In late summer, two annual events roar down the runaway at the Marion Municipal Airport in Marion, Indiana. They’re exciting, exotic and unexpected. In mid-August, the Indy Airstrip Attack brings extreme horsepower and side-by-side tarmac racing exceeding 200 mph. Then, on Saturday during Labor Day weekend, the Fly/In Cruise/In showcases both classic aircraft and vintage vehicles. Here’s what you can expect at these out-of-bounds, thrilling events.

Address:
7453 E 400 S
Marion, IN 46953
Directions

Phone: 765-998-7651 or 1-800-998-7651

Walnut Creek and Club Run Golf Courses lie in the rolling hills of eastern Grant County. Lakes, creeks, and forests complete the natural setting for this 36-hole complex, which includes a covered range and a short game learning center. Rated 4 stars by Golf Digest and praised as “Indiana’s Most Inviting golf course that you don’t have to be an expert to play,” the facility is known for its friendly atmosphere.

Address:
718 S. Broadway
Gas City, IN 46933
Directions

The Turner Park Splash Pad in Gas City is a favorite summer destination for families. Open daily during the warm months, it provides a safe and exciting place for kids to cool off with water jets, sprayers, and interactive features. Shaded picnic areas and open green space make it a great spot for families to spend an afternoon together. With its mix of play and relaxation, the splash pad has become a community gathering place during the summer season.

Address:
Main St
Sweetser, IN 46952
Directions

The Sweetser Switch Trail is the ideal place for walking, running, bicycling, roller blading and horseback riding. The trail stretches for four miles from the Marion area and on towards Converse with beautiful landscaping, benches, shelters, and tables for picnics. The trail includes a 1916 wooden caboose, restored parlor car, and mail car in the heart of downtown Sweetser. Located 5 blocks South of State Road 18.

Address:
S Adams St & E 26th St
Marion, IN 46953
Directions

Phone: 765-668-1794

The Splash House features water slides, a lazy river, play pad, sand volleyball, and a wave pool—perfect for family fun in the summer sun. Enjoy cabana and locker rentals, concessions, private parties, and group rates. Open seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day with daily admission and season passes available.

Address:
10620 E 200 S
Upland, IN 46989
Directions

Spencer Farms sells seasonal produce from September through November.  All of the produce is grown right here on our farm, and is carefully picked by hand when it is at its best. You’ll find pears, apples, peppers, tomatoes, cabbage, zucchini, pumpkins, squash, gourds, and lots more. Join us as we celebrate 96 years of family farming in Grant County! Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 1pm-5pm. Fall season mid-Sept through October.

Address:
S. Adams St. & E. 2nd St.
Marion, IN 46953
Directions

Open to all adventurous spirits, the skate park welcomes skaters of every level to test their skills. Extreme sports enthusiasts will find smooth surfaces, ramps, and rails perfect for tricks and practice. Conveniently located in downtown Marion near the scenic Mississinewa River, it’s an active gathering spot for youth and families alike. The park continues to grow as a hub for recreation, energy, and community connection.

Address:
1921 N Huntington Rd
Marion, IN 46952
Directions

Phone: 765-662-2805

Bring the whole family!  Enjoy the day with us, or spend your evening here. Miniature golf is a great way to connect with your family and friends, and you may just end up with the lowest score!  We also offer a driving range and batting cages.  Try our new foot golf course and see if you can conquer this fun sport. Bring a picnic lunch and use our picnic shelter to enjoy some family time. During the fall months, enjoy our pumpkin patch, hayrides, and lots of family fun.

Address:
300 E Madison St
Fairmount, IN
Directions

Phone: 765-948-5172

Open year round, this thirteen-acre park offers a shelter house, playground, picnic shelters, picnic tables, grills, a lighted basketball court, baseball diamonds, and a tennis court. Home of the James Dean Run classic and custom car show each September, Playacres Park also features a 2,000 sq. ft. community building. The park is a popular gathering place for events, recreation, and family fun.

Address:
N Matter Park Rd & N Quarry Rd
Marion, IN 46952
Directions

Phone: 765-662-9931

Open year round. The largest and oldest park in Marion, possessing a strong naturalistic character, is the center for many festivals. Don’t miss the native beauty of the butterfly/wildflower garden! Within the park are softball and baseball fields, grills, restrooms, picnic areas, shelters, playgrounds, tennis courts, a fishing pond, disc golf course, volleyball courts, and a walking trail.

Address:
N Matter Park Rd
Marion, IN 46952
Directions

Phone: 765-662-9931

Scenic path that follows the Mississinewa River and stretches for 2.25 miles. The walkway begins at Washington Street bridge and 1st Street, and extends through Matter Park, providing a trail system for recreation and physical fitness.  Walk, jog, run, bike, roller-blade – this paved trail is perfect for all types of activity.  Families and children love this trail!

Address:
600 S Washington St
Marion, IN 46953
Directions

Phone: 765-668-2900

The museum houses a large display of artifacts and memorabilia from the history of Grant County, Indiana. History Made Here exhibit highlights the natural gas boom in East Central Indiana, and its effects on Grant County communities. Exhibits include a 1952 Crosley Super Sport car, which was produced in Marion, Indiana. A Victorian exhibit showcases the McClure cabinet, the Marion sweeper and the Marion stove, all manufactured in Marion. Advance notice for large groups, please.

In Grant County, we put the “cool” in cooling off. With two splishy and splashy places to play, we have thrilling summer heat relief that is worth the drive. Here we take a “deep dive” into two of our favorite places to soak up the summer. This is a place where you can get cool and stay cool! Three super-duper water slides will thrill you and chill you, all the way to the final splash down. Bob up and down in the wave pool as the tide rolls in and out. When it is time to relax, drift along the lazy river or have a refreshing seat in the watery pool lounge.

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James Dean is remembered as being quintessentially cool. His youthful angst plus his love of cars and motorcycles led to living life to its fullest. Born and raised in Grant County, Indiana, Dean is a 1950s movie icon. He is known for his “coolness”, his rebellious roles in three Hollywood films, his passion for speed, cars and motorcycles, and ultimately, his tragic death at the young age of 24.

Learn More

Address:
W 6th St
Jonesboro, IN 46938
Directions

Your children will love this park! The historic Obadiah Jones Cabin sits at the heart of the scenic grounds, offering a glimpse into the community’s early beginnings. Families can enjoy a playground, ball diamonds, and open green space for games and picnics. The 3,200 sq. ft. community building provides room for gatherings, events, and celebrations, making the park a hub for both recreation and history. Visitors are invited to explore, play, and connect with the legacy of Jonesboro.

Address:
4013 S Meridian St
Marion, IN 46953
Directions

Phone: 765-674-1278 or 765-661-2070

Open September – June.  Built, owned and operated by a Marion family since 1937, the Idyl Wyld has been rolling out family fun for over 70 years!  And there is plenty to do besides skating…we have an arcade complete with vide games, pool tables and ski ball.  Trade in the tickets you win for cool prizes.  Birthday packages, private skates available.  Visit our website for current admission and pricing schedules.  See you on the rink!

Address:
6890 Wheeling Pk
Jonesboro, IN 46938
Directions

Come visit our charming urban farm and enjoy a taste of the season. Fall favorites include colorful gourds, vibrant mums, bright pumpkins, and traditional Indian corn—perfect for decorating your home or celebrating autumn traditions. Stroll the grounds, take in the crisp air, and find the perfect seasonal touches to bring fall to life with family and friends.

Address:
207 W. 8th St.
Fairmount, IN 46928
Directions

Phone: 765-808-8078

It all started with one pottery wheel, a big dream, and a love for all things clay! We invite you to join us to paint your own pottery, take pottery wheel lessons, learn hand building with clay classes, and enjoy ceramic workshops.  We offer pottery club memberships.  We would love to host your next party or group event.

Address:
5588 N 1250 E - 34
Converse, IN 46919
Directions

Phone: 765-385-3274

The Hainlen Orchard is a family-owned business that has been in the community for 108 years! Enjoy our wide selection of home grown fruit including tasty fresh-picked apples and pears. We have apple cider, cherry apple cider, cider slushies, hot cider, pumpkins, and gourds. Mon–Sat 9am–5pm, Sun noon–5pm. A visit to the orchard is a fall tradition the whole family can enjoy.

Address:
S Broadway St
Gas City, IN 46933
Directions

Phone: 765-674-2278

Gas City Park offers shelter houses, ball diamonds, tennis and pickleball courts, playgrounds, a pond for fishing, and an outdoor swimming pool. The park also features a 2,900 sq. ft. community building, band shell, and petting zoo, making it a favorite spot for family fun. Annual events include the Summer Concert Series, Old Fashioned 4th of July, Labor Day Celebration, Ducktail Run Rod & Custom Show, and a Christmas light display. The pool is open seasonally, with lessons and private rentals available.

Address:
5871 E 500 S
Gas City, IN 46933
Directions

Phone: 765-384-7285 or 765-614-6135

1/4 mile clay track racing sprints, modified and street stock. Fast paced action and fun!  Special races each season. Races May through September annually. In business for more than 20 years, several top drivers have raced here.  Recently retired NASCAR driver Jeff Gordon raced here, as did NASCAR and Indy driver J.J. Yeley and Spring Cup regular Cole Whitt.  Jarrett Andretti, grandson of Aldo Andretti (twin of all-time racing great Mario Andretti) has also raced at this track. Just off I-69, exit 259, State Road 22,Gas City Indiana.  Free primitive camping at all races.

Address:
1100 E Bond Ave
Marion, IN 46952
Directions

Phone: 765-662-9818

Limited public access golf course.  The Elks is a private equity facility golf course with a ‘Accompanied By Member’ guest policy.   The Elks is a fun 18 hole regulation course located at the Marion Elks Country Club facility in Marion, IN. From the longest tees it presents 6,377 yards of golf for a par of 72. The course was designed by Bill Biddel and opened in 1962.  The course rating is 70.8 with a slope rating of 123.

Address:
107 Railroad St.
Upland, IN 46989
Directions

This lovely park in the heart of downtown Upland celebrate’s the town’s rich railroad history. The town was formed in the late 1860s by Jacob Bugher, who planned for it to be a depot point on the Indiana Central Railroad. The town’s name comes from the fact it was believed to be the highest point on the rail line between Columbus and Chicago. The park features a gazebo, a caboose, a wooden train, and a clock tower as well as beautiful landscaping.

Address:
2014 W 2nd St
Marion, IN 46952
Directions

Phone: 765-662-7673

Crest Lanes is a family-owned bowling alley in Marion, Indiana, with a proud history since 1963. Located at 2014 W 2nd St. Whether you’re a seasoned pro, enjoying a family outing, or hanging out with friends, Crest Lanes has something for everyone. For more information or any questions, call us at 765-662-7673. Our friendly staff is here to help ensure you have a great time!

Address:
210 N. Jefferson St.
Converse, IN 46919
Directions

Phone: 765-618-1940

The Converse Junction Trail consists of 3 miles of paved trail, perfect for walking, biking, or hiking. You’ll enjoy the natural beauty of the area and while in Converse, you’ll love exploring the quaint shops and amazing restaurants the town has to offer. Bring your family for a day of outdoor fun and fresh air. The trail connects community and nature, making it a favorite destination for both locals and visitors.

Address:
W 2nd St and S Miller Ave
Marion, IN 46952
Directions

Phone: 765-651-2687

Enjoy biking, hiking, or jogging along the Cardinal Greenway rail-trail in Grant County. Major trailheads with parking are in Marion behind Westwood Square, at Hogin Park, and in Jonesboro/Gas City near SR 22/35 and Water Street. The trail stretches 17 miles through Jonesboro, Gas City, Marion, Sweetser, and Converse, with no motorized vehicles allowed.

Address:
1811 N Washington St
Marion, IN 46952
Directions

Phone: 765-668-4453

Open all year, this site provides easy access to the Mississinewa River, one of Grant County’s most scenic waterways. Visitors can relax and enjoy peaceful canoeing or kayaking while taking in views of forests, wildlife, and rolling countryside. The river offers opportunities for fishing, paddling, and quiet reflection, making it a favorite spot for both adventure and relaxation.

Address:
2500 E 550 N
Marion, IN 46952
Directions

Phone: 765-662-8236

This beautiful rolling golf course features irrigated, tree-lined fairways with water coming into play on six holes. It offers a fun yet challenging experience for golfers of all skill levels, from beginners to single handicappers. Outings are welcome with a picnic area available, and the fully stocked pro shop is staffed by a friendly team ready to assist.

Address:
713 N Theatre Rd
Marion, IN 46952
Directions

Phone: 765-668-8477

This theater features twelve screens with comfortable stadium seating, showing the latest movies in a relaxed setting. Conveniently located near Marion hotels, restaurants, and the Five Points Mall, it’s an easy stop for both visitors and locals. With varied showtimes and a family-friendly atmosphere, the cinema is a popular year-round destination.

Address:
7230 E 400 S
Marion, IN 46953
Directions

Phone: 765-998-2558

Open May 1-September 30. Primitive, modern and deluxe accommodations available. Gated, quiet campground offers long, gravel pull-through section, woods, stocked 11-acre lake, in-ground swimming pool, bath house, miniature golf, arcade, playground, boat rental, basketball court, and dump station. Sports Lake Campground is the closest full service campground to exit 259 off I-69 and is very close to Upland.  Come alone or bring a group, but don’t miss the joy of nature at it’s best!

Address:
9214 West - Lost Bridge West
Andrews, IN 46702-9731
Directions

Phone: 260-468-2125 or 866-622-6476

Salamonie Lake covers 11,594 acres and includes a 2,855-acre lake, along with ponds, marshes, and wetlands that attract wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts. Its name comes from the Native American word O-sah-mo-nee, meaning "yellow paint," inspired by the bloodroot plant once found in abundance along the riverbanks. Nearby, the Salamonie River State Forest offers 850 acres of trails and recreation. Online Reservations: http://www.indiana.reserveworld.com/

Address:
4673 S 625 E
Peru, IN 46970
Directions

Phone: 765-473-6528 or 866-622-6476

Mississinewa Lake spans 14,386 acres with a 1,100-acre lake, offering excellent fishing, hunting, and boating in north-central Indiana. The property features a 400+ site campground, family cabins, and Indiana’s first seasonal camping program, allowing visitors to keep a site for the entire season. Surrounding forests, prairies, and farmland create rich wildlife habitat, with exceptional opportunities for hiking, birding, and cycling.

Online reservations: http://www.indiana.reserveworld.com/

Address:
6690 E 600 S
Gas City, IN 46933
Directions

Phone: 765-674-4383

Open April 15–October 15, this campground offers 200 sites with water and 20- or 30-amp electricity, plus 115 full hook-up sites with water, electricity, and sewage. Guests enjoy convenient pull-through sites, river and lake fishing, hiking trails, and a swimming pool. On-site recreation includes bingo, an arcade, a snack bar, two playgrounds, horseshoes, basketball, volleyball, and miniature golf. A recreation building, laundry facilities, grocery, camping supplies, and dump stations add to the convenience for families and groups.

Address:
11460 S Strawtown Pike
Fairmount, IN 46928
Directions

Phone: 765-948-4862

Open April 15-October 15. 143 sites with water & electricity, 13 primitive sites. Primarily seasonal camping but we do have nightly sites available. Enjoy fishing, swimming, six-acre lake, pedal boats, kayaks, renovated camp store, five playgrounds, sand volleyball, horseshoe pits, basketball court, game room, updated shower houses and a coin operated laundry facility. Family oriented with fun activities for all ages and pet friendly.

Address:
7232 E N 00 S
Marion, IN 46953
Directions

Phone: 765-499-1637

Open year round. Conveniently located just off of State Road 18.13 RV sites with water, electricity, and sewage.  Primitive camping available as well. Shady pull through sites. Quiet and relaxing campground featuring fishing pond, large campfire pits, firewood, bathrooms, showers and more.  Check out the Memorial Day Weekend or Labor Day Weekend annual music festivals, or many of the other festivals they have every camping season. Great place for winter campers.

Address:
600 S Washington St
Marion, IN 46953
Directions

Phone: 765-668-2900

The museum houses a large display of artifacts and memorabilia from the history of Grant County, Indiana. History Made Here exhibit highlights the natural gas boom in East Central Indiana, and its effects on Grant County communities. Exhibits include a 1952 Crosley Super Sport car, which was produced in Marion, Indiana. A Victorian exhibit showcases the McClure cabinet, the Marion sweeper and the Marion stove, all manufactured in Marion. Advance notice for large groups, please.

Address:
718 S. Broadway
Gas City, IN 46933
Directions

The Turner Park Splash Pad in Gas City is a favorite summer destination for families. Open daily during the warm months, it provides a safe and exciting place for kids to cool off with water jets, sprayers, and interactive features. Shaded picnic areas and open green space make it a great spot for families to spend an afternoon together. With its mix of play and relaxation, the splash pad has become a community gathering place during the summer season.