Carroll

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Carroll's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Carroll
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Carroll County Historical Society to learn about the area's rich history. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local café afterwards.

afternoon
:

Take a stroll through Swan Lake State Park, where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and spot local wildlife. Pack a picnic or visit a nearby deli for lunch.

evening
:

Wind down with dinner at a cozy restaurant in downtown Carroll. Consider catching a local performance or movie to end your day.

day 2
Nature Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day hiking the trails at Lake Anita State Park, offering stunning views and fresh air. Bring along a thermos of coffee to enjoy at the summit.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a nearby picnic area surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon fishing or kayaking on the lake for a relaxing time.

evening
:

Return to Carroll for dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant. Enjoy the local flavor and perhaps some live music in the evening.

day 3
Culture Day
morning
:

Visit the local art gallery to view exhibitions from regional artists. Spend some time discussing the works with the gallery staff.

afternoon
:

Attend a workshop or class in a creative field such as pottery or painting. It’s a perfect opportunity to unleash your creativity.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at a restaurant featuring dishes inspired by various cultures. Consider attending a community theater performance afterward.

day 4
Historical Insights
morning
:

Start by exploring the Carroll County Courthouse, a beautiful historical building. Learn about its architecture and history.

afternoon
:

Visit local landmarks like the Downtown Carroll Historic District to admire the preserved buildings. Stop for lunch at a diner that has been around for decades.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant with a rich history or themed decor. Share stories of your day's discoveries with friends over a comforting meal.

day 5
Festive Fun
morning
:

Begin the day at one of Carroll's local festivals or events if your visit coincides with one. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and grab a bite from food stalls.

afternoon
:

Continue enjoying the festivities with games, contests, and live performances. Indulge in food from different vendors for lunch.

evening
:

As the event winds down, settle in at a local brewery or pub for dinner. Reflect on the day’s highlights with new friends.

day 6
Active Adventure
morning
:

Kick off with an energizing bike ride around Swan Lake. The trails offer a great way to see the beauty of Carroll.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake before heading out for more biking or maybe a bit of frisbee golf. The fresh air will keep your spirits high.

evening
:

Relax at a casual burger joint for dinner to refuel after an active day. Consider catching up on local sports events or trivia night.

day 7
Bird Watching
morning
:

Rise early and head to a local park known for its birdwatching opportunities. Bring binoculars and a field guide to identify species.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a packed lunch in nature while keeping an eye out for more bird species. Share your findings with fellow birdwatchers if you meet any.

evening
:

Cap off the day with dinner at a calm spot featuring a view of the sunset. Discuss your birdwatching experiences over hearty meals.

Discover Carroll

Read more in our Carroll 2024 Travel Guide.

Carroll Travel Guide