“The time is always right to do what is right.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
January officially ushers in winter, the start of a new school semester and – in honor of his January 15th birthday – the opportunity to reflect on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. As a federal holiday signed into law by President Ronald Reagan in 1983, many schools follow suit by offering the third Monday of the month off from classes too.
To honor Dr. King and his enduring fight for equality, many museums and organizations will open their doors for free on January 15, 2024.
Related Article: 2024Free Museum Days in Indianapolis
It’s the perfect opportunity to spend a fun day with the family while remembering the powerful life that Dr. King led.
*Not confirmed for 2024
Indianapolis Zoo
The zoo is typically closed on Mondays, but will open its doors for an MLK Celebration that includes free admission and parking. Donations are encouraged. Donation jars will be on site for monetary donations benefitting Gleaner’s Food Bank. Any food pantry donation items will benefit The Exchange at the Indianapolis Urban League.
When: January 15, 2024, 9 am – 4pm
Where: 1200 W. Washington St, Indianapolis
Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
Free ticket required. Tickets will be made available 9 a.m. Jan. 6, 2023
Celebrate the life, achievements, and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with special performances by The Griot Drum Ensemble.
When: January 15, 2024, 10 am – 5 pm
Where: 3000 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis
Eiteljorg Museum
Enjoy FREE admission to the Eiteljorg Museum on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Visitors can enjoy the final day of Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure, as well as other exhibits at the museum and special MLK Day programs. No reservations are required on January 15. Visit Eiteljorg.org/events for details.
When: January 15, 2024, 10 am – 5 pm
Where: 500 West Washington St, downtown Indianapolis
Indiana State Museum
Celebrate Dr. King’s dream and explore the ongoing struggle for civil rights and equity in America. Videos will highlight Dr. King’s most iconic speeches, and activities and performances will explore civil and human rights. Reflect on what you can do to ensure the dream lives on. In lieu of canned goods and non-perishable food items, visitors are encouraged to make monetary donations of any amount via Dip Jars to Gleaners Food Bank.
When: January 15, 2024, 10 am – 5 pm
Where: 650 West Washington St, Indianapolis
Indiana Historical Society
In honor of Dr. King’s efforts for his community, we have set aside a day to help our fellow Hoosiers learn more about his efforts and his legacy, and engage in acts of service. Visitors are invited to participate in service-related activities, learn from community members, explore community storytelling with GANGGANG, and more!
When: January 15, 2024, 10 am – 5 pm
Where: 450 West Ohio St, Indianapolis
NCAA Hall of Champions
Once again, the NCAA will open it’s doors for free to celebrate Dr. King. Experience all 24 NCAA sports through interactive exhibits including a 1930s replica gymnasium, sports simulators, trivia challenges, a scavenger hunt and more.
When: January 15, 2024, 10 am – 5 pm
Where: 700 West Washington St, Indianapolis
Newfields*
Join Newfields Sunday, January 16 to celebrate MLK Day for an afternoon of sharing and reflecting through art. Come together in spirit to remember Dr. King’s words while moving beyond our comfort zones and exploring new perspectives in the IMA Galleries at Newfields and from your home. Click here to reserve free tickets.
*When: Sunday. January 15, 2023 11 am – 4:00 pm
Where: 4000 Michigan Road, Indianapolis
National Parks
In honor of the Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr., National Park Service sites will waive entrance fees for everyone on Monday, January 15, 2024, as the first fee free day of the year. Commemorated on the third Monday of January every year, it is also a day of service when hundreds of volunteers participate in service projects at parks across the country.
When: January 15, 2024, All Day
Where: National Parks
Do you know of a location with free admission on MLK Day that we missed?
Let us know and we’ll add it to the list! [email protected]
