Coxhall Gardens

A Bit of History

Positioned in Carmel, Indiana, Coxhall Gardens sprawls across 125 acres of thoughtfully designed landscape. Back in 1999, Jesse and Beulah Cox donated this land, creating a space where natural beauty mingles with modern design and a touch of history.

The park's most recognizable feature? Those 90-foot bell towers that stand like twin sentinels over the grounds. There's something almost magical about hearing them toll back and forth at the top of each hour - a gentle reminder of time passing in this peaceful setting.

What You'll Find Here

If you're bringing kids along, the Children's Garden is worth checking out. It's not your average playground - think interactive ABC gardens, colorful quilt-inspired flower beds, and echo walls where little voices bounce back in delight. The peek-a-boo hills and miniature village complete with playhouses give children their own little world to explore. And on hot days, the water pump and sand play area become the star attractions for splashing and building.

Need a moment of peace? Campbell Crossing offers exactly that - a tranquil spot surrounded by water on two sides where you can sit and just breathe. The bridges and overlooks scattered within the park provide perfect spots to pause and take in the scenery.

The Centerpiece amphitheater with its tiered lawn and gazebo hosts summer concerts and weddings. As dusk falls, the surrounding fountain and open space are illuminated, creating a pleasant atmosphere.

History buffs will appreciate the Coxhall Mansion, modeled after the Governor's Mansion in Williamsburg, Virginia. It occasionally opens for tours, offering a glimpse into the property's past lives.

Getting Active

Miles of paved trails wind through the park, ideal for a morning jog, afternoon stroll, or casual bike ride. Fishing enthusiasts gravitate toward the recreation lake, which teems with fish and turtles waiting to be caught (and released).

Nature lovers should check out the prairie wetland ecosystem with its wooden walkway. It's a little glimpse of Indiana's natural habitat preserved right here in the park, complete with native plants and visiting wildlife.

The expansive green spaces are ideal for picnic blankets, kite flying, or just relaxing on a sunny day. If you're planning something more organized, the picnic pavilions come equipped with tables and grills, with clean restrooms nearby.

Picture Perfect

It's no wonder photographers flock here. Between the architectural features, seasonal blooms, and varied landscapes, Coxhall Gardens provides backdrops for everything from wedding photos to graduation portraits in every season.

The park also hosts various events during the year - concerts echoing from the amphitheater, colorful kites dotting the sky during festivals, and holiday decorations that transform the gardens into seasonal wonderlands.

Good to Know

You'll find plenty of parking, clean facilities, and mostly flat, paved paths that work well for strollers and wheelchairs.

Dog owners, your leashed companions are welcome to join you as you explore the grounds.

Best of all? Coxhall Gardens is completely free to visit. It's open daily from 6AM to 9PM, offering a peaceful retreat where you can connect with nature and community any time of year.