Carey Grove Park

A Fresh Take on Neighborhood Living

Tucked away just south of 146th Street on Carmel's east side, Carey Grove Park spans a cozy 5 acres that pack a surprising punch. Born in the late '90s but completely renovated in 2020, this compact green space now offers activities for everyone from toddlers to teens to fitness-minded adults.

What strikes you immediately is how clean and well-kept everything is. The thoughtful layout makes the space feel intimate yet uncrowded - well-suited for keeping an eye on the kids while still giving everyone room to do their own thing.

Playground That Hits All the Right Notes

A standout feature of Carey Grove is its innovative playground that literally makes music. With interactive drums and chimes incorporated right into the play structures, it earned the distinction of being Indiana's first musical park.

The playground thoughtfully divides into areas for the little ones (ages 2-5) and bigger kids (5-12), featuring all the classics like swings and slides alongside more adventurous climbing structures. There's even an enclosed tower that kids absolutely love scrambling through (though you might want to watch your head if you're following a toddler inside - the clearance is pretty low).

The playground has soft rubber flooring throughout instead of traditional mulch. This works well for wobbly toddlers just finding their feet, and helps when the weather's been wet - no more muddy shoes and clothes.

Stay Fit While the Kids Play

Unlike many neighborhood parks that focus solely on children, Carey Grove offers something for the grown-ups too. Permanent workout equipment including two stationary bikes and an elliptical sit within eyeshot of the playground, letting you squeeze in some exercise while the kids burn off energy.

If you're more into traditional workouts, the half-basketball court is fantastic for a quick pickup game. For walkers and joggers, a ¼-mile paved trail loops around the park, giving you a complete view of the grounds with every lap. The path is smooth and flat - ideal for strollers or anyone wanting a gentle walk.

Need space for impromptu soccer games or just letting your leashed dog stretch its legs? The park's open grassy areas provide plenty of room without feeling too sprawling.

Everything You Need for a Day Outside

Carey Grove includes several useful amenities throughout the park. Two spacious covered picnic shelters come equipped with tables and BBQ grills, perfectly positioned to provide ample shade when the sun's beating down. If you're just grabbing a quick snack, three additional uncovered picnic tables offer more casual seating options.

You'll find restrooms open year-round (and quite clean) plus drinking fountains that include a bottle-filling station for those who bring their own containers.

The parking situation is straightforward with plenty of spaces close to the action, and the park's manageable size means you won't have to trek far to reach any area. For families especially, this compact layout is a real advantage - you can keep track of the kids without feeling like you need a search party if they wander off.