Photo: Robert Ruble
Photo: Randy E
Photo: Jasmine Norris
Monon Trail
FreeAdventure
🕑 1-3 hours depending on your family's pace and how far you travel👶 Great for all ages, from infants to teens. Toddlers enjoy stroller rides and spotting dogs along the path, preschoolers love learning to ride bikes on the flat surface, and older kids and teens can cover longer distances independently or practice skateboarding skills.
About
The Monon Trail through Broad Ripple offers families a beautifully paved, flat path perfect for introducing kids to biking or enjoying a leisurely stroller walk. This former railroad corridor provides a safe, car-free route where children can ride bikes, scooter, or rollerblade while parents enjoy the tree-lined scenery and charming neighborhood views along the way.
Highlights
- ✓Smooth, flat paved surface perfect for beginner cyclists and young riders
- ✓Shaded sections with beautiful trees and neighborhood scenery
- ✓Multiple access points for flexible route planning
- ✓Connections to playgrounds and parks along the way
- ✓Safe, car-free environment for kids to explore on wheels
Pro Tips
- 1.Park at Broad Ripple Park (just off the trail) where you'll find restrooms, playgrounds, and picnic tables for breaks
- 2.Rent bikes or surrey cycles from Wheel Fun Rentals in Broad Ripple if you don't have your own equipment
- 3.The trail can get crowded on weekend afternoons,visit weekday mornings or early weekend mornings for a more relaxed experience
- 4.Bring sidewalk chalk to let kids decorate sections of the path or take breaks at one of the many benches along the route
- 5.Look for the painted mile markers on the trail,turn it into a game to see how many miles your family can complete
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall offer ideal weather with beautiful foliage. Visit on weekday mornings or early weekend mornings (before 10am) to avoid crowds and cyclists. Early evening walks during summer provide cooler temperatures and lovely golden hour lighting.
What to Know
The trail is completely free to use with multiple access points and parking options throughout Broad Ripple. Restrooms are available at Broad Ripple Park, and the flat, paved surface is fully stroller and wheelchair accessible.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round, though winter can be icy,check conditions before visiting with kids. Spring brings blooming trees and mild temperatures, while fall offers stunning foliage. Summer mornings and evenings are best to avoid midday heat.
Nearby Eats
Stop at Bub's Burgers & Ice Cream in Broad Ripple for classic burgers and hand-dipped ice cream cones, or grab wood-fired pizza at Bazbeaux Pizza, which has a family-friendly patio just steps from the trail.
More Activities Near Broad Ripple
Nature
Broad Ripple
Free
Broad Ripple offers families a wonderful urban nature escape where kids can explore scenic trails along the White River and canal, spot local wildlife like herons and turtles, and enjoy outdoor play in a beautiful natural setting. The neighborhood's walkable paths and green spaces make it perfect for families wanting to combine nature exploration with nearby dining and shopping in the charming Broad Ripple Village.
Activity
Broad Ripple Vintage
★4.8$❤️10
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.
Park
Broad Ripple Park
★4.6Free❤️254
Broad Ripple Park is a spacious neighborhood gem offering something for every member of the family. The standout Family Aquatic Center features pools and splash areas perfect for hot Indiana days, while multiple playgrounds, open sports fields, and shaded picnic areas give families plenty of options for outdoor fun year-round.
Cafe
My Sugar Pie
★4.5$$❤️60
My Sugar Pie is a charming neighborhood cafe in Broad Ripple that welcomes families with open arms and delicious treats. This cozy spot offers kid-friendly breakfast and lunch options alongside an impressive bakery case filled with cookies, pastries, and sweet pies that will have little ones pressing their noses against the glass. The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy for parents to enjoy quality coffee while kids happily munch on treats without worrying about keeping them perfectly quiet.