One of the things that makes Indianapolis such a family-friendly place to live is the variety of destinations around town that are perfect for exploring with babies and toddlers. From parent-and-me classes to storytimes to family-friendly museums, this list is going to help you find plenty of inspiration for your next family adventure.
Discovery Station
13400 Allisonville Road, Fishers
Many people know about the outdoor experience at Conner Prairie, but did you know that located inside Conner Prairie is an area of exploration that is perfect for children up to the age of 9? At Discovery Station, kids can create, climb, play and more. There is also a special area for infants where they can roll, crawl and have fun with age appropriate items. Anything Can Happen Art is an area within Discovery Station where little artists can use their imaginations along with a variety of materials to create a masterpiece that is all their own.
Playscape
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
3000 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis
Located on the third floor of The Children’s Museum is an area dedicated to the younger guests. Playscape is for children ages 5 and under, featuring an underwater pond habitat, water table, Blockopolis where giant towers can be created (and destroyed, of course), Reaction Contraption where children can have fun launching balls, and the Art Studio, where original works of art can be created. There is also a special area called Babyscape that is reserved for the museum’s youngest visitors.
Gymboree Play & Music
12524 Gray Road, Carmel
Gymboree offers classes for infants, babies, toddlers and preschoolers up to age 5, along with family play classes for children ages 6 months to 5 years. These classes are designed for early childhood development, recognizing that play is an important part of early childhood education. This play-based curriculum is not only a lot of fun, but will also help your child to develop physical, cognitive and social skills.
Goldfish Swim School
Multiple locations
Learning to swim is not only enjoyable — it’s also great exercise and helps to keep our little ones safe. Goldfish Swim School provides swim lessons for children ages 4 months to 12 years old with a low student-to-teacher ratio that creates a fun and safe learning environment. These lessons are offered year round and are a great way to introduce your child to the water. Goldfish also offers birthday parties, jump start clinics, W.A.T.E.R. safety presentations and family swim times.
The Indianapolis Public Library
Multiple locations
indypl.org/programs-events/programs-for-kids
The Indianapolis Public Library offers a wide array of workshops and storytimes for children of all ages. Programs such as The Wiggle & Bounce Family Time with Kindermusik and the Tales ‘n Play Storytime are created especially for children ages 0 to 5 years. They also offer Animal Meet and Greets and Animal Shows with Silly Safaris, Family Sing-Along Fun and more! Be sure to check out their schedule for information on program times and whether the class requires registration.
One of the many great things about living in Indianapolis and the surrounding area is all the family-friendly activities you can find. There really is something for everyone of all ages to enjoy. We hope you are able to get out there and have fun!
