All News & StoriesSummer is a great time for road trips! Here are some of the places that our staff love to visit where they can get there on one tank of gas or less. Nashville, Indiana is a favorite among many of us, but there are some unique and interesting options in other nearby towns as well.
Sarah, Community Engagement Specialist
I have so many favorites from u-pick at one of the various farms around central Indiana to visiting local wineries for tastings to little Nashville for shopping and hiking. My absolute favorite is Goat Milk Stuff in Scottsburg, Indiana just an hour south of Indy for a charming farm experience. This family-run spot offers baby goat snuggling sessions, educational farm tours, and a shop full of handmade goat milk soaps, lotions, and more. You can also enjoy goat milk ice cream while exploring the farm. Visits are by appointment, so be sure to schedule ahead for a hands-on, family-friendly adventure that’s both relaxing and unique!
Jamie, Family Engagement Specialist
Living in Indianapolis with young children, we like to stay closer to home. Right now, my favorite getaway is Noblesville—mostly because I’m a proud Noblesville alum. Go Millers! The city has grown tremendously since I was a child, but my favorite spots are the ones that have stood the test of time: Potter’s Bridge Park, Noble Coffee & Tea Company, Alexander’s Ice Cream Parlor, Logan Village Mall, Noblesville Antiques on the Square, and Forest Park. There’s something for the whole family to enjoy!
Anne, Program Resource Manager
I love all of the places mentioned 
One of my favorite places within a couple hours is Winona Lake, IN. It’s a super cute lakeside community with lots to do and the best little shops to wander in! My favorite shop is The Beaded Peacock – a must-stop for jewelry makers and lovers! The limitless park rents kayaks, paddleboats, paddleboards, and canoes and there is a splash pad. There are lots of trails and other things to do.
Kristin, Communications Manager
I’m fortunate to have a place to crash in Louisville, where my brother-in-law lives with his family. When our kids were little, Waterfront Park was a favorite place to play. Even tourist attractions like the Louisville Slugger Museum and Churchill Downs had fun options for little ones. Now that our kids are older, we can sneak away for adult time. We recently had a fun evening in Butchertown for some Cuban food and bourbon tasting – deelish!
Skylar, Administrative Assistant
One of my favorite places to visit that is local to Indy is Nashville, Indiana. I recently discovered it and have had so much fun exploring all that it has to offer. Most people tell you to visit during the on-season which is summer and fall, but I have found that there is plenty to explore in the off-season as well. There are lots of local places to eat and shop, and everything is easily walkable. Another one of my favorite places in Centerville, IN. They have a candle store that is one of the best I have ever visited – Warm Glow. I have even turned my mom on to it as well. They also have local artists and shop owners that can sell there. I go at least three times a year to stock up. I also love visiting their antique mall in town – something about a charming small town that makes me happy.
Lauren, Family Engagement Specialist
One of our go-to day trips from Indy is Columbus, Indiana—it’s such a neat little city with a great downtown. We usually kick things off at KidsCommons (because where else can your kids slide down a giant toilet?). Then we swing by Zaharakos for some ice cream and old-school soda fountain vibes. Lastly, we head to the outlet mall, downtown Nashville, or Brown County, depending on our mood! It’s one of those days that feels like a mini-vacation without having to go far.
Allie, Program Resource Navigator
We love to do kayaking and tubing trips! We live right by Eagle Creek, and we love to go there to kayak or hike. If we want to float with the river and do less rowing, we go to White Water Canoe Company in Noblesville. If you don’t have your own kayaks or tubes, you can rent for the day. They will even drop you off and pick you up for smoother transitioning! If you want deeper waters, go to Turkey Run State Park. We will go with a large group of friends to float on tubes and/or kayaks through Sugar Valley Canoe Company. Pack an easy lunch and snacks for a whole day in the sun. Remember to get dry bags though! Always anticipate falling into the water, even if you’re on a canoe or kayak – trust me!
Lane, HR Manager
My mom and I used to take day trips to Nashville, IN every year for my birthday. The fall is a beautiful time to visit Brown County. Our favorite thing to do was stop for fried biscuits and apple butter in the morning. Then we’d shop in all the sweet little shops, including the one that sold the Department 56 houses. I still have quite the collection! We’d top the day off with lunch at the Hob Knob before heading home.
