Freezing temperatures are headed to Indianapolis this weekend, so we’re focusing on warm, indoor fun. For Dec. 12–14, 2025, we rounded up the best indoor things to do with kids around Indy—from holiday train displays and Nutcracker performances to hands-on museum exhibits and cozy conservatory walks. To keep planning simple, all multi-day picks are grouped first, followed by single-day events for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Start with our editor’s picks below, then browse the full weekend list for ideas by day and time.
Editor’s picks for Dec. 12–14, 2025
All Weekend
Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure
Fri–Sun, Dec. 12–14 | Eiteljorg Museum, 500 W Washington St, Indianapolis
Watch eight G-scale model trains wind through detailed landscapes of Indianapolis and the American West, all glowing with festive decorations and twinkling lights.
Ongoing event, runs Nov. 15–Jan. 19.
Festival of Trees
Fri–Sun, Dec. 12–14 | Indiana Historical Society, 450 W Ohio St, Indianapolis
Stroll through more than 80 uniquely themed and decorated trees representing individuals, families, and organizations from across Indiana.
Ongoing event, runs Nov. 14–Jan. 3.
WinterFaire
Fri–Sun, Dec. 12–14 | The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, 3000 N Meridian St, Indianapolis
Explore a carnival-style indoor world with winter-themed activities, the WinterSlide, an artisan shop, and a visit with Santa—all inside one of the world’s largest children’s museums.
Ongoing event, runs Nov. 15–Feb. 22.
Conservatory Crossing
Fri–Sun, Dec. 12–14 | Garfield Park Conservatory, 2505 Conservatory Dr, Indianapolis
Wander through dazzling poinsettias, model trains, and thousands of twinkling lights inside the warm, tropical conservatory.
Ongoing event, runs Nov. 28–Dec. 28.
AES Indiana Yuletide Celebration
Fri–Sun, Dec. 12–14 | Hilbert Circle Theatre, 45 Monument Cir, Indianapolis
Broadway-level vocalists, sensational choreography, and the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra light up the season in this beloved holiday production.
Ongoing event, runs Dec. 5–23.
Celebration Crossing
Fri–Sun, Dec. 12–14 | 10 am–5 pm | Indiana State Museum, 650 W Washington St, Indianapolis
Hop aboard the Snowfall Express train ride, meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, and enjoy games and activities perfect for keeping little ones entertained indoors.
Ongoing event, runs Nov. 28–Jan. 4.
Central Indiana Dance Ensemble Presents The Nutcracker
Fri–Sun, Dec. 12–14 | STAR Bank Performing Arts Center, 1000 Mulberry St, Zionsville
Join Clara on her magical journey to the Land of Sweets with waltzing flowers, swirling snowflakes, and Tchaikovsky’s famous score.
Nutcracker with a Twist
Fri–Sun, Dec. 12–14 | Fri & Sat 7:30 pm; Sun 2:00 pm | Basile Theater at the Athenaeum, 401 E Michigan St, Indianapolis
A jazzy take on the holiday classic—set to both Tchaikovsky and Duke Ellington—featuring Charleston dances, flappers, and the Sugar Plum Fairy.
SPARK Holidays on the Circle: Visit with Santa
Sat–Sun, Dec. 13–14 | 3:00–6:00 pm | Athenaeum, 401 E Michigan St, Indianapolis | Free
Due to the cold, SPARK’s Visit with Santa has moved indoors! Stop by for free photos with Santa and live holiday music from ALEJCAT (5–6 pm).
Saturday, Dec. 13
Holly Jolly Jamboree
Sat, Dec. 13 | 2:00–4:00 pm | Cool Creek Nature Center, 2000-1 E 151st St, Carmel | Free
Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, see live animals including a reindeer from Silly Safaris, and enjoy crafts and cookies at this festive indoor event.
Skunk Saturdays
Sat, Dec. 13 | 1:00–1:30 pm | Eagle Creek Park Earth Discovery Center, 5901 Delong Rd, Indianapolis | Free
Watch Stinkerbell the skunk show off her training skills during this short, indoor demonstration. Naturalists share fun facts about skunks and their role in the ecosystem.
Winter Markets at Jingle Rails
Sat, Dec. 13 | Eiteljorg Museum, 500 W Washington St, Indianapolis
Shop handcrafted goods from local and Native artists while exploring the beloved Jingle Rails train display. Museum admission includes market access.
Mistletoe Musical Festival
Sat, Dec. 13 | 11:30 am–12:30 pm | Indianapolis Artsgarden, 110 Washington St, Indianapolis | Free
Catch the Indianapolis Municipal Band performing live holiday music in the sunlit, climate-controlled Artsgarden—an easy downtown stop during a shopping trip.
More Indoor Fun Anytime
Looking to burn off energy or explore something new? These indoor spots are open all weekend and perfect for cold-weather days:
- Indianapolis Libraries Great for Indoor Play – Play spaces, story times, and cozy reading nooks
- Nature Centers in Indiana – Warm buildings with animal exhibits and hands-on discovery
- Indoor Playgrounds Near Indianapolis – Climbing, jumping, and play structures for every age
- Indoor Pools Around Indy – Splash pads, lap lanes, and warm water for family swim time
All Weekend Events:
Looking for more events? Check out our monthly calendar and the full weekend list.
