Posts by Katie Utken | Blog

Meet Author

Katie Utken

Born and raised in Carmel, Katie serves as the Marketing and Communications Manager focusing on social media and public relations efforts. Prior to joining the team, she served as the Yelp Indy marketing intern working to promote local businesses and attractions. A proud Butler University graduate, Katie loves shining a spotlight on all that Hamilton County has to offer locals and visitors alike.

A blue metal truss bridge spans a calm river, with trees and greenery lining both banks. The bridge and surrounding foliage are reflected in the water below, creating a symmetrical view in a quiet, natural setting.

An Outdoor Weekend Getaway in Hamilton County, Indiana

By Katie Utken on Jul. 02, 2020

In Hamilton County, Indiana – just north of Indy – our waterways, trails and green spaces are oh, so…open. When you’re ready to travel, the communities of Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, Westfield and the four Northern Towns are ready to welcome you, safely. Click here to learn more about our reopening guidelines. Luckily, there are plenty of things to do outdoors in our destination, perfect for a weekend getaway with family or friends. Read below for our recommendations…

Wide view of a wooded campground with tents and canopies set up among trees, people gathered near campsites, and smoke rising from a campfire, with sunlit leaves in the foreground.

A Camping Weekend Adventure in Hamilton County, Indiana

By Katie Utken on Jun. 23, 2020

If you’re looking for a rugged but comfortable camping weekend in a tent or RV, look no further. Hamilton County, Indiana – just north of Indianapolis – has the perfect campground spot for a weekend getaway, with recreation amenities just steps away…

Three people riding bicycles along a paved trail through a grassy park, with trees and residential buildings visible in the background.

We Asked, You Answered: Favorite Things to Do and See in Hamilton County, Indiana

By Katie Utken on May 21, 2020

We can’t wait to safely welcome you back to Hamilton County, Indiana when travel resumes. Our restaurants, attractions and hotels are simply not the same without you. Until then, we surveyed our followers on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to find out their recommendations and favorite things to eat, see and do in Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, Westfield and the four Northern Towns of Arcadia, Atlanta, Cicero and Sheridan. Here’s what our biggest fans had to say. We hope this inspires your next vacation (or staycation) in our community…

A paved trail curving through a wooded area with trees and greenery on both sides.

Where to Social Distance Outdoors in Hamilton County, Indiana

By Katie Utken on Apr. 08, 2020

Get outside and enjoy fresh air at our local parks and trails! The CDC and Indiana State Department of Health recommend citizens practice physical distancing by maintaining six feet of personal space and avoid large congregations of people…

A red barn-style building with trees in the foreground and outdoor seating visible below.

Dine Along Restaurant Row in Westfield, Indiana

By Katie Utken on Feb. 22, 2020

There’s a foodie paradise tucked away on a quiet street in Westfield, Indiana, just east of US-31 and State Road 32. A collection of local restaurants has sprung up on Park Street, affectionately called “Restaurant Row.” Together, these eateries have made Westfield an up-and-coming culinary destination.…

Local Indiana artists taking part in the Studio Series at The Center for Performing Arts in Carmel, IN

Studio Series Features Up-and-coming Local Artists

By Katie Utken on Feb. 17, 2020

You know The Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel, Indiana for their show-stopping performances featuring national artists like Tony Bennett, Sheryl Crow and Michael Feinstein. But the new Studio Series at the Studio Theater will feature local and regional music talent in an intimate nightclub-style or listening-room setting…

A black and white close-up photo of a man and woman looking at each other and smiling.

The Enduring Legacy of Pete and Alice Dye

By Katie Utken on Feb. 13, 2020

The golf world lost two greats within only a year’s time. Deemed by many as the “First Family of Golf Course Architecture,” Pete and Alice Dye designed dozens of golf courses across the globe, including many here in Indiana…

Glass of red wine in sharp focus on the right side of the image, with a blurred background of hands reaching toward a charcuterie board with cheeses, sliced meats, and small bowls on a tabletop,

Toast to These Local Wineries in Hamilton County

By Katie Utken on Feb. 06, 2020

You don’t have to travel to the West Coast to experience good wine. In Hamilton County, Indiana wine lovers can find seven wineries alone. Whether you prefer red or white, here is a list of where to find wine in Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, Westfield and the Northern Towns. Blackhawk Winery and…

"Travel Guide" magazine covers stacked diagonally, showing people dining and outdoor scenic views.

Why You Should Request the 2020 Hamilton County, Indiana Travel Guide

By Katie Utken on Jan. 15, 2020

New year, new travel guide. The 2020 Hamilton County, Indiana Travel Guide is hot off the press, ready to help you plan your weekend getaway. It’s the official guide for things to do in Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, Westfield and the four northern towns. This handy resource is free to request, but if you need more reason to have this beauty delivered to your mailbox, look no further…

A lively urban street with people walking, children playing, outdoor dining, and brick buildings.

20 Reasons to Visit Hamilton County, Indiana in 2020

By Katie Utken on Jan. 07, 2020

Hello, 2020. With a new year comes new, exciting things to do in Hamilton County, Indiana. We’ve rounded up the things you should check out this year in Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, Westfield and beyond. Read below to see why you should #VisitHC in 2020…

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