Summer Fun in Richmond

Summer is the season for cutting loose and relaxing, but due to the coronavirus pandemic, many folks are choosing to cancel their vacations and stay closer to home for the summer this year. Fortunately, there are lots of things to do right here in town, so you can customize your very own “staycation” and still have a blast during your time off! Better yet, choose something new to do every weekend and play tourist. You’ll get a whole new appreciation for Richmond, and maybe discover something you never noticed before!

Things to Do This Summer in Richmond, Indiana

Visit Thistlewaite Falls

Did you know that Thistlewaite Falls is a man-made waterfall? Created in the early 1800s, the stunning cascade is one of the most scenic waterfalls in Indiana. Go for a hike, keep an eye out for birds and other wildlife, or hunt for fossils along the river. 

Go bowling

When you’re looking for fun things to do in Richmond but don’t want to deal with the heat, sun, and bugs of an outdoor activity, visit us at Richmond 40 Bowl for a game or two of bowling in our clean, bright, and modern bowling alley. 

For even more fun and excitement, join us for Cosmic Bowling every Friday (10pm-12:30am) and Saturday (11pm-1:30am). When the day lights go down, the laser, disco, runway, and black lights come up, turning the bowling lanes into a glow-in-the-dark spectacle. We also pump up the music and show music videos to add to the atmosphere, creating an exhilarating, club-like atmosphere that will take your bowling game to the next level of fun. Adults, teens, and kids alike are welcome, and we even offer party packages if you’re celebrating! 

Explore the Hayes Arboretum

While the nature center and restrooms are still closed to the public due to coronavirus concerns, there’s plenty to see and do at Hayes Arboretum. Enjoy the nature playscape, butterfly and herb gardens, hiking trails, and mountain bike trails. (Closures are subject to change, so make sure to check the Hayes Arboretum website before you go for any updates!)

Go on a fairy hunt

If you have little kids (or maybe you’re just a sucker for miniatures and magic), the Enchanted Fairy Trail is a unique, must-see attraction in Richmond and Wayne County. Tiny “fairy doors” have popped up all over town, in gardens, museums, cafes, and shops. For directions to these lilliputian lairs, pick up an Enchanted Fairy Trail map at the Richmond Welcome Center. 

Appreciate art outside

Head over to the Indiana University East sculpture park to see seven public artworks by contemporary sculptors. The outdoor sculpture gallery changes out every other year, with artists all over the country competing to have their work selected for inclusion in the garden.