You don’t need major funds to have major fun in Indy; just look at these free activities.
We promise these free things to do are more than just an aimless walk in the park. Instead, we’re making sure you get well-researched, unique suggestions worth the trip.
War history meets stunning architecture at the Indiana War Memorial.
Photo by @ig_md34
History
The Stutz Car Museum | Learn about Indy’s automotive history as you check out roughly a dozen pristine vintage cars.
Bookmark Indy | Embark on a self-guided literary tour of Indianapolis, discovering secluded places that inspired Hoosier authors like Kurt Vonnegut, John Green, Mari Evans, and more.
Indiana War Memorial Museum | Take a trip back through the history of every war Indiana has been involved in, with artifacts including numerous military firearms + uniforms and an AH-1 Cobra Attack Helicopter.
Soldiers and Sailors Monument Observation Tower | Lace up your sneakers and climb 330 steps up the spiral staircase for a fantastic view of the city from 231 ft up. If you don’t think you can make the grueling trek, take the elevator instead for $2.
Arts
Harrison Center First Fridays | Every first Friday of the month, the arts haven opens its doors for visitors to check out new gallery exhibits (usually at least five), listen to live music at the rooftop bar, and enjoy varied entertainment offerings from roller derbies to wreath-making tutorials to aerial performances.
Ignite Art Studio and Makerspace, Fishers | Get unlimited access to every art supply you could imagine, from 3D printers to video production equipment to origami kits. Kits for kids are available too, including everything from LEGOs to friendship bracelets.
Central Library | Get lost among the books and art in the original 1917 Greek Doric-style building or the six-story glass and steel-framed addition. Make sure to pop into a free class, reading, or live performance while you’re there.
Shining a Light on Monument Circle | Every night at dusk, this five-minute light show bathes Soldiers and Sailors Monument in red, white, and blue as video projections dance along the surrounding buildings and an original song from the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra soars across the Circle.
Meet furry + feathered friends at the Fishers AgriPark.
Photo by @parksanddeck
For kids
Fishers AgriPark, Fishers | Little ones will love the chance to get up close with farm animals, scramble around on a nature playground, and pick produce.
Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park | With 100 acres to explore, this free arts park has something for kids of all ages — from an epic swing set to art installations that are perfect for adventurous little ones to scramble around on.
Carmel Clay History Museum, Carmel | Head to the third floor of this museum to explore an interactive children’s area complete with play houses, toys, games, dress-up clothing, and more. Bonus: The museum hosts two free storytimes every Friday morning.
Midtown Plaza has fun activities for all ages, from ping pong to billiards to cornhole.
Photo by @indywithkids
Outdoors
The Monon Trail | Hop on your bike for a leisurely, scenic ride down the city’s longest trail. We especially love the segment that runs through Broad Ripple, where you can easily pop off the path for some ice cream from BRICS or a pint of beer at Broad Ripple Brewpub.
Midtown Plaza, Carmel | Competitive souls of all ages will enjoy the outdoor bocce courts, ping pong tables, and cornhole — surrounded by world-class restaurants. Pro tip: In the summer, the plaza also hosts free outdoor movie screenings.
Free Fishing Days | For a handful of days each year, Indiana residents can catch the next fish to be featured on their online dating profile without having to buy a license.
