This Top Indianapolis Suburb Has A Storybook Downtown Alive With Boutiques, Cafes, And Timeless Charm

Indiana prides itself on its basketball legacy, agricultural output, and small towns, like Lebanon, a historic suburb with festivals and nature trails. When you're searching for your home away from home, look no further than Noblesville. You don't need to cram your itinerary with dozens of attractions; you can take it as slow as you want, whether you're having a lazy shopping day or simply watching the time pass by at a cute cafe. Don't mistake Noblesville for a sleepy suburb, though — it has a lively downtown lined with local businesses housed in ancient buildings that give the area its distinct character. From delicious eats to unique finds, this city is a top pick for a low-key weekend getaway.

Walking around Noblesville, you'll notice a lot of Victorian-style buildings dotting the streets. The Hamilton County Courthouse is an icon of the city, built in the Second Empire style and crowned with a clock tower. The historic sites give the city that quintessential appeal that makes you want to explore more areas, such as Conner Street, South 9th Street, and the Commercial Districts. Visiting Noblesville doesn't require you to be a history buff — shopaholics, coffee lovers, bibliophiles, and foodies will enjoy their time here just as much.

Coming from Indianapolis, it's a quick 30-minute drive to Noblesville. Fort Wayne, on the other hand, is one hour and 45 minutes away. One of the country's safest and most affordable family destinations, Fishers, is only 15 minutes from the city. The drive from Culver, considered the "Cape Cod of the Midwest," takes an hour and 45 minutes. Hotels are abundant in Noblesville, with chains like Courtyard by Marriott, Fairfield by Marriott Inn and Suites, and Residence Inn by Marriott. Other options include Quality Inn, Baymont by Wyndham, and Holiday Inn Express and Suites.

Make your way to Logan Village Mall for a much-needed shopping spree. Your first stop should be Hippie Chic Boutique. Browse their accessories and clothing to stock up on sweaters, wide-leg pants, and graphic Ts. From there, head to Jim's Time Capsule for retro-chic decor that'll have your guests complimenting your space. From antique phones and funky armchairs to wall clocks and quirky shelving units, this place has all the items to give your home some vintage pizzazz. Looking to buy handmade crafts? Pitica's Creations features macrame art, wooden home decor, ornate jewelry, and more.

Those who like treasure hunting will love hitting up the Noblesville Antiques on the Square, where more than 75 vendors offer memorabilia, keepsakes, and other vintage items. Find more shopping opportunities at Hamilton Town Center, with brands like American Eagle, Athleta, Bath & Body Works, Englin's Fine Footwear, and Evereve. Shopping without coffee will get you tired in no time — prevent fatigue by visiting LC Coffeehouse. Check out some of their seasonal beverages, like the s'mores blended drink, maple pumpkin latte, or pecan roll cold brew, or opt for classics like French press and affogato.

Noble Coffee and Tea Company is another spot where you can indulge in iced caramel macchiatos, blueberry crumble lattes, cafe mochas, and a classic cappuccino. Pair your cup of joe with an almond croissant, orange scone, or brown butter chocolate chip cookie. If you like Italian and Portuguese goodies, swing by Bica Café for pastel de nata, tiramisu, caramel apple cheesecake, and pistachio crème brûlée. They also have a wide range of creative drinks, such as the latte martini, Hugo spritz, sunset margarita, whiskey-based Just Peachy, and rum-infused Crème de la Crème.

When you're not upgrading your wardrobe or sipping on iced coffee, you'll come across more charming spots in Noblesville. Sunny days call for a family outing at Morse Park and Beach. Pack a picnic, bring a ball, and put on your sturdy shoes to meander the trails at this park. Enjoy playing volleyball, baseball, softball, and disc golf — summertime visitors can lounge by the beach and take a dip in the water. The 43-acre Hague Road Nature Haven is a wonderful place to stroll among dense woodlands, with Cicero Creek following you along the way. You can make a short loop around the verdant space, which takes you less than an hour to complete.

Golfers can bring their A-game to Purgatory Golf Club, a 218-acre, 18-hole course with scenic vistas at every stroke. Both amateurs and pros can have a go at this course — the more you progress, the greater challenges await. If not, take a swing at the Fox Prairie Golf Course. The 27-hole course boasts sloped greens, manicured fairways, water features, and sand traps, all of which make the game more exciting.

Perhaps everyone's favorite activity is hopping aboard the Nickel Plate Express. Marvel at the region's autumn colors on a 90-minute ride as you have a glass of apple cider. Better yet, take the Bourbon and Bacon Express to sample three different varieties of each offering. You can also book a private ride for a special occasion, seating up to 20 people. Not to mention, railbiking is available too — be it a 1.5-hour journey or a 3-hour adventure. Fall can be a magical season, so don't miss out on leaf-peeping opportunities in the state — escape to the small town of Paoli to revel in the vibrant foliage before the season ends.