20 Summer Activities for Foster Families in Indianapolis

Foster families in Indianapolis: What are your plans for the summer?

Children in care deserve to have a fun summer filled with engaging activities. If you’re having trouble deciding what to do, we can help.

Below, we’ve listed 20 summer activities for foster families in Indianapolis. No matter your child’s interests, there’s something here for everyone!

1. Zoo Summer Camp at the Indianapolis Zoo

The Indianapolis Zoo Summer Camp is perfect for foster families seeking education and adventure.  

It offers children a unique opportunity to connect with wildlife, learn about conservation efforts, and foster a love for animals in a safe and nurturing environment. 

Beyond the fun of encountering exotic creatures, this camp promotes empathy, curiosity, and a deeper understanding of the natural world, making it an enriching experience for children from all walks of life.

2. St. Christopher Summer Festival

Embracing the sense of community is essential for foster families, and the St. Christopher Summer Festival provides just that. 

This lively event brings people together through shared experiences, delicious food, and exciting activities. It's a chance for children in care to feel included and welcomed, surrounded by friendly faces and festive vibes. 

Whether bonding over carnival games or enjoying tasty treats, this festival creates lasting memories and strengthens everyone’s sense of belonging.

3. Taste of Indy at White River State Park

Food has a remarkable way of bringing people together, and the Taste of Indy event at White River State Park offers a mouthwatering showcase of the city's culinary diversity. 

For foster families, it's an opportunity to explore new flavors, share meals, and celebrate cultural heritage. From savory dishes to sweet delights, there's something to satisfy every palate. 

As families stroll through the park, sampling delicious fare and enjoying live entertainment, they're not just savoring food but also creating bonds and making cherished memories.

4. Feast of Lanterns at Spades Park

The Feast of Lanterns at Spades Park illuminates the night with a mesmerizing display of lanterns that captivates hearts and sparks the imagination. 

For foster families, it's a magical experience that transcends cultural boundaries and fosters a sense of wonder. As lanterns dance in the darkness and music fills the air, children and adults are transported to an enchanted world. 

This event encourages creativity, appreciation for art, and the joy of shared moments under the stars, making it a memorable outing for everyone.

5. Eagle Creek Folk Fest

Nestled in the natural beauty of Eagle Creek Park, the Eagle Creek Folk Fest offers a harmonious blend of music, art, and outdoor fun. 

For foster families, it's an opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant folk culture while enjoying the tranquility of nature. From toe-tapping tunes to captivating storytelling, this festival celebrates creativity and community spirit, providing a wholesome experience for people of all ages.

6. Rocky Ripple Festival

Embrace the spirit and good vibes of summer at the Rocky Ripple Festival!

This neighborhood event brings together residents and visitors for a day of live music, local vendors, and family-friendly activities. For foster families, it's a chance to connect with the community, make new friends, and create lasting memories in a laid-back atmosphere.

7. Greenwood Parks Adventure Camps

Adventure awaits at the Greenwood Parks Adventure Camps, where kids can unleash their inner explorers and discover the wonders of the great outdoors. 

From hiking trails to nature crafts, these camps offer a range of activities designed to inspire curiosity and foster a love for nature. For children in care, it's an opportunity to build confidence, develop new skills, and forge meaningful connections with peers in a supportive environment.

8. Sprouts Cooking School

Ignite a passion for cooking at Sprouts Cooking School, where budding chefs can sharpen their culinary skills and unleash their creativity in the kitchen. 

From basic cooking techniques to gourmet recipes, these classes cater to children of all ages and skill levels. For foster families, it's a chance to bond over shared experiences, explore new cuisines, and instill healthy eating habits that will last a lifetime.

9. Meeting Alpacas at Heritage Farm

Get up close and personal with adorable alpacas at Heritage Farm, where these furry friends await eager visitors. 

This interactive experience allows families to learn about these gentle creatures, feed them, and even take a leisurely stroll with them. It's a heartwarming encounter for children in care that fosters empathy, responsibility, and a deeper appreciation for animals and nature.

10. Virginia B. Fairbanks Art and Nature Park

Lose yourself in the beauty of art and nature at the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art and  Nature Park, a tranquil oasis where creativity knows no bounds. 

With sprawling landscapes and captivating sculptures, it's a canvas where imagination takes flight. For foster families, it's a place of inspiration and reflection, offering an opportunity to wonder and connect meaningfully with the world around them.

11. River Road Park Archaeologist Adventure

Delve into the past with the River Road Park Archaeologist Adventure, an immersive experience that takes families on a journey through time. 

Here, foster families can channel their inner archaeologists, uncovering artifacts, deciphering clues, and piecing together the mysteries of ancient civilizations.

From hands-on excavations to guided tours led by the experts, this adventure offers a captivating blend of education and excitement, fostering curiosity and a lifelong passion for history.

12. Holcomb Gardens at Butler University

Tranquility and beauty converge at Holcomb Gardens, a hidden gem nestled within the picturesque campus of Butler University. 

With its lush landscapes, tranquil water features, and vibrant flora, the gardens provide a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Foster families can meander along winding paths, pause to admire seasonal blooms, and bask in the serenity of nature's embrace. 

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or a scenic backdrop for family photos, Holcomb Gardens offers a rejuvenating oasis for all to enjoy!

13. Horseback Riding at Conner Prairie

Saddle up for an unforgettable adventure at Conner Prairie — where the fun of horseback riding awaits! 

Against the backdrop of rolling hills and scenic vistas, foster families can embark on guided trail rides, immersing themselves in the beauty of Indiana's countryside. 

From beginners to experienced riders, everyone can experience the thrill of trotting through lush meadows and wooded trails, creating cherished memories and forging bonds that transcend generations.

14. Fishing with the Family

Cast a line and reel in the memories with a family fishing excursion in the scenic waterways of Indianapolis. 

Whether casting off from the shores of a tranquil lake or drifting along a winding river, foster families can enjoy quality time together in the great outdoors. Fishing offers foster families a perfect opportunity to bond, relax, and appreciate nature's beauty.

15. Strawtown Koteewi Park

Venture into the heart of nature at Strawtown Koteewi Park, a sprawling wilderness teeming with adventure and exploration. 

Foster families can immerse themselves in the beauty of Indiana's natural landscapes, hiking wooded trails, paddling tranquil waterways, and discovering hidden treasures around every bend. With birdwatching, picnicking, and wildlife spotting opportunities, the park offers endless possibilities for outdoor fun and family bonding in a pristine setting.

16. Cool Creek Concert Series

The Cool Creek Concert Series is a summertime tradition that brings communities together to celebrate live music and outdoor entertainment. 

Set against the backdrop of lush greenery and starry skies, foster families can spread out a blanket, unpack a picnic, and enjoy an evening of toe-tapping tunes under the open sky. From local bands to nationally renowned acts, each concert offers a chance to create lasting memories and foster a love for music and togetherness.

17. Summer Camps in the Indianapolis Area

Ready for a world of adventure? Why not try summer camps in the area? 

From outdoor adventures to creative arts, camps offer diverse activities that inspire curiosity, build confidence, and foster a sense of belonging. 

With supportive counselors, engaging programs, and opportunities for new experiences, summer camps provide a safe and nurturing environment for children in care to learn, explore, and thrive.

18. Rock the Ruins at Holliday Park

Experience the magic as Holliday Park's Ruins come alive at Rock the Ruins, an enchanting evening of live music, food trucks, and family fun. 

Against the backdrop of historic architecture and lush greenery, foster families can wander through the ancient ruins, soak in the sounds of local bands, and enjoy an unforgettable night under the stars. 

With activities for all ages and interests, Rock the Ruins offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, history, and community in a vibrant and festive atmosphere!

19. Indiana State Fair

Agriculture, entertainment, and tradition all unite at the Indiana State Fair! 

From thrilling rides to mouthwatering fair food, foster families can immerse themselves in a world of excitement and adventure. With livestock exhibits, live performances, and interactive attractions, the fair offers something for everyone to enjoy, making it a cherished summer tradition for families across the state.

The fair will run from August 2nd to August 18th, 2024.

20. Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields

Nothing beats the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields for lovers of beautiful art and exhibits.

From renowned art collections to scenic outdoor gardens, the museum offers diverse experiences for visitors of all ages. Children in care can explore interactive exhibits, participate in hands-on activities, and discover new passions as they journey through the museum's galleries and grounds.

Get the Foster Parenting Info You Need 

Are you looking for more information about foster care in Indiana? 

By attending a Foster Parent Information Session Webinar and learning more about the fostering process, you can take the first step toward becoming a foster parent and providing a safe, loving, and supportive home for a child in need. 

Sign up for our webinar today, or call our local office to get started!