White River State Park Tours

White River State Park showing city views, modern architecture and signage
White River State Park showing a river or creek and a bridge
White River State Park showing a park, a city and autumn leaves
White River State Park featuring a garden and autumn leaves
White River State Park showing a garden and interior views as well as a family


Museums, galleries, a world-class zoo and an award-winning sports stadium are all packed into Indianapolis’ favorite park.

The cultural and recreational heart of Indianapolis, the White River State Park, is 250 acres (100 hectares) of beautifully designed urban space straddling both banks of a picturesque river. You’ll find museums, art galleries, a world-class zoo, green spaces, public art and sporting facilities — all just a short stroll from the downtown area. Explore the region’s past in the Indiana State Museum. There are more than 500,000 artifacts on display, from fossils to retro consumer goods from the 1950s. Right next door you’ll find the state’s largest IMAX theater offering educational films and the latest blockbusters.Learn about Indiana’s indigenous history at the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians & Western Art. It houses one of the best collections of Native American art in the country, and includes artifacts such as jewelry, saddle blankets, clothing and weaponry. Sports fans should visit Victory Field, home of the Indianapolis Indians baseball team. The 14,500-seat stadium ranks as one of the best minor league ballparks in America. Travel through the animal kingdom at the Indianapolis Zoo, where five biomes replicate climates from the desert to the forest and house over 1,500 animals. The zoo includes an aquarium and botanic gardens.Be sure to check the park website for a schedule of the many events that occur throughout the year. Sit back on the lawn and enjoy a concert at the White River Park Concert series, held from May to September. In July, catch a free Shakespearean play performed alongside the canal, or dance to the sound of a Celtic drum at the Indianapolis Irish Festival in September. White River Park is also a great place to come and just take it easy. Many walking trails and picnic areas provide the perfect place for a quiet getaway.The park is free to enter and is open 24 hours a day.

Plan a trip to see White River State Park

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

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near White River State Park

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
Sheraton Indianapolis City Centre Hotel

Sheraton Indianapolis City Centre Hotel

4 out of 5
31 W Ohio St, Indianapolis, IN
Sheraton Indianapolis City Centre Hotel
Hampton Inn Indianapolis Downtown IUPUI

Hampton Inn Indianapolis Downtown IUPUI

2.5 out of 5
414 West Vermont Street, Indianapolis, IN
Hampton Inn Indianapolis Downtown IUPUI
Omni Severin Hotel

Omni Severin Hotel

4 out of 5
40 West Jackson Place, Indianapolis, IN
Omni Severin Hotel
JW Marriott Indianapolis

JW Marriott Indianapolis

4 out of 5
10 S West Street, Indianapolis, IN
JW Marriott Indianapolis
Embassy Suites by Hilton Indianapolis Downtown

Embassy Suites by Hilton Indianapolis Downtown

3.5 out of 5
110 West Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN
Embassy Suites by Hilton Indianapolis Downtown
Crowne Plaza Indianapolis-Dwtn-Union Stn by IHG

Crowne Plaza Indianapolis-Dwtn-Union Stn by IHG

3.5 out of 5
123 W Louisiana St, Indianapolis, IN
Crowne Plaza Indianapolis-Dwtn-Union Stn by IHG
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
Homewood Suites by Hilton Indianapolis Downtown IUPUI

Homewood Suites by Hilton Indianapolis Downtown IUPUI

3 out of 5
414 West Vermont Street, Indianapolis, IN
Homewood Suites by Hilton Indianapolis Downtown IUPUI
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 White River State Park

White River State Park in Indianapolis offers a range of activities for visitors, including hiking trails for foot exploration, sports events, and nearby baseball games. You can also enjoy entertainment options, visit local attractions in Indy, and explore the Fashion Mall. For those interested in outdoor adventures, there are hunting ranches in the vicinity. It's a perfect destination for a mix of recreation and leisure activities.

Food and drinks

For fun dining, visit Dave & Buster's, offering a lively atmosphere just 11 miles from White River State Park. For a romantic experience, explore Mallow Run Winery or Chateau Thomas Winery, both known for their entertainment vibes, located 16 and 12 miles away, respectively.

Shopping

For shopping near White River State Park, visit Circle Center Mall, just 1 mile away, featuring a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, explore Carmel Christkindlmarkt and Hopwood Cellars Winery, both around 14 and 13 miles away, respectively, for unique gifts and local finds.

Recreation

Experience the energetic atmosphere at the Indiana Convention Center, perfect for sports enthusiasts, located 0.9 miles from the park. For outdoor relaxation, Brickyard Crossing Golf Course offers beautiful greens just 3 miles away, while Woodstock Golf Club, 4 miles away, provides a luxurious retreat in a serene setting.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, located 4 miles from White River State Park. For climbing enthusiasts, Hoosier Heights Indianapolis offers outdoor climbing adventures 12 miles away. If you seek speed, Fastimes Indoor Karting provides an exhilarating karting experience 11 miles from the park.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near White River State Park with a visit to 8 Seconds Saloon for energetic dancing and great drinks. For a cultural evening, enjoy a performance at Clowes Memorial Hall, or have fun at Great Times Fun Park, where family-friendly games await.

Find the best attractions near White River State Park

White River State Park in Indianapolis offers a blend of cultural and outdoor experiences perfect for families and travelers alike. Explore the Eiteljorg Museum, take a stroll along the scenic White River, and visit the historic Indiana Statehouse. With attractions like the arena and nearby historic colleges, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant urban park.

  • Lucas Oil Stadium: Experience the thrill of live sports and events in this state-of-the-art arena. With its impressive architecture and vibrant atmosphere, Lucas Oil Stadium hosts NFL games and concerts, making it a hub for entertainment just a mile from White River State Park.
  • Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis: Discover the dynamic campus of IUPUI, known for its innovative programs and urban setting. Located just 0.6 miles away, it offers a glimpse into student life and is surrounded by cultural attractions, enhancing the city's vibrant vibes.
  • Children's Museum of Indianapolis: Dive into a world of fun and learning at the largest children's museum in the world. Located 3 miles from the park, it features interactive exhibits that celebrate culture and creativity, making it perfect for family visits.

Best time to go to White River State Park

The best time to visit White River State Park is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are low 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 CloudyLowAverage
February31.5°F (-0.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
March42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
April52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June72.0°F (22.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
July74.8°F (23.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
August73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
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 SunnyLowAverage
December34.9°F (1.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for White River State Park

When visiting White River State Park, consider saving money by exploring nearby free attractions like Circle Center Mall, Butler University, and Monument Circle. The best travel months for budget-conscious visitors are September to October and December, when accommodation prices dip. Use Expedia to find great deals by sorting prices from lowest to highest, and consider package deals that combine flights and hotels. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts, and you can earn OneKeyCash for future stays. Look for price guarantees and special offers on lodges to maximize your savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around White River State Park 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: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you’re looking for. To find the best prices and deals, make sure to sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at White River State Park 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.