Holliday Park is one of Indianapolis’ oldest existing parks and is a great place to visit all year long. The Nature Center, located in the middle of the park, is an ideal indoor destination for all ages to learn and explore.
Habitat Hall at Holliday Park Nature Center
The 13,000 square foot Habitat Hall at Holliday Park Nature Center focuses on the history of Marion County and Holliday Park. Visitors of all ages can learn about natural and environmental history through hands-on, discovery-based activities.
The White River Water Table offers an actual water exhibit that kids can touch. The Music of the Wetlands exhibit is an auditory experience where kids learn about local animals’ calls and noises. There are spaces to play and observe, as well as games and puzzles for little ones.
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Additionally, the Nature Center has an exhibit that appears to be an indoor treehouse. Here, visitors can view the forest canopy from an elevated observation platform. There are feeding stations and a sound system for guests to hear the birds and wildlife observed in the observation area.
There are two classrooms next to the Nature Center that host classes on nature, after-school activities, and arts and crafts with an environmental theme.
Holliday Park Outdoor Spaces
The south-end playground is currently getting a major upgrade—turning into a vibrant, welcoming space for kids and families to enjoy year-round. But this isn’t just a playground refresh—it’s a chance to create a fun, inclusive, and engaging community space where kids can run, climb, imagine, and grow. With modern play equipment and thoughtful design, this new playground will continue Holliday Park’s mission of being a place where nature, recreation, and connection come together for generations to come!
The Holliday Park Pavilion provides large groups with shaded, open-air seating space. The pavilion is near the playground, including three single-stall restrooms. Families now have a space to relax all day. The pavilion is available for rent for larger gatherings. If not reserved, then the area is open for all visitors throughout their time at the park.Â
Nature lovers can fish in the west fork of the White River at Holliday Park or hike the park’s 3.5 miles of trails. Visitors can also spot deer, foxes, beavers, rabbits, and other wildlife along the trails and river.Â
Susan Bayh Outdoor Classroom
In 2023, the Outdoor Learning Lab received a capstone feature: the Susan Bayh Outdoor Classroom. The Outdoor Classroom provides a covered gathering space for up to 50 people, allowing park programs to take place entirely outdoors.
Upcoming Events at The Holliday Park Nature Center:
More Info
Holliday Park Nature Center (website) is at 6363 Spring Mill Rd., Indianapolis. Admission to the Nature Center is free and open to the public. Explore the space on Mondays through Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays, 1–5 p.m.
[…] What makes it special: The dynamic new exhibits in Habitat Hall include the White River Water Table, Music of the Wetlands Exhibit, and an elevated Hardwood Forest viewing area allowing visitors to experience the forest canopy. Address: 6363 Spring Mill Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46260 More Info: (317) 327-7180 and [email protected] Read More: Worth a visit: The Holliday Park Nature Center […]