“The time is always right to do what is right.” — Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. January brings not only the new year and a fresh school semester, but also a chance to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose birthday falls on January 15. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is observed on the third Monday of January each year, a federal holiday since 1983.
Free Admission on MLK Day 2026 in Indianapolis
To celebrate Dr. King’s life and his enduring fight for equality, several Indianapolis museums and attractions are offering free admission on Monday, January 19, 2026. It’s a meaningful way to spend the day with family while reflecting on the impact of his work.
Indianapolis Zoo
As part of White River State Park’s annual MLK Day celebration, families can enjoy free admission to the Indianapolis Zoo. Visitors are encouraged to donate to Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana, with online giving available through participating attractions.
When: January 19, 2026, 9 am–4 pm
Where: 1200 W. Washington St., Indianapolis 
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
The world’s largest children’s museum celebrates MLK Day with special programs and musical performances honoring Dr. King’s life and achievements. Free tickets are required and become available starting January 9, 2026.
When: January 19, 2026, 10 am–5 pm
Where: 3000 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis
Eiteljorg Museum
Explore Western art and Native American culture with free admission and family-friendly programming. This is also the final day to experience Fifth Third Bank Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure before it closes for the season.
When: January 19, 2026, 10 am–5 pm
Where: 500 W. Washington St., Indianapolis
Indiana State Museum
The Indiana State Museum offers free admission with hands-on activities and opportunities for reflection. Visitors are encouraged to bring donations for Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana. Free parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis in the White River State Park garage.
When: January 19, 2026, 10 am–5 pm
Where: 650 W. Washington St., Indianapolis 
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum
Where: 4750 W. 16th St., Indianapolis
Indiana Historical Society
This free-admission day features hands-on service projects, a Wall of Reflection, and activities exploring Dr. King’s impact in Indiana. Families are invited to bring donation items supporting veterans and their families through HVAF of Indiana. Advance tickets are encouraged.
When: January 19, 2026, 10 am–5 pm
Where: 450 W. Ohio St., Indianapolis 
NCAA Hall of Champions
Sports-loving families can explore all 24 NCAA sports through interactive exhibits, simulators, and trivia challenges with free admission.
When: January 19, 2026, 10 am–3 pm
Where: 700 W. Washington St., Indianapolis
Newfields
Newfields hosts a day of art-making, storytime, performances, and gallery tours, plus a special presentation by guest scholar Corey N. Reed, PhD. Families can create “Make-One Take-One” memory pins for a collaborative community artwork while enjoying a day centered on reflection and service.
When: January 19, 2026, 11 am–4 pm
Where: 4000 Michigan Rd., Indianapolis 
Free Skate on MLK Day at Elevance Health Rink
Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day with free ice skating at Elevance Health Rink. Skating is free, but reservations are required to make sure everyone has skates and a spot on the ice. The rink’s covered pavilion, sunken ice surface, and warming stations help keep the experience comfortable in a variety of winter weather. Limited food and beverage options will be available, and concessions will be open for purchase.
When: January 19, 2026, 11 am–7 pm
Where: Elevance Health Rink at Bicentennial Unity Plaza, Indianapolis (free parking at the Virginia Ave. Parking Garage)
Know of a location offering free admission on MLK Day that we missed? Let us know at [email protected] and we’ll add it to the list!
