40 Things To Do in Indianapolis With Kids (Parent Reviews)

Kings Island is the largest amusement and water park in the Midwest. With a combination of thrill rides, attractions and shows, there's plenty for all ages. Big kids can experience the thrilling roller coasters, and little ones won't want to miss the Snoopy-themed attractions. A daily admission to the park also allows access to Soak City Water Park with over 50 water attractions.

Come enjoy a 40-mile scenic river tour and experience one of America’s great rivers. Cruise the Ohio River where it can not be seen from a road. Your Captain and crew will point out historic locations, share river stories, and help spot wildlife like Bald Eagles, Blue Heron, Deer, and maybe even a Bobcat.

Lora Langston:  Tuttle Orchard is full of fun things for kids to do. The hay maze was a hit! The 4-acre maze takes about 20-30 minutes to complete. It includes different activities each year to do while you find your way through. They have a great grill, wagon rides, flowers to cut, apples and pumpkins to pick, and so many nifty activities for families.

Step back in time to the 1800's and experience what life was like back then. Explore and interact throughout a variety of amazing outdoor and indoor exhibits: 1836 Prairietown, 1863 Civil War Journey, 1859 Balloon Voyage (take a ride!), Lenape Indian Camp, Animal Encounters, William Conner House, Treetop Outpost. Craft Corner, Discovery Station and more. Conner Prairie offers family fun and learning for visitors of all ages. Conner Prairie offers special events for visitors so be sure to check their calendar of events.

White River Canoe Company offers canoe, kayak and river tube tours on the White River in Noblesville. With several different trips available, you can spend a few hours or all day on your water sports adventure.

Take in central Indiana in an open basket several thousand feet in the air! Enjoy an hour of flying in the sky, learning about hot air ballooning, and the process of taking off and landing. Your family will enjoy a unique experience, along with views not seen by many others!

Families swimming at Morse Beach can bring their own chairs, pool noodles, life jackets and floaties. Concessions are available.

Beth Wood:  Waterman's is a must do for our family each fall. We love this u-pick pumpkin patch and farm. Their Fall Harvest Festival features hayrides, cornfield and straw bale mazes, a pumpkin-chomping dinosaur, bounce houses, a straw mountain for climbing, rides, live music, scarecrow factory, food and drink vendors, live animals, pony rides and more!

Rascal’s Fun Zone is a family entertainment center that boasts a thrilling array of attractions that cater to all ages and preferences, including two outdoor go-kart tracks, two outdoor mini-golf courses, outdoor blaster boats, two indoor go-kart tracks, Spin Zone bumper cars, and our premier arcade with over 65 games.

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!

Beth Wood:  The Cake Bake Shop is a place that will fill up your senses. Endorsed by so many (including Oprah!), visit the Cake Bake Shop for a cup of tea or coffee, slice of homemade cake or pie, salads, sandwiches, and quiche in a beautifully decorated tea room setting. Celebrate something special, make reservations for afternoon tea, and more.

The Waterpark at the Monon Community Center features a kiddie pool, lazy river, adventure slides, and more! Plan ahead and check their current occupancy on their website before heading that way!

Beth Wood:  Broad Ripple Village is a charming and well-known neighborhood north of downtown Indianapolis settled along the White River that is known for its mix of restaurants, bars and clubs. It is also home to art galleries and great local shopping. Broad Ripple Village is a great place to spend an afternoon or evening exploring!

Tracy Snyder Molina:  Garfield Park Conservatory and Gardens is located within the 136 acre Garfield Park, on Indianapolis' near south side. The 10,000 sq. ft. Conservatory is open year round and houses hundreds of orchids, fruiting trees, and koi ponds. The outdoor Sunken Garden blooms with tulips in the spring and an annual display in the summer. They have a lot of great programs for children, adults, and families.

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.