Top 15 Activities in Lawrence, Indiana You Can’t Miss

Located just 15 minutes northeast of downtown Indianapolis, Lawrence is a rapidly developing city that has historical ties to a U.S. Army post.

Established in 1906, Fort Benjamin Harrison was an initiative to combine various state militias into a national army.

The base was decommissioned in 1991, and since that time, approximately two-thirds of the land has transitioned into a well-frequented state park.

Numerous prominent Colonial Revival structures from the former base have been repurposed by the city, including an old military theater, which now serves as a focal point for an arts campus.

1. Fort Harrison State Park

This beautiful natural refuge serves the Indianapolis area, covering over 1,700 acres and incorporating much of the former Fort Benjamin Harrison.

Named after the 23rd President of the United States, this military post began operations in 1906 and was decommissioned in 1991.

Rich in history, the state park includes a former WWII prisoner of war camp, a Civilian Conservation Corps camp from the Great Depression, and a military training camp established between the World Wars.

More than 900,000 visitors annually explore the tranquility of the park’s forests via trails designated for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

During winter, one of the premier sledding hills in the Indy area attracts visitors, while summer offers opportunities for canoeing or kayaking on Fall Creek.

For additional insight into the history of the base, visit the interpretive center located in the park office, or explore the Museum of 20th-Century Warfare discussed below. The state park is linked to the seven-mile Fall Creek Trail, which begins in downtown Indianapolis.

2. Museum of 20th-Century Warfare

Adjacent to the visitor center of the state park and the entry point for the Schoen Creek Trail is a museum that commemorates its historical significance.

Managed by volunteers and free with park admission, the Museum of 20th-Century Warfare occupies Building 711 and showcases a significant collection of artifacts for all branches of the military from 1910 to the Gulf War, while also narrating the fort’s history.

This nonprofit museum possesses an extensive library and significant collections of uniforms, weapons, munitions, photographs, military art, medals, and various other equipment.

Throughout the year, the museum utilizes its vast inventory to host reenactments, which can be themed according to specific seasons, such as a Pacific Theater reenactment in August and a Battle of the Bulge display in January.

3. Schoen Creek Trail

You will be pleasantly surprised by how distant downtown Indy feels while on this 3.3-mile loop within Fort Harrison State Park.

Designated as moderate in difficulty, the Schoen Creek Trail primarily follows the waterway of the same name while guiding you through lush woodlands and across the park’s rolling hills.

The trail features several challenging sections that are occasionally steep and narrow, with an elevation gain of nearly 150 feet.

Spring and summer unveil an abundance of wildflowers, and if you maintain a quiet demeanor, you might encounter deer along the way. Dogs are permitted on a leash, and caution is advised for mountain bikers who share the trail.

4. Theater at the Fort

Currently serving as the cornerstone of the Fort Ben Cultural Campus, the Theater at the Fort is a refurbished performing arts venue dating back to 1929.

The transformation of this venue, recognized with awards, is attributed to Arts for Lawrence, and the theater now boasts a thriving schedule of performances.

A diverse offering includes plays, musicals, dance performances, concerts, storytelling sessions, and educational programs, such as a summer arts camp.

A typical season features nearly 70 performances, and the stage is also available to local schools free of charge.

5. Fort Ben Cultural Campus

As previously mentioned, the Theater at the Fort is a key feature of a vibrant 1.5-acre arts complex, which was inaugurated in 2021.

Construction is ongoing, and upon completion, the campus will encompass the Visual Arts Center, an outdoor performance amphitheater, extensive green spaces, public art, and interconnecting themed pathways, including a History Walk.

An exceptionally creative installation here is the world’s first permanent set of Musical Swings, representing four instruments: guitar, vibraphone, harp, and piano, with pitch variations based on movement speed and height.

The visuals arts center utilizes a WWII-era service and communications building, and has quickly become a vital space for local artists and artisans.

Serving as a venue for festivals and various events throughout the year, the campus also includes a docking station for Lawrence’s new bike share program.

6. Fort Harrison Horseback Riding

Fort Harrison State Park features a saddle barn that organizes trail rides for individuals aged six and older, available from mid-March through October, with a variety of experiences offered.

Adult riders have the choice between a 1.5-mile or a 2.5-mile trail ride.

For children who are new to horseback riding, there are parent-assisted pony rides available, along with hayrides, as well as English or Western riding lessons for $30 per hour.

Children aged 12 and younger are required to wear approved helmets, which can be provided at the stable.

7. Tour Lawrence Bike Share

As a contemporary and expanding city, Lawrence has initiated several programs to promote pedestrian and bicycle transportation.

At the time of this writing, the city had recently unveiled Tour Lawrence, a bike share initiative.

In its initial phase, the program featured two docking stations, one located at the Lawrence Government Center and the other at the Fort Ben Cultural Campus.

Participants have the option to purchase monthly or annual memberships or opt for a pay-as-you-go scheme, priced at $1.50 for 30 minutes of use.

8. Triton Brewing Company and Bistro

Since 2011, a historic U.S. Army mule stable has transitioned into a craft brewery and bistro.

Triton’s mission is to encourage patrons to appreciate the intricate flavors found in quality beer, prompting them to recognize individual ingredients and their origins.

The brewery offers over a dozen seasonal brews, alongside six flagship beers always available: Hometown Hero and Hometown Hero Strawberry (Golden Ale), Rail Splitter (IPA), Star 19 (Double Dry Hopped IPA), Pale Splitter (American Pale Ale), and Dead Eye (Stout).

On the culinary side, Triton presents a menu featuring small plates, shareable items, sandwiches, tacos, soups, and salads. Signature dishes might include Loaded Mac and Cheese with bacon and chicken fingers or Seared Yellowfin Tuna Kohlrabi Bowl.

9. The Fort Golf Resort

A significant portion of the former Fort Benjamin Harrison is now occupied by one of Indiana’s premier public golf courses.

Repurposing a course from the military era, The Fort Golf Resort opened in 1998, designed by renowned architects Pete Dye and Tim Liddy.

This par 72 course stretches 7,148 yards and utilizes the distinctly hilly terrain, offering stunning distant views.

Along with the undulating hills, golfers will navigate tree-lined fairways and smooth greens, typical of a Dye design. Multiple tee options ensure golfers of all skill levels will enjoy a challenging yet fair experience at The Fort.

Additions include upscale practice facilities, a pro shop, expert golf instruction, on-site accommodations, and The Garrison Restaurant.

10. Daniel’s Vineyard

Situated near Geist Reservoir, to the northeast of Lawrence, Daniel’s Vineyard is a fully operational winery and event venue that welcomes visitors daily for tastings. The venue exudes a friendly atmosphere, complemented by picturesque panoramic views of the vineyards.

The owners, Daniel and Kimberley, cultivated their passion for winemaking in Tuscany. Upon returning to the United States in 2010, they selected this location near Lawrence to plant 14,000 vines.

Visitors can sample wines by the glass or bottle, ranging from dry reds to sweet whites, in addition to wine slushies and fruit-infused wines.

Daniel’s Vineyard also hosts a variety of engaging events, including concerts, balls, themed parties, and comedy performances.

11. Winding Ridge Golf Club

In the southeast area of Lawrence, another highly regarded golf course offers a challenging experience amid a rolling landscape, featuring bent-grass tees, fairways, and greens.

At Winding Ridge Golf Club, players will encounter large bunkers, elevation shifts, undulating greens, and numerous water hazards.

With five tee setups available, the total yardage stretches to 7,038 from the championship tees. The par-4 second and par-5 tenth holes, both bordered by water, stand out on this challenging course.

After your round, unwind at the bar and grill, or warm up at the aqua range.

12. Fort Ben Farmers’ Market

From June through the first week of October, a farmers’ market takes place on Thursdays from 4 PM to 7 PM at Lawrence Civic Plaza.

This event provides an opportunity to purchase fresh produce and a variety of goods directly from local growers and artisans.

Supporting area farmers and small businesses allows patrons to engage with vendors and learn about their products and practices.

Typically available are seasonal fruits and vegetables, eggs, grass-fed meats, honey, jams, syrups, baked goods, art, eco-friendly personal care products, and much more. This community-centric event also features live music and activities for children, adding to the overall enjoyment.

13. Louis J. Jenn Memorial Park

Away from the state park, the Lawrence Department of Parks & Recreation manages a dozen parks throughout the city.

Among them, the versatile Louis J. Jenn Memorial Park stands out for several reasons.

The park features a pond, a well-loved fishing location stocked with bluegill, catfish, and largemouth bass. A cozy log cabin-style building, complete with a kitchen, offers rental possibilities overlooking the water.

A notable amenity at this park is the Waggin’ Tails Bark Park, an off-leash dog park equipped with agility equipment, benches, and a fountain. Access to the dog park requires becoming a member through the parks and recreation department.

14. 4th Fest

Lawrence honors the nation’s independence in a grand manner with a full day of festivities at Lawrence Community Park.

4th Fest begins with a parade showcasing local services, clubs, schools, organizations, and dignitaries, including the mayor.

The day is filled with carnival rides and games, as well as a diverse array of food and drink vendors. Live music adds to the festive atmosphere, culminating in a fireworks display after sunset to conclude the day’s festivities.

15. Winterfest

The holiday season is particularly enchanting in Lawrence, with a series of events and performances running from November 20th to December 30th.

During this time, Lawrence Civic Plaza is transformed into a 60 x 80-foot ice skating rink, complete with on-site skate rentals.

A key event to mark on your calendar is “A Lawrence Christmas,” typically held on the last Saturday of November, which features a parade, a variety show, a tree-lighting ceremony, and a screening of the classic film “It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946) at the Theater at the Fort.

Anticipate additional activities throughout the season, including a winter farmers’ market at the plaza and Breakfast with Santa at the YMCA.