Holliday Park
About
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.
Highlights
- ✓Nature-themed playground with multiple climbing structures and challenging elements
- ✓Seasonal water spray features and splash pad (summer months)
- ✓Free Nature Center with live animals, hands-on exhibits, and educational programs
- ✓Miles of easy hiking trails through woods and along White River
- ✓Historic ruins sculptures that double as climbing structures and photo backdrops
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early (9:00-10:00 AM) on weekends to beat the crowds and snag parking close to the playground area
- 2.Bring water shoes for the splash pad area and pack extra clothes,kids always get wetter than expected
- 3.Don't miss the Nature Center's live animal exhibits and free educational programs; check their schedule online before visiting
- 4.The ruins sculptures near the playground make for great photo ops and spark kids' imaginations about ancient civilizations
- 5.Pack a picnic to enjoy at the many sheltered tables and pavilions scattered throughout the park
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for hiking and outdoor play. Weekday mornings are least crowded, while summer weekends draw the biggest crowds to the water features. Visit during the week if possible, or arrive right at 9:00 AM on weekends.
What to Know
Admission and parking are completely free, making this an excellent budget-friendly option. The nature center offers free admission and restroom facilities. There are no food vendors on-site, so bring snacks and water, especially in summer.
Seasonal Notes
Water features typically operate Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting. Trails are open year-round but can be muddy in spring. Fall foliage makes September and October especially beautiful for hiking. Winter visits are quieter with indoor nature center activities available.
Nearby Eats
Head to Mama Corolla's (5 minutes away) for family-friendly Italian with a kids menu, or try Bazbeaux Pizza on 86th Street for creative pizzas and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for hungry kids after park play.
More Activities Near Indianapolis
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum
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.
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
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.
Lucas Oil Stadium
Lucas Oil Stadium offers families an exciting behind-the-scenes look at one of the NFL's most impressive venues, home to the Indianapolis Colts. The guided tours take you through areas typically off-limits to the public, including the field, locker rooms, and luxury suites, giving sports-loving kids a thrilling glimpse into professional football. With its retractable roof and massive video board, the stadium's sheer scale amazes visitors of all ages.
Newfields
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.