Considering a move to Greenwood, Indiana, and looking for a neighborhood that offers a strong sense of community, top-notch amenities, and a beautiful setting? Hickory Stick might just be the perfect match. Nestled in the scenic southern end of Johnson County, Hickory Stick is known for its welcoming residents, well-kept streets, and the picturesque centerpiece of the Hickory Stick Golf Club. Let’s take a deeper dive into what makes life in Hickory Stick so pleasant and why so many families and retirees choose to put down roots here.
Community Vibe: Welcoming and Connected
What you’ll notice first about Hickory Stick is how friendly everyone is. Neighbors wave as you drive past, and there’s a real sense of togetherness, partly thanks to the neighborhood’s design and active Homeowners Association. Throughout the year, the HOA organizes community events like holiday light contests, neighborhood garage sales, and family movie nights on the green. Residents frequently gather at the community pool during warmer months, and the golf course patio is a favorite spot for socializing and relaxing after a round.
Living here, you get a small-town feel with just the right dose of activity. Streets such as Thompson Boulevard, St Andrews Avenue, and Brookhaven Drive circle through the community, and it’s common to see kids riding bikes, neighbors walking dogs, and folks stopping to chat on a stroll.
Types of Housing: Spacious and Well-Maintained
Hickory Stick offers a mix of single-family homes, many of which are custom-built and showcase a variety of architectural styles, from classic brick two-stories to elegant ranches. Homes often boast large lots, manicured lawns, and beautiful landscaping — pride of ownership is obvious throughout.
Most homes range from 2,200 to 5,000 square feet, with features like basements, open-concept floor plans, updated kitchens, and three-car garages. You’ll find houses lining the golf course, offering sweeping views of fairways and ponds; others are tucked back in quieter cul-de-sacs like Glasgow Drive, perfect for homeowners seeking tranquility.
Walkability: Peaceful Paths and Easy Neighborhood Circulation
Hickory Stick isn’t designed as a dense, urban neighborhood, but it’s exceptionally walkable within its borders. Paved sidewalks line the streets, making it safe for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. A walking path meanders between different sections of the neighborhood, connecting residents to greenspaces and parks.
Traffic is calm, thanks to the community’s layout — winding streets and cul-de-sacs naturally slow down cars. This makes it a top pick for families with young kids who like to play outdoors, and active adults who enjoy morning or evening walks. While you’ll need to drive for bigger errands, grocery stores like Kroger and restaurants along State Road 135 are less than 10 minutes away.
Schools and Family-Friendliness: Top Reason for Moving
Ask any local why they chose Hickory Stick, and you’ll often hear: “the schools.” The neighborhood falls within Center Grove Community School Corporation, a district consistently ranked among the best in Indiana. Center Grove Elementary, Middle, and High School are all highly rated, known for quality academics, athletics, and extracurricular opportunities. Several private and parochial schools are also a quick drive away for families seeking alternatives.
Neighborhood kids walk or bike to nearby bus stops, and the local parks and golf course provide endless opportunities for outdoor play and youth sports. With so many families in the area, it’s easy for newcomers with children to make friends and feel welcome quickly.
Parks, Green Spaces, and Outdoor Life
The centerpiece of Hickory Stick’s outdoor amenities is the 27-hole Hickory Stick Golf Club, weaving through the neighborhood and accessible right from residents’ doorsteps. Membership isn’t required to live here, but many residents take advantage of the chance to hit the links, join leagues, or dine at the clubhouse. Even non-golfers enjoy the picturesque views and open feel the course brings.
Community green spaces, including small ponds and rolling common areas, are dotted throughout. The neighborhood pool and playground provide a daily summer retreat, and spots like the walking trails and ponds along Brookhaven Drive offer peaceful places for fishing, birdwatching, or a picnic. Larger parks like Freedom Park and Independence Park are just a short drive away if you’re looking for more space or organized sports facilities.
Safety: A Secure, Peaceful Place to Settle Down
Safety is a big draw for Hickory Stick. The neighborhood is known for low crime rates and proactive measures by the HOA and area residents. Streetlights keep things well-lit at night, neighbors look out for each other, and the area’s relative seclusion (with few entry and exit points) adds to the overall sense of security.
Many residents mention how comfortable they feel letting kids play outside or walking the streets after dark — a testament to the community’s reputation as a safe, peaceful place to live.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
Greenwood’s convenience is another plus. While Hickory Stick feels tucked away and serene, it’s less than 10 minutes from downtown Greenwood and about 25 minutes from downtown Indianapolis via State Road 37 or Interstate 69. This means an easy commute for those working at major employers like Community Hospital South, Eli Lilly, or any of the tech and logistics firms in Indy.
Running errands is simple, with shopping hubs, restaurants, and everyday amenities close by on State Road 135 or Smith Valley Road. If you like having entertainment and nightlife just a short drive away but value a peaceful place to return home, Hickory Stick strikes the right balance.
What Residents Love Most
Ask residents what sets Hickory Stick apart, and you’ll hear a common theme: “It just feels like home.” People mention:
- The care neighbors take with their properties and the community as a whole
- Friendly greetings on morning walks or at the pool
- The beautiful, mature trees and golf course vistas that make every season special
- The chance for kids to roam and play safely
- The pride in local schools and shared neighborhood traditions
Whether you’re seeking a tight-knit community, top schools, beautiful outdoor spaces, or just a peaceful lifestyle with all the conveniences nearby, Hickory Stick delivers. It’s a place where neighbors still lend a cup of sugar, kids make lifelong friends, and every sunset over the golf course feels like a little piece of getaway at home.