Best Things to Do in Indianapolis with Kids

Indianapolis is known for race cars, the Colts, and the scenic White River State Park. With its blend of educational and entertaining options, there are countless things to do in Indianapolis with kids.

Located in central Indiana, the capital city of the Hoosier State is not your typical Midwestern city! It has pioneer roots but with a fresh outlook. Indianapolis, Indiana boasts a wealth of activities, making it a fantastic destination for families seeking fun and memorable experiences. Want to learn more? Check out my list of the top things to do in Indianapolis with kids.

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Where to Find Things to Do in Indianapolis for the Whole Family

One of our favorite Midwestern road trips was driving from Chicago to Indianapolis. Taking about 3 hours to drive, it’s a quick ride, and as long as we had some road trip activities, the kids didn’t complain!

Once you’ve arrived, I suggest starting your adventure downtown, where you will find the most tourist attractions. This central hub includes the Indianapolis Zoo, White River State Park, the Indiana State Museum, and the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art.

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, the world’s largest children’s museum, is also a quick drive from downtown. The Canal Walk offers scenic views and connects many of these attractions. Monument Circle, with the iconic Soldiers and Sailors Monument, is another key place to visit.

From here, branch out to the suburbs and you’ll find even more to do, especially if you love the great outdoors! Keep reading for all the details.

1. Have Fun at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

When you walk up to the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, you know you’re in for a treat. Giant dinosaurs are outside the building trying to get in and see what this place is all about! The museum covers 5 floors, and each one is filled with hands-on, interactive exhibits that will entertain kids for hours.

My kids loved the Dinosphere, where they were surrounded by life-size dinosaur skeletons while digging for fossils. Another fun area is Treasures of the Earth, which allows children to pretend they are archaeologists digging for mummies and Terra Cotta warriors. We also are partial to their Take Me There exhibit, which transports families to countries around the world. In the past, it has been China and Greece, and Peru is up next!

Outdoors during the summer months, kids will enjoy the Sports Legends Experience, which features everything from baseball and hockey to tennis and racing, and an opportunity for families to try all the sports.

Plan on spending several hours in the museum because kids will enjoy the space exploration area, play structure, trains, and various rotating exhibits.

2. Visit the Indianapolis Zoo

Visitors and locals alike love heading to the Indianapolis Zoo. The zoo is divided into ecological zones, so animals are grouped by environment.

There are Oceans, Deserts, Forests, and Plains to explore as well as a Flights of Fancy area. If you’re looking for a certain animal, this should help narrow it down.

Some of the most popular attractions include White River Gardens, the botanical gardens near the main entrance. It includes a stunning butterfly conservatory! There’s also a dolphin show and the ray and shark touch pool.

You can try family-friendly rides, like the Kōmbo Coaster or the gondola-style Skyline, where you’ll get great views of the Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center from above! There’s also a splash pad the little ones will love, so it might not be a bad idea to bring an extra set of clothes.

With 65 acres to cover, you’ll also want to bring a good pair of walking shoes! But it’s small enough that you can easily explore the whole place in half a day.

3. Attend a Colts Game

For NFL fans, seeing a Colts game at Lucas Oil Stadium is one of the best things to do in Indianapolis with kids! It’s cool to see the state-of-the-art stadium with its retractable roof.

The excitement begins 3 hours before kickoff when Touchdown Town opens. This is a restaurant and bar (and so much more) located on the northern side of the stadium. Inside, you’ll find tons of fun activities before the game! You can enjoy live music, cheap beers, and a pro shop. The kids will love the fun games in the fan zone.

After the game, make a memorable day last even longer by exploring downtown Indianapolis. If you’re hungry, there are lots of family-friendly eateries north and east of the stadium. I suggest the Slippery Noodle Inn on W South Street, next to Union Station.

Can’t attend a game? You can also find out about hour-long tours of the stadium that take place every Friday. Or get tickets to see your favorite musical artist live in concert at Lucas Oil Stadium!

4. Spend the Day at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Even if you’re not super into race cars, visiting the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is a great way to spend a day with the whole family. This iconic venue is home to the famous Indy 500, offering a unique taste of American history.

Start your visit at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, where you can see historic race cars, trophies, and memorabilia.

For an unforgettable experience, take a bus tour around the track! It’s just one of the many tours offered at the Speedway. You can also take walking tours for a behind-the-scenes view of the racetrack. The Speedway also hosts different events throughout the year, everything from races to musical performances.

Note: The museum is currently closed for renovations, but plans are to reopen in spring 2025.

5. White River State Park

White River State Park, located on West Washington Street, is the perfect place for a picnic on a summer afternoon. But it also has plenty of indoor activities you don’t want to miss. Families can spend an entire afternoon discovering the park and its attractions.

The park features beautiful trails for walking, running, and biking. You can rent bikes, pedal boats, and surreys from Wheel Fun Rentals to explore the scenic areas around the park. Don’t miss the picturesque views along the White River.

Families might enjoy the NCAA Hall of Champions where they can show off their skills shooting hoops or scoring goals. There’s also the Indiana State Museum which is a wealth of artifacts telling the history of the Hoosier State.

There’s also the minor league ballpark, Victory Field, home to the Indianapolis Indians if you want to catch a game. Or you can take tours on Segways or by bike.

DRIVING TO INDIANAPOLIS? DON’T MISS OUR ROAD TRIP ESSENTIALS!

6. Explore the Canal Walk

The Canal Walk in Indianapolis is a scenic, 3-mile loop along the downtown portion of the Central Canal. It offers a beautiful, paved path that’s perfect for a scenic stroll through the city. The Canal Walk features picturesque views of the water, modern and historic architecture, and lush greenery.

The Canal Walk is a popular spot for a family bike ride or even a morning jog. Along the way, you’ll find pedal boat rentals, gondola rides, and several public art installations.

Plus, the Canal Walk connects White River State Park to the Indianapolis Zoo and various museums. This makes it a popular spot for both relaxation and exploration. It’s a great place to enjoy the outdoors while taking in the sights and sounds of the city!

7. Bike the Indianapolis Cultural Trail

Another great way to get outdoors and enjoy downtown Indy is by taking on the Indianapolis Cultural Trail. It’s an 8-mile path that connects various cultural districts.

Along the trail, you’ll find public art installations, gardens, and access to top attractions like the Indianapolis Zoo and White River State Park. If you want to extend your adventure, this trail also connects to the Monon Trail.

If you’re craving a bike ride but don’t want the kids to ride on a street, this is perfect. The safe, well-maintained brick trail is made for cyclists (but is also pedestrian-friendly). You can rent bikes along the way, and there are plenty of spots to stop for a snack or meal.

For a user-friendly map or to find out about local events on the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, go to the organization’s official website.

8. Monon Trail

This former railroad line has been converted into a 27-mile cycling trail for riders of all levels. The trail begins in Sheridan, running south down to Westfield, the Carmel Arts and Design District, and Broad Ripple Village before ending at the Cultural Trail in downtown Indianapolis.

Bikes are available to rent throughout central Indianapolis via the Pacers bike share program. If you’re accessing the trail from downtown, the entrance is at E. 10th Street and Bellefontaine Street, close to Bottleworks.

The trail offers cyclists a great way to see more of the city, with beautiful views of parks, residential areas, and bustling commercial districts. Along the way, you’ll find numerous spots to stop for a bite to eat or shop, especially in the vibrant Broad Ripple Village and Carmel Arts & Design District.

The Monon Trail is well-maintained for the most part, but it’s always growing, so it can be rough or paved, depending on where you are on the trail. With mile markers and rest areas, it’s pretty accessible for riders of all ages.

It’s a great way to explore the city, stay active, and enjoy the outdoors, whether you’re out for a casual stroll or a long bike ride.

9. Cool Off at The Waterpark

When families want to cool off in the summer they head to The Waterpark at Central Park in Carmel. The place could rival an amusement park with its surfing simulator, lazy river, climbing wall, plunge slide and adventure slides, and swimming pools for everyone from infants to adults.

You will be blown away by the low price of admission! No wonder this place is always busy! The water park also offers cabanas for extra shade (though I don’t think the price is worth it here), as well as food options on-site. It’s open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Plus, The Waterpark and Central Park are located just off the Monon Trail. Add this stop to your trip and reward a long ride with a cool-off!

10. Enjoy the Great Outdoors at Eagle Creek Park

Nature lovers visiting Indianapolis with their families won’t want to miss out on a day at Eagle Creek Park on the northwest side of the city. One of the largest municipal parks in the US, it spans over 4,000 acres of land and water.

The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, bird watching, fishing, sailing, and zip-lining! You can take on hiking trails, have a picnic, observe local wildlife, or hang out on a family-friendly lakefront beach.

11. Visit a Botanical Garden

Indianapolis and its surroundings boast several beautiful botanical gardens and green spaces of varying sizes and shapes, perfect for a day of family fun. Each one offers its own unique experience. Here are the best ones:

• The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: This lovely park on the northside is known for its fun contemporary art installations. It also features stunning gardens and is home to Newfields, formerly the Indianapolis Museum of Art. This 100-acre park combines art and nature, offering trails, sculptures, and beautiful landscapes.
• Garfield Park Conservatory and Gardens: This is another gem, featuring the historic Sunken Gardens and a conservatory with exotic plants. Plus, it’s located along the Pleasant Run Trail, (a great alternative to the Monon Trail). Families can enjoy free things like nature-themed scavenger hunts and exploring the scenic trails.
• White River Gardens: Part of the Indianapolis Zoo, White River Gardens showcases various plant species, a butterfly garden, and beautiful river views. It’s a lovely spot for families to learn about plants and enjoy the outdoors, and it’s easy to visit if you have younger kids.
• Holliday Park: This local park in northern Indianapolis is a great place to spend an entire day outdoors! It has nature trails, gardens, and the Ruins, a unique architectural feature. The park’s Nature Center is a must-visit for families, featuring kid-focused exhibits and cool stuff like a bee colony you can watch behind glass!

12. Create at the Indianapolis Art Center

The Indianapolis Art Center, located in Broad Ripple Village, is an essential visit for budding artists and art lovers. This small art museum will not disappoint, with its impressive collection of high-quality art and opportunities to get creative. And it’s free to visit.

At the center, there are all kinds of classes and workshops for all ages in various mediums, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, and photography. The center features multiple galleries showcasing local and national artists. Kids will especially love the beautiful outdoor ARTSPARK with sculptures and nature trails!

13. Spend the Day at Conner Prairie

One of the best places to stop in the greater Indianapolis area is Conner Prairie, which bills itself as an interactive history park. And boy is it ever!

Located in the suburb of Fishers, families will love learning about life on the prairie in the 19th century at this engaging, hands-on park that spans a whopping 800 acres!

Families can stroll through Prairie Town, learn about the Civil War, take a hot air balloon ride high above the prairie, and learn what life was like for the Lenape Indians. There are animals, arts and crafts, and even a play area for younger kids. Head to Conner Prairie and experience the ultimate living history museum.

14. Learn at the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians

The Eiteljorg Museum is an essential destination for history-loving families looking for things to do in Indianapolis with kids. Located inside White River State Park, this museum showcases the art, history, and cultures of the American West and Native American peoples.

The museum boasts a diverse collection of stunning paintings, sculptures, and artifacts. Kids will love the interactive exhibits, especially on the lower level, where everything is geared toward kids! There’s a recreated stagecoach, gold panning activities, and hands-on art projects. There are also outdoor gardens and sculptures to explore.

You can also find out about special family-friendly events, such as storytelling sessions and cultural festivals. An especially popular event is the Indian Market & Festival, which comes through every summer for a week.

15. Visit the Home of President Benjamin Harris

If you’re interested in American history or just want to see what life was like in the late 1800s, plan a tour of the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site. The house museum is all about the life of the 23rd President of the United States.

Located in historic Old Northside, this beautifully preserved Victorian home was built in the 1870s. It served as the residence of Benjamin Harrison and his family during and after his presidency.

The site offers guided tours that take visitors through the beautifully restored rooms, showcasing original furnishings, artifacts, and personal belongings of the Harrison family. Special events, educational programs, and workshops are also offered throughout the year.

The museum features exhibits that cover Harrison’s life, his presidency, and the issues facing the United States during the late 19th century. It’s an immersive experience where you can learn about Harrison’s political career, his contributions to American society, and the historical context of his time.

16. Attend the Indianapolis City Market

When visiting Indianapolis, you might hear about the popular Indianapolis City Market. Come hungry and you won’t be disappointed!

Established in 1821, the market quickly became an important part of the community, serving locals and visitors for over a century. In 1885, the market relocated to the Tomlinson Building, a historic landmark located in the heart of Indianapolis.

Today, the indoor market is quite an experience. You can peruse rows and rows of stalls where a diverse array of vendors sell all kinds of fresh produce, artisanal goods, flea market finds, and all kinds of prepared dishes.

The market is also home to the Catacombs, an underground historic space that offers unique tours showcasing the city’s past.

And there’s always something going on at the Indianapolis City Market! Come on Wednesdays from 10 AM to 1:30 PM between May 1st and the beginning of October for the Original Farmers Market. You might stumble upon a food festival, a musical concert, or a kid-friendly event.

Important Note: The Market building location is temporarily closed in 2024 for necessary updates and restructuring. For now, you can still attend the Original Farmer’s Market on E Market Street and Monument Circle.

17. Glowgolf

For even more fun things to do in Indianapolis with kids, head to Glowgolf at the Circle Centre Mall. Break up all the history and culture with a casual game of glow-in-the-dark miniature golf!

For a small fee, you can have a classic, no-frills hour of fun that’s perfect for kids. Take on 54 holes and then continue to the food court for dinner.

Open 7 days a week, Glowgolf holds seasonal hours with longer days during the summer. You pay per player with access to all 3 courses, and kids 4 and under are free.

​18. Go Duckpin Bowling

If you’re looking for another quality indoor experience, consider Atomic Bowl Duckpin. This unique and nostalgic bowling alley is located in the Fountain Square Theatre Building in Indianapolis.

This venue is a throwback to the mid-20th century with its retro vibe and classic duckpin bowling, which features smaller pins and balls than traditional bowling.

Duckpin bowling is fun for all ages, so it’s a perfect activity for families. The smaller balls are easier for kids to handle, and the shorter lanes make the game approachable for beginners.

You’ll love the venue’s vintage decor, complete with neon signs and classic diner-style seating! Make an evening of your visit and plan for dinner. They boast a full bar and American classics like burgers and pizza.

Looking for more things to do nearby? Don’t miss French Lick, Indiana, and Fair Oaks Farm!