Indianapolis is a fantastic city for families. Whether you’ve lived here all your life or you’re just in town for a visit, there’s no shortage of things to do with kids in Indianapolis. From world-class museums to amazing playgrounds, splash pads, and those one-of-a-kind spots you only find in Indy, there’s something here for every family and every mood.
To help you plan your next adventure, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite kid-friendly attractions in Indianapolis. Start exploring, and you’re sure to make some great memories with your crew—no matter the season.
Looking for cheap fun? Make sure to check out 75 Fun Activities for $5 or Less in Indianapolis.
Here is a list of tried-and-true favorite things to do in Indianapolis with kids—perfect for families looking for new adventures.
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
Location: 3000 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis
It’s no surprise that the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis tops the list of things to do in Indianapolis with kids. It’s the largest children’s museum in the world, and you can easily spend an entire day exploring here. Consistently ranked by number 1 by USA Today as one of America’s top museums, my kids grew up here. When they were babies, we could spend hours just in Play Escape. I loved how they could crawl safely in the baby zone while I caught a breather. (Pro-parent bonus: There are even private breastfeeding rooms inside Play Escape. It made those early days so much easier.)
Now that my kids are a little older, their absolute favorite is the simulated elevator ride called the “Treasures Transport” inside the National Geographic Treasures of the Earth exhibit. It’s on the first floor and feels just like you’re descending into a real dig site! They still talk about it every time we go.
Insider Tip:
Don’t miss the Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience®—it’s a giant indoor/outdoor sports park where everyone gets to try new sports and burn off energy. Pro move: buy tickets online ahead of time for a discount, and if you go late afternoon, you’ll usually find thinner crowds. Sneakers are a must for the Sports Legends area!
Buy tickets: childrenmuseum.org/tickets
Indianapolis Zoo
Location: 1200 W Washington St, Indianapolis
The Indianapolis Zoo is one of the top things to do in Indianapolis with kids, home to over 1,400 animals, attracts more than a million visitors annually, making it a leading destination for wildlife education in the Midwest. This is hands-down our favorite spot for animal encounters—especially the Dolphin Dome. Fun fact: The dolphins are in a separate building from the other ocean animals, so if you skip the show, you might miss them. But trust me, it’s worth making a special stop!
The zoo is the perfect size for families: big enough to fill a day, but not so huge that little legs get exhausted. We love going on weekday mornings when it’s quiet. The orangutans, the butterfly gardens, and the playgrounds are all go-tos for my crew.
Personal Pro Tip:
Go in the morning on a weekday for fewer crowds. The zoo is small enough for younger kids to walk most of it, but packed with enough to fill a whole day if you want.
Ticket Info: indianapoliszoo.com/visit/tickets-hours/
Conner Prairie
Location: 13400 Allisonville Rd, Fishers
Conner Prairie, a Smithsonian Affiliate, is nationally recognized for its groundbreaking interactive approach to history education. A lot of people think Conner Prairie is just for older kids, but honestly, it’s been one of my favorite places since my kids were toddlers. Older kids dig deep into the living history in 1836 Prairietown, but younger ones love it, too—with so many hands-on activities and friendly “residents” that make you feel like you’re really back in time. The animal meet-and-greets are a huge hit, especially for little ones.
We’ve spent entire mornings just wandering the trails, petting animals, and exploring the grounds. But the absolute show-stopper for my family is the Treetop Outpost. The treehouse itself is incredible—details, hidden learning spots, and the coolest suspension bridge to run across. My kids love the building area where they construct forts out of all sorts of materials. One visit, we honestly never made it out of the Outpost—there’s a nature playground, crafts, and staff-run activities happening all the time. You could easily spend a couple of hours in this single spot.
Insider Tip:
Don’t overlook Conner Prairie for little ones! It’s stroller-friendly, has farm animals to pet, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try the 1859 Balloon Voyage for a truly unforgettable view.
Ticket Info: connerprairie.org/plan/hours-and-admission/
Indiana State Museum
Location: 650 W Washington St, Indianapolis
Right next to the zoo, this museum is a hands-on, interactive experience about Indiana’s history, science, and culture. We love combining a museum trip with a walk on the canal or a zoo visit (two-for-one fun).
Buy tickets: indianamuseum.org/visit-museum/hours-and-admission
Newfields: A Place for Nature & the Arts
Location: 4000 Michigan Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46208
At Newfields, art and nature come together. While the museum and gardens require admission, the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres is free to visit. This outdoor space features large-scale art installations, walking trails, and plenty of space for kids to run and explore.
The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park is hands down the most unique park in Indy. After a short hike into the meadow, you’ll spot your first massive art installation—think sculptures that are as much playground as art. My family has spent afternoons wandering the trails around the lake, spotting art, and just letting the kids run wild.
There’s even an ADA- and stroller-accessible parking lot at 1850 W 38th St (just west of the main Newfields entrance), making it extremely easy for everyone to access.
Personal Pro Tip:
The 100 Acres Park is always free and open dawn to dusk. My kids love climbing on the art, and it’s so different from your typical playground. If you want to visit the museum, go on First Thursday for free admission.
Ticket Info: discovernewfields.org/tickets-and-pricing
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum
Location: 4750 W 16th St, Indianapolis, IN 46222
The newly transformed IMS Museum invites visitors on an immersive journey through motorsport history, with 40,000 square feet of expanded exhibit space—including previously restricted areas and rare artifacts on display for the first time.
Ticket Info: imsmuseum.org/tickets/
Midtown Plaza Carmel
Location: 365 Monon Blvd, Carmel, IN 46032
If you’re looking for a spot where the kids can burn off energy and you can grab something great to eat, Midtown Plaza in Carmel totally delivers. The plaza sits right between Carmel City Center and the Arts & Design District, so there’s always something happening and a new spot to explore around every corner.
On summer evenings, our favorite thing is to bring a blanket and catch one of the free family movies on the big screen. You can order food from any of the nearby restaurants—there’s everything from pizza to poke bowls—and eat dinner right on the lawn while the kids run wild. It’s become our go-to for easy weeknight fun, and honestly, the kids give it a 10/10 every time.
Want a local tip? Check the plaza’s event calendar before you go—they’re always adding pop-up events and activities for families.
Fishers AgriPark
Location: 11171 Florida Road, Fortville
If you’ve got a kid who loves animals, dirt, and all things outdoors, Fishers AgriPark is a must-visit. This 33-acre urban farm lets families get hands-on with real farming—think meeting cows and goats, digging in the garden, and learning about where food really comes from. It’s part play, part education, and totally fun.
One of my favorite things? You can actually pick fresh produce for free when it’s in season (just remember to bring a bag!). My kids love getting up close with the animals and racing through the nature play area, and there’s always something new to learn every time we visit.
Insider tip: Wear shoes that can handle a little mud, and bring a bag—you can pick fresh produce for free when it’s in season.
Action & Atomic Duckpin Bowling
Location: 1105 Prospect Street, Indianapolis
If you want to mix up your usual family outing, head to Fountain Square and give duckpin bowling a try. The balls are smaller and lighter than regular bowling balls, which makes it way easier for younger kids to play (and to be honest, way trickier for grownups than you’d think!). The whole place has a fun, vintage vibe—think classic lanes, retro decor, and a super laid-back atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time.
We always end up laughing at how challenging those little pins can be to knock down, but that’s part of the fun. Pro tip: This place fills up fast, especially on weekends, so call ahead and book your lane. And be prepared—the kids might actually beat you!
The Children’s Garden at Coxhall Gardens
Location: 11677 Towne Road, Carmel
There’s no better word for the Children’s Garden at Coxhall Gardens than magical. Tucked away on Carmel’s west side, this spot feels like a secret hideout just waiting to be discovered. It’s full of winding paths, whimsical structures, and hands-on play spaces where kids can let their imaginations run wild—no screens or batteries required.
We love bringing a picnic and spreading out on the lawn. Honestly, I’d say it’s the best picnic spot in Indy. If you’re looking for a place where your kids can unplug and just be kids, this is it.
NCAA Hall Of Champions
Location: 700 W. Washington Street, Indianapolis
Sports fans will love the NCAA Hall of Champions, which features interactive exhibits about all 24 NCAA sports. Try trivia challenges, explore historic artifacts, and test your skills in the sports simulators.
Insider Tip: The second-floor gym is a hidden gem—shoot hoops in a 1930s-style gym, try a ski simulator, and test your sports trivia skills. Bonus: free admission on MLK Jr. Day and Presidents’ Day!
Ticket info: ncaahallofchampions.org/visit-us/
Learning Curve at Central Library
Location: 40 E St Clair St, Indianapolis
The Learning Curve at Central Library is a high-tech, high-energy, hands-on information environment for today’s children. It is located on the Children’s Floor of Indianapolis Public Library’s Central Library. The staff members are very knowledgeable and offer fun activities, games, and workshops for all ages.
Daniel’s Vineyard
Location: 9061 N 700 W, McCordsville
Daniel’s Vineyard is a Geist hidden gem—the ultimate family destination. Their front yard has 22 acres of vines and plenty of outdoor seating to enjoy the view. Indulge in delicious pizzas, wines, and beers while the kids entertain themselves with games like chess, bocce, cornhole, and running around the giant hill. It’s the perfect opportunity for both parents to unwind and for children to have a blast in a fun-filled environment. The winery also hosts many weekly events such as concerts, line dancing lessons, and karaoke nights.
Insider Tip: This vineyard is super family-friendly—while parents sip wine slushies, kids can play yard games like giant chess and bocce ball. Keep an eye out for free live concerts on weekends.
White River State Park
Location: 801 W Washington St, Indianapolis
White River State Park in Indianapolis is a beautiful urban oasis that offers a fun things to do for visitors of all ages. Nestled along the banks of the White River, this expansive park boasts stunning scenery, walking trails, serene gardens, and picturesque waterways. It is also home to several renowned attractions, including the Indianapolis Zoo, the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, and the Indiana State Museum. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, educational experiences, or simply a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, White River State Park is the perfect destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and culture lovers alike.
Insider Tip: Want to explore the park the fun way? Rent a surrey bike, kayak, or pedal boat for a different view of downtown Indy. Free 2-hour parking is available on White River Parkway!
Soldiers & Sailors Monument
Location: 1 Monument Circle in downtown Indianapolis
This iconic landmark is a tribute to Indiana’s veterans. You can explore the monument for free, but for just $2, you can take an elevator ride to the top for stunning city views.
Insider Tip: You can climb 331 steps to the top for free, or take the tiny old-school elevator most of the way for $2. In December, the monument transforms into the world’s largest Christmas tree—a must-see!
Flat Fork Creek Park
Location: 16141 E. 101st Street, Fishers
Whenever our family needs a little breather from the everyday rush, Flat Fork Creek Park is our go-to escape. Tucked away on the east side of Fishers, this park is a hidden gem you can visit year-round. The big draws for kids? Three amazing treehouses to explore, a giant sledding hill that’s just as fun in summer as winter, and a peaceful fishing pond if you want to slow things down.
Pro tip: End your visit by challenging your kids to a race up the sledding hill. Trust me, you’ll earn yourself a solid nap after—and the bragging rights if you win!
Eagle Creek Park
Location: 7840 W 56th St, Indianapolis, IN 46254
If your family loves being outdoors, Eagle Creek Park should be at the top of your list. It’s one of the biggest city parks in the entire country, and there’s something here for everyone—hiking trails through beautiful woods, kayak and canoe rentals on the water, nature centers with hands-on exhibits, and even outdoor concerts in the summer.
We love packing up for a day of exploring, spotting turtles by the shore, and ending with a picnic under the trees. It’s the kind of place you can visit a hundred times and still find something new.
Insider tip:
Check with your local library before you go—many libraries have free Eagle Creek Park passes you can borrow for the day. It’s the best little secret for a free family adventure.
ArtsPark at the Indianapolis Art Center
Location: 820 E 67th St, Indianapolis, IN 46220
If you want something a little different from your usual playground, check out ArtsPark—an outdoor space where art and nature come together in the best way. It’s part park, part open-air art gallery, and totally hands-on. The kids can climb, touch, and interact with sculptures scattered all over the grounds (finally, a place where you don’t have to say “don’t touch!”).
One of the coolest things is how ArtsPark changes with the seasons—spring flowers, summer greenery, fall colors, and even some wintry art surprises. Plus, it’s right off the Monon Trail, so it’s easy to reach by bike, stroller, or on foot. And did I mention it’s free? Bring a snack, wander the trails, and let the kids’ imaginations run wild.
Downtown Canal Walk
Location: Downtown Indianapolis
A scenic spot for a family walk, the Downtown Canal Walk offers beautiful city views. You can rent paddleboats or kayaks, stop by the Colts Canal PlaySpace, or take a ride on a Pacers Bikeshare bike.
- Colts Canal PlaySpace
- Paddleboat or kayak rentals from Wheel Fun Rentals
- Pacers Bikeshare Rentals
Nickel Plate Express
Location: 825 Forest Park Drive, Noblesville
Hop aboard the Nickel Plate Express for an exciting train ride adventure. The Nickel Plate Express hosts themed train ride excursions all year long. A few kid favorites include Ice Cream Express, The Wizard Express, and the most popular of all, Reindeer Ride Express.
Insider Tip: Book your tickets early—theme rides like the Wizard Express and Reindeer Express sell out fast. Arrive early for photos with costumed characters before you board!
Upcoming schedule: nickelplateexpress.com/
Traders Point Creamery
Location: 9101 Moore Road, Zionsville
If you’re looking for a real working farm experience without leaving Indy, Traders Point Creamery is a must. This place is pure magic for kids—imagine wandering a scenic trail, spotting cows and chickens, and maybe catching a glimpse of a blue heron along Eagle Creek. The farm is spread out over 180 acres, so there’s plenty of room to roam and explore.
One of our favorite things to do is stop by the Loft Restaurant for a farm-fresh meal—everything’s organic and sustainably sourced. And don’t skip the homemade ice cream at the Dairy Bar (trust me, it’s a family tradition for us now).
Insider tip:
Plan your visit around 4:30 p.m. to watch the cows being milked—it’s always a hit with kids. Afterwards, celebrate with a scoop (or two) of their award-winning ice cream.
Indoor Play Places in Indianapolis & Surrounding Areas
Let’s be real: there are days in Indy when the weather just won’t cooperate, or you just need a spot where kids can run wild (and you can sip a coffee in peace).
Indoor activities are some of the most-requested things to do in Indianapolis with kids—luckily, there are plenty of options. Whether your crew is into climbing, bouncing, creative play, or classic arcade action, here are some of the best indoor play places my family and local friends rave about:
Indoor Playgrounds & Play Cafés
When the weather outside is unpredictable (or let’s be honest, you just need the kids to burn off some serious energy), indoor playgrounds are a total lifesaver. Luckily, Indy and the surrounding suburbs are packed with amazing spots where kids can climb, slide, and play—no sunscreen or rain boots required.
- Smiley Indoor Playground (Castleton, Indianapolis): 25,000-square-foot playground with slides, trampolines, obstacle courses, and VR games.
- The Busy Bee Play Café (NW Indianapolis): Play areas for ages 1–11, plus a cozy café for adults.
- Kid’s Planet (Brownsburg): Multi-level indoor playground and arcade for kids up to age 14.
- Kids Empire (South Indianapolis): 15,000-square-foot playground with climbing mazes and a separate Tot Area.
- Sweet Peas Play Café (Kokomo): Indoor playground with two play areas and a coffee shop.
- Dig Dig for Kids (Fishers): Giant indoor sandpit with construction toys, perfect for kids 10 and under.
- Kid City at Greenwood Community Center (Greenwood): Two-story indoor play space with STEAM stations.
- Broad Ripple Park Family Center Playground (Indianapolis): Climbing structure, tube slide, activity tables; $2/child entry.
Free Church & Community Indoor Playgrounds
- The Park at Traders Point Christian Church (Whitestown): Giant play structures, basketball, rock wall, and sensory room.
- Cornerstone Lutheran Church Play Area (Fishers): Climbing equipment for all ages, plus toddler-friendly zone.
- The Treehouse at Plainfield Christian Church (Plainfield): Two-story, whimsical play structure for ages 2–12.
- The Center at The Well (Brownsburg): Eco-friendly indoor playroom created with repurposed toys.
- Playzone at Community Center @ AFC (Anderson): Five-level playground structure; open most days.
- The Commons Playground (Columbus): Free, three-story indoor playground with separate areas for all ages.
Trampoline & Adventure Parks
- Sky Zone (Multiple Locations): Wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, Ninja Warrior courses.
- Adrenaline Family Adventure Park (Fishers): Ropes courses, climbing, inflatables, and more.
- Urban Air Adventure Park (Noblesville & Franklin): Trampolines, climbing walls, obstacle courses.
- Slick City Indoor Slide Park (Brownsburg): Huge dry slides for year-round thrills.
Family Fun Centers, Arcades, and Bowling
- Pinheads (Fishers and Brownsburg) – Bowling, luxury arcade, outdoor patio dining, sand volleyball, volleyball leagues
- Rascal’s Fun Zone (Whiteland): Indoor/outdoor fun park with go-karts, mini-golf, and arcade.
- Punch Bowl Social (Downtown Indianapolis): Bowling, vintage arcade, shuffleboard, karaoke.
- Malibu Jack’s Indoor Theme Park (Lafayette): Go-karts, laser tag, mini-golf, rides, and arcade.
- Dave & Buster’s (Castleton & Greenwood): Restaurant and arcade combo for all ages.
- PinVault & Tappers Arcade Bar (Indianapolis): Vintage pinball and classic arcade cabinets; all-ages hours available.
- Tappers Arcade Bar (Indianapolis) – Touting the best classic arcade games in Indiana, like Space Invaders, Ms. Pac-Man, Asteroid, Frogger, Donkey Kong and more than 60 free-to-play arcade games.
- Bowl 32 (Nobelsville): Arcade, laser tag, mini-golf, axe-throwing
Climbing, Sports & Action Centers
- North Mass Boulder (Indianapolis): Indoor climbing gym for all ages.
- Ultimate Ninjas Indianapolis (Noblesville): Ninja Warrior-style gym for kids and grownups.
- Skip & Alex Lange Innovation Center at Camp Belzer (Lawrence): Climbing, archery, ropes, robotics lab.
- Wright’s Gymnastics / NinjaZone (Multiple Locations): Bounce houses, trampolines, gymnastics, ninja fun.
- Skateland Roller Rink (Indianaopolis): Classic skating, open skate, games, and snacks.
- Ice Skating in Indianapolis
- Indy Stars Gymnastics Preschool Open Play
Nature Centers
Nature centers are amazing places to bring kids—they let children connect with nature firsthand, no matter the weather. Most offer special activities like story time, family hikes, and even campfires. Bonus: Many nature centers are free!
- Holliday Park Nature Center (Indianapolis): Features the White River Water Table, Music of the Wetlands Exhibit, and a forest canopy viewing area. Free.
- Eagle Creek Earth Discovery Center (Indianapolis): See live creatures, a beehive, and hands-on nature exhibits. Free with park admission.
- Cool Creek Nature Center (Carmel): Learn about Indiana woodlands, animals, and habitats with interactive exhibits. Free.
- Zionsville Nature Center (Zionsville): Located in the library, this spot invites families to discover Indiana’s native environment with fun programs. Free.
- Pecar Park Nature Center (Avon): Home to tortoises, snakes, iguanas, turtles, and adoptable animals. Free.
- Taylor Center of Natural History (Noblesville): Explore archaeological finds and learn about local Native American history. Free.
- Mounds State Park Nature Center (Anderson): Discover the story of the Great Mound, with animal displays, interactive games, and wildlife viewing. Free with park admission.
Unique Indoor Fun
- DIY Jewelry Making at HopeAnchor & Crew (Noblesville)
- DIY Bath Bombs at Bath Junkie in Carmel (Carmel)
- SoChatti Kids Chocolate Class (Indianapolis)
- Preschool Storytime at The Tie Dye Lab in Avon
- Board and Brush Creative Studio
- Ignite Art Studio and Makerspace
Indoor Pools & Water Parks in Indianapolis
Dive into year-round aquatic fun with our guide to Indy’s best indoor pools and water parks. Whether you want to splash with the kids, swim laps, or just relax poolside, these spots offer water adventures—no sunscreen needed.
- Monon Community Center (Carmel): Indoor lap pool, adventure slides, and an activity pool. Free for members; $13 kids (3-15), $16 adults (16+) for nonmembers.
- Carmel Swim Academy (Carmel): Modern, community-focused facility with open swim and lap swimming every day. $5 children 4-17, free under 3; $10 adults.
- Goldfish Swim School (Carmel, Fishers, Greenwood): Heated 90-degree pool with colorful décor and a parent viewing area.
- Splash Island (Plainfield): Indoor pool with slides, geysers, lazy river, basketball, and lap pool. $10 kids 5-17, $8 for 4 & under, $11 adults.
- Zionsville Aquatics Center (Zionsville): Three pools: lap pool, instructional pool, and diving pool. Open seven days a week. $7.50 per swimmer; memberships available
- George Washington Community School Pool (Indianapolis): High school pool with a giant floating obstacle course and rock wall. Free under 2; $2 kids 3-17; $3 adults
- Thatcher Park Indoor Pool (Indianapolis): Speedway-area favorite for family swim time on cold days. Free under 2; $2 kids (2-17); $3 adults
- Krannert Family Center (Indianapolis): Brand new indoor pool with open swim hours Monday–Saturday. $3 youth/seniors; $4 adults; free under 2
- Indy Island Family Aquatic Center (Indianapolis): Newly renovated leisure pool with zero-depth entry, slides, spray features, and a water playhouse. $5 kids; $6 adults; free under 2
Libraries That Are Great for Indoor Play
Libraries around Indy are way more than just books—they’re some of the best free places for indoor play, storytime, and creativity when you need to get out of the house. Looking for free things to do in Indianapolis with kids? These library play areas are hidden gems.
- Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library (Zionsville): Huge first-floor kids’ zone with toys, play kitchen, dollhouse, trains, and a separate baby room.
- Carmel Clay Public Library (Carmel): Colorful play area, giant Lite Brite, pretend house, STEAM lab, and an on-site coffee shop.
- Greenwood Public Library (Greenwood): Makerspace, puppet theater, LEGO area, mini town, big tree, and a baby play spot.
- Central Library (Downtown Indy): The Learning Curve has tech labs, hands-on activities, a theater, baby zone, and green screen.
- Plainfield-Guilford Township Public Library (Plainfield): Toys, trains, play kitchen, big tree centerpiece, crafts, and lots of natural light.
- Hancock County Public Library (Greenfield): Set up like a little town—pretend play houses, LEGO, nature corner, and animal displays.
- Westfield Washington Public Library (Westfield): New in 2024 with play tables, puppet theater, early literacy stations, and a café.
- Hamilton East Public Library (Fishers & Noblesville): Large kids’ areas, murals, creative play, preteen study zones, and interactive games.
Looking for even more things to do in Indianapolis with kids? Check out the Indy’s Child Calendar for the latest family-friendly events and activities.
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