Greenwood Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, food to try, where to stay, and more in Greenwood, Indiana.


Introduction to Greenwood

Greenwood, located in the heart of Indiana’s Nine-County Region, is a vibrant city with a mix of modern conveniences and historic charm. This Midwestern gem has a lot to offer visitors, including beautiful parks and trails, local museums and cultural attractions, and a growing food and drink scene. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, Greenwood is a great destination to explore.

List of Places to Visit in Greenwood

No matter what your interests are, there’s something for everyone in Greenwood. Here’s a list of some of the best places to visit in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Greenwood has rich history and culture, and it’s worth exploring some of the museums and historical landmarks that reflect this. These are some of the most notable cultural attractions in the city:

  1. Greenwood Park Mall: The largest indoor mall in the state, this shopping center features over 150 stores and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
  2. Johnson County Museum of History: This museum showcases the stories of Johnson County and the surrounding area, dating back to prehistoric times.
  3. Woodmen Park: This historic park is home to many events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals.
  4. The Beech House: This iconic historic home has been beautifully preserved and now serves as a museum.

Natural Attractions of Greenwood: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Surrounded by beautiful forests and scenic landscapes, Greenwood has plenty of natural attractions for nature lovers to enjoy. These are some of the best outdoor adventures and scenic views to visit:

  1. Freedom Springs Aquatics Park: With its massive water slides, wave pool, and lazy river, this aquatics park is the perfect place for families and adventure-seekers alike.
  2. Traders Point Creamery: This farmstead is home to a herd of organic, grass-fed cows, and visitors can take a tour, sample artisan cheeses, and explore the picturesque grounds.
  3. Craig Park: This park boasts a variety of amenities, including a skateboarding park, playgrounds, tennis courts, and open fields for sports and leisure activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Greenwood

For those who love outdoor activities, Greenwood is a great destination to explore by foot or bike. These are some of the best hiking and biking routes to enjoy in the city:

  1. Pleasant Run Trail: This 9.3-mile trail runs through scenic urban areas and wooded landscapes, making it a great option for beginner and intermediate hikers.
  2. Cardinal Greenway: This 62-mile trail runs through Indiana and beyond, with a section that passes through Greenwood. It’s a great option for experienced hikers and bikers looking for a challenge.
  3. Pennsy Trail: This 5.2-mile trail follows the historic Pennsylvania Railroad and is perfect for beginners and families.

Best Things to Do in Greenwood: Activities and Tours

Greenwood has a wide range of activities and tours to suit every interest. These are some of the best things to do and places to visit in the city:

  1. Sky Zone Trampoline Park: This indoor trampoline park is a fun destination for all ages, with a variety of activities including dodgeball, fitness classes, and toddler time.
  2. Main Street Park: This park is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beautiful outdoors. It features a playground, picnic tables, and plenty of green space for activities.
  3. Otte Golf and Family Fun Center: This miniature golf and batting cage center is a fun destination for families and groups.

Week-Long Itinerary for Greenwood

If you’re planning to spend a full week in Greenwood, here’s a sample itinerary that will help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Greenwood Park Mall, then dine at Revery, an upscale restaurant specializing in seasonal cuisine.
Day 2 Explore the Johnson County Museum of History, then head to Woodmen Park for a picnic lunch.
Day 3 Spend the day at Freedom Springs Aquatics Park, then dine at the Knucklehead Burger Truck, featuring juicy burgers made with fresh ingredients.
Day 4 Take a tour of Traders Point Creamery, then visit Craig Park for a game of tennis or Frisbee.
Day 5 Hike the Pleasant Run Trail, then grab lunch at Main Street Grille, a cozy restaurant serving American favorites.
Day 6 Visit Sky Zone Trampoline Park, then enjoy a family-friendly dinner at Mellow Mushroom, serving creative pizzas with unique toppings.
Day 7 Spend the day at Otte Golf and Family Fun Center, then end the week with a sweet treat from Mrs. Curl Ice Cream Shop.

Food and Drink Scene of Greenwood

Greenwood’s food and drink scene is rapidly growing, with new restaurants and breweries opening regularly. These are some of the best places to eat and drink in the city:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Pretzel Bites with Beer Cheese: This savory appetizer at Taxman Brewing Company features soft, warm pretzel bites with a side of rich beer cheese.
  2. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich: Famous Dave’s Barbecue serves up a classic pulled pork sandwich with tangy sauce and crispy coleslaw.
  3. Farmstead Cheese Tasting Plate: Traders Point Creamery offers a variety of artisan cheeses that are sure to please cheese lovers.

Local Beverages

  1. HopJaw Beer: This local brewery features a variety of flavorful craft beers, including the popular HopJaw IPA.
  2. Grapefruit Shandy: Planetary Brewing Company serves up a refreshing grapefruit shandy, perfect for a hot summer day.
  3. Apple Cider Slushie: Tuttle Orchards is known for its fresh apple cider and sells delicious Apple Cider Slushies.

Where to Stay in Greenwood: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Greenwood has a variety of accommodation options for travelers, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. These are some of the best places to stay in the city:

  1. Holiday Inn Express: This clean and comfortable hotel is conveniently located near the Greenwood Park Mall and offers great amenities like an indoor pool and fitness center.
  2. Greenwood Inn: This budget-friendly hotel offers basic accommodations and is located near popular attractions like the Johnson County Museum of History.
  3. Airbnb: For a more homey experience, consider booking an Airbnb in Greenwood. There are plenty of options available, from cozy cottages to spacious homes.

What to Buy in Greenwood: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring home, Greenwood has plenty of options. These are some of the best places to shop for local goods:

  1. Half Baked Pottery & Gifts: This shop specializes in handmade pottery, gifts, and home decor, all made by local artists.
  2. Tiffany’s Boutique: This women’s clothing boutique offers trendy and affordable clothing and accessories.
  3. Greenwood Farmer’s Market: This market offers a variety of locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and other unique items.

Local Culture and Customs of Greenwood

Greenwood has a strong sense of community and friendly locals. Here are some tidbits to keep in mind as you explore the city:

  • Tip 15-20% for restaurant and bar service.
  • Greenwood is a dry city, meaning alcoholic beverages aren’t sold within city limits. However, several nearby cities have liquor stores and restaurants that serve alcohol.
  • The city takes pride in its history and offers many opportunities to learn about the region’s past.

Best Time to Visit Greenwood

The best time to visit Greenwood is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the outdoor activities are plentiful. The winter months can be cold and snowy, while summers can be hot and humid.

Do’s and Don’ts of Greenwood

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind as you explore Greenwood:

Do:

  • Explore the city’s beautiful parks and outdoor attractions.
  • Support local businesses and artists.
  • Take time to learn about the region’s rich history and culture.

Don’t:

  • Drink alcohol in public, as it is illegal in Greenwood.
  • Litter or disrespect the city’s natural resources.
  • Ignore traffic laws or speed limits.

Safety and Health

Greenwood is a safe city overall, but visitors should still take basic precautions to ensure their safety and wellbeing. These are some important tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Greenwood

  • Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when hiking or biking trails alone.
  • Keep car doors locked and don’t leave valuables in plain sight.
  • Ask locals for advice on safe walking or jogging routes.

Health in Greenwood

  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated during hot summer months.
  • Wear appropriate footwear when exploring parks and hiking trails.
  • Bring sunscreen and insect repellent to protect against sunburn and bug bites.

Getting to Greenwood: Transportation Options and Logistics

Greenwood is located just south of Indianapolis and can be easily accessed by car, bus, or plane.

Airports Near Greenwood

  • Indianapolis International Airport: Located just 30 minutes north of Greenwood, this airport offers flights to destinations all over the country and beyond.

Bus Stations Near Greenwood

  • Indianapolis Greyhound Station: Located just 15 minutes north of Greenwood, this bus station offers regular service to cities all over the United States.

Other Options

  • Car rental: There are plenty of car rental options available at the Indianapolis International Airport and throughout the city.

How to Get Around in Greenwood

Greenwood is a walkable city, with many attractions and amenities within walking distance of each other. However, if you prefer to drive, there are plenty of parking options available throughout the city.

Where to Go Next from Greenwood: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Greenwood is located near many popular destinations and excursions. These are some great places to visit after exploring Greenwood:

  • Indianapolis: Just 15 minutes north of Greenwood, Indianapolis is a thriving city filled with museums, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
  • Brown County State Park: This beautiful park is located just 30 minutes south of Greenwood and boasts miles of hiking trails, camping facilities, and scenic views.
  • French Lick: This historic resort town is located about 2 hours south of Greenwood and is home to a variety of spas, casinos, and championship golf courses.

Conclusion

Greenwood is a vibrant and welcoming city, with a variety of attractions and activities to explore. No matter what your interests are, there’s something for everyone in this Midwestern gem. From the beautiful parks and hiking trails to the local museums and historical landmarks, Greenwood is a destination that you won’t want to miss.