Discover Henry County

Henry County offers a wide range of experiences: wildlife watching, a well-known basketball history, motorsports, and seasonal events. When planning a trip, you can combine these highlights according to your interests or focus on just one of them.

Observe nature and explore the trails

Summit Lake State Park offers an excellent area for observing birds and wildlife. Zeigler Woods is Henry County’s first nature preserve. Another natural area is Wilbur Wright Fish & Wildlife Area, which includes 1,070 acres in Henry County, with river valleys and adjacent uplands. Songbird watching is considered especially rewarding there year-round. If you are more interested in fishing, you can fish in the Big Blue River and Little Blue River. Wildlife watching and fishing are two different ways to engage with the landscape here.

For a different way to get your bearings, the National Road Heritage Trail runs through southern Henry County. More than 7 miles of the trail are open in Henry County, in two sections. The route often follows an old railroad corridor that runs roughly parallel to the historic National Road. The trail is therefore divided into two segments; when planning, it is worth considering them separately. Its approximate parallel route to the historic road also gives the trail a distinct connection to the region’s transportation history.

Basketball history and motorsports

The Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame preserves the history of high school basketball in Indiana. Exhibits include memorabilia, artifacts, and interactive displays. A visit combines historical objects with an engaging presentation of the sport. Admission is free. Sports history enthusiasts will find a thematic counterpoint here to the natural areas and outdoor activities.

National karting tours are on the annual event calendar at New Castle Motorsports Park. Rental karts are also available to drivers aged 14 and older on the large track. The age requirement is important when planning; since requirements may change, check the current participation rules in advance. This makes it possible to distinguish between a recurring racing event and a hands-on driving experience without assuming they have the same requirements.

Hands-on activities and event dates

The Art Association of Henry County offers a glass-fusing workshop on request. Participants prepare glass for the kiln and then decorate the fused pieces. If you would like to plan this creative activity, first ask about a suitable date.

The Farmer’s Pike Festival takes place in Henry County every year over Labor Day weekend. Food stands and food trucks serve festival favorites as well as international dishes. Its timing differs significantly from year-round songbird watching at Wilbur Wright Fish & Wildlife Area: one is tied to an annual weekend, while the other is available year-round. If you want to plan your trip around the festival, check the specific event dates.

There are several different options for a stay: wildlife watching in a range of locations, a trail with two open sections, sports history, karting, and an annual festival. When planning, first consider which of these experiences are essential to your trip and what time of year suits them.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Knightstown, Hamilton, Parke, Elkhart, Clay County, Montgomery County, St. Joseph, Hendricks.

Return to the main travel overview: Indiana.