Parks and the outdoors in Indianapolis

36 parks, gardens, beaches and walks in and around Indianapolis.

Ranked with the travel guide's picks and well-known places first.

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Broad Ripple Park
Broad Ripple park was established in 1946 as an amusement park on the White River. The park features a family center, swimming pool, playground, fitness trail, baseball diamond, tennis courts and boating. They have a great dog park, which does require a pass and proof of recent dog vaccinations. Everyday tons of dogs and their owners play in a well kept, fenced area. It can get very muddy when rainy or snowy. It's within walking distance of Broad Ripple Village. Activities are free, dog pass rates vary.
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Buffer Park Golf Course
IndyGolf.com users rated this as their favorite nine-hole course in 2001. A well-maintained 3,411 yards from the Championship Tees.
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Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial
Monument that is part of White River State Park that pays tribute to over 3,000 Medal of Honor recipients. Ranges from Civil War through modern day clashes. It is made up of 27 curved glass walls, each 7–10 ft high, and etched with the names. It's quite breathtaking—especially at night.
Open from dawn to duskFree
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Conner Prairie Interactive History Park
Conner Prairie Living History Museum
Settled in the 1880s, Conner Prairie is an Indiana tradition for those interested in learning about Indiana living "back in the day." With volunteers dressed in period-costume year round you are able to experience every aspect of the way of life—from blacksmithing to cooking, games and schooling, farming and church. Start at the modern museum learning about the science and anthropological history, then head to the living history museum featuring authentic buildings from the 1880s. Take a flight on 1859 Balloon Voyage, visit Dupont, IN circa 1863 and experience Morgan's Raid, or visit the brand new (for 2017) Treetop Outpost. Special exhibits come and go, such as Native American regional language sponsored by History Channel. In the summer the grounds feature Symphony on the Prairie where one can picnic in the evening and enjoy live classical and pops performances. Halloween features haunted hay rides featuring the Headless Horseman and the holiday season includes dinners, candlelight tours and other celebrations. Restaurants on hand and a gift shop too.
Nov-Mar: Tue–Sun 10AM–3PM, Mar–Oct: Tue–Sun 10AM–5PMAdult $25, senior (65+) $23, youth (2–12) $19, member or child under age 2 free; balloon prices: member $14, non-member $18; free parking
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Contemporary Art Museum of Indianapolis
CAMi
This is the city's first contemporary art museum in several years, since the 2020 closure of iMOCA. This is more than a single museum, with an experimental artist space, a garden, an amphitheater, and housing for visiting artists.
Mon Tue closed, Wed–Fri 11AM to 7PM, Sat Sun 11AM to 5PM, First Fri of the Month 11AM–10PMFree (some special events may have ticket prices)
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Eagle Creek Park
On the west side of Indy, this huge park boasts many amenities, including a nature center, fitness course, fishing areas, and bird sanctuary. Fill your day with sailing, bird watching, fishing, rowing, hiking, swimming, ziplining. Only 10 minutes from downtown. Admission: $7/car for non-Marion county Residents.
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Edelweiss Restaurant
Located inside German Park on the far south side of Indianapolis, this restaurant is run by a private club (the German-American Klub) but is open to the public. Serves lunch Tuesday through Saturday and dinner Tuesday through Sunday. Food is mostly Bavarian in style, with some American specialties on the menu with daily specials. Friday evenings often have live entertainment in the quaint Gasthaus-style dining room. There is also a Biergarten for dining on pleasant evenings. A ballroom on the upper floor is available for rental.
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Eiteljorg Museum
The museum is the only one of its kind in the Midwest. Featuring western art by T. C. Cannon, N. C. Wyeth, Andy Warhol, Georgia O'Keeffe, Allan Houser, Frederic Remington, Charles Russell, and Kay Walkingstick. The museum also focuses on Native American history featuring artifacts, art, and history about this nation's first people. Enjoy lunch at the restaurant, too. The museum also hosts occasional lectures, plays, and music. Located within White River State Park, check into a park pass for admission to all seven of the park's attractions.
Mon-Sat 10AM-5PM, Sun noon-5 PMAdult $20, senior $16, youth $12
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Garfield Park
) Oldest park in Indianapolis, established in 1881. Features include the Conservatory and Sunken Gardens, an arts center, MacAllister Center for the Performing Arts, swimming pool and aquatic center, picnic shelters, pagoda, tennis courts, softball diamond, numerous trails, horse shoe courts, playgrounds, sledding hill and countless other park activities. Free for most activities. Free parking.
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Garfield Park Conservatory
Located inside of Garfield Park, the Conservatory houses of plants from all over the world. The Sunken Gardens, built in 1916, are of European classical formal gardens. Gardens change based on the season.
Tue-Sat 10AM-5PM, Sun 1–5PM (closed Mon)$1, with $1 per person guided tours. Shows are $3 per person or $8 per family
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Heidelberg Haus
Enjoy this German bakery's treats and sweets. German-born owners who have served great German eats since the 1960s here in Indy. Real Black Forest Cake, sausages, potato salad, and more. Check out the gift shop with great German beer-lover gifts. The decor is filled with antiques and German decor. Authentic as hell and a great destination for simple basic German eats. Vegetarian friendly.
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Holliday Park
One of the oldest and coolest parks in town. Planted right on the White River with swamps, ponds, wildflower gardens, birdwatching sanctuaries, a renovated nature center, sculpture garden, and countless wildlife and plant life. In the warm months parents take their kids to play on the best playground in the city, and locals picnic, lay out, read and host family gatherings at the extensive parkland. A great place to wade and collect rocks too. 95 acres of trails and woodland, a must see.
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Indiana Historical Society
An amazing place to visit for those interested in the people and places that make up every bit of the state. Featuring a state-of-the-art research library, music room, film viewing room, souvenir shop and cafe. The Indiana Experience collection rotates every eight to twelve months, so you will always find something new and interesting about Hoosier heritage, such as "A Century of Black Film", "Hoosiers in Hollywood", and "The Faces of Lincoln". Located snugly on the White River Canal.
Tue–Sat 10AM–5PM$15 adult, $14 60+, $5 youth ages 5-17, 4 and under free
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Indiana State Museum
One of the most exquisite residences in the nation is the new state museum. Discover Indiana's history, from dinosaurs and fossil discoveries to the American Civil War, World War II, and the present. Discover a hall honoring well-known Hoosiers, take advantage of the IMAX theater and special events, and stroll about White River State Park's grounds to see the sculpture garden honoring Indiana's counties. A must-watch. The little gift shop offers plush toys, gourmet beverages, unusual candies, and trinkets with Indiana themes. With its seasonal menus and freshly made soups, salads, and sandwiches, the Farmers Market Café offers a menu that pays homage to Indiana's past as a supplier of local, fresh produce. The famed chicken velvet soup is served at the historic L.S. Ayres Tea Room.
Sun-Wed 10AM-5PMAdult $19, senior (60+) $17, youth $13, child under 3 free
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Indianapolis Art Center
Formed in 1934, it continues to be one of the Midwest's premier community art centers. Check out one of the many local art exhibits, take an affordable art class, relax and read a book in the beautiful library, shop at the art gallery gift shop and don't pass up the amazing ARTSPARK located around the White River and the natural grounds. ARTSPARK has interactive sculptures laid out through the 12 acres (5 ha) designed by Michael Graves, a Hoosier native known throughout the world for his architecture and design work. Each summer you can check out the fun Broad Ripple Arts Fair, which features arts and crafts, food and booze, and live music galore on the grounds.
Mon–Fri 9AM–10PM, Sat 9AM–6PM Sun noon–6PMFree
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Indianapolis Zoo
Home to the Dolphin Adventures Gallery and Dome. The underwater dolphin viewing dome is the first of its kind (and free with admission). The "Oceans" exhibit features a shark touch tank. Other areas include the Plains, the Forest, the Desert, botanical insects, and a petting zoo. Check out different animal talks throughout the day. There are opportunities to feed and ride some animals for an extra charge. Amusement rides such as the small roller coaster, carousel and train are extra, too. Zoo grounds are a non-smoking environment. Hours vary depending on the time of the year, please visit the website for details. The Zoo also incorporates White River State Park, with over of gardens and pathways along the White River and the Hilbert Conservatory, which is the showplace for different flowers, plants, and special attractions (such as butterflies) throughout the year.
Wed-Sun 9AM-4PMChild $11.75, senior/military $13.75, adult $15.75
Drink
Kellerbar at the Rathskeller
Located inside the Rathskeller German restaurant, this is a place to drink beers from around the world and sop it all up with German food. During the warm months, this is one of the busiest bars in town. Get there early to enjoy a quieter beer or two; the bar opens up in the afternoon and you can enjoy their in-house brew (the Dunkel is particularly good) outside in the Biergarten or inside in the cozy oak bar that emulates a German castle. Later in the evening on the weekends, cover bands rock out in the garden and drunk college students go wild.
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NCAA Hall of Champions
This is the headquarters of the NCAA, located in White River State Park. Explore the history of college athletics—from hockey to basketball, cross-country skiing to football. Check out a film about NCAA sports, and be sure to check out the spirit section. Gift shop, too.
Tue–Sat 10AM–5PM, Sun noon–5PM$5, $3 youth and senior 60+, free for kids under 5
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Newfields
Indianapolis Museum of Art
Reopened following a multi-million dollar renovation it's one of the most beautiful buildings in the country for fine art. Founded in 1883, this is one of the oldest art museums in the country, boasting over 50,000 pieces of art and an amazing public art library. Exhibits include Contemporary Art, European Art, Asian Art, African Art, Textile Art, and more. Rotating and traveling exhibits are abundant. Experience hands-on exhibits where you can create your own art, walk the amazing grounds exploring the sculptures, gardens, and homes, shop at the museum store and eat and drink at the IMA Cafe and Wolfgang Puck's namesake restaurant—this is the city he got his start in. On Thursdays and Fridays 5–9PM, the museum has a special "happy hour" for hip and artsy socialites at Puck's featuring cocktails and hor'dourves.
Tue Wed Fri Sat 11AM–5PM, Thu 11AM–9PM, Sun noon–5PMAdult $20, child 5 & under free, youth 6-17 $13, Access Pass $2 (certain areas of the IMA campus are free, including the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres, the IMA Café, Museum Store, and Five Brushstrokes)
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Oldfields–Lilly House & Gardens
An amazing home located on the grounds of Newfields art museum. This is the former estate of the Lillys. Located on grounds with a 22-room mansion, gardens, and museum. Check out country estate living in the 1930s, and explore the beautiful home and antiques that the family acquired. The gardens are spectacular and feature many pathways and fountains. Be sure to also check out the garden shop where you can purchase plants grown on the grounds.
Tue-Sun 11AM-4PM (closed Mon)Free
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Play disc golf at Brookside Park
Dr. Disc golf is a fun and challenging outdoor sport unlike any other.
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Rathskeller
Indianapolis' best joint for traditional German food. One of Indiana's oldest buildings, the building was actually built by writer Kurt Vonnegut Jr.'s grandfather. It used to house the German Klub of Indianapolis, it's now a true German dining experience. It's on Mass Ave. within walking distance of bars and theaters. Make reservations to enjoy potato pancakes, Jaegerschnitzel, and wurst. Tons of beer and wine available too including beers that are hard to find locally. Lunch time offers outdoor dining in the beer garden.
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Red Key
An Indianapolis legend, this is where Ben Affleck filmed his first motion picture. You'll walk in to this joint and think you're back in WW II. It's been owned by the same folks since then. Model planes hang from the ceiling, awesome vintage art, and pennies on the ceiling that get tossed up and pulled down for donation each year (and thousands of them, seriously). A beer is served with a small glass and unique cheap eats are on the bar menu. There are rules here—don't put your feet on the chairs or booth seats, hang your coat up on one of the hooks, and don't get too obnoxious or you're out. They'll ask you politely of course the first time. A must-see for lovers of classic bars. By the time you leave you'll be a regular.
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Rene's Bakery
Small house in North Broad Ripple owned by pastry chef A. Rene Trevino. Freshly baked, menu changes daily. Scones, croissants, muffins, cookies, truffles, eclairs, tortes, tarts and breads. Weekly bread selection includes Walnut Rye, Multi-Grain, Raisin, White, Brioche and Challah. Great place for a quick snack or to pick up a lovely breakfast. It's just a bakery—no seating—but when the weather is nice you can sit outside or relax on one of the many benches on the Monon Trail.
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Rent a paddle boat on the canal
Rent a paddle boat and roam the lengthy water of the White River canal system. Explore tunnels and fountains, see fine outdoor art and people watch as you paddle around at your whimsy. Be sure to enjoy a popsicle at the ice cream stand after your trek.
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Ride a bike at the Major Taylor Velodrome
Indy Cycloplex
One of 18 velodrome tracks in the country, named after Indy's own African American bike superstar Major Taylor. Bring your road or track bike (no BMX) and your helmet and throw down $4 and you can race on the inverted track that Olympic superstars have tried out on. If you don't have your own wheels, you can rent one as well. Perhaps you'll catch a race or one of many remote control car races they host too. There is a BMX park next door. Ages 10+. Major Taylor Velodrome will be converted into a snow park during the winter months. Hit the slopes 15 Nov-1 Mar.
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Riverside Park
Founded in 1898, houses many athletic leagues, community activities and special events. It is situated on the White River. Amenities include a large family center, swimming pool, tennis courts, baseball & softball diamonds, boating, football fields and other sports fields and picnic areas. Free parking.
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Rusted Moon Outfitters
Indy's finest outdoor shop for hiking, canoeing, kayaking and camping. They offer a great selection of hiking boots, clothing, rope climbing accessories, and offer canoe & kayak rentals. Located within a 5-minute walking distance of the White River for easy access, and right on the Monon Trail.
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Segway Tour of White River State Park
Tour the White River gardens, the canal and other Indianapolis museums and notable locations from your segue. Each tour lasts about two hours and highlights many of the city's attractions. It may serve as an informative and adventurous preview for your stay in Indianapolis.
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Soldiers & Sailor's Monument
This is the well-known monument in the center of the city. It is only fifteen feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty, having been built in 1902. The monument's sculpted depictions of gory Civil War fights and emancipated slaves are powerful. With Miss Liberty facing south, she defends the north from the confederate. The Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War museum is located in the basement, and visitors can ride the tower to the top for a view of the city. The grounds on the Monument are a wonderful representation of the city itself; they combine the calm of quietly roaring water and verdant grass with the energy of Downtown. It's also a great place to people watch. Additionally, there's a tiny gift shop. William Henry Harrison, the first Governor of the Indiana Territory and the United States President for a single month, is depicted on a statue at the base. The south steps are closed for renovation until November 2025, costing $10 million.
Thu-Sun 10:30AM-5:30PMFees for elevator: adults $3.00, elderly (65 and over): free, youngsters (12 and under): no charge. Free for US military personnel and veterans. There is no fee to walk the steps. During business hours, elevator tickets are available for purchase at the Monument Gift Shop
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Southeastway Park
A 188-acre park with 80 acres of forest, a pond and wetland, open fields and meadows, a prairie preserve and Buck Creek. The park has a playground, multiple shelters, and picnic tables.
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Trader's Point Creamery
Indy's only grass-fed USDA organic dairy. They are always open with their self-serve dairy-shop (with a bucket you pay and take your change from—honesty basis), and at 4PM you can watch the cows get milked au naturel. Creamy milk, amazing yogurt (voted #1 by the American Cheese Society in 2005), ice cream, eggs and cheeses are all for sale. On the weekends they feature a farmers market and organic cafe. You can walk the grounds petting cows and chasing chickens. Fun for the family and eco-friendly folk.
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Walk the streets of Lockerbie
Dating back to 1847 it's the oldest surviving neighborhood in Indy. Featuring an amazing array of Victorian homes still maintained in their original beauty, mixed with some modern homes as well. Italianate, Federal and Queen Anne architecture line the streets. Visit the website for a walking tour map.
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White River State Park
Home to the Indianapolis Zoo, White River Gardens, Victory Field, Eiteljorg Museum of American Indian and Western Art, Indiana State Museum, IMAX Theater, and NCAA Hall of Champions. It also has The Lawn near the river, which is host to concerts during each summer. Central Canal is also located within the park. Park passes are available for purchase, entrance to all 7 of the main attractions is included in the pass.
Free and paid parking
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Bazbeaux Pizza
Gourmet pizza. Established in 1986, Bazbeaux is a local favorite. Downtown is perfect for that pre-theater or concert eat, and Broad Ripple is located snugly along the White River. Both locations offer indoor/outdoor dining. Art students and hip kids serve your eats—don't be surprised to see a mohawk or two in the kitchen. Their chicken BBQ pizza is amazing—BBQ sauce instead of tomato, and their Greek pizza is to die for. Vegan friendly.
Eat Not mapped
India Garden
Locally owned Indian restaurant. They have a lunch and dinner buffet that is legendary in Indianapolis. The downtown location just reopened for lunch & dinner, and the Broad Ripple location is chock full of hungry college students and Broad Ripple hipsters and vegetarians. Vegan friendly.

Listings from the Wikivoyage guide to Indianapolis (CC BY-SA 4.0).