The small town of Zionsville, Indiana (located just northwest of Indianapolis) is well-known for its array of boutique shops and fine dining establishments. But Zionsville is not just for ladies who lunch. It’s a perfect daytime destination for families as well.
First stop, Carter’s Antique Toy Museum on Main Street. A relatively recent addition to the downtown Zionsville landscape, the three-story building blends in beautifully with its neighbors. Don’t let the word “museum” mislead you. While there are toys in cases to be looked at, Carter’s also offers rides on an antique merry-go-round, bumper cars and a variety of other coin operated ride-on toys and arcade games. Grab lunch or a snack in the on-site Old Thyme Ice Cream Parlor.
Another of my children’s Zionsville favorites is Earth Explorer Toys on Pine Street. This is the perfect place to find fun and educational toys and games for kids of all ages.
If your little ones have any energy left, walk from Earth Explorers to Lions Park. Maintained by the Zionsville Lions Club, the park offers tennis and basketball courts, baseball diamonds, a gazbeo and two playgrounds, including one built especially for the preschool set. There is also a paved walking trail around the park that takes you right by the river’s edge (but far enough from it that you don’t have to worry about stragglers getting into the water).
On your way back home, plan to grab a quick bite at Amore Pizzeria Ristorante. This is a pizza-by-the-slice joint, perfect for little ones who have little patience for waiting for their food to arrive.
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