From coast to coast, America’s lake towns are as diverse as they are overlooked. Cicero sits just a 45-minute drive away from Indianapolis, promising visitors lakeside tranquility, delicious food, and plenty to see and do for the perfect getaway. While the whole state of Indiana boasts unique destinations, ranging from
charming Marion’s historic downtown
to
Franklin County with the captivating essence of Brookville
, Cicero offers a more well-rounded package, including history, nature, vibes, and so much more.
Though it may be small and quiet, Cicero is steeped in history. Founded in 1834, the town became home to Hamilton County’s first bridge just four years later. The arrival of the railroad in 1853 marked the start of a booming industrial chapter. By 1870, the town’s bridge was covered and painted red, earning it the name “Red Bridge” and the status of the town landmark to this day. The construction of Morse Reservoir in 1956 transformed Cicero into a lake town nestled on its northeast shore, so much so that locals often refer to it simply as Morse Lake now.
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Experience Cicero’s Attractions And Friendly Vibes
Morse Reservoir, a man-made lake, is home to plenty of water activities, including fishing, swimming, and kayaking. If you can find a spot on its 35 miles of shoreline, 95% of which is entirely residential areas, then you’d have found the perfect picnic location with gorgeous views of the lake. Next up on Cicero’s must-visit list is Red Bridge Park. Located on the northwest side of town, still along the lake, this park is a beloved community spot featuring walking trails, playgrounds, a fishing pier, and a kayak launch — all set against a scenic waterfront backdrop.
A seven-minute drive east will take you to the 800-acre Strawtown Koteewi Park, where you can keep the outdoor adventure going with water activities, scenic hiking trails, and a fascinating glimpse into the area’s surprisingly rich archaeological history. However, if biking is your favorite way to explore, Cicero — and Indiana in general — offers an ideal setting. The renowned and interconnected USBR35 cycling route runs throughout the entire state and passes near Cicero, guiding riders through picturesque farmland and beautiful Indiana towns and cities.
Enjoy Relaxing Hikes Followed By Delicious Meals
Hikes near Cicero aren’t designed to be strenuous; their main purpose is total relaxation, which these paths achieve beautifully. For instance, the MacGregar Park trail can be finished within about half an hour. Spanning 1.5 miles as a circular route through the park, it includes various elements such as wildlife prairie areas and a rain garden. Additionally, it offers pet-friendly zones along with two sheltered spots for resting.
Strawtown Koteewi Park provides another excellent option for hikers. Covering roughly 3.3 miles when looping around the area, expect this hike to take nearly one hour. You’ll also find additional points of interest here that might extend your exploration time slightly beyond that.
If hiking and exploring have made you hungry, Cicero offers plenty of delicious local dining options. Similar to this,
unique Indiana ice cream parlor
In Metamora, Alexander’s on the Water stands out as the local favorite for desserts. If you’re looking for heartier fare, 10 West offers delicious steaks, burgers, and pasta dishes. Meanwhile, DeLullo’s Trattoria, a family-run establishment in Cicero, serves some of the best Italian cuisine around.
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