Best Neighborhoods and Cities in Central Indiana for Runners (2025 Guide)
TL;DR:
If you’re a runner thinking about buying a home in Central Indiana, check out top areas like Avon, Broad Ripple, Carmel, Fishers, and Zionsville. These spots offer excellent running trails, active communities, great sidewalks, and quick access to gear and events. Whether you're a casual jogger or marathoner, these towns have the infrastructure to keep you moving.
Why Central Indiana is Great for Runners
Central Indiana offers:
A relatively flat landscape (great for racing and training)
Expansive greenways and trails
Active running clubs and communities
A strong local racing scene
Affordable housing options compared to other metro regions
Whether you're looking for a starter home, a place to raise a family, or a retirement haven with great outdoor access, these towns and neighborhoods should top your list.
🏘️ Top Cities & Neighborhoods for Runners
Avon, Indiana
Located just west of Indianapolis, Avon offers a growing suburban feel with excellent access to trails, parks, and an emerging health-conscious community. It's especially appealing for families and buyers who want space, value, and a strong school system—without giving up outdoor amenities.
Runner-Friendly Features:
Avon Town Hall Park Trails: Multiple scenic loops around a lake and open spaces
B&O Trail Access: A paved rail-trail stretching through Hendricks County with plans for future expansion
Washington Township Park: Includes paved and unpaved paths through wooded areas and hills for more technical training
Low-Traffic Neighborhood Streets: Many subdivisions are pedestrian-friendly with sidewalks and street lighting
Popular Areas for Runners:
Mapleton at Wynn Farms
Woodcreek Farms
Winton Meadows
Broad Ripple (Indianapolis)
Nestled in the northside of Indianapolis, Broad Ripple is a vibrant, walkable neighborhood perfect for runners who want a blend of city energy and trail access. The area draws young professionals/families, creatives, and fitness lovers alike, thanks to its eclectic vibe and proximity to the Monon Trail. Whether you’re squeezing in a 3-miler before brunch or training for your next half marathon, Broad Ripple offers a dynamic and social environment to stay motivated and connected. It’s truly a Midwest runner’s dream.
Runner-Friendly Features:
Direct Access to Numerous Running Trails and Parks
Running Events Year-Round: Drumstick Dash, Holliday Park Trail Run, and more
Multiple Running Stores: Runners Forum, Fleet Feet, and Athletic Annex (in nearby Nora)
Coffee Shops + Breweries for Post-Run Meetups: Monon Coffee Company, Hubbard and Cravens, Java House, Perk Up, Broad Ripple Brewpub, Half Liter, and more.
Popular Areas for Runners:
Monon Trail
Canal Towpath
Holliday Park
Marott Woods Nature Preserve
Broad Ripple Park
Carmel, Indiana
Regularly ranked as one of the best places to live in America, Carmel combines upscale living with exceptional walkability and trail access—making it a standout choice for runners. With a thoughtfully designed infrastructure that prioritizes active lifestyles, Carmel is ideal for everyone from casual joggers to seasoned marathoners. The city’s commitment to greenways, parks, and community fitness events makes it a long-term win for homeowners who value both convenience and cardio.
Runner-Friendly Features:
Monon Greenway: A 20+ mile paved trail connecting Carmel to Indianapolis
Carmel Marathon Weekend: One of the biggest races in the state
Extensive Sidewalks & Roundabouts: Designed with pedestrians in mind
Multiple Running Stores: Runners Forum, Fleet Feet, and Athletic Annex
Popular Areas for Runners:
Central Park
Cool Creek Park
West Clay
Fishers, Indiana
Fishers is one of Central Indiana’s fastest-growing cities and an ideal destination for active families and professionals. A strong investment in parks, trail development, and community wellness has turned Fishers into a runner-friendly haven. The Nickel Plate Trail and nearby parks offer convenient, well-maintained options for all types of runners. Plus, with regular races, group runs, and access to running stores, Fishers supports a healthy lifestyle right outside your front door.
Runner-Friendly Features:
Nickel Plate Trail: Smooth, scenic, and right through the heart of town
Geist Greenway & Ritchey Woods Trails
Frequent 5K and fun run events
Nearby Geist Reservoir: Offers longer scenic routes for serious mileage
Popular Areas for Runners:
Saxony
Roy G. Holland Park
Gray Eagle
Zionsville, Indiana
Charming and a little quieter than its larger neighbors, Zionsville is known for its small-town feel with upscale touches. It’s a fantastic choice for runners who want peaceful streets, shady trails, and a close-knit fitness community. The historic downtown district, complete with brick-paved Main Street, offers a picturesque backdrop for light runs, while the Big-4 Rail Trail gives you miles of shaded, uninterrupted pavement. For those seeking serenity with accessibility, Zionsville delivers both.
Runner-Friendly Features:
Big-4 Rail Trail: A smooth, shaded run through the town and beyond
Numerous Parks and Trail Systems
Brick Main Street: Scenic downtown loop for light runs or warmups
Runners Forum
Popular Areas for Runners:
Mulberry Fields
Creekside Nature Park
Heritage Trail Park
🛍️ Local Running Stores Worth Visiting
No matter where you settle, these running-focused stores offer shoes, gear, and expert fitting:
Athletic Annex (Nora, Carmel, and Fishers)
Fleet Feet (Broad Ripple, Carmel, and Fishers)
Runners Forum (locations in Broad Ripple, Carmel, Fishers, Zionsville, Avon, and more)
🏁 Bonus: Running Clubs & Resources
Annual Events: Monumental Marathon, Carmel Marathon, Geist Half Marathon, Drumstick Dash
Final Thoughts
If running is a major part of your lifestyle and you’re planning to buy a home in Central Indiana, choosing a city or neighborhood with built-in infrastructure and an active community can be a game-changer. Whether you’re aiming for race day or just want safe, scenic paths for your daily jog, the neighborhoods and towns above offer a blend of health, convenience, and long-term livability. Interested in exploring homes in these areas? Give me a call today.