Top 14 Things to Do in Plainfield Indiana (2023)

Are you looking for fun things to do in Plainfield Indiana? I could not believe the hidden gems I discovered in Plainfield. Just a short drive from Indianapolis, Plainfield is a darling town that’s perfect for families looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

I recently spent a few lovely days exploring everything Hendricks County has to offer, and many of the highlights were found in the city of Plainfield Indiana. In addition to this most recent trip, thanks to its proximity to Indy, I’ve spent many other afternoons (or evenings if a soccer game was involved) in the area.

👉 A special thanks to Hendricks County for hosting a recent visit to the area and sharing some of these special businesses with me. As always, all opinions are my own.

1. Shop til you drop at The Shops at Perry Crossing

Sometimes it’s fun to shop in an area that isn’t in your own backyard, and often when I’m in that mood, I’ll head over to the The Shops at Perry Crossing. This outdoor mall has all of the big stores you love as well as a nice variety of smaller and unique shops such as Rocket Fizz and Rustic Attic.

It’s a terrific place to do your holiday shopping, or just spend an hour or two enjoying some retail therapy. I’ve also found myself gravitating towards it if we are visiting our financial planner (who is in Plainfield) and just have an hour or so to kill while waiting for our appointment.

The Shops at Perry Crossing, 2499 Perry Crossing Way, Plainfield, IN

2. Cool off at Splash Island

Are you looking for things to do in Plainfield IN for kids? In the summer, an option they are sure to love is a visit to Splash Island. Some of the highlights are the three waterslides and two diving boards.

Plus, the kiddos love Caribbean Crossing. Five floating lily pads bob in the water, and it’s like you’re literally walking on water. Can you make it to the other side without taking a dip? It’s a lot of fun to try.

Feeling more like chilling? Lounge away in one of the two whirlpools. They’re like little pockets of heaven where you can just forget about your endless to-do list. And if that’s not enough, float down their lazy river. The lazy river is always my favorite part of a water park!

Splash Island, 651 Vestal Rd. Plainfield Recreation and Aquatic Center, Plainfield, IN

3. Discover Doctor Who at Who North America

Are you a Doctor Who fan? If you are, then you MUST visit Who North America. Just a casual viewer? Or someone who enjoys the unusual? You need to visit Who North America too!

Who North America is dedicated to all things Doctor Who. It is the only Doctor Who museum and store in the United States and is truly a hidden gem for Doctor Who fans. Although I have only seen a few episodes, I still found the place absolutely fascinating.

The friendly owners are super passionate about Doctor Who and love to share their enthusiasm. They have a wonderful collection of memorabilia in the museum portion, a room that shows Doctor Who episodes throughout the day, AND a small game room with several Doctor Who games set on free play. Fun, right?

If you plan on visiting in the fall, look to see if your dates align with Doctoberfest, their annual fall festival. It is a fun day geared towards all things Doctor Who – and they try each year to get a special guest connected to the show, so you never know which star you’ll see!

Who North America, 8901 S State Road 67, Camby, IN

4. Take a break at Sodalis Nature Park

One of my favorite free things to do in Plainfield Indiana is to visit Sodalis Nature Park. As someone who loves to be outside as much as possible, this lovely 210-acre gem is a treat. The park has a small lake perfect for fishing, as well as a variety of simple “hikes” (really more walks as they aren’t rugged at all). There is even a paved path if that’s a better fit for your hiking level.

Sodalis Nature Park is a favorite choice for locals to enjoy a picnic on the weekend. Bring your own food or pick up carryout from a local restaurant, find a picnic table, and enjoy an al fresco feast.

The park is actually named after an endangered bat species that call this place home, which is pretty cool. It adds a touch of mystery and magic to the whole experience. Sodalis Nature Park is open from dawn to dusk and is a lovely nature break – especially after spending a day shopping or running around town.

Sodalis Nature Park, 7700 S. County Rd. 975 E. Plainfield, IN

5. Test your skills at X Golf

Is the weather too iffy to enjoy your traditional round of golf outdoors? If so, check out X Golf in Plainfield. These indoor golf simulators are popping up all over the state of Indiana and as one of the newer ones, X Golf in Plainfield is top-notch!

Here’s the lowdown on some things you should know:

With its laid-back, welcoming atmosphere, X Golf is perfect for everyone, no matter your age or skill level. Work event? Covered. Birthday bash? Sorted. Ladies Night Out? Absolutely! Or even if you are just looking for something fun to do with the kids in Plainfield, X Golf is a terrific choice.

X Golf, 313 Marketplace Mile, Plainfield, IN

6. Find a unique treasure at Gilley’s Antique & Decorator Mall

For any vintage lovers and treasure hunters out there, Plainfield has the spot for you. You absolutely must make a trip to Gilley’s Antique & Decorator’s Mall. This place is huge! There are over 300 booths in an astonishing 37,000 square feet building. From antiques and crafts to salvage items and home decor, you’ll be amazed at how one place can hold so much history and creativity.

Open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., this place is perfect for a leisurely weekend outing or even a quick weekday treasure hunt. I went on a Saturday and the time flew by It’s so easy to get lost (in a good way!) among the aisles filled with vintage finds and handcrafted goodies.

The home decor and craft section was lovely too – it felt like a Pinterest board coming to life. If you’re looking to spruce up your space, this is definitely the place to gather some unique finds. So, what’s on your wish list? Because chances are, Gilley’s Antique & Decorator’s Mall has it.

Gilley’s Antique & Decorator Mall, 5789 US-40, Plainfield, IN

7. Have fun with the kids at Hummel Park

Another one of Plainfield’s parks worth checking out is Hummel Park. This park has everything your family could wish for and then some. This 204-acre wonderland is not just another park, it’s like an entire universe of outdoor activities.

Whether you’re into walking, jogging, or hiking, there are trails to enjoy, and even a charming wooden pedestrian bridge that’s like something out of a storybook. Picture-perfect for family photos. The kids will adore the playgrounds here. There is a splash pad and even an amphitheater and they often have live music.

In the winter there is a sledding hill – and since we are always on the lookout for winter activities, this is a big bonus in my book! So, if you are ready for a day packed with fun, nature, and wholesome family time, head over to Hummel Park in Plainfield.

Hummel Park, 1500 S Center St. Plainfield, IN

8. Indulge in chocolate at Schakolad

Of course, you can look around Schakolad Chocolates when you are browsing the The Shops at Perry Crossing and purchase a few goodies but don’t do just that. Take your visit to the next level with a hands-on chocolate class. If you are a chocolate fanatic, I bet that this will be your favorite experience in Plainfield Indiana!

This is such a fun experience to add to your itinerary of things to do in Plainfield Indiana for adults. It would make a fantastic date night or girls’ night out – because who doesn’t want to learn more about (and enjoy) chocolate?

While you are there, be sure to pick up some of their delicious treats to enjoy later too. I especially loved selecting a tasty selection of chocolates and putting them together to create a charcuterie board – perfect for any upcoming occasion. And, if you like hot chocolate, don’t miss theirs – I’m still dreaming about the dark chocolate version!

Schakolad Chocolate Factory, 351 Marketplace Mile, Plainfield, IN

Things to Do Near Plainfield Indiana

Once you’ve checked off some of the fun things to do in Plainfield Indiana, it’s time to look at nearby towns for more activities. In addition to what you’ll find in the nearby town of Brownsburg, there are a few other experiences to explore while you are in Hendricks County.

9. Try something new at The Virtual Galaxy

If you need to find some indoor Plainfield activities for the kids (or adults – I’m not judging), check out The Virtual Galaxy in the nearby town of Avon, Indiana.

If you’ve ever wanted to step into a video game, then this is the activity for you. Offering a wide variety of games across genres, it’s not just a gamer’s paradise; it’s heaven for anyone who loves immersive experiences.

Hours are Thursday – Sunday, and often by reservation only, so please call ahead or check them out online to plan your virtual reality experience.

Virtual Galaxy, 291 Shiloh Crossing, Avon, IN

10. Create a masterpiece at Hot Blown Glass

My visit to Hot Blown Glass was definitely the coolest (or maybe hottest?) place I visited on my most recent trip to Hendricks County. Located near Plainfield in Clayton, IN, you’ll find glass artist Lisa Peloe. Her work can also be found all around Hendricks County (and Indy too).

On my visit, I participated in a class where we made glass-blown pumpkins. It was super fun, and Lisa was not only incredibly talented but also incredibly patient in helping us create our own masterpieces. The setting of the studio is lovely, so while you are waiting your turn you can enjoy sitting in the garden area or watching your classmates work the glass.

Due to the nature of the process (hot ovens, glass, etc.), the studio isn’t open to the public for walk-ins, but you can book a class or event directly with Lisa – and if you’ve never tried glass blowing before, I highly encourage it. It’s fun, a unique experience AND you’ll get to enjoy something special you made yourself.

Hot Blown Glass, 3717 S CR 200 E, Clayton, IN

11. Have fun at the Tie Die Lab

The Tie Dye Lab in Avon is a psychedelic dream come true. Let me paint you a picture—no, literally, let’s paint some T-shirts together. The Tie Dye Lab offers a fantastically fun, all-inclusive, DIY tie-dye experience. And it’s not just T-shirts; you can color hats, socks, bandannas, and basically anything that can soak up some vibrant hues.

Now, maybe you’re thinking, “Tie-dye? Isn’t that messy?” If you were tie-dyeing at home, it might be, but their process is easy and mess-free. Seriously, you could probably do it in your Sunday best and walk out stain-free (though maybe don’t test that theory).

If you are a planner, you can book a party or join a pre-planned event. Or, if you’re like me and tend to come up with fun things to do on the fly, just walk in. As long as they’ve got the space, you’re in. The Tie Dye Lab is another wonderful choice for fun things to do indoors if you are looking for something to do on a cold or rainy day.

Tie Dye Lab, 8100 E US Highway 36, Avon, IN

Places to Eat in Plainfield Indiana

There are plenty of Plainfield restaurants – you could probably find just about every chain restaurant out there in the vicinity, but why bother when there are excellent local spots to enjoy?

12. The Prewitt – drinks, dinner and entertainment

An evening at The Prewitt should be at the top of your list of date ideas in Plainfield Indiana. It’s been on my radar as a new restaurant to try for a while and it more than lived up to the hype. Housed in a now-defunct historic movie theater, the restaurant takes its history to heart with glamourous (but subtle) nods to the black and white movies that were shown in its heyday.

In addition to delicious, seasonal food, The Prewitt offers fantastic cocktails (try el Diablo if you like your drinks a little spicey), a variety of stunning rooms for dining, an outdoor rooftop deck, and a lounge area next to a stage that’s either playing old movies or showcasing live music.

Unfortunately, it was raining on the night we dined there, but I’m already plotting my return so I can check out that rooftop deck! Luckily, we did get to enjoy live music, good conversation in a fantastic atmosphere, and a delicious meal. Do yourself a favor and head over to the Prewitt to check it out for yourself.

The Prewitt, 121 W. Main St. Plainfield, IN

13. Oasis Diner – an iconic National Road establishment

if you’re a fan of classic American diners (and who isn’t, honestly?), you’ll want to check out the Oasis Diner in Plainfield. The Oasis isn’t just any diner; it’s an original 1954 Mountain View Diner all the way from Signac, New Jersey. That’s right, this is a real, authentic, historic ’50s diner right in the heart of Indiana. When you step inside, it’s like traveling back in time.

Now, let’s talk food. Personally, I’m all about the all-day breakfast. However, they’ve also got a selection of fresh sandwiches that would make your grandma proud. From hearty burgers to a classic breaded tenderloin, there’s something for every palate. And you can’t visit the Oasis Diner without trying their desserts. Every sweet treat is made fresh from scratch in their on-site bakery.

Whether you’re looking for a classic meal or a taste of yesteryears, the Oasis Diner is the place to be, and because it’s so old school, it’s a fun place to bring the whole family. My son and I recently enjoyed lunch here and he ate every bite of his Oasis Burger while I indulged in the tenderloin sliders and a hand-crafted Vanilla Cream Soda – yum!

Oasis Diner, 405 W. Main St. Plainfield, IN

14. Enjoy a beer at one of Plainfield’s breweries

There are two breweries in Plainfield – Brew Link Brewpub and Nigh Restaurant & Brewery. Both would be excellent choices for lunch or dinner, but if you are looking for a place to hang out with friends for a few hours and play games or watch sports, I’d head over to Brew Link. Especially if the weather is nice and they have their large deck and yard open for visitors.

If you are more interested in upscale pub fare in a restaurant environment, head over to Nigh. With its extensive list of beers on tap, wine, and cocktails, plus plenty of tasty dishes, it’s a great place for an enjoyable lunch or dinner.

Map of Things to Do in Plainfield Indiana

Plainfield is on the west side of Indianapolis, near the Indianapolis Airport, so it’s a great option for day trips for visitors and residents of Indianapolis alike. Check out this map with all the places I’ve shared highlighted to give you a feel for where everything is located. 

Where to Stay in Plainfield Indiana

Thanks to its proximity to the Indianapolis International Airport, there are plenty of hotels in Plainfield Indiana. So finding a room won’t be a problem. Finding a great room? Look no further.

I’ve personally stayed at the Courtyard by Marriott and loved it. The rooms were modern, clean, and comfortable and it was only a few steps to The Shops at Perry Crossing, so talk about convenience.

Although I haven’t stayed overnight at the Embassy Suites, I have had a drink at the bar and attended a function in one of the banquet rooms. I really enjoyed the atmosphere of the hotel – it is one of the nicer Embassy Suites I’ve been in for quite some time.

Getting Around Plainfield Indiana

Although you could easily get an Uber from the airport to a hotel in Plainfield (since it’s so close), you really need a car to get around the city. Most of the attractions are quite spread out and to really enjoy Hendricks County you’ll want to be able to easily get to everything on your own.

🚗 Consider DiscoverCars for your car rental needs.

FAQs: Plainfield Indiana attractions

Conclusion: Top Things to Do in Plainfield IN

So whether you are looking for things to do in Plainfield Indiana this weekend or planning an upcoming weekend getaway for the family, hopefully, these ideas have got you covered.

From shopping sprees at The Shops at Perry Crossing to splashing around at Splash Island, there’s something for every member of the family. And that’s just scratching the surface – let’s not forget the artistic adventures at Hot Blown Glass and The Tie Dye Lab.

Plainfield offers an array of activities that’ll make you want to come back for more. Plus, being just a stone’s throw away from Indianapolis, it’s the perfect destination for day trips or weekend getaways. I know from our many day trips to the town, it’s the ideal escape from big city life.

Regardless of whether you’re with family, friends, or flying solo, Plainfield offers a melting pot of experiences that are as diverse as they are delightful. Hopefully, my experiences in Hendricks County will help you create wonderful family fun memories too.

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