Live Local Hancock County 2025 by Hancock Health Network

WELCOME TO HANCOCK COUNTY!

What a joy and privilege it is to welcome you home — whether you’re planting new roots or returning to familiar ones, you’ve chosen a place that puts people and our community first. Here in Hancock County, we believe in more than just living — we believe in thriving. In neighbors who wave, weekend festivals, amazing schools, thriving local businesses, farmers markets and so much more. Hancock County has a pace of life that makes time for connection, a place where families grow, friendships form, and people genuinely care for one another. And at Hancock Health, we believe in making health possible — not just when you’re sick, but in every season of your life.

As one of Indiana’s fastest-growing counties, we know you had choices. We’re honored you chose Hancock County. And as you begin this new chapter, we’d be grateful for the opportunity to be your health partner — the ones you trust for annual visits, flu shots, mammograms, late-night fevers, unexpected injuries, and lifelong wellness.

That commitment to your health and well-being is what drives everything we do — from everyday care to life’s most complex moments. It’s why we’ve collaborated with the Mayo Clinic to bring world-class expertise close to home. It’s why our nationally recognized Sue Ann Wortman Cancer Center walks with patients and families every step of their journey. And it’s why, through our partnership with Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital, our newborns can receive expert care right here in our community.

With a hospital known for kindness and heart, a network of clinics, outpatient offices, immediate cares all designed for convenience and real life, and wellness centers focused on the whole you, Hancock Health is here to meet you where you are and grow with you and your loved ones throughout your journey.

So take your time settling in. Explore the parks. Meet your neighbors. Find your new favorite restaurant. And know that when it comes to YOU and your family — we’re right here, ready to make your best health possible.

Welcome home. We’re so glad you’re here.

STEVE LONG President & CEO, Hancock Health

Photo: Hancock County 4H Fair

HANCOCK COUNTY CITYSNAPSHOTS

GREENFIELD

As Hancock County’s largest city, Greenfield boasts a vibrant community that draws people from all over East Central Indiana. From restaurants and shopping, to events for adults and kids alike, this bustling Indianapolis suburb is growing by leaps and bounds. It was named among one of the top healthiest communities in the United States by U.S. News & World Report, and residents benefit from access to great schools, parks, community gathering spaces, healthcare facilities and more.

Local favorites include Greenfield’s Main Street shopping and dining district, the summer Farmer’s Market at the Fairgrounds, Tuttle Orchards, Pennsy Trail, Hometown Holidays in December, and Riley Festival in the fall.

FORTVILLE

This quaint suburb calls itself the “quintessential Midwestern town,” and for good reason. Known for its front porches, small shops, and welcoming people, it is quickly attracting families from all over Indianapolis’ metro area. Even as the population grows, Fortville is intent on keeping its small-town charm and appeal.

It is considered part of the “Health & Heritage Region,” alongside Greenfield, and has been named one of Indiana’s Stellar Communities.

McCORDSVILLE

The second largest municipality in Hancock County, and located just south of Geist Reservoir, McCordsville has a mission to expand its horizons while maintaining a close-knit community. With the construction of a recent Town Center Plan, known as McCord Square, this small hamlet is taking steps toward a visionary future full of rich and intentional community development.

Local favorites include Daniel’s Vineyard, adorable shops, free summer concerts, outdoor movies at McCord Square and plenty of activities.

NEW PALESTINE

This Hancock County city prides itself on having a safe and small-town character and unmatched quality of life for residents. With a new comprehensive plan that focuses on maintaining historic charm while also encouraging growth to welcome new residents, New Palestine has a sustainable and well-intentioned vision for the future, while also honoring its past.

Local residents love the big feel of small-town events like New Palestine’s Summer Fest, live outdoor concerts, and more.

WILKINSON & SHIRLEY

The epitome of small-town, next door neighbor charm still exists in places like Shirley and Wilkinson, both with populations well under 1,000 people. With proximity to Indianapolis, Greenfield, and all the benefits of being situated in Hancock County, these two small towns, no matter their size, boast many amenities.

Local residents of Hancock County flock to this area to see Shirley’s Octagon House and visit the Strawberry Festival every summer.

Hancock County sits just East of Indianapolis, giving residents the opportunity to experience small-town living with all of the amenities of living in close proximity to the State’s Capital city. Named one of the top 4% healthiest counties in the country, residents thrive from both access to an active lifestyle and the quiet of rural small-town living.

LOCALFAVORITES

DINING & SHOPPING

In today’s world, it is more important than ever to find a sense of belonging and community where you live. A slew of attractions, including local events, farm fresh dining, handmade vendors, unique experiences and more, sets Hancock County apart and provides a springboard to creating a tight-knit, small town feel. It’s a place to make memories with family, turn strangers into friends and cultivate community with neighbors.

GREENFIELD MAIN STREET

• Greenfield Chocolates has been featured in the media and is well-known throughout the region for delicious, handmade treats.

• Organic Robot Designs gives shoppers the chance to get up close and personal to the creation of their purchase, with custom screen-printing and designs.

• Lincoln Square Pancake House offers stacks of legendary pancakes alongside other delicious breakfast favorites.

• The Depot used to be an old grain elevator. Now it is known for giving residents an extraordinary dining experience.

• Wooden Bear Brewing serves up house made brews and community events alongside Indiana’s famous Greek Pizza.

Photo: Tuttle Orchard’s Farm Store

FORTVILLE’S HOT SPOTS

Even though it appears to be a quaint and quiet town, Fortville has a number of popular destinations for residents all over Hancock County.

U-PICKS & FARMS

• Taxman Brewing offers fresh and from scratch farm-totable goodness alongside an in-house brewery that serves up Belgian-style ale as well as crafty cocktails. It is located in a historic building at 29 S. Main St.

• Fox Gardin Kitchen & Ale is another local fave, with equally mesmerizing food as well as craft beer and cocktails. Find it at 215 S. Main St.

• Tuttle Orchards, located in Greenfield, is one of Hancock County’s most well-known U-Pick locations, with flower fields, apples, berries, pumpkins and more. They also offer a delicious assortment of homemade food and treats in their farm store and cafe. Specialty slushies and fresh donuts seem to be the visitor favorite.

• Wild Blackberry Farms in Fortville is well known as a destination for seasonal fruits and a popular venue for family events such as weddings.

• Hidden Acres Farm in Wilkinson is a prime place for fresh eggs, bread and a plethora of U-Pick summer produce.

If you are ready to dive into a heaping portion of summer’s delicious Indiana strawberries, look no further than the festivals surrounding Hancock County. Shirley holds their Strawberry Festival every year at the Octagon House, a famous county landmark. Bradley United Methodist Church in Greenfield and Tuttle Orchards also get in on the game, hosting two events of their own dedicated to the delicious red fruit we know and love.

WHY BUSINESSES ARE CHOOSING HANCOCK COUNTY

Hancock County is the second fastest growing county in the state and one of the few Indiana counties expected to grow its population in the next 25 years. Boasting an excellent location, with a proximity to Indianapolis, and a focus on a high quality of living for residents of all ages, Hancock County draws business owners to work, live and play within its borders. The Hancock Economic Development Council offers incentives and a welcoming environment for incoming small businesses.

Residents and businesses benefit from a variety of activities and events held annually, including a free summer concert series at Depot Street Park, the annual Riley Festival that draws over 40,000 visitors in a four-day span, and more. As one of Indiana’s healthiest communities, Hancock County also offers a variety of fitnessfocused opportunities, such as the Hancock Flat 50 bike race and festival, beautiful parks and trail systems, conveniently located Hancock Health facilities, as well as three Certified Medical Fitness Facilities known as the Hancock Wellness Centers.

SCHOOLS&EDUCATION

Hancock County schools are a step above the rest, offering state-ofthe-art education to all residents, with four of Indiana’s top-rated K-12 districts. Several schools maintain a STEM certification, putting students in proximity to opportunities that advance their learning and understanding from an early age. The county’s high schools offer a wide variety of accelerated programming that helps to prepare students for college, even earning them credits to get ahead.

All four school districts; Greenfield Community School Corporation, Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation, New Palestine Community Schools and The Community School Corporation of Eastern Hancock County, cooperate to provide quality education and prepare students for advancement. However, they do this without losing sight of the importance of maintaining an emotionally skilled and caring staff. Top teachers provide a challenging curriculum that doesn’t overlook the needs of growing children and teens.

Athletics, clubs and a multitude of activities ensure well-rounded students who are able to gain positive experiences both in and out of the classroom. They provide a constructive way to learn the importance of teamwork and overcoming challenges while improving student self-esteem and confidence. Graduates of Hancock County schools are prepared for whatever awaits them, be that trade school, college and more.

Photo: Eastern Hancock Students

GREENFIELD-CENTRAL

COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION

gcsc.k12.in.us

• Cougar Cubs Preschool

• Weston Elementary

• JB Stevens Elementary

• Harris Elementary

• Eden Elementary

• Maxwell Intermediate School

• Greenfield Intermediate School

• Greenfield-Central Junior High School

• Greenfield-Central High School

MT. VERNON

COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION

NEW PALESTINE COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

newpal.k12.in.us

• Little Dragons Early Childhood

• Brandywine Elementary

• Sugar Creek Elementary

• New Palestine Elementary

• New Palestine Intermediate School

• New Palestine Junior High School

• New Palestine High School

COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION OF

EASTERN HANCOCK COUNTY

• Mini Marauder Preschool

• Mt. Comfort Elementary

• McCordsville Elementary

• Fortville Elementary

• Mt. Vernon Intermediate School

• Mt. Vernon Middle School

• Mt. Vernon High School mvcsc.k12.in.us

• Eastern Hancock Elementary

• Eastern Hancock Middle School

• Eatern Hancock High School easternhancock.org

HEALTHCARE& WELLNESS

Hancock Health offers many services to help your body, mind and spirit stay healthy. With a passion for helping residents find balance and sustain a healthy lifestyle, the Hancock Wellness Centers have become an irreplaceable resource. As the region’s only certified medical fitness centers, they offer a wide variety of fitness classes, support groups and trainings for residents of all ages, needs and levels of health. They also offer a familyfriendly fitness environment, with childcare, prenatal and postnatal classes, and more.

Photo: New Palestine Wellness Center

Photo: McCordsville Wellness Center

You will find clinical programming, such as Cancer Fit, Mom Strong, Rock Steady Boxing, and more to help those who are experiencing specific challenges in life. Experienced Exercise Specialists are available at every location to keep these programs in line with Hancock Health’s rigorous health and safety standards. CrossFit, Pilates, Yoga, Zumba, HIIT, weightlifting, Tabata, aquatics and more can also be found, with full schedules to meet the time requirements of a variety of members. Wellness centers also boast massage, sauna and steam rooms, pools, indoor walking tracks and other amenities, depending on the location.