Spring is a season of fresh starts—and when you live in one of our Olthof Homes’ communities, there’s no better place to embrace the season than right outside your front door. Whether you're searching for the best brunch spots or simply want to soak up some sunshine at the neighborhood park, spring in Indiana is brimming with charm. From the shores of Lake Michigan to the heart of Indianapolis, here’s a guide to celebrating spring near your new Olthof home in Northwest Indiana, Fort Wayne and the Indianapolis area. 

Northwest Indiana

In Northwest Indiana, spring arrives with plenty of breezy lake days and small-town charm that feels like something out of a postcard. Indiana Dunes National Park comes alive this time of year, offering peaceful trails lined with wildflowers and sweeping views of Lake Michigan. Whether you’re out for a casual nature walk or tackling one of the more challenging hiking trails, it’s an easy way to reconnect with the outdoors. The Erie Lackawanna Trail is another great way to enjoy the outdoors this season, offering a scenic way to explore neighboring towns on foot or by bike. 

In the downtown areas, restaurants begin to open their patios, and you’ll find locals enjoying the sun over brunch or a late afternoon bite. Spots like Bedarra Bar and Restaurant and Provecho Latin Provisions in Crown Point or Stacks Bar and Grill in Valparaiso fill up quickly as neighbors gather for good food and good company. Spring also signals the return of farmers markets where local produce, handmade goods and fresh-cut flowers offer a colorful snapshot of the season. 

Fort Wayne Metro

Over in the Fort Wayne Metro, the city’s mix of culture and outdoor living shines in the spring. A walk through the Lakeside Park Rose Gardens offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city, but for those wanting a longer outing, the River Greenway trail system spans 26 miles along Fort Wayne’s rivers, offering a scenic path for bikers, joggers and weekend wanderers alike. 

If you’re looking for the perfect way to spend a rainy spring day, you can also always check out the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, where rotating seasonal exhibits show off the best of spring’s color in a warm, indoor oasis. As the temperature rises, patios at local breweries like Hop River Brewing Company and Mad Anthony Brewing Company also become popular weekend hangouts, complete with plenty of craft beer options and relaxed atmospheres. 

Indianapolis 

In and around Indianapolis, you’ll find plenty to do during the spring season as well, but one of the standout experiences is a visit to The Garden at Newfields. With its fields of tulips, daffodils and flowering trees, it’s the perfect backdrop for an afternoon stroll or a peaceful moment under the sun. 

If you're in the mood for a little more activity, kayaking or canoeing on the White River is always a good way to spend a sunny day, and the White Rivers Canoe Company makes it easy to rent equipment and hit the water. Spring also kicks off festival season in the city, with events like the Broad Ripple Art Fair drawing crowds with food trucks, live music and all things local and handmade. 

Make the Most of Where You Live

Spring is the season to get out and explore—and when your home is in the heart of Indiana’s most welcoming communities, there’s always something to do just around the corner. From scenic trails and community markets to riverside adventures and garden strolls, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season. 

If you’re looking for a home that puts you near all of the action, take a look at our available homes in Northwest Indiana, Fort Wayne and the Indianapolis area, give us a call at (219) 327-4770 or fill out our online form today.