Combining history and science, Conner Prairie delivers a unique experience, allowing visitors to explore Indiana’s rich past. This museum has many interactive exhibits, both indoors and outdoors, where visitors can learn about Indiana’s history through activities. The fun activities include meeting characters in costumes, watching historical scenes, and playing in the Treetop Outpost area.
A trip to Conner Prairie is a great chance to learn about Indiana’s history in a fun way.
Conner Prairie is more than a museum; it’s an immersive experience that captivates all ages. Keep reading below to learn more about all the amazing activities and experiences Conner Prairie offers.
What is there to do at Conner Prairie?
Conner Prairie is far more than just a museum; it’s a place where history comes to life. Whether through candlelit dinners that transport you to the winter of times past, summer beer tastings that regale you with historic brews, or the chilling Headless Horseman festival in the fall, there’s always something new to discover. The museum also offers a range of classes, workshops, and special events, all designed to engage the mind and spark curiosity.
Explore the Great Outdoors
- 1836 Prairietown: Step back in time and experience life in central Indiana in 1836. Interact with the townsfolk, learn about their daily lives, and immerse yourself in the history of the era.
- Animal Encounters: Visit the barn for a chance to meet and pet farm animals while learning from the specialists who care for them year-round. It’s a perfect opportunity for kids to connect with nature.
- Treetop Outpost: Climb a 4-story treehouse and engage in activities aimed at connecting with nature while disconnecting from technology. It’s a fun way for guests of all ages to explore and play.
- 1859 Balloon Voyage: Experience Indiana from 370 feet above ground in a hot air balloon. Note that this adventure depends on good weather and requires an additional ticket.
Step Into History
- 1863 Civil War Journey: Immerse yourself in the life of a town affected by the Civil War through interactive exhibits that educate and inspire.
- River Crossing: Cool down in the summer at this Civil War-themed splash area, complete with a steamboat and water cannons for kids to enjoy.
- William Conner House: Explore one of Indiana’s oldest brick homes and learn about pioneer life through interactive displays that evoke the pioneer spirit.
William Conner House
Inside Adventures
- Discovery Station and Craft Corner: A haven for children aged 0-9, this indoor area offers countless opportunities for creative play, from fort-building to crafts and more.
- Spark!Lab: Families can get creative together, solving problems and engaging in activities that foster essential skills for both today and the future.
The Apple Store
The Apple Store is a fundraiser for Conner Prairie Alliance, helping support their mission and programs. Since opening its doors in 1985, the store has managed to raise over $1 million from sales. These funds have greatly helped in supporting the institution’s ongoing operations.
The Apple Store is typically open from mid-September through the end of October. In 2021, the Apple Store sold 14,275 caramel apples and served 5,636 people in a 6-week period!
Conner Prairie’s Annual Events:
The Headless Horseman
Every October, Conner Prairie has the Headless Horseman Festival with exciting activities, shows, and spooky family fun. Guests can ride on a spooky hayride through the eerie Prairie grounds and meet the famous Headless Horseman.
Additionally, guests can embrace an exciting journey down the eerie tubing hill for an added thrill. If curiosity tempts you, unveiling the mysteries of the future is possible with our fortune teller. At the festival, classic games fill the air with merriment, and the little ones can enjoy a delightful ride on the barrel train.
- 2024 Dates: They will hold the Headless Horseman festival on Thursdays through Sundays from October 3 – 27, 2024. This special event takes place after standard hours from 6-10 pm.
A Merry Prairie Holiday Festival
A Merry Prairie Holiday, held every holiday season, brings the holiday spirit to life. This tradition turns the Prairie into a winter wonderland with lights and countless opportunities to step back in history.
- 2024 Dates: November 27 and 29, 2024 and December 1 – 22, 2024
Symphony on the Prairie
Symphony on the Prairie is a 40+ year tradition that takes space each summer at Conner Prairie Amphitheater. The lineup includes everything from classical symphony to rock and roll classics performed by the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. Guests can also pack a picnic and enjoy the music from the lawn. Or opt for table service with a bartender and a catered meal.
2024 Dates: June 28-Aug. 1, 2024
Jupiter Flights Balloon Festival
Every September, the skies above Fishers become a technicolor spectacle during the Jupiter Flights Balloon Festival. Indiana’s biggest hot air balloon event offers many activities for everyone to enjoy over several days.
Additionally, guests can enjoy live music, entertaining games, and delicious food, perfectly complementing the visual feast.
- 2024 Dates: September 6 – 8, 2024
Where is Conner Prairie Located?
Conner Prairie is in Fisher, Indiana, at 13400 Allisonville Rd, Fishers, IN 46038.
Hours:
Conner Prairie’s standard hours are Tuesday-Sunday, 10 am-5 pm. Go to connerprairie.org to buy tickets.
Free Days at Conner Prairie
Below are the currently known free museum days for 2024. As we find out more, we will continue to update this page.
- September TBD: Smithsonian Magazine Free Museum Day
Indiana Access Pass
Conner Prairie partners with local attractions to bring family fun to more Indiana families. Families with Indiana Access Pass pay $2 per person per visit. Children under age two always receive free admission.
5 Reasons We Keep Going Back to Conner Prairie (and Why You Should Too!)
1. Immerse Yourself in History
Conner Prairie isn’t just about seeing the past; it’s about living it. The meticulously recreated 1836 Prairietown and the engaging townspeople transport you back in time. You’ll find yourself chatting with blacksmiths, learning about daily chores, and maybe even witnessing a historical debate.
2. Explore Nature’s Wonders
Don’t be fooled by the museum label. Conner Prairie is also a sprawling outdoor paradise with hidden trails, secret clearings, and wide-open spaces for kids to run free.
3. Brave the Headless Horseman
This annual festival is a must-experience, evolving from family-friendly fun to thrilling scares as the sun sets. It’s a spectacle you won’t forget!
4. Learn Something New Every Time
Conner Prairie is a constant source of discovery. You might stumble upon a blacksmithing demonstration, learn to tie knots, or even help feed the pigs. The hands-on activities change with each visit, ensuring a fresh adventure every time.
5. Unleash Creativity at Discovery Station (temporarily closed):
This indoor playground is a hit year-round, offering fort building, pretend play, and endless crafting possibilities. It’s a haven for kids (and kids at heart) to let their imaginations run wild.
[…] you from your day-to-day into the stories of yesterday and the traditions of tomorrow. Step into Conner Prairie’s historic Prairietown to visit the Christmas Eve traditions of the 1800s, then head up to the North […]