Children's Museum of Indianapolis

Children\'s Museum of Indianapolis featuring a city
Children\'s Museum of Indianapolis featuring a city
Children\'s Museum of Indianapolis which includes interior views as well as a large group of people
Children\'s Museum of Indianapolis showing interior views
Children\'s Museum of Indianapolis featuring interior views

Let the little ones play to their heart’s content among interactive exhibits which are educational as well as fun.

From dinosaurs to spaceships, the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis will stimulate the imagination of children of all ages. Over 120,000 exhibits are arranged over five floors, with enough variety to keep the kids entertained for a full day.

The fun starts before you even enter the museum itself, with two lifelike Brachiosaurs poised for the attack! Meet some of their friends in the Dinosphere, including Bucky the Teenage T-Rex, where you can also dig for dinosaur bones and quiz the experts in the Paleo Lab.

At the Treasures of the Earth exhibit you can explore the tomb of an Egyptian pharaoh, excavate the underwater site of a long-lost pirate ship and unravel the mystery of the Terra Cotta Warriors. Head up to the third level for an unusual insight into The Power of Children, where exhibits recount the inspirational stories of brave and heroic children through the decades, with live interpretations of the stories of Holocaust survivor Anne Frank, African-American Civil Rights pioneer Ruby Bridges and AIDS victim Ryan White.

ScienceWorks offers a wide variety of exhibits themed around the physical sciences. See pond life through the eyes of an earthworm, test your climbing skills on the rock wall and get active with a hula hoop in the Health House, before learning more about plantlife in the hands-on Biotechnology Learning Center.

The carousel on Level 4 is a National Historic Landmark which was moved to the museum in 1973 from a local funfair. A ride on the colourful animals from the original carousel, dating from 1917, is the perfect way to end your day of discovery.

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is just a few minutes’ drive from the city centre and there is free on-site parking. There are a variety of refreshment options located on Level 1, or visitors are welcome to bring their own. Floor plans are available from reception to help you plan your visit.

Popular places to visit

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Crown Hill Cemetery

This leafy promontory offers wonderful views of the city, as well as a fascinating flavour of its history and heritage.

Crown Hill Cemetery
View of the Indiana state fair by night

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Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields

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President Benjamin Harrison Home

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The 23rd president of the United States lived, campaigned and died in this stately home, now a museum with gardens and a theater.

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You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at Freetown Village during your travels in Indianapolis. Experience the area's live music and theater scene.

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Top Hotel Deals

Bottleworks Hotel

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Courtyard by Marriott Indianapolis at the Capitol

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Things to do near Children's Museum of Indianapolis

Shopping

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis offers nearby shopping at Indianapolis City Market, just 4.8km away, with a vibrant atmosphere. Similarly, Circle Center Mall, also 4.8km away, combines shopping with entertainment. If you're up for a drive, consider Glendale Town Center, located 6.4km away, for a delightful family-friendly experience.

Recreation

At the Old National Centre, enjoy live music concerts that invigorate the spirit, just 4.8km from the Children's Museum. The Celebration Plaza and Amphitheater, also 4.8km away, offers a romantic atmosphere for family-friendly entertainment. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Pleasant Run Golf Course, 8.0km distant, provides a refreshing sporting experience.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, located 6.4km away, or immerse yourself in fun at the Post Road Recreation Center, an arcade Adventure Zone 12.9km distant. Feel the adrenaline rush while karting at Fastimes Indoor Karting, also 12.9km from the museum.

Nightlife

The nightlife near the Children's Museum of Indianapolis is vibrant and exciting. Visit 8 Seconds Saloon, a lively nightclub just 9.7km away, where you can enjoy romance, entertainment, and the energetic city vibes that make for an unforgettable evening.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Children's Museum of Indianapolis

Located in Indianapolis, the Children's Museum is surrounded by a variety of attractions, including entertainment venues, historic houses, and monuments. Visitors can immerse themselves in culture and family-friendly activities, with options such as the Indianapolis Zoo and other local museums. For a well-rounded experience, consider exploring vacation packages that include various museums, ensuring a memorable visit to this vibrant city.

  • Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields: This stunning art museum features an expansive collection of artwork, spanning various cultures and time periods. Set within beautiful gardens, visitors can enjoy both indoor and outdoor experiences, making it a serene retreat for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
  • Mass Ave Cultural Arts District: A vibrant street known for its eclectic mix of galleries, theatres, and boutique shops. This lively area offers a rich cultural atmosphere, perfect for exploring local art, enjoying performances, and dining in unique restaurants.
  • Murat - Egyptian Room: A historic cultural centre that hosts a variety of performances and events. With its stunning architecture and intimate setting, it provides a unique space for concerts, theatrical productions, and cultural celebrations.

Best time to go to Children's Museum of Indianapolis

The best time to visit Children's Museum of Indianapolis can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Children's Museum of Indianapolis falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Children's Museum of Indianapolis falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January28.4°F (-2.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February31.5°F (-0.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
April52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June72.0°F (22.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
July74.8°F (23.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
August73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September67.6°F (19.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
October55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
November43.2°F (6.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
December34.9°F (1.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

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