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The best part about buying a brand-new vehicle is driving it around to see all the sights and to take the kids out to have some fun. Not only does it give you the chance to show off how amazing that shiny new car looks but also really helps you get the feel for how it's going to work out for years to come. Why not break it in by doing something with the entire family in Greenwood, IN? Find Something Fun for Everybody There are several family-friendly activities to do in Greenwood, and being able to take the kids there whenever you feel like it is a major bonus. It's the perfect family-bonding experience, and no one will love you more for it than your children. If it's a hot summer day, Freedom Springs Aquatics Park is the perfect destination because of all the different activities your family can do. The kids can enjoy the park's water slides, while the parents relax in the lazy river. Even on those nights when the kids are at a friend's house, mom and dad can use the new car to sneak over to an adult-only movie night at Freedom Springs. If one of the kids has a birthday coming up soon, consider booking their party at Rascals Fun Zone. The special birthday boy or girl is sure to have a great time, and all of his or her friends who come are sure to be thrilled with your choice. It also doesn't hurt that this is the perfect opportunity to show off the new wheels to all their parents. more Bring Your Family Closer Together Whether you owned a vehicle before deciding to purchase a new one, the whole mindset is there: you have something different, and you want to use it. Driving to all of these wonderful places with your family is a great way to do just that, and it helps bond the family together more closely. Kids may not always show it, but the one thing they enjoy most is having fun with their guardians. Most kids aren't particularly picky about what they do when they're hanging out with the family, but there are so many choices for those who are. From bowling to the arts, even the most unique personalities can fulfill their tastes with what they enjoy the most. And since you've acquired the most important item needed to make these outings a reality — and without unnecessary additional planning or hassle — everyone will be much happier. Enroll your kids in martial arts classes so they can wow their friends and learn to defend themselves, should the time ever come when they must do so. If martial arts isn't what your child wants to do, but he or she loves the kind of physical activity it provides, consider placing them in gymnastics instead. Take the night out to have a blast at laser tag, go climb some structures to release all that energy, or make lots of noise and enjoy music at the Gymboree. In Greenwood, the family-friendly possibilities are truly endless. Image via pixabay

If you are visiting Indianapolis, Indiana, with your family, there are lots of opportunities to get out in the city and have some family fun. Here are some can't-miss attractions you and your family will love. Indianapolis Motor Speedway If you are in Indianapolis, you are going to want to check out the Motor Speedway. Known as "The Greatest Race Course in the World," this location is a must-see if you love racing or fast cars. They also host events like the Red Bull Air Race and Lights at the Brickyard. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, you can do the Indy Racing Experience, where you get to sit in the passenger seat and enjoy a ride up to 180 miles per hour. There are other experiences available too. These are just three of many experiences available for families to visit in Indianapolis. Be sure to check out Indianapolis' Top Family Attractions List for more ideas on where to visit. more Indianapolis Zoo If you love visiting animals, you and your family will enjoy the Indianapolis Zoo. The zoo is split up into biomes, and visitors can check out the plains where they can see lions, leopards, and rhinos. You can also visit the desert, where you can see snakes, lizards, and meerkats. In the flights of fancy biome, you can see birds from all over the world. Inside the forests, you will find bears, tigers, and a bald eagle, while the ocean biome is home to fish, sea lions, dolphins, penguins, and sharks. Other exhibits featured at the zoo include the Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center and White River Gardens.  There are also a number of rides and attractions that visitors can enjoy, such as a shark touch pool, playground, and tots tree house. Other attractions include the Kombo Family Coaster, Endangered Species Carousel, and White River Junction Train. If you buy your tickets online, you receive discounts, so it is recommended that you visit the website before you go. The zoo hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. from Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Children's Museum Indianapolis The Children's Museum is a great family stop that has a wide range of interactive exhibits that are not only fun but also educational. Exhibits include American POP, Power of Children, Stories from our Community, Dinosphere, ScienceWorks, and Beyond Spaceship Earth. There is also a DC Super Heros: Discover Your Superpowers exhibit for your little superhero and Treasures of the Earth for your treasure hunters. Visitors should also be sure to visit the Playscape, Carasol, and Lily Theater. Other exhibits include The World of Sport, History of Hoops, and National Art Museum of Sport. Outside, you can play soccer, tennis, baseball, basketball, football, golf, and hockey. There is also a fitness path and track, car racing, and a tree of sports that you can climb. Prices vary depending on the day of admission, but they also have evening-only admissions between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. for the Sports Legends Experience. Hours vary depending on the season you visit. Image via pixabay

As summer comes to an end and fall draws near, there's still time to get outdoors and soak up the last of the season's rays. Before you unpack those chilly-weather jackets, check out these four Greenwood, Indiana parks. Have some fun before those lazy days of summer are gone. Freedom Springs Aquatics Park Quench your thirst for one last summer outing at the Freedom Springs water park. Fun for the whole family, discover two body slides filled with exciting twists and turns, a lazy river, and a splash pad for the little ones. Enjoy a water aerobics class, then grab a snack from the concession stand. Watch a live performance from the island stage or catch a screening on adult-only movie nights. The aquatics park is open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sundays. Check out Thrilling Thursdays, when the pool stays open late until 9 p.m. more Greenwood City Trails Greenwood offers its residents a delightful network of multi-use trails and walkways. Lace up your sneakers and discover Art on the Trail, a public display featuring several sculptures on the way. Bring the kids along and explore the Early Learning Trail in Craig Park. Enjoy the playground, and take advantage of informational displays that offer a variety of opportunities to learn and play. All trails are wide, easy to traverse, and paved with asphalt, making them perfect for soaking in some rays without having to leave the neighborhood. City trails have a north-south and an east-west orientation that extends from Emerson Avenue to East Main Street/County Road 950 North. Craig Park The largest park in Old Town Greenwood, popular Craig Park spans 27 acres. Explore tree-lined paths, and discover the 10-acre youth baseball complex. One of the city's iconic public spaces, the park offers families and individuals a ton of amenities to celebrate the summer from tennis to volleyball courts. For the kids, let them play hard before school starts on the three nature-themed play pockets, then have a picnic in one of many designated areas. Hickory Stick Golf Club Set a tee time before the weather turns chilly at Hickory Stick Golf Club. This excellent, Irish-links style course offers golf at its best. Each unique hole presents a different challenge that puts every skill level to the test, from novice to pro. Each hole on this exciting course has its own character. Discover two straightforward par-4 holes, then explore the third hole, which features a challenging bit of water on the left side of the fairway. Book a lesson with golf pro Colby Huffman to tighten up your swing or sign up for one of the club's many championship tournaments. Enjoy discounted senior rates during the week. Head out to Hickory Stick today, before it's buried in autumn's colorful leaves. Summer's coming to a close, and your tan will fade, but the memories you make will last forever. As summer falls into autumn, take in the beauty of the season at one of these Greenwood parks. Image via Pixabay

Summers are hot in the Midwest. When it feels like Indiana's sun is out to get you, grab the kids and head indoors. There are plenty of ways to cool off inside, right here in your area. We've put together this handy list of our favorite three indoor places to beat the summer heat in and around Greenwood. Rascal's Fun Zone Beat the heat this summer in Whiteland at one of the largest family fun parks in Indiana. With over 11 acres of attractions, such as indoor go-kart race tracks, including the Family Gran Prix and the Rookie Track. Check out Rascal's mini-bowling lanes, plus the Spin Zone, which features a fleet of twirling indoor bumper cars. There's something to excite everyone in the family. Get out of the heat and climb aboard the bumper boats equipped with water cannons, afloat in a tropical pond. Bring a towel, because you're going to get wet on this summer adventure. Head over to the air-conditioned family game room, with the best in electronic entertainment featuring more than 50 games. Exchange your tickets for something great at the giant prize center. Everyone wins at Rascal's, so come on out and beat the heat. more Southern Bowl Located just 2.5 miles south of Greenwood Park Mall, discover Southern Bowl. Complete with 40 synthetic lanes and Brunswick automatic scoring, this is one cool place to spend a hot summer afternoon. Browse the latest bowling gear at the pro shop, order a cold brew at the bar, and watch your favorite team on the cable TVs. An old-school arcade is stocked with all your favorites and a snack bar. Tickle your taste buds with quick bites like chili, hot sandwiches, fries, and soda pop. Join one of Southern Bowl's programs available for all age groups, including adults, youths, and seniors. Programs are a fun way to beat the heat, and a league offers a bit of exciting competition. Greenwood Park Mall Head to the indoor sections of Greenwood Park Mall for a world-class shopping adventure free from the summer heat. From clothing to furniture to unique specialty boutiques, Greenwood Park Mall offers a one-of-a-kind experience. No matter what your style, there's a shop for everyone in the family to chill out and escape the heat. Take the kids to the play area, open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., or catch a movie matinee at Regal Cinema across the parking lot from the mall. When you get hungry, stop at Cheesecake Factory and sample new decadent flavors that just debuted.  From fine dining to a casual, family affair or a friend's night on the town, it's all here in cool comfort at The Greenwood Park Mall. These are just some of the places you can go to in the Greenwood area and get out of the sun. No matter which venue you decide to visit, stay cool out there this summer. Image via Pixabay

Located just 15 miles south of Indianapolis, Greenwood is the perfect place for family reunions. With plenty of indoor attractions, outdoor activities, and other entertainment options, the city has something for every type of interest, regardless of the weather. Plus, you'll find accommodation options for all budgets. If you're planning a family reunion in Greenwood, here are a handful of hotels that are sure to meet and exceed your needs. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Located just 3 miles from downtown Greenwood and 12 miles from the Indianapolis International Airport, Holiday Inn Express & Suites is a midrange hotel that offers single rooms or suites depending on the size of your family. All single-bed rooms come with a king bed, while two-bed rooms offer two queen beds. The suites come with a king bed and a pull-out sofa, as well as a four-chair table for board games or card games. Rooms also come with free Wi-Fi, a 36- or 48-inch television, cable programming, and a coffee maker. If you need to hold a family gathering or get organized, the hotel offers three meeting rooms, including a printer and a copier for handouts and fliers. Other on-site amenities include a heated indoor pool with a slide, fitness center, and ice machine. Breakfast is included each morning with the price of the room. more La Quinta Inn & Suites Situated right at the Greenwood exit off of Interstate 65, La Quinta Inn & Suites offers convenience and awesome lodging in the same package. Its location is easy to get to, but it also puts your family just a short drive from attractions such as Otte Golf & Family Fun Center, Craig Park, and downtown Greenwood. Plus, it's just minutes from some of Indy's top attractions. This hotel offers many in-room amenities such as a flat-screen television with 30 high-definition channels, your choice of one king bed, two queen beds, or a suite with a pull-out sofa, and ultra-fast Wi-Fi with speeds five times faster than the average hotel Wi-Fi. If you have a free day or want to unwind after a day with the family, enjoy La Quinta's fitness center or outdoor swimming pool. Red Roof Inn Budget travelers won't have to worry about splurging on a room thanks to the Red Roof Inn. Despite its modest price, it still has plenty to offer its guests without the hefty price tag. It's conveniently located near the I-65 exit and just 15 miles south of Indianapolis. With a stay at the Red Roof Inn, you'll have your choice of either one queen or king bed or two queen beds. Each room also has laminate hardwood flooring, free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen television with cable programming, mini-fridge, and microwave. The hotel also offers a seasonal outdoor pool that's perfect for cooling off with your family. Whether you need facilities and accommodation for 20 or 200 people, you'll find just what you need in Greenwood. The only thing you need to worry about is having a good time and getting to know your relatives a bit better than before. Image via Pixabay

Located 60 miles south of Indianapolis, Brown County State Park is the state's largest park offering scenic beauty that's often compared to the Great Smoky Mountains. With tons of activities, lodging, and nearly 16,000 acres to explore, there's something for everyone at the park, and each year, over 1.3 million people visit. If you're planning to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, here's how to plan an awesome day trip to one of Indiana's top parks. No matter what you love to do, Brown County State Park has something you're sure to enjoy. Hiking With forested areas, rolling hills, deep gulches, and other interesting terrains, Brown County State Park is a delight for hikers of all skill levels. With distances from 0.5 miles to 3 miles, the park has several hiking trails that range from easy to strenuous. Athletic shoes will suffice on paved trails, but those looking for a challenge should grab a pair of hiking boots. more Fishing/Ice Fishing Enjoy warm-weather or cold-weather fishing on your trip to the park at either Ogle Lake or Strahl Lake. Both offer some of the best fishing in the area with chances to catch bluegill, bass, crappie, and more. Non-motorized boats are allowed on Ogle Lake for a different type of fishing experience. Swimming Open from noon to 7 p.m. from Memorial Day through Labor Day, the Olympic-sized swimming pool at the park is ideal for a cool-down, fun in the sun, and children and adults alike. Accommodation While camping is readily available, you should consider Abe Martin Lodge for accommodation. Built in 1932, this rustic lodge was constructed with stone and oak timber found within the park. Over 85 years later, it remains the best place to get some shut-eye while enjoying some top-class amenities. Abe Martin Lodge offers accommodation options for all tastes and budgets thanks to a number of different lodging styles. Fora hotel-style living, stay in one of the 84 rooms within the lodge. Each of these offers cable television and either a queen or king bed. Other options include: 12 cabin suites that sleep up to six and include passes to the aquatic center. 20 two-story family cabins with room for eight, a full kitchen, a deck, and a wood-burning stove. From April 1 to Oct. 31, rustic cabins with air conditioning, heat, and showers, but no television. Check-in is at 4 p.m. and check-out is at 11 a.m. If you want to save some cash on accommodation, the park has hundreds of campsites that offer electrical hook-ups, horsemen options, regular campsites with water and showers, or primitive camping. Directions To get to Brown County State Park, travel approximately 40 miles south on Interstate 65 from Indianapolis to the Columbus/IN-46 West exit (Exit 68). Take IN-46 west for 17 miles until you reach the northern entrance of the park. Hours Brown County State Park is open 365 days a year from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Campers are allowed to stay the night with the proper fees and a paid permit. Whether you're relaxing out on one of the lakes, hiking one of the many trails, or just taking a dip in the pool, Brown County State Park is the quintessential trip. Image via Pixabay

Fort Harrison State Park is a gorgeous outdoor retreat that is perfect for the whole family. It encompasses 1,700 acres of land and is flanked by picturesque landscape and nature views. It features everything from a warfare museum and nature center to playgrounds and recreational opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, golfing, and more! Here are just some of the amenities you can explore at Fort Harrison State Park to help you plan the perfect visit. Hit the Nature Trails Fort Harrison State Park is home to six trails that set the ideal stage for walking, hiking, jogging, running, and biking. Some are paved, others not so much. But all are fun to explore and range from easy to moderate to difficult. Try the Harrison Trace Trail for a 3.2-mile asphalt trek past blooming flowers and trees. Camp Creek Trail is shorter at 2 miles and shows off the shimmering waters of Duck Pond. Schoen Creek Trail is a bit more difficult to journey through, but the 3 miles of single-track trail certainly give advanced bicyclists the perfect backdrop to test their skills. more Enjoy Some Horseback Riding There are also trails suited for horseback riding at Fort Harrison State Park. And thanks to Indiana State Park Saddle Barns, you'll find everything you need to begin your steed adventure. The on-site business is your go-to place for horse rentals, pony and horse rides, hayrides, trail rides, and riding lessons. They're open daily from March 19 through Oct. 30 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Keep in mind that guests should be 6 years of age or older for trail rides, and children 12 and under are required to wear a helmet for safety. Bring Your Furry Friends Along Who says only two-legged guests are allowed at Fort Harrison State Park? The on-site Dog Park says otherwise. It's accessible via Fall Creek Road, perfect for your four-legged friends, and has everything you need to make sure your pooch stays active. Here you'll find three separately fenced play areas in which your dogs can roam free: Platoon Run, Herrin Hill, and Brigade Landing. Some have shaded areas, while others prefer a more open grass layout; though water and waste stations, benches, and picnic tables are aplenty no matter which area you choose. Play a Round of Golf The championship golf course at Fort Harrison State Park features 18 holes, a driving range, and gorgeous landscape views. It was designed by golf architect Pete Dye and can be found on the grounds of the Fort Harrison State Park Inn. You can book a tee time online, sign up for group or individual golf lessons taught by PGA professionals, and host a special event or family outing at the course. Need to stock up on golf gear? The Pro Shop is open during the weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and has just what you need to tee off in style. Taking a trip to Fort Harrison State Park? Consider this guide to help you plan the perfect family or group outing. Image via Pixabay

From lovely landscapes and majestic blooms to wildlife-viewing and outdoor activities, Indianapolis has so many great parks for residents and visitors to explore. Family fun and adventure are just a short drive away with these four top Indianapolis parks. Indianapolis Zoo Inside this nature metropolis, you'll find everything from animal exhibits and habitats to specialty gardens and nature preserves. These include an orangutan center, a large shark touch pool, and three unique biomes suited for birds, desert dwellers, and forest wildlife. Some of these zoo's residents include flamingos, meerkats, and red pandas. Other cool attractions at the zoo include the botanical and outdoor gardens, a 5,000-square-foot Hilbert Conservatory with fish pond and stunning glass architecture, and the Butterfly Kaleidoscope, which is home to more than 30 species of these majestic flyers. more Eagle Creek Park This first Indy park is one of the top-10 biggest city parks in the U.S. It features 1,400 acres of glimmering water alone, split between Eagle Creek Reservoir and Lilly Lake, plus a designated pool area for guests of all ages. These natural gems set the ideal stage for activities such as swimming, kayaking, canoeing, rowing, boating, and fishing. A 3,900-acre forest flanks the park, too, and is home to several species of wildlife, including blue herons and bald eagles. You can also visit the bird sanctuary, tee off on an 18-hole golf course, get your adrenaline pumping on a zip-line, and bike or go for a hike on the nature trails. Holliday Park Located just north of downtown Indianapolis, Holliday Park is a great spot for your next family outing or photography shoot. It's home to springs and wetlands, wildflowers and wildlife, hiking trails, specialty gardens, and an arboretum. However, one of the more unique attractions is the Ruins where you'll find an inlay of Greek columns, limestone statues, a shimmering fountain, and benches. A 13,000-square-foot Nature Center is also accessible and features an auditorium, animal observation area, and habitat exhibits for nature lovers. We round out this park's amenities with regular workshops and yoga sessions and a playground suitable for all ages. Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Garden With 10,000 square feet of usable space, the Garfield Park Conservatory doesn't lack variety in terms of plant and tree displays. Here, you'll find lovely additions such as orchids, ferns, banana trees, and palms. When you get to the Sunken Garden, you'll find even more to love. This portion of the park encompasses 3 acres and features exhibits that are both classical and elegant, including flower beds manicured to perfection, brick walkways flanked by urns and bowls, and three lighted fountains. Want to keep the kids entertained this summer? The Garfield Park Conservatory hosts summer programs in which students can learn about different wildlife species and go on scavenger hunts. It's also a great spot for those looking to catch a glimpse of seasonal blooms. The summer brings out colorful blossoms, while spring sets the perfect backdrop for a sea of tulips. Looking for fun and exciting ways to spend your day? Head outdoors to these Indianapolis parks for an experience you won't soon forget. Image via Pixabay