Summer in Festival Country is more than just a season, it's when spaces come to life with music, festivals and fun. To truly immerse yourself in all the summer fun just south of Indy, there are seven quintessential experiences we recommend. Whether it’s a night of live music under the open sky or a serene day walking through the flower field, it’s not summer without these seven Festival Country favorites.
1. Water Parks
There’s something about floating down the lazy river under the warm sun that signals the arrival of summer. In Festival Country, water parks aren't just places to cool off; they're summer staples. Whether you're racing down slides or lounging under the sun, aquatic centers offer fun for all. This summer must-do promises to make a splash in your memories.
2. Outdoor Concerts
If you ask us, summer soundtracks are best heard outdoors with great friends and great food. Just south of Indy, live music is the heartbeat of summer, and there’s no better way to experience it than through concerts under the open sky. Luckily, more than 60 outdoor concerts are happening throughout Festival Country this season. Venues like the Greenwood Amphitheater, the DriveHubler.com Amphitheater in Franklin, Mallow Run Winery and more will be filled with fun nearly every weekend. The only challenge is deciding which concert to choose. See the calendar here.
3. Festivals
With more than 1,000 festivals and events here every year, it’s no coincidence why we’re called Festival Country Indiana. Here, you’re sure to find your fun. For a celebration of wine, art, music and microbrews, check out WAMMfest. If you want fun for the family, the Johnson County Fair is a favorite for nostalgic tastes and thrills. If you’d rather enjoy serene gardens and shop from local vendors, then Whimsy & Blooms Vintage & Handmade Garden Market is for you. From cultural celebrations to craft brew festivals, summer festivals showcase the fun just south of Indy.
4. Dollie’s Farm
What could be more picturesque than wandering through fields of flowers, hand-selecting the perfect blooms to create your own bouquet? At Dollie’s Farm, you can do just that. Grab some snips and a bucket and weave your way through rows of flowers, choosing your favorites. Bring a picnic to savor the views even more. This family-owned farm also hosts events throughout the year like goat yoga, bouquet-making classes and harvest celebrations.
5. Outdoor Dining
Summer is the season of al fresco dining, and in Festival Country, there's no shortage of inviting outdoor eateries. Enjoy an award-winning tenderloin while soaking up the breeze on the covered patio at The Willard, sip wine while listening to live music and playing bocce ball on the patio at Vino Villa, or experience elegant rooftop dining at Up Cellar. Whether it's a quaint café with courthouse views or an upscale culinary experience, dining outdoors is a great way to soak up the summer.
6. Shopping
Festival Country is home to two malls, great downtown shopping, antiques and more. In Franklin, you’ll find a bustling antique and vintage scene with nearly a dozen local shops within walking distance, plus fashionable boutiques, a cozy bookstore, a fun toy store and more. Visit Greenwood to shop from familiar favorites at Greenwood Park Mall and find a great variety of local shops in Old Town Greenwood. Plus, you’ll find frequent handmade markets and shopping events throughout the area. See our list of shops here.
7. Family Fun
School is out and that means it’s the prime time for family adventures. For excitement, zoom around on go-karts that go up to 45 miles per hour at the renowned Whiteland Raceway Park. Head to Rascal’s Fun Zone for more go-karting, mini bowling, an arcade, bumper boats and more. Enjoy a round of friendly competition at one of our mini golf courses or try your hand at mini bowling at 10 Pins. Another great adventure is exploring one of 11 stops on Festie’s Frozen Favorites Ice Cream Trail. If you ask us, it’s the sweetest trail around. Finally, to capture the memories, strike a post at one of several Instagram-worthy selfie spots like Artcraft Alley and Kuji Alley. Find more ways to play this summer by clicking here.
From the excitement of water parks to the tranquility of bouquet making, these seven activities are must-dos for a classic Festival Country summer. Celebrate this season in the place that is a little more festive.
Ready to plan your adventure? Click here to find lodging, events and more.
