Fun Outdoor Family Outings in Indianapolis

Shake off the winter blues and jump into spring at these fun outdoor activities in Indianapolis with the whole family!

10 Fun Outdoor Activities in Indianapolis 

Butler University’s Holcomb Gardens

4600 Sunset Ave., Indianapolis

Butler University’s Holcomb Gardens is an enchanting 20-acre setting composed of towering trees, trails, bridges and native flora. The gardens are tucked between Butler University’s campus and the historic Indianapolis Central Canal. In the middle of the gardens is a 500-foot-long grass mall perfect for flying kites or having a picnic. The gardens have been around since 1950. 

Traders Point Creamery

9101 Moore Rd., Zionsville

Where does milk come from? Which animals give us eggs? If you have a curious kid who wonders where our food comes from, plan a visit to Traders Point Creamery and take a tour of their working farm. Self-guided tours are just $3/person, and children under 3 are free. Traders Point Creamery also offers private guided tours for $9/person which includes ice cream at the end of the tour.  

Eagle Creek Park

7840 W. 56th St., Indianapolis

From spending the day at the beach to soaring through the air on a zipline, Eagle Creek Park has an activity for everyone. Down at the marina, guest can rent canoes, kayaks, pontoon, rowboats and paddleboards provided by Eagle Creek Outfitters. Park entrance is $5/car for Indianapolis residents and $6 for non-residents.  

 Fishers AgriPark

11565 Brooks School Rd., Fishers 

Reopens May 1, 2021

The Fishers AgriPark is anticipated to be one of the nation’s largest urban farms, and pays homage to Fishers’ agricultural roots while inspiring future generations of farmers, scientists, agronomists, robotics engineers, chefs and more. The 33-acre park will include an urban farm growing fresh fruits and vegetables and producing eggs. 

Flat Fork Creek Park

16141 E. 101st St., Fishers

This park is probably best known for its gigantic sledding hill, which, when it isn’t being used for that, is a great place to run up and down and burn off some energy. Tucked away on the east side of Fishers, Flat Fork Creek Park is the perfect place to escape the busyness of the season and unplug in nature. The park is just over 60 acres and boasts unique and diverse amenities and activities for every age, ability, and interest. The park also offers several inclusive amenities to ensure play for all ability levels, including an ADA accessible treehouse that is perfect for observing wildlife or enjoying the scenic view of Flat Fork Creek.

Indianapolis Zoo & White River Gardens

1200 W Washington St, Indianapolis

The Indianapolis Zoo & White River Gardens are located in downtown Indianapolis. At the zoo, visitors can explore the zoo’s five areas — Oceans, Forests, Deserts, Encounters and Plains — which are home to more than 1,600 animals of approximately 230 species as well as 31,000 plant specimens that guests can visit year-round.White River Gardens is also part of the Zoo and continues its tradition of connecting animals, plants and people. This beautiful 3.3-acre landmark botanical attraction includes a 5,000 square-foot conservatory and combines the best of gardening ideas, plant information and inspirational design to serve the needs of all visitors.

Sports Legends Experience at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

3000 N Meridian St, Indianapolis

Invigorating, enticing, adrenaline-pumping, and legendary—with every single step. With 12 outdoor sports experiences and 3 indoor exhibits encompassing physical fitness and awe-inspiring sports history, you’ll want to book a whole day for your family at the Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience.

Conner Prairie

13400 Allisonville Rd., Fishers

Disconnect from gadgets and unplug at one of the largest outdoor museums in the country. The grounds of Conner Prairie feature a wide range of activities for families to enjoy, including a 4-story treehouse, a cozy outdoor reading room, hiking trails and animal encounters. A trip to Conner Prairie isn’t complete without a stroll through 1836 Prairietown to chat with the local villagers. Time general admissions tickets are available online-only, and limited daily. Visit connerprairie.com for more information.

Fort Harrison State Park

5753 Glenn Rd., Indianapolis

Located on Indy’s northeast side, Fort Harrison State Park is an outdoor oasis. It is a huge park with lots of different walking trails, as well as some paved trails that are good for bike riding. The 2.75-mile hiking trail has some elevation changes, so it’s good for older kids and adults looking for more of a challenge. But the 1-mile hike on the south side of the park is perfect for kids and will allow you to see what’s blooming in the park this spring.

 The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres

1850 W. 38th St., Indianapolis

Acres and acres (100 of them, to be exact) of woodlands, wetlands, meadows and shoreline are ready to be explored adjacent to the Newfields main campus. One of the largest museum art parks in the country, 100 Acres features outdoor art projects, interactive sculptures and exhibitions, as well as a trail that winds around the lake.