THE RESTORATIVE POWER OF ART
JEAN EASTER
OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENTS GROUP INDY CUSTOM POOLS
DESIGN • BUILD • NURTURE • SWIM
THE ABSOLUTE AGENDA
Summer is in full swing! Our curated list of area events will inspire you and your family to make memories to last a lifetime.
SUMMER HAIR CARE WITH THE MAE
The Mae's holistic approach to hair care shines through in this Q&A with Korie Lance.
THE RESTORATIVE POWER OF ART
Art tells a story, and no one knows this better than Jean Easter and her team at Easter Conservation Services.
DOUGH DYNASTIES
Bazbeaux. Arni's. Diavola. Three names have become synonymous with Indianapolis pizza culture. Your family deserves the best.
THE ART OF HOME
Create a home that truly reflects your personality with expert advice from Kara Grider.
'ROUND THE TOWN
Bring on the water! Boat rides, rentals and guided tours perfect for an unforgettable aquatic adventure.
Editor-in-Chief
EDUARDO PEÑA
Managing Editor
JUSTYNA PEÑA
Assistant Editor
MATTHEW HUME
Writer SUSAN SALAZ
Photography
GABRIELLE CHEIKH NOEL JES NIJJER
Graphic Designer NICO PEÑA
Social Media Specialist CHRISTIAN PEÑA
Distribution
Contact
INFO@ABSOLUTELIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
Subscriptions
SUBSCRIBE@ABSOLUTELIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
Comments
EDITORIAL@ABSOLUTELIVINGMAGAZINE.COM
AGENDA
By SuSaN Salaz
July
July 12-13
Symphony on the Prairie: Disco Fever! Conner Prairie indianapolissymphony.org
Dance the night away on the picturesque Conner Prairie hillside at the Symphony Bowl this summer with conductor Enrico Lopez-Yañez leading the renowned Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, joined by vocalists Maiya Sykes and B. Slade. The evening will transport you back to a glitzier time of bell bottoms and jumpsuits, showcasing all your favorite groovy tunes and disco hits.
July 12-13 Momentum Indy Downtown Indianapolis momentumindy.org
Bring your bike for the best party on two wheels. This city-wide celebration includes cycling races along Mass Ave and the Honor Major Taylor Fondo— which isn’t your average “big ride”—this one has food, live music and festivities for everyone all weekend long.
July 16
Nicole Zuraitis: Generations of Her Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael feinsteinshc.com
Experience a century of female musical genius through the remarkable voice and artistry of Nicole Zuraitis as she performs at Feinstein’s Cabaret. The Grammy-winning jazz artist presents a musical journey celebrating women songwriters from 1924 to today, featuring reimagined classics by Carole King, Aretha Franklin, Dolly Parton and more, blending stunning arrangements with fascinating backstories.
July 17 – August 16
Suzanne Neville Trunk Show
Marie Gabriel Bridal mariegabrielbridal.com
Discover the epitome of bridal elegance at Marie Gabriel Bridal, Indiana's exclusive Suzanne Neville retailer. In their new, state-of-the-art location, discerning brides-to-be can preview stunning gowns known for their timeless beauty and superior craftsmanship, including the designer's latest collection, featuring clean lines and impeccable fits, at this must-see event.
July 18-22
Hamilton County 4-H Fair
Hamilton County Fairgrounds extension.purdue.edu
Celebrate country traditions at the annual Hamilton County 4-H Fair. This family-friendly event showcases youth achievements in agriculture, crafts and technology. Enjoy livestock shows, project exhibitions and local food vendors—and don't miss nightly entertainment, including tractor pulls, a pet parade and the always popular llama obstacle course.
July 20
Indiana Micro Brewers Festival
Military Park, Indianapolis drinkin.beer
At this annual fundraiser, sample hundreds of beers, ciders and craft cocktails from dozens of Hoosier breweries. Drink in the spirit of the day with local vendors, games and entertainment at Military Park in downtown Indianapolis. Early entry and designated driver options are available, and proceeds support the Indiana Brewers Guild's mission to promote local craft brewing.
July 26
Summer Nights Film Series: Indy Shorts Newfields discovernewfields.org
Enjoy a night of cinematic gems under the stars at Newfields. This special evening features Oscar-worthy short films from the Indy Shorts International Film Festival. Come early for trivia and music, bring a blanket or chair, pack your own picnic for a perfect summer night out and settle in for a selection of the best short films around.
August 9
Polo at Sunset
Hickory Hall Polo Club indypolo.com
Cheer on thundering hooves and mallets at the sunset polo matches on the beautiful grounds of Hickory Hall Polo Club. Enjoy the thrill of the sport while supporting local charities, and don't miss the halftime spectacle—a candy-dropping airplane flyover that'll have kids (and kids-at-heart) scrambling with delight.
August 10
Baby Got Brunch Victory Field babygotbrunch.net
Brunch lovers, unite! This epic food fest held at Victory Field serves up the city's best morning bites with a side of '90s hip-hop. Sample creative dishes from top local chefs, sip bottomless mimosas and vote for your favorite plate. It's a 21+ party with a purpose, supporting the fight against youth hunger.
By SuSaN Salaz
Summer Hair Care
With The Mae
The sun-drenched days of summer are here, and the city's hair enthusiasts are flocking to The Mae, a bohemian spa nestled in the Butler Tarkington and Meridian Kessler neighborhoods. This boutique salon, founded by Korie Lance, is more than just a place to get your hair done—it's a sanctuary where inner beauty is celebrated and natural radiance is enhanced.
As Indiana's first benefit corporation salon, The Mae is a place where looking good, feeling good and doing good intersect. In addition to salon and spa services, Korie and several others on her team offer coaching services, empowering and enlightening others to live the life they are called to live and be their most authentic aligned selves.
"We're not just about hair," says Korie, adding she got into this industry because she loved the inner transformation that happens when people feel beautiful. "We love to teach people how to embrace
their natural texture and work with their natural tones. Society really pushes women to change almost everything about themselves and we really try to stand out as a place in the beauty industry that goes against the status quo and encourages women to embrace their natural beauty and remind them that true beauty comes from the inside out."
The Mae's holistic approach has earned it recognition as one of the Top 200 Salons in the Nation for both 2023 and 2024, and Salon of the Year for 2023. But for Korie, the real measure of success is in the smiles of her clients and the flourishing of her team.
"We take a holistic approach to beauty," Korie passionately explains. "We desire to draw out and magnify our client's inner beauty by reflecting it in healthy, gorgeous, naturally enhanced hair!" This philosophy shines through in The Mae's summer hair care tips.
Embrace Your Natural Texture.
The Mae's stylists encourage clients to work with, not against, their hair's natural inclinations. "Use products and styling techniques recommended by your stylist to enhance and embrace your natural texture," Korie advises. "Save the heat styling for special events!" This approach not only protects your hair from unnecessary damage but also celebrates your unique beauty.
Deep Condition Weekly.
To combat the drying effects of sun, chlorine and salt water, Korie recommends using a deep conditioning masque once a week. This simple step can keep your locks luscious and hydrated throughout the summer months.
Use Pool Protection Before Diving In.
"Your hair is like a sponge," Korie explains. "Moisten it with a leave-in conditioner or even tap water so that it doesn't soak up as many chemicals when getting in the pool." For post-swim care, she recommends using Malibu Shampoo to rid the hair of chlorine.
Try an Innovative Treatment.
The Mae stays at the forefront of hair care technology. "The new Kerastase Premier System is an incredible way to decalcify hair and remove build-up while restoring the hair back to its natural bonds," Korie shares, excited about offering this service to her clients.
Experience the refreshing approach to beauty at The Mae, located at 4907 N. Pennsylvania Street in Indianapolis. For more information, appointments, and the latest news and events, visit their website at themaesalon.com and follow @themaesalon on Instagram.
PhotograPhy By Gabrielle Cheikh Noel
the restorAtive power of Art
Jean Easter
By Matthew huMe | PhotograPhy By Gabrielle Cheikh Noel |
The stretch of 54th Street on either side of the Monon Trail is home to some of Indianapolis’s most beloved boutique shops and family restaurants. A longstanding denizen of the 54th and Monon Shops, snuggled between Heritage Clothier and Home and Diavola, is Easter Conservation Services. For nearly 25 years, Jean Easter has provided worldclass art conservation and framing services to the Indianapolis community, and since 2012, she and her team have worked right out of this cozy location. When I stepped into the shop to meet Jean, I was first welcomed by Sydney, the resident Siberian Husky, lying comfortably by the door. A human voice of welcome followed, that of Warren O’Connell, who has worked with Jean for more than a decade. I will admit that while I had done some research into the basics of art conservation, I didn’t exactly know what to expect walking into Jean’s store. What I saw before me–a joyous mosaic of art for purchase,
frame and matting samples, work tables and accompanying works in progress–was very much an active and welcoming space, one that doesn’t hide the complexity of the work that goes on here. So, what exactly is the work that Easter Conservation Services performs?
Jean lays it out for me. “We do art conservation, matting and framing, mirrors–we do just about anything that has to do with art,” she tells me. “We hang art, we can place art, we can sell you art, we can even make original art for you.”
Jean employs just two other fulltime staff, and so it’s a small and mighty, highly dedicated team that accomplishes all of this. Warren is the store’s framing manager, and Gina Golden performs the bulk of the conservation work. Jean jokes that the resident canines (Sydney and a red heeler named Red) are also on staff. “They’re always here… we pay them a cheese tax,” she laughs.
(promotional content)
artwork By eduardo Peña
Of Love and Art
A native New Yorker, Jean Easter arrived in Indianapolis more than 25 years ago. “I was visiting my brother, who was working here then, and before I knew it I’d met someone and fallen in love.” Truly, a tale as old as time. After a short stint working at the Children’s Museum, Jean found work in conservation at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. “I’d worked for conservators in New York, and so the IMA job was a good match,” she recalls. “I did frames–gilding and conservation, making new pieces for frames that were missing ornaments, and work along those lines.” It was love that led Jean to choose Indianapolis, but what was it that led her into the field of art conservation? “From a young age, I wanted to do something related to the arts field,” she says. Jean took up studies at New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), and after a stint with buying and merchandising working in retail, she decided to adjust course and pursue a degree in the restoration of decorative objects. “We dealt with wood, metal and ceramics, and it was very much an art history and curatorial approach,” she explains.
Jean’s love of art and her respect for the history that accompanies pieces of art and historic objects are evident throughout our conversation. “I love interacting with our clients and working with them to decide how we’ll frame or conserve their pieces,” she says. “In the work we do, we’re bringing something back to life, something that a client remembers from their grandparents’ home. Now they want to honor those memories.” Some of the pieces are stories in and of themselves, and Jean and Warren take a moment
to reminisce. “We’ve seen some of the most amazing pieces–sculptures made out of jade, out of glass–and we’ve even worked with documents–Civil War letters written back and forth, letters signed by Presidents–it’s something different every week.” Warren recalls fondly the life-sized “smoking Indian” statue, the kind you might still see in the occasional tobacco store, and the 1960s store mannequin that donned a tile bikini. “She looked great when she was done,” laughs Warren. “We gave her a good sanding, a new coat of skin–tanned her up and buffed her out!”
At the end of the day, Jean and her team are problem solvers, taking stock of each situation and identifying the best and safest way to get the job done. Sometimes the best way isn’t the most practical, and once the team signs on to a project, they do whatever it takes. “We created a stand for an Annie Liebovitz piece at The Alexander Hotel a while back,” she says, “Their sister hotel in Nashville, Tennessee, needed one, too, so we drove it down there. We weren’t going to trust just anyone with the task!”
In October 2023, the New York Times ran an article that took Jean’s breath away. “The New York public hospital system has thousands of pieces of art by major artists, and most are in plain sight of patients and visitors,” she says. The article described a set of eight Ansel Adams photographs that needed to be framed, for which the hospital was seeking funding. “I contacted them,” Jean tells me. “I wanted to donate our time and resources to do this work, pro bono.” They wrote back right away. “We flew out to meet with the project manager, brought frame samples and picked out mattes.” This past April, Jean
Jean and her team are passionate about art, and they see it as part of their job to educate clients in the basics of art conservation. “People bring in incredible pieces, and they just don’t know how to handle the art,” Jean says. “There’s an art to the conservation process, and when a client brings in something that’s been neglected, our job is to conserve the piece and help them understand how to protect it well into the future.”
and Warren flew back to New York to frame these eight Ansel Adams treasures right there onsite. “We sent out frames ahead, but we took the mattes and plexiglass and tools, and we finished the job in a day and a half.” Jean says the team was thrilled with the results. “The hospital didn’t have an art curator–these were donated and just resting in a closet,” she adds. She and Warren will go back for the installation of the pieces this August.
Supporting Art in the Community
Walk into Jean’s shop and you’ll quickly notice the frame samples, work tables and projects in motion. You’ll likely see members of the team going about their business (Sydney and Red will be right there with them). But at the front of the shop, and as you step further back into the shop, you will see art for sale by local artists. “People are always welcome to come in to experience the art we have,” Jean says. “We feature different artists, and we try to maintain a diversity of style to appeal to various tastes.” I ask how Jean decides what art to show, and she explains that if someone is willing to show their art, she’s willing to put it on display. “We make absolutely no judgments on the art itself,” she tells me. “We give everyone a chance to get their foot in the door, to show what they want to show.”
Jean and her team also curate the ColeNoble Art Gallery at Artistry Apartments (451 E. Market Street, Indianapolis). “Every quarter, we highlight an Indianapolis artist with a Friday night opening for residents and the public,” Jean explains. “We especially like this gallery because the art can be seen from the street. It contributes to the culture of that corner of downtown
Indianapolis, and it’s an opportunity to promote art that is accessible to a larger community of art buyers.”
Giving Back to Employees
Jean understands that the art world is constantly evolving and that to grow as artists and conservators, she and her team must be on top of trends in art conservatorship around the world. Take Gina for instance. “Gina’s an artist, and I sent her to Italy a few years ago for a drawing class,” Jean says. “She’s also been to the Netherlands for further training in conservation.” Warren has accompanied Jean to Ireland to tour museums and visit castles and cathedrals. Through this and other professional and personal development opportunities, Jean strengthens her team’s knowledge and awareness of the world around them. “When I started my business, I wanted to be a different kind of employer,” she says. “I want everyone to flourish as human beings. I want Gina to grow as an artist, and I want Warren to explore his art more. I want my team to reach their potential as employees, of course, but I want them to be the creative people they’re meant to be.”
The next time you find yourself feeling artsy, start at Easter Conservation Services. Once a season, they host openings for their invited artists, and they’re active players in the 54th and Monon Shops. You’ll find their doors open for occasional First Fridays, Race Month Porch Parties, seasonal sidewalk sales, and the festive Holiday Hop that rolls around each holiday season. Jean invites you to dive into the stories that art tells. Sydney and Red just want you to bring them a treat.
SUN KING BREWERY TASTING ROOMS
Visit one of Sun King Brewery’s family-friendly tasting rooms, with Sun King beer, cocktails featuring our own Sun King Spirits, non-alcoholic brews and sober-curious cocktails, THC seltzers, exciting and tasty food options from our restaurant partners, beautiful patios, and private event spaces.
Dough Dynasties
An Absolute Guide to Local Pizza
While pizza is a year-round favorite, it becomes especially irresistible in the summer months when fresh, seasonal toppings are abundant and leisurely meals are cherished. In the heart of our community, three local pizza institutions serve up slices of tradition, each with its own unique flavor. Bazbeaux, celebrating nearly 40 years of culinary creativity, and Arni's, approaching its 60th anniversary next year, have become synonymous with Indianapolis pizza culture. Joining these longstanding favorites is Diavola, bringing generations-old Italian traditions to SoBro for almost a decade.
From eclectic toppings to classic thin crusts and authentic Neapolitan techniques, these familyowned pizzerias offer more than just a meal—they're a taste of both local and international history, perfect for those fleeting summer evenings. Join us as we explore how Bazbeaux, Arni's, and Diavola have stood the test of time and continue to thrive, one pizza at a time.
(promotional content)
Arni’s
4705 East 96th St, Indianapolis, IN 1691 Curry Rd, Greenwood, IN
251 W. Northfield Dr, Brownsburg, IN
When Arnold "Arni" Cohen opened the doors of his first pizza shop in 1965, little did he know he was starting a culinary tradition that would span generations. Now, nearly 60 years later, Arni's has become a beloved institution across Indiana, with nearby locations in Brownsburg, Greenwood and River Ridge. Arni's hits the spot this summer with relaxing patio dining, top-notch service and new happy hour offerings.
Arni's menu extends beyond pies to include strombolis, sandwiches, salads and more, with a new pepperoni and hot honey flatbread guests are loving. But party-sliced, thin crust pizzas are what they are famous for. House favorites like the Maui Zowie and Rustica will tantalize your taste buds, but Kurt insists you can't go wrong with classic pepperoni.
Today, Arni's sons Kurt and Brad Cohen carry on their father's legacy, maintaining the commitment to quality that put Arni's on the map. "Many generations of families have been our clients," Kurt shares. "We want to deliver what they expect—great food and great service—but we don't chase trends."
The family connection runs deep at Arni's. All five of Arni's grandchildren have worked in the restaurants, including Kurt's three teenagers this summer. "We've got multigenerations of employees and customers," Kurt proudly notes. This dedication to quality and tradition keeps Arni's at the heart of Indiana's pizza scene. The Cohen family's commitment to doing things "the right way" ensures that every visit to Arni's is a memorable one.
Stop by your local Arni's, visit meetyouatarnis.com and follow @arnisrestaurant to explore their menu and find a location near you.
Bazbeaux
111 W. Main St, Carmel, IN
811 E. Westfield Blvd, Broad Ripple, IN
333 Massachusetts Av, Indianapolis, IN
Since 1986, Bazbeaux has been serving up legendary, gourmet-style pizzas that have become an integral part of Indy's culinary culture. With locations in Broad Ripple, downtown Indianapolis, and Carmel, Bazbeaux offers an unforgettable dining experience that keeps customers coming back for more.
The secret to Bazbeaux's success lies in its commitment to quality. "We pride ourselves on making our dough fresh daily and we don't cut corners," says owner Jeff Berman, adding that fresh ingredients and made-from-scratch preparations are a non-negotiable. Their hand-made, oven-fired pies feature a crisp crust (white, wheat or gluten-free) topped with both traditional and exotic ingredients in daring but delightful medleys.
Summer is the perfect time to explore Bazbeaux's menu. Keep things light with the Margherita or Genova, featuring seasonal flavors at their best. Try the B.O.T. (bacon, onion and tomato) for a classic summer pie, or warm up to the new Shack Attack with Italian sausage, jalapenos and house-made hot honey. Go big with the Colossus or Cajun Tchoupitoulas, or create your own from their endless list of toppings.
The Carmel location, situated where Main Street meets the Monon Trail, offers a prime spot for pizza and peoplewatching. With ample indoor seating, a wine bar and a large trailside patio, it's the ideal place to enjoy a cold craft beer and watch the world go by.
Diavola
1134 E. 54th Street, Indianapolis, IN
Nestled in the heart of SoBro, Diavola stands as a testament to authentic Italian pizza-making. This small family operation, owned by Lori Welch and her Italian-born husband, has earned its place among the top 50 pizzerias in the U.S., a recognition that Lori describes as "an incredible honor and humbling thrill."
Diavola's commitment to Neapolitan-style pizza is evident in every pie they serve. "Our dough goes through a proofing process after being made. It’s stretched by hand, then fired in our Italian brick oven, every order," Lori explains, adding that being Neapolitan, all pizzas are the same size and made to order.
Using a combination of locally sourced and imported Italian ingredients, they create pizzas that transport diners straight to Naples. "We have a long history in Vicenza, Italy, where my husband is from, and try to bring traditional staples of great Italian food to Indianapolis," Lori adds. While the classic Diavola never disappoints with its Pomodoro sauce, fresh mozzarella, pepperoni, basil, peppadew pepper and olive oil, adventurous eaters should try La Sophia, featuring salsa bianca, burrata, soleggiati tomato, kalamata olive and basil. Another standout pie is the Parma, topped with prosciutto, arugula and shaved parmesan. Each pizza showcases the best of Italian culinary tradition.
Beyond its regular menu, Diavola offers catering services and hosts private events, bringing its authentic Italian flavors to gatherings of all sizes. Whether you're dining in its cozy SoBro location or having Diavola cater your next event, you're guaranteed a taste of Italy that's as close to the real thing as you can get without boarding a plane.
Visit Diavola for an authentic taste of Italy. Find them online at diavola.net and follow @diavola_indy on Instagram for more info, menu and reservations.
The Art of Home
Q&A with Kara Grider of Kara Grider Design
By SuSaN Salaz
This month, we sat down with local tastemaker Kara Grider to unlock the secrets of transforming living spaces into personal galleries.
Discover expert advice on displaying artwork, mixing art styles and lighting tips to curate a home that truly reflects your personality.
Q: What is your philosophy when it comes to incorporating artwork and meaningful family items in your designs?
A: My goal is to make sure the client feels like it's their home. Art is an easy way to do that by bringing in important items. For example, I'm creating a gallery wall with a daughter's paintings for a playroom. It makes the client happy and the daughter feels it's her space. I've also had clients who wanted to bring in memories, like a Purdue graduate for whom we found campus architectural artwork. The vibe of a space is so different when you bring in meaningful pieces.
Q: How do you choose new art to complement a client's existing style?
A: I ensure cohesion by looking at color
tones and the space's vibe. I ask clients many questions: Do you want a casual space? We might go with a whimsical piece. Is this an adult sitting area? I'd gravitate toward something sophisticated. Ultimately, it's about the client's feedback. What should the space feel like? How will they use it? We complement existing colors and furnishings, ensuring the artwork's tones are interesting in the space.
Q: What are your thoughts on mixing different styles?
A: I love mixing styles. When creating a gallery wall, I look for complementary styles. I might pick a modern abstract piece, put a traditional piece next to it, and add a 3D piece for visual interest. I'm always mixing and curating to create an elevated space
PhotograPhy By Sarah ShieldS
with multiple levels and layers, not just sticking to one style.
Q: How important is framing when it comes to artwork?
A: Framing is crucial and requires attention to detail. The choice depends on the piece and its placement. If you can get a nice vintage frame that works with your art—you can't go wrong. The history and charm of vintage frames make that piece irreplaceable. A bold print on a large wall might need a thicker frame, while a delicate piece could shine with a thinner brass frame. For unique items like heirlooms or memorabilia, shadowboxes offer a great display option. They allow you to showcase three-dimensional objects and aged edges while protecting them.
Q: How can you enhance artwork with lighting?
A: Lighting is a game-changer for artwork. It's about creating focus and mood. For gallery walls, I often use accent lighting, like art wall lights or discreet overhead spots. This draws the eye and creates a focal point. In bookcases, I might use hidden LED strips to softly illuminate pieces. The key is using lighting to guide attention and enhance the artwork's impact, making your curated pieces highlights of the space.
Kara Grider Design is located in Carmel at 12851 Broad Street Suite 150. Visit karagriderdesign.com and follow @ karagriderdesign on Instagram to learn more and see her beautifully curated spaces.
WHERE ORGANIZATION MEETS
By SuSaN Salaz
’Round the Town
Anchors Aweigh – Your Mini-Guide to the Area’s Best Boating Experiences
Sail through the summer on a leisurely lake cruise or thrilling river float. This month, we bring you boat rides, rentals and guided tours just perfect for an unforgettable aquatic adventure.
Downtown Canal
Old World Gondoliers 4gondola.com
Glide along the picturesque Indianapolis Downtown Canal in an authentic gondola, serenaded by a skilled and dedicated gondolier. This enchanting Venetian experience offers a romantic journey through time, combining the charm of Old Italy with captivating urban views. It’s perfect for dates, special occasions or a unique city adventure.
Eagle Creek
Eagle Creek Sailing Club ecsail.org
Nestled on the western shore of Eagle Creek Reservoir, Eagle Creek Sailing Club is a haven for sailing enthusiasts. Members enjoy the thrill of sailing along with a vibrant social scene. The club hosts exciting races, camps, cookouts and other events throughout the season, including the upcoming Regatta and Beach Party on July 13.
Geist Reservoir
The Fizzy Floater Tiki Boat Tours thefizzyfloater.com
Experience a tropical getaway on Geist Reservoir with The Fizzy Floater, Indy's only captainchartered tiki boat. This unique floating oasis accommodates up to ten passengers and offers a perfect blend of relaxation and fun. Equipped with a Bluetooth sound system, wood-top bar and cozy seating, it's ideal for day trips or sunset cruises with friends and family.
Jet Ski Indy jetskiindy.com
Looking for a great way to explore Lake Monroe? Find your wave with Jet Ski Indy, which offers personal watercraft rentals for thrilling adventures and delivery to many DNR lakes statewide. With all equipment and safety briefings provided, you can focus on speeding across Indiana's scenic waterways, creating exhilarating memories on these high-energy machines.
Lake Monroe
St. Mary’s River
Sweet Breeze Canal Boat fortwayneparks.org
Board the Sweet Breeze Canal Boat for a charming journey down the St. Mary’s River. More than worth the drive to Fort Wayne, this authentic replica provides guided tours featuring local history and stunning views. From wine cruises to sunset voyages, there's something for everyone. Afterward, explore Promenade Park's attractions—kids' canal, riverside dining and treetop canopy trail.
Lake Freeman
Madam Carroll madamcarroll.com
All aboard Indiana's largest boat, the Madam Carroll, on Lake Freeman in Monticello. This 135-foot "Queen of the Lake" offers year-round dockside entertainment and seasonal cruises from May to November. Don't miss their special dinner cruise this month, featuring stunning views, live entertainment and gourmet dining—a perfect adults-only evening on the water.
Ohio River
Rockin’ Thunder River Tours rockinthunder.com
Tour the Ohio and Kentucky Rivers with Rockin’ Thunder River Tours for a jet boat adventure launching from beautiful Madison, Indiana, nestled along the river in the state’s southern hills. Choose from scenic 40-mile tours, midweek lunch excursions or the epic two-day Kentucky River excursion. Spot wildlife, explore historic sites and create unforgettable memories.
Morse Reservoir
Morse Marina Pontoon Boat Rentals morsemarina.com
Discover the perfect way to enjoy Morse Reservoir with a pontoon boat rental. Ideal for groups of friends or family, these spacious vessels offer a relaxing day on the open water. Fish in tranquil spots, swim in secluded coves, or cruise the picturesque shoreline, then cap off your day by docking and dining at Wolfies Waterfront Grill.
Nashville, Indiana
Pathfinder Outfitters pathfinderoutfitters.com
Based in nearby Nashville, Indiana, Pathfinder Outfitters crafts custom water adventures across Indiana and beyond. From tranquil local creeks to the mighty Colorado River, their expertly guided trips cater to all skill levels. Whether you're a novice paddler or a seasoned adventurer, Pathfinder helps you navigate diverse waterways, creating lasting memories amid nature's beauty on tailored outdoor excursions.
White River
White River Canoe Company whiterivercanoe.com
Kick back and relax on the White River, by tube, kayak or canoe with White River Canoe Company in Noblesville. Offering full and half-day adventures, this outfitter caters to all skill levels. Their unique tubing tours provide a leisurely way to enjoy Indiana's natural beauty, while kayak and canoe trips offer more active exploration of the scenic waterway.
