Cope Environmental Center
Centerville, IN
If you are into learning about sustainability, love walking trails, and/or are looking for a beautiful event space to rent then Cope is the perfect place to check out. The people who run Cope are extremely knowledgeable and passionate about sustainability and offer classes and events throughout the year which any age will enjoy. I have personally rented their event space for my mother's celebration of life and had a beautiful and flawless event thanks to their kind and generous staff. Truly a hidden gem in east central Indiana, check out Cope at copeenvironmental.org.
Hayes Arboretum
Richmond, IN
I grew up right across the street from Hayes Arboretum and so as a child I visited often. I remember having so much fun exploring the nature center and the beautiful trails with hidden ponds that I thought were magical. Hayes is still is full swing and now also offers mountain biking trails as well. Richmond is a small city but offers a museum showcasing its rich history, plenty of places to go on nature adventures, and even two Egyptian mummies (the only two in the whole state!). Check out Hayes Arboretum online at hayesarboretum.org.
Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve
Fishers, IN
Ritchey Woods is the perfect place to take a quick hike, have a picnic, or hold an outdoor meeting. It's nestled right in the city of Fishers and next to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Airport where you may just see and hear a small plane take off while you're visiting. It's a go to place if you live in the city and just want to get out in nature, smell the sweet smells of summertime, and take a deep breath. You can find them at RitcheyWoods.
Eagle Creek State Park
Indianapolis, IN
Okay, honestly, I didn't even realize Eagle Creek has as much going on as is does. Every summer I enjoy going there and taking advantage of paddle boating on the lake and hiking the trails. I've also visited the Peace Learning Center which holds classes and meetings. Eagle Creek offers concerts, a treetop adventure course, a beach with access to swimming, kayaking and paddle boarding, fishing, and even cross-country skiing. If you're looking for an adventure in the city, this would be a great day trip. Find Eagle Creek at eaglecreekpark.org.
Strawtown Koteewi Park
Noblesville, IN
This is my new favorite place! If you're looking for a park where you can go for a hike, lounge along a slow moving river, go horseback riding, play on an aerial adventure park, go camping, and take the kids tubing in the winter then look no further. Wow, that was a mouthful but you can seriously find it all at this park. Easy to get to right off of 37 North, it's definitely worth checking out. Find them at HERE.