Sights and landmarks in Indianapolis

Sights and landmarks in Indianapolis

1. See

   Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site

   The only Indianan to become U.S. president to date, holding office for one term (1889–1893). See this hero of the Civil War's stunning 1875 home, constructed in the Italianate Victorian style. It has three stories and is crammed with personal items, artwork, political mementos, and antiques. There is a First Ladies display in the carriage house at the back. They host entertaining events all year long, many of which feature outstanding reenactments of historical individuals from Indiana. A naturalization ceremony, tours of Victorian murder mysteries, and the always entertaining croquet competition are all held there.

   Mon-Fri 10AM-2PM, Sat 10AM-3PM, Sun noon-3PM·Adult $16, veteran $15, senior $15, college student $11, child $11, pre-school free

2. See

   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 dusk·Free

3. See

   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–5PM·Adult $25, senior (65+) $23, youth (2–12) $19, member or child under age 2 free; balloon prices: member $14, non-member $18; free parking

4. See

   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–10PM·Free (some special events may have ticket prices)

5. See

   Crispus Attucks Museum

   Located inside of Crispus Attucks school, this museum celebrates Indy's African American heritage with art galleries, school history, and student achievement. Although not as famous as the communities in Chicago or Detroit, Indianapolis has a rich black heritage from the Great Migration of the late 19th century with a quarter of the population African American.

   Mon–Fri 9AM–5PM, weekends by appointment·$8, $5 students under the age of 17 and seniors, $3 group rate

6. See

   Crown Hill Cemetery

   It's the third largest cemetery in the United States and is considered the "Best Walking Tour" in Indy by Indianapolis Monthly—the gruesome is mediated by the quiet and contemplative nature of the grounds. Tours explore the Gothic Chapel and Waiting Station from the late 1800s and famous grave sites. You can also pick up a map at the office for free and explore the cemetery by foot, car or bike. Hundreds of soldiers are buried in a beautiful war burial ground. Famous graves include John Dillinger, Frederick Dusenberg, Booth Tarkington, James Whitcomb Riley (at the highest point in Indianapolis), Colonel Eli Lilly, President Benjamin Harrison, and others.

   Oct-Mar: 8AM-6PM, Apr-Sep: 8AM-8PM·Free

7. See

   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 PM·Adult $20, senior $16, youth $12

8. See

   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

9. See

   Harrison Center for the Arts

   Gallery, art center, and conservatory. Check out four art galleries, 36 personal studios, VSA Arts, and the beautiful Redeemer Presbyterian Church. Punk and ska bands play in the basement on weekends and on First Fridays they open their doors to good sized crowds of local art lovers who wander the halls drinking, eating, and checking out art and music. Great place to check out local art and local people in a family-friendly environment.

   Mon–Fri 9AM–5PM, open on first Fridays until 9PM·Free

10. See

    Herron School of Art & Design Galleries

    On the IU Indy campus, this is the home to Indy's biggest art school. Check out students' studios, three galleries with regional and national art, and an outdoor sculpture gallery. Student art adorns the walls and lawn. You may see an early piece by the voice of the next generation.

    Mon Tue Thu Fri 10AM–5PM, Wed 10AM–8PM·Free, parking at the garage is validated at some shows

11. See

    Holcomb Observatory and Planetarium

    It's one of the largest public observatories in the world, and the Cassegrain telescope is the largest in Indiana. Weekend tours are available only, since students use the observatory during the week. Private tours are also available.

    Check website or call for times·$3, $2 children, cash only

12. See

    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

13. See

    Indiana Medical History Museum

    Situated on the grounds of the now-closed Central State Hospital, a former mental health facility that provided care to Hoosiers for many years, in the former histology building. Included in the National Register of Historic Places, it is the nation's oldest pathological building. The museum provides a tour that features preserved medical specimens, antique medical equipment, and other exhibits.

    Feb–Nov: Thu–Sat 10AM–3PM with tours on the hour; Dec–Jan: Sat only·College $7, senior $9, adult $10

14. See

    Indiana State Capitol

    Completed in 1888, this is the hub for Indiana's state government, housing the Governor's office, the state legislature (State Senate and Indiana General Assembly) and the State Supreme Court. The first state capital was in the Southern Indiana town of Corydon, and in 1825 it was moved to Indianapolis. Featuring Italian Renaissance, Greek, and Corinthian design, the building is made from primarily of Indiana limestone. Look up while in the Rotunda to see the amazing German stained glass window, take a guided or personal tour, or observe the government at work.

    Mon-Fri 8AM-5PM, Sat 10AM-2PM (closed Sun)·Free. Vehicles can be parked in nearby garages or at metered spots. Automobiles that violate the metered time policy risk receiving a ticket and having their automobiles towed

15. See

    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-5PM·Adult $19, senior (60+) $17, youth $13, child under 3 free

16. See

    Indiana University Natatorium

    The Nat

    Located on the campus of Indiana University Indianapolis, the IU Natatorium is one of the marquee swimming and diving venues in the world. The Nat has hosted countless nationally recognized events and is also home to the annual IHSAA boys and girls swimming championships, along with housing various swimming clubs from across the Midwest.

    Mon–Thu 5:30AM–8PM, Fri 5:30AM–7PM, closures and restricted hours contingent on the school schedule·$6 for one-time

17. See

    Indiana War Memorial & Museum

    This pillared structure has a war museum, an elaborate auditorium, and a shrine honoring World War I troops who lost their lives.

    Wed-Sun 9AM-5PM·Admission to the museum is free

18. See

    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–6PM·Free

19. See

    Indianapolis Fire Fighters Museum

    Discover the origins and background of Indianapolis' fire department, as well as view the historic hand pumper, horse-drawn fire cart, horse-drawn steam pumper, and other items. Don't forget to pay a visit to the Indianapolis Firefighters Memorial.

    Mon-Fri 9AM-4PM, Sat from Apr-Oct: 11AM-4 PM·Free

20. See

    Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum

    The IMA is the home of "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing, the Indianapolis 500. On the IMS grounds you will find the Museum which houses the world's largest collection of racing, classic, and antique cars. Check out 30 of the Indy 500 winner's cars, a 20-minute film about the history of the race, a souvenir shop and cafe. If you would like to see more of the track facilities, you also can pay a few bucks to ride in a bus around the actual race track (at about 40 miles or 65 km an hour). Or, for the more adventurous souls, you can try the Indy Racing Experience Driving Program where you can ride in a 2-seater Indy Car and experience speeds around the track up to 180 miles or 300 km an hour.

    Mar–Oct: 9AM–5PM daily; Nov–Feb: 10AM–4PM daily·$10 adult, $5 child, 5 and under free

21. See

    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-4PM·Child $11.75, senior/military $13.75, adult $15.75

22. See

    Indy's Teeny Statue of Liberty Museum

    Tiny museum for a large and distant subject. Hundreds of exhibits. Or dozens, anyway. Ask at the adjacent hardware store for admission and five minute tour, and stay for more careful study.

    $.50

23. See

    James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home & Visitor Center

    See the house where the renowned writer and poet spent the latter part of his life. "The Children's Poet" is how Riley is recognized. One of the best maintained Victorian homes in the nation, the house has been featured in Architectural Digest. The house has never undergone renovations; every piece of furniture, up to the carpet, is original and dates back to 1916. See his possessions, collection of antiques, and background by taking a tour.

    Thu-Sat by reservation only, Sun-Wed closed·Adult $10, student #1, children 6 and under free

24. See

    Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library

    A museum dedicated to literary and cultural contributions of author and Indianapolis native Kurt Vonnegut.

    Wed–Mon 10AM to 6PM (closed Tue)·Adults $12, seniors/educators/military $10, students $8. Free on first M of each month

25. See

    Madame Walker Legacy Center

    Visit the headquarters for the first self-made female millionaire, Madam C. J. Walker (she spelled her 'Madam' without the "e"), built in the early 1900s, Walker came from cotton field beginnings to start her own line of beauty products for African American women. Visit the original salon where people still get their hair done, see a concert or play at the theatre, and take a tour of the grounds. Learn more about the African-American heritage of Indianapolis south of the historic Ransom Place District.

    Mon–Fri 9AM–5PM·Tours are $8, $5 for students and seniors, children under 5 free. Events vary based on ticket price

26. See

    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

27. See

    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–5PM·Adult $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)

28. See

    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

29. See

    Scottish Rite Cathedral

    It is the largest Scottish Rite cathedral in the world and a masterpiece of architecture. Take a tour, investigate the enormous pipe organ, the floating dance floor, the hand-crafted art glass windows, discover the mystery surrounding Freemasonry, and stop by the cafe for a bite to eat.

    Mon–Thu 8:30AM–4:30PM, Fri 8:30AM–3:30PM·Free

30. See

    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-5:30PM·Fees 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

31. See

    The American Legion National Headquarters

    Situated in the heart of downtown Indy with a beautiful mall that reminds one of D.C. Check out the museum that features hundreds of World War I & II posters and artifacts, a diorama of Jessica Lynch's rescue, explore the grounds and learn about the Legion's history.

    Mon–Fri 8AM–4:30PM·Freeor paid parking

32. See

    The Children's Museum of Indianapolis

    This museum is the largest children's museum in the world. In March 2006, it unveiled artist Dale Chihuly's largest blown glass exhibit, Fireworks of Glass—a glass sculpture that rises 43 feet (13 meters) tall. Children (and adults alike) can dig for "dinosaur fossils", catch a planetarium show, view the miniature trains and ride the carousel. The museum has huge holdings that are constantly rotating, so be sure to check out the temporary exhibits as well. Even if you've been before, there will be something new the second time around. The museum is fun for children of all ages. Grounds include restaurants and a wonderful gift shop.

    Tue–Sun 10AM–5PM·Adult $26, youth $21, senior (60+) $24.50

33. See

    The Stutz Artists Association

    Stutz Gallery

    Built in 1918 as the home of the Stutz automobile, it houses numerous local artists, businesses and meeting spaces. Check out the "show room" featuring a collection of Stutz cars (Elvis drove a Stutz, ya know) and have a bite to eat at Bearcats.

34. See

    Indiana 9/11 Memorial

    421 W Ohio St

    Open from dawn to dusk·Free

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