Central Park

A Green Oasis in the Heart of Carmel

Stretching across 159 acres between 116th Street, 111th Street, College Avenue, and Westfield Boulevard, Central Park is where Carmel residents come to play, unwind, and reconnect with nature. This sprawling green space balances modern recreational amenities with peaceful natural areas that make you forget you're in the suburbs.

The park is laced with over six miles of trails that wind through diverse landscapes - from open prairies to serene wetlands and shady woodlands. The Monon Greenway cuts right through the middle of the park, making it super convenient for cyclists and walkers to stop by while traveling this popular regional trail.

Get Active Year-Round

At the heart of Central Park stands the Monon Community Center, a comprehensive fitness facility. This modern facility houses everything from a well-equipped fitness center to an indoor aquatics area, gymnasium, and indoor track - excellent for keeping your workout routine going regardless of Indiana's sometimes unpredictable weather.

When summer rolls around, The Waterpark becomes the place to be. Kids and adults alike can float along the lazy river, zoom down water slides, challenge themselves on the AquaClimb wall, or try their hand at surfing on the FlowRider. Serious swimmers can enjoy the lap pool for a more traditional workout.

Kid-Friendly Fun

The Westermeier Commons area (previously called West Commons) features a large playground spanning over 25,000 square feet. What makes this play space special is its inclusive design - with ramps and quieter areas for children who might need sensory breaks, it truly welcomes kids of all abilities.

Older children particularly love this massive playground with its numerous climbing structures and adventure-inspiring equipment. Right next to it, you'll discover a splash pad that mimics natural features while incorporating environmentally conscious water management systems. The Commons area is rounded out with convenient picnic shelters, a meadow, lagoon, and a charming boardwalk - making it easy to spend an entire day here with the family.

Explore Natural Beauty

On the park's eastern side, East Woods offers over three miles of trails through varied ecosystems that seamlessly connect to the Monon Greenway. The well-maintained walking paths accommodate visitors of all mobility levels, with paved options circling the peaceful lagoon.

Carmel Creek meanders through this section, creating not just a pretty view but also a vital habitat for local wildlife. It's not uncommon to spot deer wandering through the woods or various bird species around the lagoon and pond areas. These water features serve as natural classrooms for those interested in learning about watersheds and local ecosystems.

This side of the park also features picnic shelters with grills and a skate park for those seeking more active pursuits. If you're looking for solitude, keep an eye out for the secluded picnic tables nestled throughout the woods - they offer perfect spots to read a book or simply enjoy some quiet time surrounded by nature.

Picture-Perfect Moments

There's a reason photographers love Central Park. Multiple bridges, wooden boardwalks, and an overpass create stunning backdrops, especially when bathed in the golden light of sunset.

Through the seasons, you'll discover artistic elements scattered across the park, from formal sculptures to charming natural curiosities like the eagle and turtle log formations. These scenic spots, combined with the diverse landscape of trees and water features, make the park a favorite location for everything from casual Instagram shots to formal engagement, wedding, and senior portrait photography.

Sustainable by Design

What makes Central Park special is its thoughtful balance of recreational amenities with environmental conservation. Native plant species and sophisticated water management systems aren't just good for the planet - they create a more authentic, lower-maintenance, and beautiful landscape for everyone to enjoy.

Since its completion, Central Park has become a popular recreational space that also incorporates environmental conservation principles.