Traveling with energetic kids in tow? Then head straight for the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis in the United Northwest Area! As officially the world’s largest children’s museum, this Indi staple sells itself as a must-see family attraction that’ll keep the whole clan entertained and engaged all day long! Founded in 1925, the Children's Museum of Indianapolis is consistently ranked as one of the top children's museums in the United States. With a 482,950 square-foot facility on about 30 acres of land, it's the largest children's museum in the world and draws over a million visitors each year. When it comes to best things to do in Indiana, can't help but mention Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. You should take the whole family go there and explore this museum.

With a whopping five floors of interactive galleries and displays, including an impressive railroad exhibition, as well as countless rotating exhibits, there’s so much to do at this world-class museum: Wander through the Dinosaur Park; explore the magic of water; take a trip through Dale Chihuly’s Fireworks of Glass; move your body at the Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience; learn about geology at Treasures of the Earth; or take a seat for a live, funny, and educational theater show!

Google rating: 4.7/5

Phone: +1 317-334-4000

Address: 3000 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46208, United States

Website: https://www.childrensmuseum.org/

For more than a century, Indianapolis has been known as the Circle City, after the Monument Circle in downtown Indianapolis. This circular boulevard circles the city's famous Soldiers and Sailors Monument in the heart of the city. In 1821, famous surveyor and engineer Alexander Ralston wished for Indianapolis to be laid out in the style of Washington, D.C. As a result, he created Monument Circle as the city's core downtown hub. That 4.5-acre park is now one of Indiana's most recognizable icons, where the community gathers for city-wide festivities.

The Circle provides a magnificent open space for community gatherings ranging from yoga festivals to art fairs. And none of the adjacent buildings are taller than eight stories along the Circle. As a result, sunlight shines on the monument's glittering water and dazzling limestone all day! When you stroll around the Circle to see the Circle's namesake monument, the planned design truly comes through. From the Circle, you can see the State Capitol building just down the street, visit some of the local stores, or even sit on the memorial steps and listen to the city noises.

This renowned location, which surrounds the magnificent 284-foot-tall Soldiers and Sailors Monument, is the pulsating heart of Downtown Indi, constantly holding events and never shy of a bright and bustling environment. The marble memorial, which stands towering in the middle of a traffic circle, offers stunning views from its observation deck and serves as the focal point for the city's main events, with no lack of local food trucks and occasional light shows after sunset.

Google rating: 4.7/5

Phone: +1 317-250-0751

Address: 111 Monument Cir, Indianapolis, IN 46204, United States

Website: none

If you’ve got a bike or are in the mood to rent one (or don’t mind a decent walk), then look no further than Indy’s very own Cultural Trail — an eight-mile paved route that takes visitors seamlessly past some of the city’s most famous attractions!

Whether your taste is for art galleries, parks, monuments, museums, or gardens, a trip down this tourist-friendly route—which passes through no less than six quirky neighborhoods: Mass Ave, Fountain Square, The Canal & White River State Park, Indiana Avenue, the Wholesale District, and Market East—is sure to be a highlight of your trip!

The eight-mile Indianapolis Cultural Trail opened in 2013. The route, which sits atop almost 8,000 cubic yards of dirt, connects downtown to Broad Ripple Village and Carmel. It comprises around 80 bike racks as well as 9 public art initiatives. It was created to strengthen Indianapolis' art community by connecting every key arts, culture, history, sports, and entertainment facility.

The route also features gardens that are maintained in accordance with different environmentally informed concepts in order to offer green space, wildlife habitats, and protected pedestrian-focused corridors in downtown Indianapolis. The garden beds comprise five acres and feature thousands of perennial plants and hundreds of shrubs, as well as the addition of 525 trees to the city landscape. Food tours, walking and bike excursions, and egg hunts are among the events that take place along the path.

Google rating: 4.8/5
Phone: +1 317-653-1948
Address: 132 W Walnut St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, United States
Website: http://indyculturaltrail.org/

Are you ready to brush up on your Indiana history? The Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites is an engaging, hands-on experience that will pique your children's interest in learning. Whether you're looking for ancient oceans or pioneer homes, each exhibit provides a picture of the past and includes fun activities for people of all ages.

The Indiana State Museum in White River State Park takes you on a journey through Indiana history, from the beginning of time to modern-day developments. The museum has nearly 500,000 pieces and artifacts, including mastodon fossils and Native American paintings. So, you can explore three floors of one-of-a-kind galleries that teach your kids about geology, paleontology, and natural history.

Once you've returned from the past, the museum's changing exhibitions will teach you about today's history-in-the-making. Unlike some history museums, the Indiana State Museum demonstrates how the past affects you now. Recent exhibits at the museum have included feminist art activism, Indiana's local biodiversity, and combating the opioid problem. Plus, for a little bonus, the Museum is also home to the state’s largest IMAX screen, so grab the popcorn and enjoy a film that’s both educational and entertaining!

Google rating: 4.6/5

Phone: +1 317-232-1637

Address: 650 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, United States

Website: http://www.indianamuseum.org/

This renowned Indianapolis attraction, also located in White River State Park, is routinely ranked at the top of travelers' lists of things to do in Indianapolis, greeting over a million people every year and housing over 3,800 charming and cuddly creatures (and a few odd ones).

You'll discover everything from the uncommon and endangered — including white rhinos, Amur tigers, Guinea baboons, red pandas, and Komodo dragons — to the most common of cheeky monkeys and slithery snakes on 64 acres of land and with twice as many exhibits than any other zoo in the state!

With plenty of relaxation spots like their water lily garden (the perfect place for a picnic) and quiet paths where you can take your time admiring the animals, as well as live feedings and trainer shows, the Indianapolis Zoo is one of those places that makes you feel like a kid again. Make some new furry friends at the Indianapolis Zoo is said to be one of the best things to do in Indiana.

Google rating: 4.5/5
Phone: +1 317-630-2001
Address: 1200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46222, United States
Website: http://www.indianapoliszoo.com/

The Museum is located inside the world-famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway oval. Access to the museum parking area is free except during Speedway events when IMS charges an admission fee or requires a ticket or credential to access the facility. The Speedway's event admission fee, tickets, or credentials do not provide admission to the Museum.

Perhaps best known for hosting the Indy 500 on the NASCAR calendar, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is also a must-see for fans of all things fast and furious! The Museum has two entire levels inside the legendary 2.5-mile oval track and houses scores of classic automobiles (including those that won the coveted Prix), motorcycles, motors, and artifacts going back to the late 1800s.

While the rotating exhibits come and go, the undisputed highlight is the permanent fixture of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame — a must for any devout petrolhead. Hot tip: for the most in-depth experience, consider joining a guided tour.

Google rating: 4.8/5
Phone: +1 317-492-6784
Address: 4750 W 16th St, Indianapolis, IN 46222, United States
Website: https://www.imsmuseum.org/

Have you ever imagined what it would be like to ride or race a real IndyCar? Do you secretly crave experiencing speeds and g-forces of 180 to 200 mph? Want to go behind the wheel with a legend at the famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway? Live out those racing dreams and more with the Indy Racing Experience. After learning all about racing history, it’s time to get behind the wheel of an open-wheel chassis Indycar yourself!

At the hair-raising Indy Racing Experience, you’ll be taken for a ride in one of their two-seaters with an expert driver teaching you how to handle it on the track. Prepare yourself for speeds up to 180mph and feel what it’s like to race around the famous Oval—or one of the other unique tracks around the city available on certain race day weekends—and hold on for dear life! These are the best things to do in Indiana. You should know when you go to this state.

Google rating: 4.7/5

Phone: +1 888-357-5002

Address: 2A Gasoline Alley, Indianapolis, IN 46222, United States

Website: http://www.indyracingexperience.com/

The Eiteljorg tells the stories of the peoples of North America in all their diversity and complexity. It’s a place for historical context, artistic expression, new ideas, and individual perspectives. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the diverse cultures of the West and Native America. Sharing these amazing American stories is what they do at the Eiteljorg. This one-of-a-kind museum in downtown Indianapolis is located on Washington Street, directly next to Military Park, and is dedicated to commemorating and presenting the traditions of Native Americans throughout North America, with a specific emphasis on painting, sculpting, and jewelry-making.

This amazing Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art — situated within an award-winning structure — offers something for everyone, from small children who will appreciate the vibrant fine art to history enthusiasts who will luxuriate in the intriguing stories of America's origins. The Eiteljorg collects, conserves, and exhibits outstanding Western art and Native American art and cultural objects. The museum’s collection includes artists such as T.C. Cannon, N. C. Wyeth, Andy Warhol, Georgia O’Keeffe, Allan Houser, Frederic Remington, Charles Russell, and Kay WalkingStick. The institution’s contemporary Native American art collection has been ranked among the best in the world.

Google rating: 4.6/5

Phone: +1 317-636-9378

Address: 500 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, United States

Website: http://www.eiteljorg.org/

Don't miss a visit to Lilly House, a National Historic Landmark and a superb example of a 20th-century country home. The Landon family established the estate in 1907, constructing their French-inspired chateau, greenhouses, and other support structures. In the 1920s, Jessie Landon commissioned the Olmsted Brothers to build a garden landscape to complement the grandeur of their house. The Lilly family bought the property in 1932 and the adjoining estates over the next few decades. They would subsequently gift the 56 acres to the Art Association of Indianapolis in order to create what is now known as Newfields.

The Lilly House's freshly renovated Lower Level encourages visitors to discover the tales that make the 26-acre Oldfields Estate the historic heart of Newfields. This national historic monument has been home to two famous families, is a magnificent example of landscape design, and is linked to numerous stories that are distinctive to Indianapolis' history.

The new orientation area, which is richly decorated with historic and modern pictures, will bring guests through an examination of who lived and worked at the estate, as well as major designers who built the environment that guests may enjoy throughout their stay. Guests will be able to create the estate themselves in a unique hands-on experience. Self-guided tours will expose undiscovered stories and peaceful moments to those seeking fresh experiences of the estate.

While visiting the Lilly House and surrounding gardens they invite guests to think about the evolution of the estate, how it was used by the different people who lived and worked at the estate, and how their desires and needs shaped the place now call Newfields.

Google rating: 4.8/5
Phone: +1 317-923-1331
Address: 4000 N Michigan Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46208, United States
Website: http://www.imamuseum.org/

The Art Center builds a better, stronger, more vibrant, and more united community through art. As a nonprofit, every year they offer hundreds of classes and camps, more than a dozen contemporary art exhibitions in six galleries, an outreach program that takes art into underserved communities, the OneAmerica Broad Ripple Art Fair, and much, much more!

Located in Broad Ripple along the banks of the White River and just steps off the Monon Trail, the Art Center includes a vibrant and active 40,000 square foot building designed by world-renowned architect and Indianapolis native Michael Graves, and Indianapolis’ original ARTSPARK, a 9.5-acre outdoor creativity and sculpture garden with green space, trails, and a canoe launch.

Another fantastic free city attraction, this local gallery has been selecting the best of modern and contemporary art for over 100 years, giving seminars, workshops, and regular events along the way. The Indianapolis Art Center has some truly stunning exhibits (especially if you're into photography or sculpture), but it's also a great place to just walk around in: don't miss the outdoor sculpture garden or the peaceful cafe, where you can grab an alfresco lunch while admiring some of the center's best pieces. Despite being a 20-minute drive from the main attractions of Downtown Indianapolis, it's definitely worth the journey, with over 50 yearly exhibitions to select from.

Google rating: 4.5/5

Phone: +1 317-255-2464
Address: 820 E 67th St, Indianapolis, IN 46220, United States

Website: http://indyartcenter.org/

If you are looking for a fun and unique outing, then saddle up and head to Natural Valley Ranch in Brownsburg! Whether you are a novice or experienced equestrian, there is something for everyone at this family-owned and operated ranch, and you don’t have to venture far from civilization to find it. The beloved Natural Valley Ranch, located just outside of Indianapolis in scenic Hendricks County, is home to diverse horseback riding trails and an onsite campground that provide a perfect change of pace from the hustle and bustle of big city life — plus, it's one of the few places in the region where you can see certain wildlife species up close (keep an eye out!).

Choose from guided rides through the woods, first-timer instruction, trots along White Lick Creek, and even birthday parties for families seeking some summer fun. Family-friendly and family-fun... you will discover the difference that family makes when you discover Natural Valley Ranch! Saddle up at the Natural Valley Ranch is considered to be one of the best things to do in Indiana.

Google rating: 4.7/5

Phone: +1 317-509-3577

Address: 6310 County Rd 350 N, Brownsburg, IN 46112, United States

Website: https://hendrickscountytrailrides.com/

What do you like? Come discover your favorite(s). You might like getting up close to masterpieces by artists like Rembrandt and Turner, Cezanne and Picasso, O’Keeffe and Hopper, Calder and Lichtenstein, and LeWitt and Sherman. You might become curious to see what is considered the most comprehensive collection of Neo-Impressionist paintings in North America. You may linger near major works of Abstract Expressionism, Minimalism, Pop Art, light- and video-based works, and contemporary design. Or possibly you’ll just decide to tour the planet, viewing galleries of art from Asia, ancient Greece, South America, and beyond. Anywhere you start is the perfect starting point.

The Indianapolis Museum of Art has been organizing exciting exhibitions since its establishment in 1883, making it a delight for local art aficionados. The Museum, located on over 150 acres of pristine grounds in Newfields (the same area as Lily House and The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park), houses an extraordinary collection of over 50,000 items, highlighted by the stunning Asian art show. You could easily spend days studying everything from Egyptian mummies to impressionist paintings, not to mention the huge surrounding gardens, whether you go at your own leisure or with an experienced tour. Visit Indianapolis Museum of Art is one of the best things to do in Indiana when you come to this state.

Google rating: 4.7/5

Phone: +1 317-923-1331

Address: 4000 N Michigan Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46208, United States

Website: https://www.discovernewfields.org/

The crown jewel of downtown Indianapolis, Indiana, is the Central Canal. The 1.8 million people who call metro Indianapolis home, and its tourists, both love this hub of urban entertainment and relaxing refuge. Stroll your way along landscaped trails to experience a wealth of history, nature, and culture in the heart of this major American city. The canal was extended into the neighboring 250-acre White River State Park in the 1980s. The Canal Walk was created in 2001, and in 2004, Indianapolis named The Canal and White River State Park as one of six official city cultural districts.

Today you can walk, run, or bike the 3-mile Canal Loop, or if travel by water is more to your liking, rent a pedal boat or kayak and float your way through the city. You can even hire a gondolier to whisk you on a ride as you take it all in, sometimes with a serenade thrown in for good measure. The Central Canal, which runs through the center of Downtown Indianapolis and up to the north, is more than just a gorgeous river; it's also one of the city's most picturesque sites for fitness (walking, running, or biking) and people-watching.

The view of the downtown Indianapolis skyline from the canal is spectacular, the walk at and just after dusk is beautiful, and the variety of stores and restaurants branching out from the main route is eclectic and friendly – all in all, a must-see place for a late afternoon promenade. Of course, with a variety of boats going along the canal, you may take a tour for a whole different perspective.

Google rating: 4.7/5

Phone: none

Address: Indianapolis, IN 46204, United States

Website: none

Indianapolis has all of the characteristics of a big metropolis, but with a twist. The 250-acre White River State Park is located inside the municipal boundaries and is a haven of leisure and activities for people of all ages. The park provides a "staycation" opportunity for Indiana residents, as you may spend several days and yet not see everything worth seeing.

White River State Park has attractions and activities that will keep families occupied for visitors to the state. There are green areas, paths, a canal, and rivers, much like you'd find in other State Parks; but, throw in some fantastic educational and cultural activities and events, and you've got yourself a genuinely unique destination!

This massive park in the heart of Downtown Indy is so much more than a green space — White River State Park is an experience full of cultural events and a lively atmosphere, and it’s officially the only urban state park in Indiana. With attractions like the Indianapolis Zoo, The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, and Victory Field (home to MLB team – The Indianapolis Indians), not to mention the adored Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens, you’ll be able to spend hours at this beloved destination.

Google rating: 4.7/5
Phone: +1 317-233-2434
Address: 801 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, United States
Website: https://www.whiteriverstatepark.org/

The Indiana Medical History Museum is located on the grounds of the former Central State Hospital on the near west side of Indianapolis. The heart of the museum is the Old Pathology Building, the oldest surviving pathology facility in the nation. The Building is on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Indiana Medical Past Museum, which sits atop the site of what was formerly the Central Indiana Hospital for the Insane, is home to some of the strangest medical relics imaginable, as well as a topsy-turvy history (later renamed to Central Indiana Hospital).

Venturing into the stories and development of psychiatric treatment with a host of exhibits both eye-opening and gripping—over 15,000 in total, including autopsy tables, iron lungs, and chemical laboratory equipment—this museum is certainly not for the faint-hearted. Visitors can now explore the teaching amphitheater, laboratories for bacteriology, clinical chemistry, histology, and photography, as well as the library, reception room, and records room, as well as the autopsy room and anatomical museum, which house preserved specimens—mostly brains organized by pathology.

The museum provides unique events, exhibitions, and lectures on a variety of themes, including the history of science and medicine, mental health care past and present, forensic science, and health occupations today, in addition to guided tours of the wonderfully restored Old Pathology Building.

Google rating: 4.7/5

Phone: +1 317-635-7329

Address: 3270 Kirkbride Way, Indianapolis, IN 46222, United States

Website: http://www.imhm.org/