From humble beginnings, Greenfield has grown into a diverse community just east of Indianapolis, the largest city and capital of Indiana.
Visit the boyhood home and birthplace of the renowned Hoosier poet, James Whitcomb Riley (1849-1916). Riley was noted for composing such time treasured works as “Little Orphant Annie,” “The Raggedy Man,” “When the Frost is on the Punkin,” “The Bear Story,” and “An Old Sweetheart of Mine.” In his lifetime, Riley wrote over 1,000 poems and over 90 editions with much of his inspiration coming from the small town of Greenfield. During his time, he was regarded as more important than Mark Twain.
Planning a visit? Stay at Heartland Resort.
One of the largest craft festivals in the state with food and flea market booths, fine arts and photography displays, and quilt and decorated pumpkin shows, The Riley Festival follows years of tradition by celebrating the poet’s birthday (2015 dates: October 1-4).
Historic downtown Greenfield offers antique shops, museums, a live performance theater and restaurants—plenty to keep your family busy. Greenfield shopping is well-supplemented by the nearby Indianapolis malls.
A short distance from Greenfield, Indianapolis attractions worthy of a day trip include Indianapolis 500 Motor Speedway (30 miles), Conner Prairie Pioneer Settlement (33 miles), Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians (25 miles), Children’s Museum of Indianapolis (26 miles), Indiana State House (25 miles) and Indianapolis Zoo (26 miles).