Family Activities in Indianapolis, IN — 2026 Guide
Indianapolis is home to the world's largest children's museum, a world-class zoo, and a sports legacy that excites families. Affordable and welcoming, Indy offers exceptional value for family entertainment.
Get personalized ideas — text Emmie at (877) 703-6643Indoor Activities
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
The world's largest children's museum with five floors of interactive exhibits including Riley Sports Experience and the Dinosphere. Celebrating 100 years in 2025.
3000 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46208
Visit websiteIndianapolis Zoo
A 64-acre triple-accredited zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden with 1,400+ animals, open year-round.
1200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46222
Visit websiteIndiana State Museum
Hands-on interactive experiences about Indiana's history, science, and culture.
650 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum
Legendary race cars, racing simulators, and guided tours of the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway track.
4790 W 16th St, Indianapolis, IN 46222
Newfields (Indianapolis Museum of Art)
A 152-acre cultural campus with art galleries, 100 Acres art & nature park, a working greenhouse, and an orchard.
4000 N Michigan Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46208
Outdoor Activities
Conner Prairie
An outdoor living history museum spanning 1,000 wooded acres with historical encounters, farm animals, and the 1859 Balloon Voyage.
13400 Allisonville Rd, Fishers, IN 46038
Visit websiteWhite River State Park
Scenic walking trails, gardens, waterways, and home to the zoo, Indiana State Museum, and Eiteljorg Museum.
801 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Holliday Park
A 94-acre park with trails, a nature center, and scenery along the White River.
6363 Spring Mill Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46260
Indianapolis Cultural Trail
An 8-mile urban bike and pedestrian trail connecting downtown neighborhoods, parks, and cultural districts.
Eagle Creek Park
One of the largest city parks in the US with a reservoir, beaches, hiking, and a nature center.
7840 W 56th St, Indianapolis, IN 46254
Free Things to Do
White River State Park
Free trails, gardens, and waterfront walking.
Indianapolis Cultural Trail
Free 8-mile urban trail connecting parks and neighborhoods.
Holliday Park
Free hiking trails and nature center along the White River.
Canal Walk
Free pedal boat viewing area and scenic walking along the historic canal downtown.
Rainy Day Plan
Children's Museum of Indianapolis
Five floors of world-class interactive exhibits.
Indiana State Museum
Indoor history, science, and culture exhibits.
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum
Race cars, simulators, and track tours.
Topgolf Fishers
Climate-controlled driving range bays with games for all skill levels.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring
- •Indiana Flower and Patio Show
- •Indianapolis Zoo opening exhibits
- •Conner Prairie spring programs
Summer
- •Indianapolis 500 (May)
- •Indiana State Fair (August)
- •Eagle Creek beach days
Fall
- •Conner Prairie Headless Horseman
- •Indianapolis Zoo fall events
- •Corn mazes across Indiana
Winter
- •Winterlights at Newfields
- •Christmas at the Children's Museum
- •Circle of Lights on Monument Circle
Nearby Day Trips
Turkey Run State Park
75 miles west
Stunning sandstone gorges, ladders, and creek-crossing trails that kids absolutely love.
Brown County State Park
60 miles south
Indiana's largest state park with mountain biking, horseback riding, and the artsy Nashville, IN village.
Fair Oaks Farms
100 miles north
An agritourism destination with pig, dairy, and crop adventures plus a restaurant and play areas.
Local Parent Tips
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is a must-visit. It is genuinely the best children's museum in the world.
Indy is one of the most affordable major cities for family visits. Hotels and dining are very reasonable.
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway track tour lets you kiss the bricks at the start-finish line.
Explore More Family Resources
Emmie finds activities your family will love
Text Emmie at (877) 703-6643 for personalized family activity ideas.
Free to start · No credit card required