Oh warmer weather, we feel you peeking out from around the corner. So with Spring Break on deck, it’s time to start planning.
If your plans include a staycation in the Indianapolis area, frequent Indy’s Child contributor Amanda Dorman of Downtown Indy has the scoop.
Here are 5 ways to do Spring Break in downtown Indianapolis:
1. Go for a “Grand” exhibit
Get ready for a great adventure with your kids when the natural wonders of the Grand Canyon come to the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art on March 28. This much-anticipated exhibit will include on-going programming: create your own work of art inspired by the Grand Canyon; catch a film; quiz an Eiteljorg Park Ranger and share your Canyon memories.
2. Get active at Tourney Town
The 2016 NCAA Women’s Final Four comes to Downtown Indy April 3 & 5. Families can get in on the action during Tourney Town April 1-3 – a FREE fan festival at the Indiana Convention Center celebrating the best in women’s college basketball. Be at the epicenter of women’s basketball with activities for the entire family: fun exhibits and games, interactive displays, basketball clinics, entertainment, food, merchandise and more. Music fans won’t want to miss the Friday Night Tipoff Party during Tourney Town: hip-hop trio Salt-N-Pepa will take the stage on April 1 at 9pm for a free concert.
3. Check out movies at IMAX
Go on a virtual vacation and see National Parks Adventure 3D, now playing at IMAX Theatre. National Parks Adventure takes audiences on a thrilling off-trail adventure into the nation’s awe-inspiring great outdoors including Yellowstone, Glacier National Park, Yosemite, the Everglades and Arches. Also coming soon (March 25) – Batman vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice. IMAX is just one of 10 theaters in the world to have a special film format – IMAX 70 mm film.
4. Visit the Indianapolis Zoo
A visit to the Indianapolis Zoo is always a hit with the kids. There are several zoo babies that will be introduced this spring. See the trio of lion cubs, baby meerkats or the newest arrival of a baby giraffe. Sign up the kids for a Family Overnight Adventure on Friday, March 25 and spend the night at the Zoo while participating in a variety of different activities specifically designed for families. Tickets are $40 for members; $50 for nonmembers. Or simply stretch your legs and enjoy 64 acres of pure fun. Purchase tickets in advance on the Zoo website to save money.
5. Take a walk, have a picnic and explore White River State Park
White River State Park has enough attractions to keep you busy all day. Rent a pedal boat or kayak and take it out on the Canal. Enjoy the 250 acre-White River State Park and wander along the White River Promenade, a half-mile walkway lined with flowering trees and evergreens that offers unique views of the White River and the Downtown skyline. While you’re there, purchase a Park Pass which includes admission vouchers into six attractions with more than 25 percent off the regular adult prices. Passes are $54 for adults and $39 for children.