Greenwood, Indiana: Exploring Johnson County's History and Local Gems

Greenwood, Indiana, located in Johnson County, is part of the Indianapolis metropolitan area, just 11 miles south of downtown. With a population of 66,000, it's the 12th largest city in Indiana. There are three townships: Pleasant, White River, and Clark.  Greenwood has a great location between Interstate 65 and Interstate 69.

History

Greenwood, Indiana history dates back to the early 1820s. Originally known as "Smocktown" due to its initial settlers, predominantly the Smock family, it underwent a series of name changes. The first post office, established in 1828, adopted the name "Greenfield," but in 1833, it was renamed "Greenwood" to avoid confusion with another Greenfield in the state. In October 1847, the town witnessed a significant milestone with the arrival of the first railroad west of the Allegheny Mountains and in Indianapolis. This railroad system played a vital role in the transportation of grain, livestock, and lumber from the area.  My family’s contributions to the growth of Greenwood was the establishment of the Polk Cannery in 1877, employing 1000 men and women during canning season .  That building is called Polk Place today.  The family donated the JT & Laura Polk Community Center to Greenwood and it is now called Old Town Atrium. 

Recent Projects and Developments

Greenwood has been undergoing redevelopment and improvement projects. One notable project involved repurposing the former gymnasium of Greenwood Middle School into a downtown fieldhouse for Greenwood Parks Dept. and  next to the fieldhouse there are new condos being built downtown.  Old City Park, located in the heart of downtown, has been completely re-imagined and is once again a central cornerstone of Old Town. 

Places and Attractions to visit

• Freedom Springs Aquatics Park

Located at 850 W. Stop 18 Rd, Freedom Springs Aquatics Park offers an exhilarating water experience with taller slides, a lazy river, cabanas, and an "island" stage for live music. It caters to group events and hosts public events, adult-only nights, and the beloved Puppy POOLooza. The park also features a lily pad crossing, a splash/play area for infants and toddlers, and a range of programs from swim lessons to scuba lessons and fitness classes, catering to all ages and skill levels.

• Greenwood Library 

In the heart of downtown is the Greenwood Library, located at 310 S. Meridian is a great place to find a book, play some games with friends or learn a new skill.  There is a fantastic children’s library on the 1st floor along with community rooms. The 2nd floor has spacious areas for use including the Studio includes 3 large work areas, 3 editing computers, 37 craft and STEM kits that can be checked out for use in the room, and a variety of community equipment available and a fully stocked A.V. room.

• Greenwood Amphitheater

Greenwood Amphitheater, located at 300 S Washington St, Greenwood, is the top outdoor music venue in the area. With Pleasant Creek forming its northern border, the natural terracing creates an ideal setting for concerts. It hosts the city's free Summer Concert Series, featuring local musicians, and is a highlight of community festivals. The venue, situated behind the Greenwood Community Center, is also available for private event reservations.

• Greenwood Community Center

The renovated Greenwood Community Center offers state-of-the-art facilities, including an adult workout area, a dedicated space for children with a STEAM-focused play area called Kid City, hardwood courts, and versatile meeting spaces. The center is located at 100 Surina Way, Greenwood.

• Greenwood Park Mall

Greenwood Park Mall is located at the intersection of US 31 North and County Line Road, has over 150 stores and a variety of dining options, including The Cheesecake Factory, Bar Louies and BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse. 

• Craig Park

Located at 10 East Smith Valley Road, Craig Park is the largest public space in the heart of Greenwood. It serves as a gathering spot during the summer, hosting popular events like the Freedom Festival in June and WAMMFest in August, which bring together wine, art, music, and microbrews. With amenities such as pickleball courts, a softball diamond, a volleyball court, open play areas, picnic shelters, grills, and scenic trails for cross-country skiing in winter, the park offers something for everyone to enjoy.

• Otte Golf and Family Fun Center

Otte Golf and Family Fun Center is a popular destination for golf enthusiasts and families. It features an 18-hole miniature golf course, a driving range, batting cages, and a game arcade. Additionally, the center offers an 18-hole executive course with a length of 2,700 yards, including a challenging 315-yard hole. Whether practicing at the driving range or enjoying the batting cages, visitors can have a fun-filled experience at Otte Golf and Family Fun Center.

Greenwood  has a lot to offer from it’s interesting history to future developments that residents and visitors will surely love. Find your home and start living the Greenwood lifestyle today!

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