mallow Run Winery: If you’re a wine lover, then Mallow Run Winery is the place to be. You can take a tour of the winery, taste some of their award-winning wines, and even attend one of their many events.

Valle Vista Golf Course: Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, Valle Vista Golf Course is the perfect place to tee off. The course is well-maintained, and the staff is friendly and accommodating.

Festivals

Greenwood Freedom Festival: This festival is held annually on the Saturday before Independence Day. It features live music, food vendors, a car show, and of course, fireworks. It’s a great way to celebrate America’s birthday with your family and friends.

Old Town Waverly Park Fall Festival: This festival is held every September in Old Town Waverly Park. It features arts and crafts vendors, live music, and a classic car show. It’s a great way to welcome the fall season.

Johnson County Fair: The Johnson County Fair is held annually in July and features a carnival, live music, and a variety of food vendors. It’s a great way to experience the local culture and have some fun.

Water, wine tasting or festival hopping, Greenwood covers all three. Bring a sense of humor and an appetite.

Bowling Bonanza

For an indoor afternoon in Greenwood, the bowling alleys. Bowling never dates and the town has plenty of options.

First up, there’s the Royal Pin Leisure Centers. This bowling alley has it all: 64 lanes, a full arcade, and even laser tag. You can spend hours here without getting bored. Plus, they have great specials throughout the week, like $2 Tuesdays and $3 Thursdays.

If you’re looking for a more intimate bowling experience, check out Hi-Way Lanes. This family-owned bowling alley has been a Greenwood staple since 1958. With 24 lanes, a snack bar, and a pro shop, it’s the perfect place to spend a casual evening with friends or family.

Another great option is Southern Bowl. This bowling alley is known for its friendly staff and great atmosphere. They have 32 lanes, as well as a full bar and grill. Plus, they often have live music on weekends, so you can bowl and boogie at the same time.

Last but not least, there’s Bowlero. This bowling alley is a bit further from Greenwood, but it’s worth the drive. With 48 lanes, an arcade, and a sports bar, it’s the ultimate destination for a night out. Plus, they often have themed events, like glow-in-the-dark bowling and disco nights.

Whichever alley you pick, the evening works. Bring your A-game and a pair of socks.

Summer Camps and Classes

Summer in Greenwood, Indiana runs on the camps and classes offered by Greenwood Parks & Recreation. Learning a new skill, making new friends or filling the days, all three are covered.

Sports through to art to nature, the list of classes and camps is a long one. A few examples:

The Rookies Series

First, second or third-graders looking to fill a summer should take The Rookies Series. The camp covers sports, nature, art and more. New friends come with it.

Gymnastics Lessons

To improve flexibility and agility, sign up for gymnastics lessons at Fundamentals By Wrights. The center has a ball pit and is fully stocked with bars, beams, trampolines and other equipment. Flipping and tumbling follow quickly.

Sky Zone Indy South

For a field trip that is out of the ordinary, Sky Zone Indy South. Students get 2 hours of jump time at the indoor trampoline park. Snacks are provided, so nobody runs out of energy halfway through.

Nature Camp

Nature lovers should not miss Nature Camp. The camp covers the outdoors, the local environment and a nature hike. Nature crafts go home with the children at the end.

Art Camp

Budding artists should sign up for Art Camp. The camp covers different art forms and different mediums, and the children make their own work. An art show at the end puts it on display.

Sign up for a summer camp or class and the summer takes care of itself.

Greenwood’s Community Spirit

Greenwood carries a strong sense of community. Hospitality through to community centers, the things that make a town feel like one are here.

The Greenwood Community Center is where to start. It is a hub of activity where you meet people, take classes and fill an afternoon. Yoga through to dance classes, something is always running.

The community center is not the only reason Greenwood works. The people here are friendly and welcoming and it shows quickly. Out shopping or on a walk, people stop and talk.

The hospitality is what makes Greenwood what it is. From the local restaurants to the shops, the people here care about what they do and are happy to share what they know. Looking for somewhere to eat or advice on where to go, you will find plenty of friendly faces in Greenwood.

For a city with a strong sense of community, Greenwood is the answer. The welcoming people, the community center and the hospitality between them make it easy to settle in.

Museums and Art Galleries

Greenwood, Indiana is home to several museums and art galleries worth exploring. Art lover or history reader, both are covered. These are the museums and art galleries to check out:

Greenwood Community Center: This community center has a gallery that showcases the works of local artists. You can see paintings, sculptures, and other art pieces created by talented artists from Greenwood and the surrounding areas. It’s a great place to support the local art scene and discover new artists.

Johnson County Museum of History: If you want to learn about the history of Johnson County, this museum is the place to be. You can see artifacts, photos, and documents that tell the story of the county from its earliest days to the present. It’s a fascinating journey through time that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the area.

Art on the Corner: This outdoor art gallery is located in the heart of downtown Greenwood. You can see sculptures and other art pieces on display as you walk around the area. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and appreciate art at the same time.

Indianapolis Museum of Art: While not located in Greenwood, the Indianapolis Museum of Art is just a short drive away. It’s one of the largest and oldest art museums in the country, with a collection that spans 5,000 years of art and culture. You can see works by famous artists like Monet, Picasso, and O’Keeffe, as well as contemporary pieces by up-and-coming artists.

Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art: Another museum located in nearby Indianapolis, the Eiteljorg Museum is dedicated to showcasing the art and culture of Native Americans and the American West. You can see paintings, sculptures, and other art pieces that tell the story of these fascinating cultures.

Local art, the history of the area or a major collection, Greenwood and the surrounding areas cover all three. Get out there and explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some fun things to do in Greenwood that won’t break the bank?

Greenwood carries plenty that costs little. Visit Craig Park for a picnic or a game of frisbee golf. Summerfield Park handles a full day outdoors. History readers should visit the Old City Park, which is open to the public at no charge.

What are some unique date ideas in Greenwood for couples?

For an unusual date in Greenwood, visit the Mallow Run Winery for a wine tasting. The Paint and Party Studio is the other option, where you make something together. Feeling adventurous, take a hot air balloon ride with Midwest Balloon Rides.

What are some hidden gems to check out near Greenwood?

Several places near Greenwood get overlooked. The Johnson County Museum of History covers the history of the area. The Freedom Springs Aquatic Center handles a day of swimming and water activities. For hiking, Southwestway Park and its trails.

What are some of the best indoor activities to do in Greenwood?

For indoor activities in Greenwood, the Sky Zone Trampoline Park handles the jumping. Rascal’s Fun Zone handles the arcade games. For shopping, the Greenwood Park Mall and its many stores.

What are some must-try restaurants in Greenwood?

Greenwood carries plenty of strong restaurants. For Italian food, Matteo’s Ristorante Italiano. For BBQ, City Barbeque. For sushi, Yokohama Japanese Cuisine.

What interesting historical facts should I know about Greenwood, Indiana?

Greenwood was originally named Smocktown. The name was changed to Greenwood in 1870. The first mayor of Greenwood was a woman named Ethel Cook, elected in 1963, who served for two terms.

Frequently asked questions about Greenwood, Indiana

What can you do in Greenwood, Indiana for free?

Craig Park costs nothing and carries picnic shelters, a playground, a splash pad and frisbee golf. Summerfield Park is also free, 16 acres of trails and open ground with softball fields and a playground on it. Old City Park is open to the public and is where the Greenwood Freedom Festival happens. Bring your own food and you spend nothing at all.

Is Freedom Springs Greenwood Aquatics Park worth the admission?

For a full day, yes. The lazy river, the lap pool, the diving well and the water slides all come on the one ticket, and swim lessons run there too. A private cabana costs extra. Craig Park and Summerfield Park cost nothing if you would rather not pay at all.

Is Greenwood Park Mall worth the trip?

Over 150 stores across one million square feet, plus a 13-screen movie theater and an ice skating rink, which makes it a whole day rather than an errand. Parking is free. The Promenade next door is the expensive end, with Saks Fifth Avenue and Williams-Sonoma on it.

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