Things To Do With Kids in Broad Ripple, IN

Rev up your family adventure at the legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, where kids can experience the thrill of racing history without the noise! Located inside the famous Indy 500 oval, this museum combines hands-on racing simulators, jaw-dropping historic race cars, and exciting track shuttle tours that take families right onto the iconic racing surface where champions have made history.

Holliday Park is an Indianapolis gem that combines outdoor adventure with nature education, making it perfect for active families. Kids can explore the impressive nature-themed playground with its climbing structures, cool off in the seasonal splash pad, discover wildlife at the free nature center, and burn energy on family-friendly hiking trails through 94 acres of woodlands and meadows.

Broad Ripple Vintage offers a delightful vintage shopping experience in one of Indianapolis's most charming walkable neighborhoods. With its collection of unique finds, retro toys, and nostalgic treasures, it's a fun destination where kids can discover cool vintage items while parents browse quality clothing and home goods in this highly-rated boutique.

Nicey Treat is a charming local ice cream shop in downtown Zionsville that's become a family favorite for its creative, handcrafted flavors and welcoming atmosphere. The shop offers a delightful mix of classic and inventive ice cream flavors that appeal to both adventurous young taste-testers and more traditional kids, making it the perfect reward after exploring downtown Zionsville's brick-lined streets and unique shops.

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is the world's largest children's museum, spanning an incredible five floors of interactive, hands-on exhibits that will captivate kids for hours. From real dinosaur skeletons and a state-of-the-art planetarium to themed play areas and science labs, this isn't just a museum: it's an immersive learning adventure where kids can touch, explore, and discover at every turn.

Newfields is a spectacular 152-acre art campus that brilliantly combines world-class art with outdoor exploration, making it one of Indianapolis's most family-friendly cultural destinations. The free Family Studio lets kids unleash their creativity with hands-on art projects, while the expansive gardens provide plenty of space for little ones to run and explore between gallery visits.

White River State Park offers families a unique urban oasis where nature, culture, and recreation blend seamlessly in downtown Indianapolis. This 250-acre park provides free access to scenic canal walks, pedal boat and kayak rentals, green spaces for picnicking, and serves as a gateway to world-class attractions like the Indianapolis Zoo, Indiana State Museum, and Eiteljorg Museum, all within easy walking distance.

Fort Harrison State Park offers over 1,700 acres of natural beauty right in Indianapolis, making it a perfect escape without leaving the city. This former military post features easy-to-moderate hiking trails perfect for little legs, excellent fishing spots at Fall Creek and Lick Creek, and spacious picnic areas where kids can run and play between exploring the park's military history.

The Indiana State Museum offers an impressive blend of interactive exhibits that bring the state's natural and cultural history to life for young learners. From dinosaur fossils and Ice Age mammals to hands-on science demonstrations and cultural artifacts, this downtown Indianapolis gem keeps kids engaged while sneaking in plenty of educational value. The museum's location in White River State Park makes it easy to combine with other family attractions for a full day of fun.

Calvin Fletcher's Coffee Company is a welcoming neighborhood coffee shop in Fountain Square that serves as the perfect pit stop for families exploring Indianapolis. With delicious pastries, kid-friendly treats, and spacious seating areas, it's an ideal spot to refuel between activities or enjoy a relaxed morning treat with the little ones.

Old World Gondoliers offers a unique slice of Venice right in downtown Indianapolis, where singing gondoliers navigate authentic gondolas along the scenic Canal Walk. This enchanting experience lets families glide past city landmarks and through White River State Park while being serenaded, creating a memorable adventure that feels worlds away from typical Midwest activities.

The Eiteljorg Museum offers families an immersive journey through Native American culture and the American West with interactive exhibits that bring history to art. Kids are captivated by the authentic artifacts, colorful artwork, and hands-on activities that make learning about diverse cultures engaging and memorable. The museum's family-friendly layout and dedicated children's programming make it an educational adventure that doesn't feel like a classroom.