Timeline
16:29
Start at the IMA. The museum opens at 11:00 on weekdays. Spend the early afternoon exploring the galleries and the public art library. The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park is free to enter, so you can wander the grounds while waiting for the light to change.
16:59
Walk 8 minutes NW to Stratum Pier. This interactive overlook by Kendall Buster is the perfect spot to position yourself. The sun sets toward the WSW, offering a clear view of the sky as it darkens.
17:44
Watch the sunset at 17:44. The golden light starts around 17:02, so you will have about 40 minutes of warm, fading light before the sun dips below the horizon.
18:04
Oldfields–Lilly House & Gardens
Walk 4 minutes N to the Oldfields–Lilly House & Gardens. After the view, head to the historic estate. The quiet, contemplative nature of the grounds provides a calm end to the visit.
Local tip
The IMA campus is large. Stick to the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park for the best sunset views. The museum store and café are free to access if you need a break.
Check before you go
- The IMA is closed on Mondays. Open Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat 11:00-17:00; Thu 11:00-21:00; Sun 12:00-17:00.
- Sunset on 15 January is 17:44. Arrive by 17:00 to catch the golden light.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Indianapolis (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).