101 Things to do in Indianapolis with Kids

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 90 Fun Activities for $5 or Less in Indianapolis.

Here is a list of tried-and-true favorite things to do in Indianapolis with kids.

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 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 and 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. It attracts more than a million visitors annually, making it a leading destination for wildlife education in the Midwest. This is a 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. It is worth making a special stop.

The zoo is the perfect size for families. It is big enough to fill a day, but not so huge that little legs get exhausted. We love going on weekday mornings when it is 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 interactive approach to history education. A lot of people think Conner Prairie is just for older kids, but it has been one of my favorite places since my kids were toddlers. Older kids dig deep into the living history in 1836 Prairietown, and younger ones love it too, with hands-on activities and friendly “residents” that make you feel like you are back in time. The animal meet-and-greets are a huge hit for little ones.

We have spent entire mornings wandering the trails, petting animals, and exploring the grounds. The show-stopper for my family is the Treetop Outpost. The treehouse has great details, hidden learning spots, and a cool suspension bridge to run across. My kids love the building area where they construct forts from all sorts of materials. One visit, we never made it out of the Outpost. There is 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:
Do not overlook Conner Prairie for little ones. It is stroller-friendly, has farm animals to pet, and if you feel adventurous, try the 1859 Balloon Voyage for a memorable 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 for two fun stops in one day.

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 one of the most unique parks in Indy. After a short hike into the meadow, you will spot your first massive art installation. The sculptures feel like playgrounds and art at the same time. My family spends afternoons wandering the trails around the lake, spotting art, and letting the kids run.

There is an ADA and stroller accessible parking lot at 1850 W 38th St, just west of the main Newfields entrance, which makes it 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 is very different from a 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 are looking for a spot where the kids can burn off energy and you can grab something great to eat, Midtown Plaza in Carmel delivers. The plaza sits between Carmel City Center and the Arts & Design District, so there is always something happening and a new spot to explore.

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 nearby restaurants and eat dinner on the lawn while the kids run. It is an easy weeknight outing, and the kids give it a 10 out of 10 every time.

Want a local tip? Check the plaza’s event calendar before you go. They often add pop-up events and activities for families.

Related Article: Top 15 Things to Do in Carmel with Kids

Fishers AgriPark

Location: 11171 Florida Road, Fortville

If you have 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. Meet cows and goats, dig in the garden, and learn about where food really comes from. It is part play, part education, and totally fun.

One of my favorite things is that you can pick fresh produce for free when it is in season. Remember to bring a bag. My kids love getting up close with the animals and racing through the nature play area, and there is always something new to learn every visit.

Insider tip: Wear shoes that can handle a little mud, and bring a bag. You can pick fresh produce for free when it is 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 easier for younger kids to play, and trickier for grownups than you might think. The whole place has a fun vintage vibe with classic lanes and retro decor, and a 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, and that is part of the fun. Pro tip: This place fills up fast, especially on weekends, so call ahead and book your lane. Be prepared, the kids might beat you.

The Children’s Garden at Coxhall Gardens

Location: 11677 Towne Road, Carmel

There is 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 waiting to be discovered. It has 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. It might be the best picnic spot in Indy. If you want 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 and a wonderful family destination. The front yard has 22 acres of vines and plenty of outdoor seating to enjoy the view. Enjoy pizzas, wines, and beers while the kids play chess, bocce, cornhole, and run the giant hill. It is a great chance for parents to unwind while children have fun. The winery also hosts many weekly events such as concerts, line dancing lessons, and karaoke nights.

Insider Tip: This vineyard is very family-friendly. While parents sip wine slushies, kids can play yard games like giant chess and bocce ball. Watch 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 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 want outdoor adventures, educational experiences, or a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle, White River State Park is a great destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and culture lovers.

Insider Tip: Want to explore the park in a fun way? Rent a surrey bike, kayak, or pedal boat for a different view of downtown Indy. Free two-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, or for $2 you can take an elevator ride to the top for 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, which is 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 include three treehouses to explore, a giant sledding hill that is fun in summer and 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. You will earn a solid nap afterward, and 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 is one of the biggest city parks in the country, and there is something here for everyone. Enjoy hiking trails through beautiful woods, kayak and canoe rentals on the water, nature centers with hands-on exhibits, and outdoor concerts in the summer.

We love packing for a day of exploring, spotting turtles by the shore, and ending with a picnic under the trees. It is 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 is a great 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. It is part park and part open-air art gallery, and it is hands-on. Kids can climb, touch, and interact with sculptures scattered around the grounds. Finally, a place where you do not have to say “don’t touch.”

One of the coolest things is how ArtsPark changes with the seasons, from spring flowers to fall colors. It is right off the Monon Trail, so it is easy to reach by bike, stroller, or on foot. And 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 rides all year. Kid favorites include the Ice Cream Express, The Wizard Express, and the most popular of all, the Reindeer Ride Express.

Insider Tip: Book your tickets early, since 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 want a real working farm experience without leaving Indy, Traders Point Creamery is a must. This place is pure magic for kids. Wander a scenic trail, spot cows and chickens, and maybe catch a glimpse of a blue heron along Eagle Creek. The farm spans 180 acres, so there is plenty of room to roam and explore.

We love stopping by the Loft Restaurant for a farm-fresh meal. Everything is organic and sustainably sourced. Do not skip the homemade ice cream at the Dairy Bar. It is a tradition for us now.

Insider tip:
Plan your visit around 4:30 p.m. to watch the cows being milked. It is always a hit with kids. Afterward, celebrate with a scoop of their award-winning ice cream.

Fall Fun in Indianapolis

Looking for fall fun? Start with these reader-favorite guides packed with kid-tested ideas.

• Farm Festivals Near Indianapolis — 9 can’t-miss picks this season.
• Pumpkin Patches (2025) — 12 top patches with corn mazes and photo ops.
• Fall Foliage in Indiana — Best scenic drives, peak color tips, and leaf-peeping spots.
• 17 Indiana Day Trips Perfect for Fall — Easy escapes with parks, small towns, and scenic overlooks.
• 6 Best Apple Orchards for Apple Picking — U-pick apples, cider slushies, and family activities.

Indoor Play Places in Indianapolis & Surrounding Areas

Let’s be real. There are days in Indy when the weather will not cooperate, or you just need a spot where kids can run while you sip a coffee in peace.

Indoor activities are some of the most requested things to do in Indianapolis with kids, and 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 recommend:

Indoor Playgrounds & Play Cafés

When the weather is unpredictable, indoor playgrounds are a lifesaver. Indy and the surrounding suburbs are packed with spots where kids can climb and slide without sunscreen or rain boots.

• 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 per 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 a 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 with regular open hours.
• 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, and Ninja Warrior courses.
• Adrenaline Family Adventure Park (Fishers): Ropes courses, climbing, inflatables, and more.
• Urban Air Adventure Park (Noblesville & Franklin): Trampolines, climbing walls, and obstacle courses.
• Slick City Indoor Slide Park (Brownsburg): Large dry slides for year-round thrills.

Family Fun Centers, Arcades, and Bowling

• Pinheads (Fishers and Brownsburg): Bowling, luxury arcade, outdoor patio dining, sand volleyball, and leagues.
• Rascal’s Fun Zone (Whiteland): Indoor and outdoor fun park with go-karts, mini-golf, and arcade.
• Punch Bowl Social (Downtown Indianapolis): Bowling, vintage arcade, shuffleboard, and 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, with all-ages hours available.
• Tappers Arcade Bar (Indianapolis): Classic arcade games like Space Invaders, Ms. Pac-Man, Asteroids, and more than 60 free-to-play games.
• Bowl 32 (Noblesville): Arcade, laser tag, mini-golf, and 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, and a robotics lab.
• Wright’s Gymnastics / NinjaZone (Multiple Locations): Bounce houses, trampolines, gymnastics, and ninja fun.
• Skateland Roller Rink (Indianapolis): 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 help children connect with nature firsthand, in any weather. Many offer special activities like story time, family hikes, and campfires. Many are free.

• Holliday Park Nature Center (Indianapolis): 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 relax poolside, these spots offer water adventures without sunscreen.

• 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): Community-focused facility with open swim and lap swimming daily. $5 children 4–17, free under 3, $10 adults.
• Goldfish Swim School (Carmel, Fishers, Greenwood): Heated 90-degree pool with colorful decor 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 and under, $11 adults.
• Zionsville Aquatics Center (Zionsville): Three pools, including lap, instructional, and diving. 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): New indoor pool with open swim hours Monday through Saturday. $3 youth and seniors; $4 adults; free under 2
• Indy Island Family Aquatic Center (Indianapolis): 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 more than books. They are 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): Large 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 with 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.

Favorite Playgrounds around Indianapolis

Playgrounds are some of the best things to do in Indianapolis with kids, and Central Indiana is full of great options for every type of adventure.

Best All-Around Playgrounds

These parks are destinations. With features that appeal to a wide range of ages, from toddlers to adults, and multiple attractions like expansive play structures, nature trails, and water features, they work well for a full day of family fun.

• Falls Park Playground (Pendleton): A landscaped destination with a massive treehouse play structure, rolling turf hills, a nature play zone, and access to Fall Creek.
• Holliday Park (Indianapolis): A 94-acre park that will be home to a brand-new playground opening in Fall 2025. Trails, a large nature center, and scenery along the White River round out the visit.
• Hummel Park (Plainfield): A 205-acre park with four distinct playground areas, a splash pad, paved trails, and access to White Lick Creek for creek stomping.
• Kephart Park (Bargersville): Giant tube slides for thrill seekers, a modern splash pad, pickleball courts, and walking trails for the whole family.
• West Park (Carmel): A large nature-inspired splash pad, a multi-level playground, and open space make it a premier park.

For the Big Kids & Adventurers

These parks are perfect for climbers and thrill seekers who like a challenge.

• Colts Canal PlaySpace (Indianapolis): A climber’s dream with a swirling climbing tower, ladders, and twister nets on the Downtown Canal.
• Finch Creek Park (Noblesville): A parkour style obstacle course suspended above the ground, plus large tube slides.
• Lawrence W. Inlow Park (Carmel): Home of the impressive skywalk, a 32-foot enclosed walkway that soars 16 feet high.
• Meadowlark Park (Carmel): Geometric domes and structures designed for parkour fans, with challenges for many ages.
• Riverside Adventure Park (Indianapolis): A large regional park with climbing structures and a zip line.
• Tarkington Park (Indianapolis): A modern urban park with a giant climbing orb and a rock-climbing wall.

For the Toddlers & Little Ones

These spots feature safe, engaging, and often fenced-in areas designed for your youngest family members.

• Arbuckle Acres Park (Brownsburg): Tiny Tots Playground for ages 2–5 with accessible rubber surfacing and interactive features.
• Commons Park (Indianapolis): A bright and cheerful fully fenced playground with a dedicated toddler structure.
• Founders Park (Carmel): A large sandbox for digging, plus traditional swings and a toddler play area.
• Quaker Park (Westfield): A large rope climbing dome for big kids and a separate area for babies and toddlers.
• Roy G. Holland Memorial Park (Fishers): A huge separate toddler zone with equipment sized for little ones.
• Simon Moon Park (Westfield): A great pick for toddlers and preschoolers, with lots of activities in a manageable 5.5-acre park.
• Youngs Creek Park (Franklin): The city’s largest playground with a spacious area for toddlers to explore safely.

Best Inclusive & Accessible Playgrounds

These playgrounds are designed so that children of all abilities can play together.

• Brooks School Park (Fishers): Fishers’ first inclusive playground with a tree-like structure and sensory play areas.
• Independence Park (Greenwood): Indiana’s first fully accessible playground with a soft surface, a sensory-friendly music area, and an accessible merry-go-round.
• Main Street Park (Whitestown): An inclusive design with a flat roll-on merry-go-round, wide ramps, and activity boards at various heights.
• Possibility Playground (Portage): Known as Indiana’s largest fully accessible playground.
• Rev. Charles R. Williams Park (Indianapolis): A universal express swing for a parent and child to swing together, a sensory cove, and musical equipment.

Best Nature-Themed Playgrounds

Get in touch with the outdoors at these playgrounds that incorporate natural materials and themes.

• Forest Park South Playground (Noblesville): A tree and nature themed tower with a net bridge, set on artificial grass.
• Grassy Creek Environmental Education Center (Indianapolis): A Far East Side park with a treehouse structure, a bird outlook, and an on-site nature center.
• Nature Adventure Playground (Carmel): Hidden in the woods with cargo nets, a rock-climbing wall, and a zip line.
• River Road Park (Carmel): Blends play and nature with imaginative archeology themed areas in a scenic setting.
• Starkey Nature Park (Zionsville): Playground equipment alongside natural trails for hiking and exploration.

Most Unique & Imaginative Playgrounds

These one-of-a-kind playgrounds have strong themes and creative designs that spark imagination.

• Firefighter Play Pocket Park (Greenwood): A lookout tower and a replica fire engine built into the structure.
• Gateway Park (Whitestown): Innovative and modern with unique climbing structures and a futuristic design.
• Geist Waterfront Park (Fishers): A large modern playground next to a sandy beach and calm water for swimming.
• Old City Park (Greenwood): A signature 20-foot cube tower, with play integrated into the natural creek landscape.
• River Heritage Park (Carmel): A wheelchair-friendly adventure trail through the woods with several playground stops.
• Sandorf Park (Indianapolis): A giant tree fort play structure with many chances to climb and explore.
• Westermeier Commons Playground (Carmel): Two 32-foot-tall enclosed towers with a science-fiction look.
• Williams Park (Brownsburg): Known for the Blast-Off Playground, a large space themed wooden play structure designed with ideas from local children.

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.