Children's Museum of Indianapolis Tours

Children\'s Museum of Indianapolis showing a city
Children\'s Museum of Indianapolis showing interior views as well as a large group of people
Children\'s Museum of Indianapolis featuring interior views
Children\'s Museum of Indianapolis featuring interior views
Children\'s Museum of Indianapolis showing interior views as well as a large group of people


Dinosaurs and pirate ships, interactive exhibits, games and toys from a bygone age — it’s all at this children’s wonderland.

The five floors of the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis hold over 120,000 exhibit items. A visit here provides an unforgettable day of education and inspiration for children of all ages.

As soon as you approach this museum and see the two life-sized Brachiosaurs attacking the main building, you’ll know you are in for something special.Enter the main floor at ground level and explore the mysteries of the dinosaurs in Dinosphere. Encourage your kids to get their hands dirty in the dinosaur dig where they can search for bones.

Walk down the spiral staircase to discover the Treasures of the Earth exhibit. Peer into the tomb of an Egyptian pharaoh, or rifle through the treasures of a shipwrecked pirate ship. Head to Level 3, where The Power of Children exhibition tells the uplifting stories of children who have made a difference to the world. Among the stories featured are those of the Jewish girl Anne Frank and African-American girl Ruby Bridges. These tales educate about prejudice, as well as showing how the actions of a child can inspire millions.

On Level 4 you’ll find The Carousel, a National Historic Landmark originally built for a fun fair and moved to the museum in 1973. Once you’ve done the rounds here, head to the ScienceWorks to build boats, climb a rock wall and take part in other activities all aimed at fostering a love of science.

A visit to the Indianapolis Children’s Museum can easily fill a day or more. If you are stretched for time pick up a floor plan from reception and decide which areas you want to visit.

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is located a few minutes’ drive north of the city center and parking is free. Food is available from a number of outlets on Level 1, or you’re welcome to bring your own. Admission is more expensive than many other museums in the area, but a memorable day is guaranteed.

Plan a trip to see Children's Museum of Indianapolis

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Hampton Inn Bloomington
Grant Street Inn
Wampler House

Reviews of Children's Museum of Indianapolis

4.5
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
307
5 - Excellent 64%
4 - Good
112
4 - Good 23%
3 - Okay
49
3 - Okay 10%
2 - Disappointing
5
2 - Disappointing 1%
1 - Terrible
8
1 - Terrible 2%

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Parking is free!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Prepare to spend a whole day in this wonderful place.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Go early and experience the outdoor sports activities first.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Too expensive if you just have an hour to kill.

5/5 - Excellent

Patricia

This place was wonderful! it has indoor and outdoor exhibits. A three story dinosaur greets you on the outside of the building that breaks through the building. the outside area has lots of athletic activities including mini golf, go carts, football and soccer. A great climbing tree is outside.The inside has wonderful interacting exhibits about Matchbox cars and dinosaurs, There was a special exhibit about Paw Patrol with a really cute interacting show about trying to find Chickaletta. The food court had a variety of foods if you are from out of town and can't bring a lunch. We spent about 5-6 hours total and was really happy with our visit. One small drawback is the cost, Check the wbsite.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Great outdoor sports area

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Children's Museum of Indianapolis

Bottleworks Hotel

Bottleworks Hotel

4.5 out of 5
850 Massachusetts Avenue Indianapolis IN
Bottleworks Hotel
Children's Museum 1st Floor Home

Children's Museum 1st Floor Home

Indianapolis
Children's Museum 1st Floor Home
Midtown Modern Carriage Home by Major Attractions

Midtown Modern Carriage Home by Major Attractions

Indianapolis IN
Midtown Modern Carriage Home by Major Attractions
Children’s museum walkable Butler IU Health complex Downtown within minutes

Children’s museum walkable Butler IU Health complex Downtown within minutes

Indianapolis IN
Children’s museum walkable Butler IU Health complex Downtown within minutes
2025 built-3 bedroom near downtown Indianapolis

2025 built-3 bedroom near downtown Indianapolis

Indianapolis IN
2025 built-3 bedroom near downtown Indianapolis
Minutes from downtown, the fairgrounds and the Speedway! Great Neighborhood!

Minutes from downtown, the fairgrounds and the Speedway! Great Neighborhood!

Indianapolis IN
Minutes from downtown, the fairgrounds and the Speedway! Great Neighborhood!
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
Spacious 6-bedroom house in Indianapolis near downtown, fairgrounds, speedway

Spacious 6-bedroom house in Indianapolis near downtown, fairgrounds, speedway

Indianapolis IN
Spacious 6-bedroom house in Indianapolis near downtown, fairgrounds, speedway
Brand new 4-bedroom located 5 minutes from downtown

Brand new 4-bedroom located 5 minutes from downtown

Indianapolis IN
Brand new 4-bedroom located 5 minutes from 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 Children's Museum of Indianapolis

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis offers a fantastic array of activities for families, including the Indy Family Fun Package, which provides access to interactive exhibits and carousel rides. Visitors can enjoy indoor fun while exploring the museum's engaging attractions. Be sure to check the museum hours to maximize your experience and make the most of your visit to this vibrant destination for sports, entertainment, and art.

Shopping

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis offers nearby shopping at Circle Center Mall, just 3 miles away, featuring entertainment and family vibes. Indianapolis City Market, also 3 miles away, showcases local businesses and city energy. Glendale Town Center, 4 miles away, combines shopping with fun activities for all ages.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant energy at the Indiana Convention Center, just 3 miles away, perfect for sports enthusiasts. Enjoy live music at the Old National Centre, also 3 miles away. For a cultural touch, visit Clowes Memorial Hall, 2 miles away, offering romantic and family-friendly performances.

Adventure

At the Children's Museum of Indianapolis, you can experience the thrill of motor racing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, located 4 miles away. For family fun, visit the Post Road Recreation Center's arcade adventure zone, or race your friends at Fastimes Indoor Karting, also 8 miles away.

Nightlife

The nightlife near the Children's Museum of Indianapolis features 8 Seconds Saloon, a vibrant nightclub just 6 miles away. Enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with romance, entertainment, and the city's energetic vibes while dancing the night away.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Children's Museum of Indianapolis

Located in Indianapolis, the Children's Museum is surrounded by a variety of attractions, including entertainment venues, historic universities, and monuments. Visitors can enjoy cultural experiences perfect for families, alongside nearby destinations like the Indianapolis Zoo and other local museums. For those planning a trip, consider exploring vacation packages that include a full museum experience and the Indy Zoo, ensuring a fun-filled adventure in the heart of the city.

  • Butler University: This historic university, located 2 miles from the Children's Museum, offers a charming campus filled with beautiful architecture and lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy a vibrant cultural scene, including art exhibitions and theater performances, making it a delightful spot for a leisurely stroll.
  • Indiana State Fairgrounds: Situated 2 miles away, this lively venue hosts a variety of family-friendly events and entertainment throughout the year. From concerts to fairs, the Indiana State Fairgrounds is a hub for fun and excitement, perfect for visitors looking to immerse themselves in local culture.
  • Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis: Located 3 miles from the museum, this modern university boasts contemporary architecture and a bustling campus atmosphere. It's a great place to experience urban life, with nearby cafes and shops, providing a unique blend of education and city vibes.

Best time to go to Children's Museum of Indianapolis

The best time to visit Children's Museum of Indianapolis can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Children's Museum of Indianapolis falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Children's Museum of Indianapolis falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostlycloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlycloudyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January28.4°F (-2.0°C)Light RainmostlycloudyAverageSlightly Low
February31.5°F (-0.3°C)Light RainmostlycloudyAverageSlightly Low
March42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainmostlycloudyModerately HighAverage
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 SunnyModerately HighAverage
July74.8°F (23.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
August73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September67.6°F (19.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
October55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
November43.2°F (6.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
December34.9°F (1.6°C)Light RainmostlycloudyAverageAverage

Tips to save on your trip to Children's Museum of Indianapolis

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  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically January to February and September) for more affordable package holidays to Children's Museum of Indianapolis.
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