15 Fun Things to Do in Indianapolis for Families with Children

Indianapolis, Indiana offers a wide range of family-friendly activities and attractions. Here are some fun things to do with children in Indianapolis:

Children’s Museum of Indianapolis: This is the world’s largest children’s museum and offers a wide range of interactive exhibits and activities for kids of all ages. Don’t miss the Dinosphere and the Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience.

Dinasaur at the Indianapolis Childrens Museum
Dinasaur at the Indianapolis Childrens Museum

Indianapolis Zoo: The zoo features a variety of animals from around the world, as well as a dolphin show and a beautiful botanical garden.

Tiger at the Indianapolis Zoo
Tiger at the Indianapolis Zoo

Conner Prairie Interactive History Park: Step back in time and experience life in the 19th century at this interactive living history museum. Kids can explore historic buildings, interact with costumed interpreters, and participate in hands-on activities.

Historical Tractor at the Conner Prairie in Fishers, Indiana
Historical Tractor at the Conner Prairie in Fishers, Indiana

Indianapolis Motor Speedway: If your family is interested in racing, a visit to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is a must. You can take a tour of the track and even visit the museum.

The Pagoda at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis, Indiana
The Pagoda at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis, Indiana

White River State Park: This downtown park offers plenty of green space, walking and biking trails, and a canal where you can rent paddleboats. It’s a great place for a family picnic.

Canal Walk at White River State Park Indianapolis, Indiana
Canal Walk at White River State Park Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields: Newfields is not just an art museum; it also has beautiful gardens and outdoor art installations. Kids can enjoy the Madeline F. Elder Greenhouse and Garden and the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park.

Indianapolis Museum of Art exterior glass view from the entry.
Indianapolis Museum of Art exterior glass view from the entry.

Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art: This museum is a great place to learn about Native American culture and the history of the American West. It often hosts special family-friendly exhibits and events.

Eiteljorg Museum of Art in Indianapolis, Indiana
Eiteljorg Museum of Art in Indianapolis, Indiana

The Escape Room Indianapolis: If you have older kids who enjoy puzzles and challenges, you might want to try one of the escape rooms in the city. They offer themed rooms where you have to solve puzzles to “escape.”

Indianapolis Canal Walk: Take a leisurely stroll along the canal in downtown Indianapolis. You can rent pedal boats or surreys to ride along the canal or simply enjoy a walk with beautiful views.

The Canal Walk at night in Indianapolis, Indiana
The Canal Walk at night in Indianapolis, Indiana

Rhythm! Discovery Center: This interactive percussion museum is a great place for kids to explore different musical instruments and even try their hand at playing them.

Indianapolis Public Library Central Library: The Central Library is not only a great place to read but also hosts various family-friendly events and activities.

Information booth at the downtown Indianapolis, Indiana public library
Information booth at the downtown Indianapolis, Indiana public library

Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park: Located in Eagle Creek Park, this adventure park offers ziplining and treetop obstacle courses for older kids and adventurous families.

Fort Harrison State Park: Enjoy hiking, picnicking, and exploring nature at this beautiful state park on the outskirts of Indianapolis.

Roller Skating Rinks: There are several roller-skating rinks in the area where you can have a fun family-outing.

Indianapolis Indians Baseball: If you’re visiting during the baseball season, catch a game at Victory Field. It’s a family-friendly environment with fireworks and promotions on certain nights.

Victory Field used by the Indianapolis Indians Baseball team.
Victory Field used by the Indianapolis Indians Baseball team.

These are just a few of the family-friendly activities you can enjoy in Indianapolis. The city has a lot to offer in terms of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and educational experiences for kids of all ages.

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