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This is not your average children's museum—we're an award-winning destination for exploring space, dinosaurs, sports, culture, and more. Your general admission ticket includes access to the full museum and the outdoor sports park. Oh, and parking is always free. Get ready for a day of discovery!

Other Gift Certificates

Give the gift of adventure when you give a gift to The Children's Museum! A gift certificate to the museum can be applied towards a membership, general admission tickets, special events, or The Museum Store.

Other Access Pass

Access to cultural institutions is critical for the development of kids and inspiring and empowering them to reach their full potential. Through this program, Indiana arts and cultural institutions have joined forces to ensure all kids, regardless of income, have access to the state's vibrant offerings.

Exhibits Fright Academy Haunted House

Class is in session at The Children's Museum Guild's 62nd annual Haunted House, Fright Academy—the museum's largest annual fundraiser —is open Oct. 9–31, 2026. A separate ticket is required.

Daily Activities/Special Events Friendly Feast with the Witches

Elevate your Haunted House experience with a delicious BOO-fet meal with the friendliest of witches!

Other Science at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis

From astronomy to paleontology—and everything in between—The Children's Museum is full of hands-on science exhibits, experiences, themed days, and paid special events that ignite curiosity and fuel imagination in children and grown-ups of all ages, making scientific exploration accessible to everyone!

Other Homeschool

Daily Activities/Special Events Haunted House Member Preview Party

Members can be the first to visit The Children's Museum Guild's Fright Academy Haunted House in this member-exclusive party.

Press Releases Enjoy Free Admission to The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis on Presidents Day 

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis will host a free admission day to the public on Monday, Feb. 19, 2024

Daily Activities/Special Events Christmas Eve (Free Admission)

Free admission on Christmas Eve. Advance tickets required.

Press Releases Celebrate Freedom with FREE Admission at The Children’s Museum’s Annual Juneteenth Jamboree!

Celebrate Freedom with FREE Admission at The Children’s Museum’s Annual Juneteenth Jamboree!

Stories How Philanthropy Supports Our Free Admission Days

Our free days are made possible through the generosity of donors and sponsors who believe in our mission.

Press Releases Visitors Enjoyed Free Admission on Presidents Day at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis hosted a sold out free day where families were able to learn about voting, and even participated in the 1920’s election.

Press Releases Celebrate Latin American Culture at Fiesta de la Familia Visitors will Receive Free Admission and Flu Shots will be Available 

Celebrate Latin American culture at the fourth annual Fiesta de la Familia hosted by The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis on Sept. 24, 2023.

Press Releases Enjoy Free Admission at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis in Celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s 95th Birthday 

Celebrate the life, achievements and legacy of Civil Rights Leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. King would have celebrated his 95th birthday.

Daily Activities/Special Events FREE ADMISSION: Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Celebrate the life, achievements, and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Free museum admission.

Daily Activities/Special Events FREE ADMISSION: Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Celebrate the life, achievements, and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Free museum admission.

Daily Activities/Special Events FREE ADMISSION: Juneteenth Jamboree

Juneteenth Jamboree has reached capacity.

Daily Activities/Special Events SOLD OUT—Presidents Day (Free Admission)

The museum will be open from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Monday, February 16th in celebration of Presidents Day.

Daily Activities/Special Events Free Days for Teachers

Indiana educators can show their valid Indiana school teacher/staff ID badge for free admission on select dates.

Press Releases 'Let Freedom Ring’ and Celebrate at the Juneteenth Jamboree!

Celebrate freedom with a FREE admission day at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis for our annual Juneteenth Jamboree

Other Community Access

We believe that every child, regardless of their financial situation, should have the opportunity to experience the joy, wonder, and curiosity that comes with a visit to the museum. We are committed to programs designed to ensure community access and exploration through discounted tickets, free admission days, free memberships, and more.

Press Releases Celebrate Latin American Culture at Fiesta de la Familia 

Visitors will receive free admission plus access to free vaccines, boosters and flu shots September 25, 2022.

Daily Activities/Special Events Veterans Appreciation Day

Free admission for veterans, active, and retired military members.

Stories Access Pass 2025: Pumpkins and Ghouls

October brings visits to the pumpkin patches, apple picking, finalizing Halloween costumes, and planning your trick or treat or trunk or treat routes. The Access Pass Program offers a robust and diverse calendar of events as we enjoy fall break and time with friends and family.

Press Releases Visit a Winter Wonderland at WinterFaire 2024, Discover Bargains in The Museum Store and Enjoy Santa’s BIG Snowball Fight

Make magical memories in WinterFaire as the popular holiday exhibit returns for its second year with the addition of sock skating.

Stories Be Inspired by Local Artists at Butter Fine Arts Fair

We are proud to work with BUTTER to help provide free BUTTER Fine Art Fair admission to everyone 17 and under all weekend long, inspiring children to explore art and culture.

Stories Summer Break Visit Tips at The Children's Museum

Planning on visiting The Children's Museum this summer? Here's what you need to know for an incredible day.

Other Field Trips

Give your students a field trip to remember at the world’s biggest and best children’s museum, a favorite field trip destination for both students and teachers. The museum provides exhibits, enriched learning experiences, and inquiry-based programs.

Other Holiday Events

Our calendar is a Nice List full of indoor special events for the winter holidays. Create lasting family memories with your family as you do all the winter things with us.

Press Releases WinterFaire, WinterSlide, Santa’s BIG Snowball Fight, and More Merry Adventures for the Whole Family All Season Long!

It’s beginning to look a lot like winter at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis! From icy slides and furry friends to epic snowball fights and a little festive magic, The Children’s Museum is packed with snow much fun – it’s the place to be this season!

Press Releases Wicked Games Await Those Who Dare to Enter the Haunted House Game Night Fright!

Prepare to play your best hand against the giant Witch who may not play fair at The Children’s Museum Guild’s 58th Annual Haunted House—Game Night Fright!

Stories 2023—A Memorable Year in Review

Take a look back at our memorable journey through 2023 and look ahead to an amazing 2024.

Other Educators

As a teacher, you're creating powerful learning experiences for your students. That's our mission, too. Together we can open students' eyes to fun and learning in new ways.

Daily Activities/Special Events Chemistry Day

Find out what makes chemistry so cool!

Press Releases The Nation’s Longest Running Haunted House Opens Oct. 10, Bewitched BOOseum for The Children’s Museum’s 100th Year!

It’s The Children’s Museum like you’ve never seen it before – for the first time ever, the annual Haunted House is bringing all your favorite, iconic museum exhibits and experiences to life in one creepy, haunted adventure: Bewitched BOOseum!

Press Releases Start a New Winter Tradition with WinterFaire

Make lasting memories in our new magical winter wonderland.

Other Black History Month at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis

Celebrate Black History Month at The Children's Museum.

Press Releases The Children's Museum Guild Welcomes a New Class of Villains to the 62nd Annual Haunted House

Grab your textbooks and watch your back! The Children’s Museum Guild is welcoming a new class of monsters and villains to Fright Academy, the theme of the 62nd annual Haunted House at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, Oct. 9–31.

Stories Art Experiences at The Children's Museum

From 2D art to live theater—and everything in between—we offer a whole breadth of artistic expression opportunities and experiences every day.

Stories Why Do Soda Cans Pop in the Freezer?

Have you ever forgotten about a can of soda in the freezer, and there was a mess waiting for you to clean up when you came back? Find out why soft drink cans burst in the freezer.

Press Releases The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis Launches Local College Student Discount Program with $11 Admission

Are you a lifelong Hoosier who’s now in college and remembers standing in awe of Bucky the T. rex? Are you an out-of-state resident taking classes nearby and have heard we’re the world’s biggest and best children’s museum? Local Indiana college students can now go to The Children’s Museum for a reduced admission price of just $11!

Press Releases Celebrate Freedom at Juneteenth Jamboree

Kick off the month of June with our Juneteenth Jamboree celebration on Saturday, June 1, 2024.

Press Releases Celebrate Freedom and Family at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis’ Juneteenth Jamboree

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is excited to kick off the celebration of Juneteenth in Indianapolis with our annual Juneteenth Jamboree.

Press Releases Explore The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis Kid-Free at After Dark: Mardi Gras Masquerade – The First Adults-Only Night of the Year!

If the last time you visited The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis was when you were single digits, it’s time to check out the world’s largest children’s museum again in a whole new way – adults-only style!

Other Experiences

Your general admission ticket includes all of our interactive exhibits plus dozens of daily activities led by our expert staff. On certain days, free and paid special events can enhance your experience even more.

Stories Snow Day Homemade Ice Cream Science Activity

Enjoy this family-favorite frozen treat by using snow to help make your own ice cream at home in freezer bags.

Stories 10 Winter Break Tips for Your Visit to The Children's Museum

We've assembled 10 essential winter break tips for visiting The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, the perfect choice for things to do with kids in Indianapolis. Use this guide to save money on admission, skip lines, and plan your itinerary across five floors of indoor fun.

Stories 10 Fall Break Tips for Visiting The Children’s Museum

Discover 10 essential Fall Break tips for visiting The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, the perfect choice for things to do with kids in Indianapolis. Use this guide to save money on admission, skip lines, and plan your itinerary across five floors of fun and the outdoor Sports Legends Experience

Other Plan Your Visit

The excitement is building as you gear up for a visit to the world's best children's museum. But it's also the world's BIGGEST children's museum, which means there's a lot to take in. This page will help you with all the logistical details for your visit, from hours to experiences and everything in between.

Press Releases Celebrate Black History Month in February at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis 

Enjoy reduced admission on First Thursday, Feb. 1, 2024.

Other The Children's Museum FAQs

We’re happy to help! If you cannot find the information you want, please stop by the Box Office or contact us at membership@childrensmuseum.org or 317-334-4000.

Other Visit with Santa

WinterFaire is so special that even Santa Claus is making a visit! You can visit Santa Nov. 15–Dec. 24, 2025. Santa visits are included with museum admission.

Daily Activities/Special Events First Thursday Night

$6 admission from 4–8 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month!

Other infoZone Library

infoZone was the nation’s first—and remains the only—free, full-service public library branch inside a museum. infoZone is a branch of the Indianapolis Public Library system.

Daily Activities/Special Events Birthday Bash

A birthday party like this only comes around once a century! Celebrate a century of memories, wonders, and dreams during our legendary Birthday Bash! Included with museum admission.

Stories How to Make Frozen Bubbles

Save Have you ever watched a bubble freeze? Let's bundle up, grab a few household materials, and go outside to watch what happens when you blow bubbles outside on a cold snowy day.

Stories Blubber Gloves DIY Science Activity

Create a blubber substitute and discover how some animals can stay warm in freezing conditions.

Press Releases Hispanic Heritage month: The Children's Museum of Indianapolis Unveils Take Me There®: Peru and Launches Latino Community Initiative to Deepen Cultural Connections

The world's largest children's museum is putting an emphasis on Latino Community Initiatives, a cultural exhibit that takes visitors to Peru and Fiesta de la Familia, a FREE visitation day. It is all about Hispanic Heritage month and ways we can pay tribute to the growing Latino community throughout Indiana and the country.

Other Employment

Be a part of our organization dedicated to sparking joy, wonder, and curiosity. Staff and volunteers enjoy a collaborative and inclusive workplace, where innovation and passion for children and families are at the forefront. We offer competitive compensation and benefits, paid time off, professional development, free parking, and much more.

Other Become a Member

Choose a membership to The Children's Museum of Indianapolis for more perks and more memories. Members get a year of unlimited visits to five floors of fun and our outdoor Riley Children's Health Sports Legends Experience.

Other Accessibility

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is committed to making the museum accessible to everyone. We offer a variety of resources and services to help visitors with disabilities enjoy their visit.

Other Starpoint Summer Camp

For over 30 years, the museum has offered neighborhood youth an affordable, curriculum-based summer program. StarPoint Summer Camp is a unique camp available to neighborhood youth ages 6–12 for up to four weeks. Each week is themed according to an extraordinary exhibit or element in the museum and the curriculum is developed by trained museum educators.

Stories What Is Juneteenth?

We've gathered resources for your family to discover more about Juneteenth—the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.

Daily Activities/Special Events Girl Scouts: Miniature Museums

What would your dream museum exhibit look like in miniature form? Step into the role of curator, designer, and maker as you build a mini museum exhibit.

Daily Activities/Special Events Girl Scouts: Toymakers Workshop (Daisy, Brownie, Junior)

Visit our Toymaker’s Workshop to earn your Daisy, Brownie, or Junior Craft and Tinker badge! Choose a project of wood, leather, or plaster to build a toy from scratch using real tools and techniques.

Stories 7 Things You Should Know About Spring Break at The Children’s Museum

Planning on visiting The Children's Museum during spring break? Here's what you need to know for a memorable day.

Daily Activities/Special Events Fairy Garden

Build a fairy garden for the littlest sprites using tiny décor, furniture, and plants.

Daily Activities/Special Events Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical

Oh no! Trixie has left her Knuffle Bunny back at the laundromat!

Stories Take a Tour of the Tiana’s Joyful Celebration Exhibit

Take a walk through our newest temporary exhibit, Tiana's Joyful Celebration.

Press Releases Countdown to the New Year and Make Lasting Memories at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis—Still Operating with a Temporary Entrance to the Museum

We cannot wait to celebrate the last day of 2022 with a family-friendly one-of-a-kind, countdown to the New Year.

Daily Activities/Special Events Santa’s Magical Morning

Santa Claus has landed at the museum with a magical twist on some of your favorite wintertime activities.

Daily Activities/Special Events Visit with Santa

Visit Santa, share your list with him, and get your photo taken.

Daily Activities/Special Events Whimsical Winter Play: An Early Childhood Experience

Join us for a delightful morning designed specifically for you and your children 5 and under.

Daily Activities/Special Events Bunnysaurus Rex Egg Hunt

Meet Bunnysaurus Rex, discover dino-bunny activities, and explore select galleries before finding the hidden eggs in Dinosphere®.

Exhibits Carousel Wishes and Dreams

Step inside the ultimate toybox—the perfect place for the whole family to play together! Bring your imagination and a sense of adventure and get ready for a fun-filled ride in Carousel Wishes and Dreams.

Press Releases Ring in the New Year with a Special Countdown to Noon Celebration at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis 

Celebrate the last day of 2023 with a family-friendly one-of-a-kind, special countdown to noon instead of a countdown to midnight.

Stories We Let the Good Times Roll at After Dark: Mardi Gras Masquerade

After Dark: Mardi Gras Masquerade, a party at the museum exclusively for adults 21 and up, brought the spirit of New Orleans to life with music, bourbon tastings, and a night of exploring the museum like you’ve never seen it before.

Press Releases Celebrating 60 Years of Haunted House History Witch Way Road Trip: Dare to Face the Thrills and Chills on Route 60

The Children’s Museum Guild’s Haunted House, the longest running, continually-operated haunted house in the country, is turning 60. To honor this incredible milestone, join us on the Witch Way Road Trip an exhilarating cross-country journey down Route 60.

Daily Activities/Special Events Second Century Soiree

The Second Century Soiree is a once-in-a-lifetime black-tie, adults-only fundraising event honoring 100 years of unforgettable impact in our community—and igniting the possibilities of the next hundred.

Daily Activities/Special Events Dancing Through Lima

Learn an authentic Peruvian dance and perform in a parade.

Press Releases The Party of the Century! The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis Celebrates 100 Years with Legendary Birthday Bash

You only turn 100 once! The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is celebrating its 100th birthday on Saturday, Dec. 6, and we can’t celebrate without you!

Press Releases Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out to Premiere at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis  

Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out exhibit is coming to the world’s largest children’s museum on Feb. 3, 2024. 

Press Releases Experience the Eclipse Extravaganza: A Celebration Like No Other at the World's Biggest and Recently Voted Best Children's Museum

The museum invites visitors to join them for a weekend filled with NASA Scientists, excitement, learning and unforgettable experiences as they celebrate the solar eclipse in style.

Press Releases Solar Eclipse—in the Path of Totality at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Schedule of solar eclipse related activities and presentations at The Children's Museum.

Daily Activities/Special Events Pluto's Pet Parade!

Meet a pet and train them to perform in a parade!

Daily Activities/Special Events Ghostly Gardens

Get ready for some frighteningly fun times as you design a fairy garden with a Halloween twist!

Stories What We Learned from Members in 2022

We learned learned from member polling and surveys in 2022. Here are some highlights.

Stories A Parent’s Guide to Early Learning Fun at The Children's Museum

Our Early Childhood educators have created a resource to help you engage your little ones with hands-on, sensory-rich experiences designed to spark curiosity and support early childhood development—all in a safe, family-friendly environment.

Daily Activities/Special Events PJs and Plushies at The Manor

Wear your favorite pajamas and bring your stuffed bestie for a friendship party at The Manor.

Stories Why Does Ice Cream Give Me a Headache?

ice cream is SO good, but why can it give you such a bad headache?

Other Wifi

Stories Why Do Snowflakes Have Different Shapes?

What makes a snowflake so special that it is unlike any other?

Stories DIY Birthday Parties at The Children's Museum

DIY birthday parties are always welcome at The Children's Museum! Here's a guide to help you combine your child's special day with a trip to the world's biggest and best children's museum.

Stories Take a Tour Through the Bewitched BOOseum Haunted House

Take a room-by-room tour of The Children's Museum Guild's 61st Annual Haunted House, Bewitched BOOseum, open Oct. 10–31, 2025.

Stories Spring Break Visit Tips for Museum Members

We've put together some spring break visit tips exclusively for members.

Stories Accessibility Services at The Children's Museum

We have an unwavering commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring everyone—regardless of background or ability—feels represented, welcome, and empowered during their visit.

Stories Oscar Robertson Changed the Game

Oscar Robertson changed the game on and off the basketball court. He is the definition of an Indiana sports legend.

Daily Activities/Special Events Rainforest Night Hike

Do some citizen science by researching and finding a rainforest creature.

Daily Activities/Special Events Mission Control Team Takeover

Join the team in Mission Control and launch a NASA mission to the Moon.

Other Gift Membership

This winter holiday season, share the wonder of The Children’s Museum with everyone on your list. With gift membership, you can give an entire year of joy!

Daily Activities/Special Events Earth Day Celebration

Celebrate Earth Day at The Children's Museum.

Stories Art, Community, and Education: Our Partnership with BUTTER Fine Art Fair

Learn about our increased involvement with BUTTER Fine Art Fair.

Press Releases Halloween Villains Are Dying to Meet You at The Nation’s Oldest Continually-Operated Haunted House

Families have a once-in-a-nightmare chance to explore where Halloween villains live during their “offseason.”

Press Releases Adults Only Fun Night of Weird Science After Dark at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis (Press Release)

Adult "scientists" 21 and up can grab their white coats and goggles and come out to play for a fun night of weird science.

Daily Activities/Special Events Experiencing Art Together

Create a work of art based on inspiration within Playscape.

Press Releases Celebrate 100 Years at The Children’s Museum and Party All Night Long at The Second Century Soiree!

The Second Century Soiree on Aug. 22 is our biggest celebration yet—honoring 100 years of inspiring children and families while launching the next century of impact at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.

Daily Activities/Special Events Change Makers: Superhero in YOU!

Become an everyday superhero and use your power to make a difference!

Daily Activities/Special Events Mighty Muscle Movers

This physical fitness challenge is designed for the big kids.

Stories A Hauntingly Impactful Tradition & the Women Who Made it Possible

Thanks to Indy Arts Council for this story about the fab-BOO-lous work of The Children's Museum Guild and the annual Haunted House.

Daily Activities/Special Events Artist in You

Follow the steps of featured sports artist LeRoy Neiman to create your own sports art.

Daily Activities/Special Events Life in the Pond

See the live animals in our pond and learn how to keep them healthy.

Daily Activities/Special Events Making Music Together

Make some music while engaging your mind and body. For ages 5 and under.

Daily Activities/Special Events Mesozoic Marine Deep Dive

What would ocean life have been like over 80 million years ago?

Daily Activities/Special Events Hank Aaron Legendary Challenge

Learn the story of Hank Aaron and test your Home Run skills!

Press Releases 2022 National Youth Poet Laureate to Perform during Black History Month Celebration at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Indianapolis native 2022 National Poet Laureate Alyssa Gaines will perform during the museum's Black History Month celebration.

Daily Activities/Special Events Dinos Alive!

Design a family of dinosaurs that will come to life on the projections screen.

Daily Activities/Special Events 100 Ways To Play

Celebrate our 100th birthday by trying 100 different games this year!

Daily Activities/Special Events Up Close and Personal: In Their Shoes

Put yourself in the shoes of a child who changed history.

Press Releases From Space-Inspired Painting to Wearable Art, Two Visiting Artists Share their Unique Talents with Families and Children

The Children's Museum announces 2022-2023 Visiting Artists Ashley Nora and Beatriz Vásquez.

Daily Activities/Special Events CAPCOM Go! The Apollo Story

Discover the story of the Apollo lunar missions.

Press Releases ALL THINGS DINOSAUR: Dinosaur Day in Indy, Dinosaur Play Everyday

While the NEW Dinosphere opens March 19th, here are some of the DINOmite things happening before then.

Press Releases Kids Can Discover Dinosaurs Aboard the Dinosaur Train: The Traveling Exhibit! at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

All aboard the Dinosaur Train! Beginning January 28, 2023, families can make a beeline to The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis to experience the Museum’s newest exhibit, Dinosaur Train: The Traveling Exhibit!

Stories Why Aren’t All Clouds the Same?

Isn't it fun when you see a cloud shaped just like an animal? Learn why clouds form into these and so many other shapes.

Daily Activities/Special Events Dee O’Hara: Reach for the Stars

Experience the story of America’s first astronauts an aerospace nurse's eyes.

Stories Impacting Indiana with Access Pass

We started the Access Pass program in 2004 to provide these life-changing experiences to as many Indiana children and their families as possible. It has grown to include nearly two dozen cultural institutions around the state!

Stories Don’t Throw Away Your Shot: Indiana Buzzer Beaters

Take a look back at some famous tournament buzzer beaters from college basketball teams in Indiana.

Daily Activities/Special Events Dino Tales

Experience the true story of a groundbreaking paleo discovery.

Press Releases It’s Game on As Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience Launches Season Seven

Race into an action-packed adventure at Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience®, as it kicks off its seventh season.

Daily Activities/Special Events Up Close and Personal in the Cretaceous

Examine clues and explore what life was like for the Creatures of the Cretaceous.

Stories 10 Facts About Role Model Florence Nightingale

Meet Florence Nightingale, a role model who was highlighted in Barbie™ You Can Be Anything™: The Experience at The Children’s Museum.

Stories Parent Resources to Help Kids Honor the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Resources and ideas for grown-ups to share the story of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and help kids honor his legacy today.

Stories From Hawkins to Our Halls: A Stranger Things-Inspired Journey Through the `80s

Cur team of curators gathered items from our collection of more than 130,000 objects to create a "Stranger Things"-inspired display case that's full of 1980s nostalgia.

Stories The Kids Have Spoken! Announcing the Kid-Tested, Kid-Approved 2025 Winners

Your children are invited to visit The Children's Museum on Friday morning, Oct. 10, to determine the top toys for the 2025 winter holiday season.

Stories ‘My-Sized’ and Adaptive Sports Equipment at The Children’s Museum

Discover the adaptive equipment and "my-sized" equipment that's available in the Riley Children's Health Sports Legends Experience. 

Daily Activities/Special Events Diplodo-WHAT?

Join a paleontology student as they encounter two Jurassic giants!

Daily Activities/Special Events Barbara Wynne Legendary Tennis Challenge 

Test your tennis skills in a beginner level challenge for the whole family.

Daily Activities/Special Events Costume Conundrum: On the Set!

Ruth E. Carter’s costume assistant needs your help on a movie already in production! Join the costume team and work quickly to solve on-set issues before the trailer is released.

Press Releases Express Yourself and Discover the Power of Art with New Visiting Artists for 2025–2026

Learn new art styles and discover inspiring artistry at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis as it announces the selection of the new Visiting Artists for the 2025–2026 season: Kyng Rhodes and Johnson Simon.

Daily Activities/Special Events Be an Underwater Archaeologist

Solve the mystery of Captain Kidd's shipwreck by examining the clues left behind.

Daily Activities/Special Events Atrium Show: Musical Storytelling

Use your body to help create a musical soundtrack for a classic fairy tale!

Daily Activities/Special Events Warrior Weapons

Discover the secrets of the Terra Cotta Warriors of China.

Daily Activities/Special Events Voices of Hope: Live Theater Performances

Discover how one child made a positive difference in the world today.

Other Centennial - Wonder

We're turning 100, and you're invited! Our 100th birthday is the perfect time for your family to make new memories with us! From the opening of the highly-anticipated Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: The Exhibit in partnership with Disney Jr. to the thrilling new Centennial Ferris Wheel ride, you won't want to miss a minute of this milestone year!

Daily Activities/Special Events Story Through Style: Mood Board Workshop

Work with your family to create a mood board and follow Ruth E. Carter's process of costume design.

Daily Activities/Special Events Art Show Catastrophe!

Create art out of recycled materials in time for the Art Show.

Stories Teaming up to Help Adoptable Dogs Find Their Forever Homes

We teamed up with local organizations to adopt adoptable dogs in a fun way—by dressing them up as PAW Patrol-inspired hero pups!

Stories Let's Go Racing at The Children's Museum

May is here, and that means one thing in Indianapolis—the Indy 500. Here are some racing-themed things to do with kids at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis.

Stories 10 Fast Facts About Race Car Driver Willy T. Ribbs

Who was Willy T. Ribbs? Here are 10 facts about the first Black Formula One and Indianapolis 500 driver's racing career.

Other Mid-North Promise Program

Through museum programs and community partnerships, the Old National Bank Mid-North Promise Program provides career and academic support for families with children who live in one of the six Mid-North neighborhoods.

Other Host an Event

Host an Extraordinary event at The Children's Museum! Your guests will be blown away from start to finish. From intimate gatherings to colossal events, prepare to delight and entertain like never before.

Stories 10 Memorable Facts about Malala Yousafzai

Discover 10 facts about Malala Yousafzai, a fierce advocate for girls' education around the world!

Stories Meet the Characters of WinterFaire

Meet the whimsical characters of our brand-new WinterFaire exhibit!

Daily Activities/Special Events STEM Exploration Day

Learn from experts in various STEM professions while exploring their work with hands on activities and demonstrations.

Daily Activities/Special Events Santa's BIG Snowball Fight

Kick off the holiday season and welcome Santa to The Children's Museum with Indy's biggest indoor snowball fight!

Daily Activities/Special Events Fiesta de la Familia

Join us for Fiesta de la Familia as we honor children and celebrate Latin American cultures.

Stories Take a Whimsical Walk Through WinterFaire

Join us on a walkthrough of WinterFaire, our brand-new indoor exhibit!

Daily Activities/Special Events Aesop's Fables and Tails

Nov. 28, 2025–Jan. 4, 2026. Aesop the Mouse shares her newest story, "The City Mouse and the Country Mouse."

Stories Snow Day Science Fun

We've gathered a list of our favorite snow-related science experiments and activities to help elevate your snow day fun!

Stories 100 Years: The People and Animals of Our Beloved Carousel

On the Carousel's 100th birthday, learn more about the history of this landmark's funding and restoration, including the official names of some of the most beloved carousel animals!

Stories The Neighborhood Holiday Party is a Favorite Annual Tradition

The Neighborhood Holiday Party is a favorite annual tradition at The Children's Museum.

Other What is Community?

Whether near or far, the museum’s mission is to ignite joy, wonder, and curiosity through powerful learning experiences. As part of our new strategic plan, we aim to leave an imprint on the hearts of individuals while making a lasting impact globally.

Daily Activities/Special Events All-Star Shoot for the Stars

Spend the day with experts from NASA at The Children's Museum.

Press Releases Celebrate Earth Day at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Celebrate Earth Day at The Children's Museum and learn how to make the world a safer place.

Stories Why Does Santa Wear Red?

Ever wonder why Santa wears the color red?

Daily Activities/Special Events Kids Mission Control: Courage Beyond Earth

Meet local author author Dana Bradford and sons while thinking about bravery, exploration, and future STEM pathways.

Stories Snow Oobleck DIY Science Experiment

Have a pile of snow in your backyard? Bring a bit of the snow inside and use it to make snow oobleck.

Stories Generations of Change: The Cheatham Family and Our Beloved Carousel

Four generations of one family came together to share their experience on our beloved Carousel.

Stories Homemade Plant Cell Pizza Recipe

See how to make an edible plant cell pizza at home.

Stories Black History at The Children's Museum

We celebrate Black history and achievements all year long at The Children's Museum.

Stories 9 LGBTQ+ Related Books For Your Family

We've assembled a list of 9 books that will help your family appreciate and accept all kinds of people.

Press Releases Traveling Exhibit Honoring the Child Whose Murder Brought Awareness to Widespread Racism and Cruelty

The Children's Museum has partnered with the Emmett Till & Mamie Till-Mobley Institute, the Emmett Till Interpretive Center, the Till family to create an exhibit to educate families on what has happened in the past in hopes of fostering racial harmony and reconciliation today.

Stories Are Dragons Real?

Ever wonder if dragons are real? Well, here's a secret—dragons ARE real! Sort of. Learn why.

Stories Kid-Tested, Kid-Approved 2024 Winners

We polled the experts—kids—to determine the top 10 toys of the 2024 holiday season.

Stories Museum Madness 2024, Baby!

Who won our 2024 Museum Madness tournament?

Stories Why Do Ballerinas Wear Tutus?

Ballerinas show off their graceful dancing onstage around the whole world. Why do they wear tutus around their waists?

Stories Our Water Clock Is a Memorable Way to Tell Time

The Water Clock has been an icon of The Children's Museum since its arrival in 1988.

Daily Activities/Special Events Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra Teddy Bear Concert: The Runaway Strings 

Join musicians from the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra (ISO) and a narrator as they introduce instruments from the symphony orchestra through five different original stories

Stories Finding Creative Inspiration in the Artisans Corner in WinterFaire

Find out about the artwork created by Vaishali Rastogi Sahni, Sofiya Inger, Gary Gee, and Juan G. Tiscareño—highlighted in WinterFaire's Artisans Corner.

Daily Activities/Special Events The Art of Movement with Johnson Simon

Join Visiting Artist Johnson Simon to explore techniques for expressing the wonderful ways bodies can move.

Stories 10 facts for the 100-year Anniversary of the Carousel

To celebrate the beloved Carousel’s centennial mark, here are 10 fun facts you can share on your next ride.

Daily Activities/Special Events Countdown to Noon

Ring in 2027 with us!

Stories Why Does Ice Float?

Small ice cubes float in a glass of water and giant icebergs float atop oceans and lakes! Find out why.

Press Releases Dino-Mite Display to Greet Spring Break Travelers at the Indy Airport in Celebration of The Children’s Museum’s 100th Birthday

In celebration of The Children’s Museum’s 100th birthday—and just in time for spring break—Bucky the T. rex was unveiled on March 12 at the Indianapolis International Airport (IND).

Stories 10 Facts About Role Model ELLA FITZGERALDⓇ

Meet Ella Fitzgerald, a role model highlighted in Barbie: You Can Be Anything: The Experience at The Children’s Museum.

Exhibits Playscape®

Playscape® is a gallery for young children—infants through the preschool years—and their families to learn and play together. The exhibit is temporarily closed through Nov. 6, 2026 for gallery maintenance and updates. It will reopen Saturday, Nov. 7.

Press Releases The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis Welcomes Dr. Ann Taylor as 2026 Visiting Scientist

To support girls and women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis offers the Eli Lilly and Company Visiting Scientist program, featuring a different female STEM professional each year. For 2026, The Children’s Museum is proud to announce that our Visiting Scientist is Dr. Ann Taylor!

Stories Can You Complete The Children's Museum Bucket List?

Check off items on this children's museum bucket list and experience everything there is to offer at The children's Museum!

Stories An Astronaut on the International Space Station Answers Students’ Questions

Astronaut Dr. Kjell Lindgren answered questions from students about living in space. 

Stories 5 Highlights from 2021 at The Children’s Museum

Take a look back at some highlights from the year 2021 at The Children's Museum.

Press Releases The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is Bejeweled with Excitement to Welcome Swifties to Indianapolis

The Children’s Museum's iconic dinosaurs are bejeweled with excitement and ready to welcome global superstar Taylor Swift to the city this fall!

Stories Stand for Education to Make WAVEs

We can follow Malala Yousafzai's example and stand up for education to make WAVEs and help change the world.

Press Releases Introducing the 2026 Exhibit Lineup at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis!

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is proud to announce its 2026 Exhibit Lineup! 2026 marks the 101st year of The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, the world’s largest and the nation’s best children’s museum.

Exhibits Riley Sports Experience

Keep score in smiles in our outdoor athletics wonderland—7.5 acres of sports for all ages and abilities. When the goal is fun, everybody wins!

Press Releases Museum Madness Continues with Olympic Athletes, Pro Soccer Players and NEW Cars for All Sizes and Abilities

Season six of the outdoor sports areas kicks off today.

Exhibits Lilly Theater

Fantasy, comedy, colorful costumes, and imaginative scenery come together in live theater for the entire family.

Stories Josef Newgarden Helped Our Dinos Roar Into May

Defending two-time Indy 500 winner Josef Newgarden helped highlight some of the fun things to do in Indianapolis this May.

Stories The History of the Broad Ripple Park Carousel

Lions, tigers, and goats—Oh, my! Take a look at our beloved and magical Carousel with 42 animals and Indiana roots that date back to 1917...

Stories Basketball at The Children's Museum

As the world’s biggest and best children’s museum located in the heart of basketball country, hoops hysteria is woven into the fabric of our displays and experiences at The Children's Museum.

Press Releases Top Toys for Kids as Voted on by Kids

Kids voted for the favorite toys at The Museum Store during the annual Kid-Tested, Kid-Approved.

Press Releases Visiting Artists Inspire Others While Sharing Tricks of the Trade

Announcing our new Visiting Artists Bryan Ballinger and ess mckee.

Press Releases The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis’ 2025 exhibit lineup

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis announces its 2025 exhibit lineup.

Stories We Raised a Glass to Our Second Century

The Second Century Soiree was an adults-only evening celebrating 100 years of memories, wonder, and dreams, while also looking ahead to the next 100 years. Here are some highlights of this unforgettable night.

Daily Activities/Special Events Atrium Show: Halloween Dance Party!

Join us in the Sunburst Atrium (Dracula’s worst nightmare) for a creepy, crawly dance party!

Press Releases Turtle Power! Unleash Your Inner Ninja: A Shell-Shocking Adventure with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles at The World’s Largest Children’s Museum 

Prepare to witness the action-packed return of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.

Stories Top 5 Reasons to Visit The Children’s Museum Guild's Annual Haunted House

On the fence about visiting our Haunted House? Here are five reasons why you should.

Press Releases Mandela: The Official Exhibition The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis to Welcome Global Traveling Exhibit

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is thrilled to welcome the global traveling exhibition, Mandela: The Official Exhibition, which opens June 22, 2024.

Stories 5 Things Your Kid will Love in PAW Patrol: Adventure Play

Does your child love PAW Patrol? Here are five things they'll love in the PAW Patrol: Adventure Play exhibit.

Daily Activities/Special Events Girl Scouts: Roller Coaster Science (Daisy)

Explore how motion and speed work together, build your own roller coaster car, and put it to the test by designing a track to earn your Daisy Roller Coaster Design Challenge Badge.

Exhibits Extreme Sports: Beyond Human Limits

Challenge yourself as you jump, fly, and climb while exploring some of the most extreme sports in the world! Open through Sept. 7, 2026.

Other Virtual School Programs

Bring the magic of The Children's Museum into your classroom. Let us come to you...virtually!

Other Tené Wright

General Counsel Tené Wright.

Stories Take a Campus Tour of the Fright Academy Haunted House

Class is in session at The Children's Museum Guild's Fright Academy Haunted House! We've provided a room-by-room description of the Haunted House to help you prepare for this fab-BOO-lous Indianapolis tradition. Open Oct. 9–31, 2026.

Daily Activities/Special Events Gerty's Lantern Workshop

Join us to discover Gerty's new family tradition of building lanterns!

Other Sponsor

Your partnership makes powerful learning experiences possible. Learn about sponsorship opportunities that connect your brand with our more than 1.2 million visitors.

Daily Activities/Special Events Stories from 100 Years Walk & Talk Tour with Sampson Levingston

Take a guided tour with history buff Sampson Levingstont hrough the Memories, Wonders, and Dreams: Stories from 100 Years exhibit.

Stories Why Does Cold Air Smell Different?

Why does winter air have a cool, crisp smell?

Stories Why Is Winter Cold and Summer Hot?

As you put on your coat, gloves, and scarf, do you ever wonder why it's so cold in the winter and why summers are hot?

Stories Why Are Pumpkins Orange?

Ever wonder what causes pumpkins to turn orange?

Other College Student Discount

Central Indiana college students can visit the museum for a discounted price of $11. Valid student ID required.

Stories Why Do You See Lightning First?

Summer is on its way, and so are many thunderstorms! Learn why you see lightning before hearing thunder.

Stories Why Are There More Bugs in the Spring?

You’ve probably noticed that there are a lot more bugs outside at this time of year than during the colder months. Find out why there are more bugs in the spring.

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