Indiana State Museum Tours

Indiana State Museum showing cbd and a city
Indiana State Museum which includes a pond
Indiana State Museum showing a sunset
Indiana State Museum featuring interior views and heritage elements
Indiana State Museum featuring theater scenes and interior views


A blend of local and natural history, as well as the largest IMAX theater in the state, make for an engaging outing.

Located in the White River State Park, the Indiana State Museum is at the physical and cultural heart of Indianapolis. Spread across three floors and featuring more than half a million artifacts, you’ll find eclectic exhibits and displays ranging from the Birth of the Earth to a Pop Culture Wall. Say hello to Fred, the skeleton of a three-ton bull mastodon that roamed the Indiana plains more than 13,000 years ago. Climb aboard a vintage train carriage in the Crossroads of America exhibit and hear stories from Indiana’s “Golden Age” (1880-1920). In the Enterprise Indiana section, wander along a 100-foot (30-meter) assembly line and marvel at beautifully designed mass-produced consumer goods that were manufactured locally from the 1920s to the 1950s. In the Global Indiana exhibit, learn about the state’s more recent famous sons and daughters, including Jane Pauley, Kurt Vonnegut and David Letterman.Don’t miss exploring the sculpture trail outside the building. Known as the 92 County Walk, this stroll takes you past 92 different works of art. When you need some down-time, enjoy on of the latest blockbusters in the largest IMAX Theater in Indiana. Another relaxing option is the L.S. Ayres Tea Room, a replica of one of the city’s favorite tearooms. Enjoy traditional dishes like chicken velvet soup and monte cristo sandwiches in this Indianapolis institution. For a more informal vibe, head to the Canal Café and Terrace. The Indiana State Museum is located on the White River Wapahani Trail, a scenic and historic walking and biking path. Extend your time in this area with a visit to the neighboring Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, or head just up the canal to the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center.The Indiana State Museum is open every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas. On Community Tuesday, the first Tuesday of every month, there’s half-price entry. The city’s IndyGo bus service stops right out front. Onsite parking is available for a small fee.

Plan a trip to see Indiana State Museum

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Hampton Inn Indianapolis-N.E./Castleton
Baymont by Wyndham Indianapolis South
Hampton Inn Indianapolis Downtown IUPUI

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Indiana State Museum

Courtyard by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown

Courtyard by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown

3 out of 5
601 West Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN
Courtyard by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown
JW Marriott Indianapolis

JW Marriott Indianapolis

4 out of 5
10 S West Street, Indianapolis, IN
JW Marriott Indianapolis
Omni Severin Hotel

Omni Severin Hotel

4 out of 5
40 West Jackson Place, Indianapolis, IN
Omni Severin Hotel
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown

3 out of 5
501 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown
Courtyard by Marriott Indianapolis at the Capitol

Courtyard by Marriott Indianapolis at the Capitol

3 out of 5
320 N Senate Ave, Indianapolis, IN
Courtyard by Marriott Indianapolis at the Capitol
Hyatt Regency Indianapolis

Hyatt Regency Indianapolis

4 out of 5
One South Capitol Avenue, Indianapolis, IN
Hyatt Regency Indianapolis
Hyatt Place Indianapolis Downtown

Hyatt Place Indianapolis Downtown

3 out of 5
130 South Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis, IN
Hyatt Place Indianapolis Downtown
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Indianapolis Dtn-Conv Ctr by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Indianapolis Dtn-Conv Ctr by IHG

3 out of 5
410 S Missouri St, Indianapolis, IN
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Indianapolis Dtn-Conv Ctr by IHG
Marriott Indianapolis Downtown

Marriott Indianapolis Downtown

4 out of 5
350 W Maryland St, Indianapolis, IN
Marriott Indianapolis Downtown
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Indiana State Museum

When visiting the Indiana State Museum in Indianapolis, be sure to explore nearby attractions like the Indianapolis Zoo, various art galleries, and the Indiana Repertory Theatre. You can also enjoy a meal at the Eiteljorg Museum Cafe and catch a film at the IMAX theater, making for a well-rounded experience filled with sports, entertainment, and cultural activities.

Food and drinks

For a fun dining experience, visit Dave & Buster's, 11 miles from the Indiana State Museum, perfect for family outings. For wine lovers, Mallow Run Winery & Vineyard and Daniel's Vineyard, both 16 miles away, offer romantic atmospheres and entertainment options.

Shopping

The closest shopping experience is Circle Center Mall, just 0.6 miles from the Indiana State Museum, offering a variety of family-friendly stores. If you're up for a drive, check out Carmel Christkindlmarkt and Hopwood Cellars Winery, both located 14 miles away, featuring unique local goods.

Recreation

The Indiana Convention Center, located 0.4 miles from the Indiana State Museum, offers an energetic atmosphere perfect for sports enthusiasts. Enjoy a round of golf at the scenic Brickyard Crossing Golf Course, 4 miles away, or indulge in luxury at the Woodstock Golf Club, also 4 miles from the museum.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, located 4 miles from the museum. For indoor excitement, try Fastimes Indoor Karting, 11 miles away, or challenge yourself at Hoosier Heights Indianapolis for climbing adventures, situated 12 miles from the museum.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near the Indiana State Museum by visiting 8 Seconds Saloon for dancing and drinks, or enjoy a cultural performance at Clowes Memorial Hall. For family fun, head to Great Times Fun Park for arcade games and adventure.

Find the best attractions near Indiana State Museum

The Indiana State Museum in Indianapolis offers a variety of attractions for visitors, including the Indianapolis Museum and the Eiteljorg Museum, perfect for those seeking cultural experiences. Nearby, explore landmarks like Monument Circle and enjoy outdoor activities in national and state parks. Whether you're interested in historic colleges or family-friendly events, there's something for everyone in this vibrant area.

  • Lucas Oil Stadium: Experience the excitement of live sports and events at this state-of-the-art arena, home to the Indianapolis Colts. With its impressive architecture and vibrant atmosphere, it’s perfect for families and entertainment enthusiasts alike.
  • Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis: Explore the dynamic campus culture at this modern university, where innovation meets education. Enjoy the urban landscape and engage with the diverse community that thrives in this educational hub.
  • Children's Museum of Indianapolis: Delight in a world of discovery at the largest children's museum in the world. With interactive exhibits and engaging programs, it offers a rich blend of family fun and cultural experiences for all ages.

Best time to go to Indiana State Museum

Visitor numbers around Indiana State Museum is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Indiana State Museum is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January28.4°F (-2.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
February31.5°F (-0.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
March42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly High
April52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
June72.0°F (22.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
July74.8°F (23.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
September67.6°F (19.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
November43.2°F (6.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December34.9°F (1.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Indiana State Museum

When visiting the Indiana State Museum, consider exploring nearby free attractions like Circle Center Mall and Monument Circle. To save on accommodations, plan your trip during the cheaper months of September to October or December. Use Expedia to compare hotel prices and find eco-friendly options. Take advantage of package deals by bundling your hotel, flights, and activities. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and cash back for future stays. Always compare prices and look for guarantees to ensure you get the best rates for your travel.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Indiana State Museum are September to October and December, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to May, where prices are slightly higher.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool empowers you to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results from the lowest to the highest prices, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can narrow down your choices by hotel type—if you select the "Eco-certified" filter, you'll see a list of sustainable and eco-friendly hotels available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Indiana State Museum with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.