Located just 15 miles west of downtown Indianapolis, Hendricks County is a charming suburban community offering springtime visitors hundreds of acres of parkland, scenic trails, gardens and delicious local cuisine.
Officially recognized as a county in 1824, Hendricks County, Indiana, has transformed its once agricultural community into a bustling hub for entrepreneurs and small businesses. With towns including Avon, Brownsburg, Danville and Plainfield, among others, this bustling central Indiana suburb boasts a population of approximately 186,000 and prides itself on its commitment to preserving its natural environment and history, celebrating its bicentennial year in 2024.
“Hendricks County truly provides so much to see and do,” says Josh Duke, Visit Hendricks County senior communications manager. “We have destination restaurants, fun events and numerous signature attractions, and our proximity to Indianapolis makes us the perfect safe and affordable destination to spend a weekend or weeklong adventure.”
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1. Avon Gardens
Visit Avon Gardens, where nature transforms to welcome spring. Walk along tranquil paths, enjoy the flowers and shop the garden center. Visitors can book garden tours in advance, and classes and workshops are offered throughout the year. You can even take a little of Avon home with you from their garden shop, which offers plants, plant food, garden tools and more. The gardens are perfect for weddings and photo opportunities, offering a verdant and beautiful setting.
2. Hendricks County Historical Museum and Old County Jail
History buffs will delight in the fascinating stories and artifacts found at the Hendricks County Historical Museum. Dating back to 1866, the museum once served as the sheriff’s residence and county jail. Visitors can explore the furnished kitchen, parlor and bedrooms, then venture over to the Old Jail to imagine life as a local inmate.
3. The Tie Dye Lab
Create and take home your own handmade Hendricks County souvenir at this hands-on, do-it-yourself, walk-in tie-dye studio in Avon. The colorful and fun space lets you create your own one-of-a-kind wearable items, including tie-dyed T-shirts, hats, socks or even shoestrings. No reservation is needed for small groups. But if you’re bringing eight or more, be sure to make advance reservations at thetiedyelab.com.
4. Oasis Diner
A trip to Hendricks County isn’t complete without trying the famous pork tenderloin at Plainfield’s Oasis Diner, one of the only historical diners remaining on U.S. 40 and the only diner located on the Historic National Road in Indiana. The diner was manufactured in Signac, New Jersey, and shipped by railroad to Plainfield where it opened in 1954. After closing in 2008, a local couple restored the diner back to its original appearance, and it reopened in 2014 to continue welcoming visitors for a feast. Stop in to enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner with delicious homemade treats.
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5. Hendricks Live!
Enjoy state-of-the-art theater, performances and community events at Plainfield’s Hendricks Live! venue. This modern venue offers a mix of local, regional and national productions, including theater, comedy, films, music, family-friendly shows and more. Whether you’re planning a night out or adding something unique to your travel plans, Hendricks Live! provides an unforgettable Indiana experience for everyone.
6. Natural Valley Ranch
Channel your inner cowboy or cowgirl at this 78-acre family-owned ranch near Brownsburg. Book 30- or 60-minute guided horseback trail rides through the property along White Lick Creek. Afterward, visitors can interact with farm animals, hike or fish. Natural Valley Ranch also offers campsites and a 3,100-square-foot country cottage with a wraparound porch for guests to stay.
7. Brew Link Brewing
Offering a full menu and 24 beers on tap, Brew Link Brewing is a small-town, veteran-owned and -operated brewpub located on the Oak Tree Golf Course. It offers high-quality beers and fresh, handmade food in a friendly and vibrant atmosphere. Plus, they’re family-, kid- and pet-friendly.
8. Avon Town Hall Park
Located behind Avon Town Hall, this beautiful 83-acre park features a 9-acre fishing pond, two playgrounds, outdoor pingpong tables and two picnic shelters. The easy 1.3-mile loop walking trail is perfect for anyone interested in a relaxing outdoor stroll. The park also offers a 9-hole disc golf course and a Trak 36 dirt racetrack for battery-powered RC vehicles. The park is open from dawn to dusk.
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Hendricks County Happenings
McCloud Maple Syrup Days
In March, this annual event celebrates McCloud Nature Park’s sugar maple trees and the delicious maple syrup they produce. Activities include a 5K and 10K Maple Sap Run, a pancake breakfast fundraiser, demonstrations and an ax-throwing station. To learn more, visit hendrickscountyparks.org/programs/maple-syrup-days.
Shades of Blue Elite Experience
This exclusive, all-inclusive four-day fundraising event features dance parties, six workshops and a worship service. Enjoy soulful music while learning all about “Steppin,” a form of dance where participants lock hands and gyrate their hips and toes. The event takes place April 3 through 6 at The Embassy Suites in Plainfield. Purchase tickets at seannshadesofblue.com.
Kegs & Eggs Craft Beer Fest
This annual craft beer festival features unlimited samples from more than 25 Indiana craft breweries, wineries and distilleries. Enjoy live music, ample food options and an adult Easter egg hunt with exciting prizes. The event takes place on Saturday, April 12, from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Washington Township Park Pavilion Center in Avon. To learn more, visit indianaontap.com/events.
Indiana Guitar Show
Musicians from across the country will gather at Indiana’s largest guitar show on April 12 and 13 to buy, sell and trade rare and unique instruments. Bring your own guitar for evaluation or purchase one from national dealers. Learn more about this event at theindianaguitarshow.com.
Avon Gardens Annual Peony Festival
Join Avon Gardens as they usher in spring at the annual Peony Festival. Enjoy live music, tasty food and beautiful blooming peonies on May 18 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This family- and dog-friendly event also features plant sales from the garden. Come celebrate spring among the peonies. Visit avongardens.net or facebook.com/avongardens for the latest updates.
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