Grand Junction Plaza Westfield is the newest addition to downtown Westfield, bringing everything wonderful about the community to one central location. From the exciting playground to the flowing creek, to the amphitheater for concerts and the Great Lawn for community events and the farmer’s market, Grand Junction Plaza Westfield is the place to be. This space was imagined as a hub for community and connection, a place where people can gather together to make memories. The vision has come together perfectly and is now a reality.
Grand Junction Plaza Westfield
Although it is located in the heart of downtown Westfield, walkable to Restaurant Row and the shops on Main Street, Grand Junction Plaza Westfield is a destination in and of itself. Explore the vibrant playground with unique climbing structures, walk the boardwalk through and around the park, skip stones or stomp in the creek, take in entertainment at the amphitheater, shop the farmer’s market, or attend one of the many concerts, festivals, and events held at this multi-functional plaza.
Jump & Climb on the Playground
When you arrive, you can’t miss the beautiful playground, even from a distance. The impressive design boasts a massive climbing feature, as well as several smaller playground structures. The first thing you’ll notice is the turf underneath your feet. It is so soft and the perfect material to kick off your shoes and run around without worrying about hot concrete or splinters from mulch.
There is a designated climbing structure designed for toddlers and preschoolers as well. It has several engaging rope features, as well as a suspended leap pad for jumping and climbing. My toddlers loved this space, and I was glad to have some options available for little ones who might not be ready for the big climbing “mountain” nearby!
Speaking of, it is no exaggeration to say this is one of the biggest and most impressive climbing structures you will ever encounter at a playground! There are four different entrances to climb, each with entirely unique challenges. Climbing ropes, rock walls, and rubber materials are used to create a highly interesting space to explore. Underneath this space, you will find seating, ladders to scale through the middle, and more.
Around the two main climbing structures are other fun things to do, such as spinning seats, a toddler rocking car, and a ninja climbing rope towards the back. The playground is very conveniently located within the Plaza. It is steps off the main trail, right next to the Meadow Lawn.
Order a Drink at the Cafe
While the outer facade displays the highly articulated stone pixel concept, the interior of the Cafe Pavillion is lined with warm wood, embracing visitors in comfort. In the summer months, guests can enjoy sandwiches, coffee, or cool iced tea and in the winter the cafe will provide a plentiful supply of hot chocolate and homemade soups.
Take a Stroll on the Boardwalk & Down to the Creek
The Riparian Boardwalk takes visitors around and through the Plaza and allows people to get down close to the creek. Here, children can step into the shallow creek to see fish swimming and other flora and fauna that comprise a healthy ecosystem. The boardwalk also provides a unique opportunity to walk within the riparian corridor and view the park from a new perspective.
The Trailhead Pavilion plays a key role in the southeast portion of the park. It sits at the intersection of a couple of popular Westfield trails, the Midland Trace Trail and Natalie Wheeler Trail. As cyclists, runners, and walkers arrive, they will find respite at the Trailhead Pavilion. Here, visitors will be able to find restroom facilities as well as information on local downtown restaurants, trail connections, and upcoming events in the park, region, and city.
Rock Out to a Concert at the Amphitheater
Grand Junction Plaza Westfield is one of the premier outdoor performance venues in Indiana and the Midwest. The Stage Pavilion and Amphitheater Lawn are designed with careful thought to elevate the performance possibilities of an outdoor venue. Inspired by the breaking of a limestone block, the Stage Pavilion is comprised of thousands of square stones that form a unique aesthetic, but more importantly, an acoustic backdrop capable of diffusing sound efficiently, providing optimal sound for performers and attendees alike.
The lawn has the capacity to formally seat up to 3,000, but can also accommodate smaller events whilst providing ample space for people picnicking on blankets or relaxing on lawn chairs. Don’t miss the Jams at the Junction concert series on select evenings during the summer!
Attend Community Events & Festivals
There are two bridges over a beautiful creek that connect visitors to an amphitheater in the center of Grand Junction Plaza Westfield where the city often hosts family-friendly events and community festivals. Even the Westfield farmer’s market is held here. There are multiple convenient bathroom options here as well. The Great Lawn at the amphitheater features plenty of green space, where you can plan to spend many summer nights listening to music and watching the sunset. You’ll even find a small splash pad here with color-changing lights that will be the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day.
Throw the Ball on the Meadow Lawn
The Meadow Lawn is a unique area, where kids can play in a large field, surrounded by great seating options for parents. Here you’ll find comfortable chairs where you can lay back, relax, and enjoy the sunshine while the kids play. This would be a great space for frisbee, soccer, football, or any other lawn game you would like to bring and enjoy together as a family. The Meadow Lawn is also where complimentary workout sessions are often held.
Ice Skate on the Ice Ribbon
Grand Junction Plaza Westfield’s Ice Ribbon is the first to bring the skating ribbon concept to Central Indiana, making it a worthy destination for both Westfield residents and visitors alike. The Ice Ribbon is constructed from a synthetic ice material called “Glice.” This high-density polymer material is smooth and shiny and comes exceptionally close to providing an identical experience to skating on real ice but with less falling and injuries! Glice requires no energy to cool in warm temperatures, making it an ideal substance for use on rinks in Indiana, where winter temperatures can be unpredictable and often warm.
Parking at Grand Junction Plaza Westfield
Parking is usually plentiful, with free street parking on all sides of the Plaza, as well as a parking lot across the street from the playground entrance. If you can’t find parking surrounding the Plaza, nearby parking can be found along Union or Main Streets and there are often shuttle buses from nearby schools for high-volume events.
Grand Junction Plaza Westfield truly is a one-stop shop for community events, family fun, and releasing some energy at the unique playground. If you are looking for a family outing, a new adventure, or simply a playdate location, you will want to check out the Grand Junction Plaza Westfield!
Explore More in Westfield
There are so many amazing things to do in Westfield. With Westfield rapidly growing, there is a beautiful mix of unique and flavorful restaurants you have to try. Check out these other amazing parks and playgrounds in Westfield. Hop on the Monon Trail, which runs North-South through Westfield, to explore miles of hiking and biking trails. Check out all of the other wonderful things to do and see in Westfield with kids. Or, visit Westfield without kids! Here are a few Westfield date night ideas.
What are your favorite things to do at Grand Junction Plaza Westfield? Share your comments and pictures with us below or tag us on social media using #PLAYindy. Follow Indy with Kids on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest for all of the best ideas and things to do with kids in Indy!
