Best Free Activities for Kids in Indianapolis

Beth Wood:  The Taylor Center of Natural History located within Strawtown Koteewi Park is a great place for park guests to see artifacts, educational displays and learn about archaeological discoveries that have been found at the park. The Taylor Center hosts educational and nature inspired special events and classes for the public throughout the year. Strawtown Koteewi Park is an 800 acre park featuring 8 miles of trails, archery range, horseback riding, aerial adventure trail, canoe launch, fishing, greenspace and more.

The Indianapolis State Police Museum always offers free admission. The ISP presents the past and present of the Indiana State Police and its connection with the community. Kids will have fun exploring this museum as they see different uniforms worn over the years, a police car from 1938 and a mask worn by John Dillinger.

This is one of the most popular playgrounds in Fishers, with two large age appropriate playground areas. Holland Park also has a splash pad, sports fields and trails for walking.

Tracy Snyder Molina:  This stroller-friendly and beginner trail is fully paved and is open in three segments.

There is a 1.2 mile section links the neighborhood of Irvington with the Indiana Department of Transportation. Also east of Indianapolis is the second section of paved trail. The trail spans 3 miles by industrial properties, open farmland, railroad bridges and a wooded corridor. The final segment starts in Greenfield and spans nearly 6 miles long. It passes through farmland and the Greenfield golf course. The trail also goes across the famous Brandywine Creek.

Dawn Denning:  A favorite backdrop for photographers provides a beautiful place to hike with your family. Follow the paved walkways to the dirt paths that will lead to bodies of water for fishing throughout the park. Tons of nature brush keep the areas shaded in the hottest summers and the wind from blowing on the coldest winter days. Our family loves to walk and explore throughout the park!

Dawn Denning:  What kid doesn't want to go on a tour of a candy store? Your family will learn about the extensive history of this tasty candy maker, watch the production of caramel and chocolate and see the packaging process.

Dawn Denning:  ***Please note that Main Library service has been relocated to the Merchants' Square shopping center at 2140 E. 116th Street while under construction through 2022***

Bright colors and a fresh environment is the first impression when entering this huge library! The children’s section hosts fun events all year long including concerts, storytimes and games. The Escape Room is a tween/teen area that features guests or themed events for your older kids to enjoy. They can hang out, study or participate in tons of events the library offers throughout the year.

Jaclyn Keifer:  The natural play space that is just past the nature center is beautifully put together and an awesome space for open ended play!

Tracy Snyder Molina:  This public garden is located just south of Carmel City Hall and inspired by Carmel’s Sister City, Kawachinagano, Osaka, Japan. It features a koi pond, sculptures, garden path, flower gardens and plenty of benches and picnic tables to stop and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Tracy Snyder Molina:  For a more urban experience, this stroller-friendly paved rail trail connects to the Monon Greenway of Carmel. At 10th Street, the trail connects to the Indianapolis Cultural Trail that stretches through five key cultural districts in Indianapolis. Just beyond the Indiana State Fairgrounds, you’ll encounter artwork dispersed along the tree-lined path. At mile 11 (Broad Ripple Avenue), you can access Broad Ripple, a charming village with several galleries, restaurants, shops and breweries.

Dawn Denning:  Quaker Park offers water features galore for your kiddos to get soaked on a hot summer day! You can rest and watch on nearby benches and sheltered seating while they splash and play the afternoon away. Adjacent to the pad is a playground with soft cushioning for softer landings and a swing hammock that can hold a few kiddos. There is even a separate area for kids 6-24 months old!

Beth Wood:  Does your child want to become a firefighter when they grow up? Be sure to visit the Indianapolis Fire Fighters Museum & Memorial Plaza. This museum is dedicated to Indianapolis Fire Department history and firefighting history in general. Visitors can see a hand pumper, horse drawn hose cart, horse drawn steam pumper and more.

Pleasant Run Trail is a 6.9-mile long trail that follows Pleasant Run from Ellenberger Park to Garfield Park. The trail also goes through Christian Park, as well as passes Kin Hubbard Memorial, Thomas Carr Howe High School, Harlan Triangle Greenspace, Orange Park, and the conservatory at Garfield Park.  

The Indianapolis Cultural Trail is an 8-mile pedestrian and bicycle path in the downtown area. You can see neighborhoods, cultural districts and entertainment sites. No need to pack your bikes, you can rent them through Indy's bike share program!

Beth Wood:  In the heart of downtown Indianapolis, The Soldiers and Sailors Monument houses the Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War Museum and a gift shop on the lower level. Walk up 331 steps (or take the elevator) to the Observation Level to see an all around view of the city from 275 feet up.