Indianapolis, known as the Crossroads of America, is a great destination for families looking for fun. This article highlights area attractions that are sure to thrill kids of all ages.
One of the foremost attractions in the city is The Children's Museum of Indianapolis. This institution is actually the largest children's museum in the world. It is situated on 14 acres of land and boasts more than 400,000 square-feet of exhibits and activities for children to explore. This venue offers opportunities for learning as well as fun. The lower level of the museum includes a replica of a Victorian railroad depot, interactive train layouts for preschoolers, a planetarium, a performing arts theatre, an underwater coral reef exhibit, a mummy Wenu-hotep, a dinosaur discovery area, and an underwater mini-submersible. The first level of the museum houses a reception area, food court, gift store, 30-foot tall water clock, and an information zone created in partnership with the Marion County Public Library. The second floor is primarily composed of special exhibit areas. The third level houses a historical gallery and an Indy 500 Race car is displayed. Story Avenue highlights African-American oral traditions. There is also a large play area designed for children six and under on this level. An interactive science gallery and a working antique carousel are found on the uppermost level of the facility. The museum's address is 3000 N. Meridian St. The phone number to call for more information is 317-334-3322.
Greatimes Family Fun Park is a five-acre complex built for family fun. This site offers batting cages, miniature golf, go-karts, an indoor play land to climb, crawl, and slide, bumper boats, and over 15,000 square feet of arcade games. There is on-site food service including Italian style pizza and sandwiches. This facility also hosts monthly public lock-ins, which are overnight supervised all-night parties for kids. Food and use of the facilities' amenities are included in one price. Children under 12 are required to be accompanied by a parent. Greatimes is located at 5341 Elmwood Avenue and more information can be obtained by calling 317-780-0300.
The Indianapolis Zoo is located downtown in White River State Park. There is also a botanical garden and aquarium at this location. The world's first underwater dolphin dome affords visitors a unique opportunity for dolphin encounters. There are also daily demonstrations in the Marsh Dolphin Adventure Pavilion. Animal Keepers provide visitors the chance to see a variety of animals up close on a daily basis during the "Creature Feature" showing. The zoo also offers a roller coaster, train rides, an endangered species carousel, and pony rides to kids. A special Butterfly Show runs annually from March through September in the Hilbert Conservatory at White River Gardens. Visitors will be surrounded by 1,500 to 2,000 butterflies in free flight at any given time when visiting this butterfly wonderland. Information about zoo hours, admission pricing, and current exhibits can be acquired by calling 317-630-2001.
