Located on the grounds of Carmel's Central Park, the Monon Community Center is a two-building, 146,000 square foot facility featuring a fitness center, indoor aquatics, a gymnasium, an indoor running track, an outdoor skate park, childcare, and program rooms. The adjoining water park features a zero depth activity pool, a lazy river, two waterslides, a plunge slide and the FlowRider simulated surfing ride.
Must see and must do at the Monon Community Center
The Waterpark at the Monon Community Center is a popular summertime destination. It includes the AquaClimb climbing wall, a zero-depth activity pool, a lap pool, a kiddie pool, a 1/8-mile lazy river, water slides, and the FlowRider surfing pool. Personal cabanas are also available for rental.
Best and worst time to go to the Monon Community Center
With a variety of programs and activities offered throughout the year, indoor activities at the Monon Community Center are ever evolving. The indoor pool tends to not be overcrowded and is a great wintertime option. The outdoor Waterpark becomes extremely crowded during summertime weekends. Visiting during the week is best, but if you're planning a weekend visit, plan to arrive early in order to find a vacant pool-side seat. There is typically ample space on the grassy hillside to spread out a towel. The summer camps and programs for children are very popular and spots fill quickly, especially for the science-focused weeks.
Admission to the Monon Community Center
Daily rates at the indoor pool and at the outdoor Waterpark are $10 and under. Season passes are available. There is an additional fee (under $10) for the FlowRider surfing pool and a waiver must be submitted. The fitness facilities within the Center are available only to members, although the running track is free to the public.
Food at the Monon Community Center
Concessions are available for purchase at the indoor pool as well as at the outdoor Waterpark. You are also able to bring your own food, although glass bottles are not permitted.
Insider Tip for the Monon Community Center
While the Waterpark is the major attraction during the summer months, there are many outdoor options for walking or bike riding flowing from the area just outside the Community Center buildings. The Monon Community Center is located within Central Park, which features natural wetlands, a fishing lagoon and boardwalk, a woodland garden, and four miles of trails connecting it to the Monon Greenway. The Monon Trail runs between the Community Center's East and West buildings.
Author's Bio: Heather Hurley is a publishing professional and freelance writer living in Carmel, Indiana. She and her family have attended many programs at the Monon Community Center and have spent many summer days at its Waterpark.