The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
Rating
Family of 4
USD 80–120
Duration
3–5 hours
Best Ages
0–17
About
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is simply one of the greatest children's museums on Earth — and with 18,000+ Google reviews and a 4.7 rating, the numbers back it up. Spanning five floors and more than 472,900 square feet, it holds the title of world's largest children's museum and delivers an experience that families return to year after year.
The museum's exhibits cover an extraordinary range of subjects — from full-scale dinosaur fossils and the SpaceQuest Planetarium to a life-sized Egyptian tomb, a working carousel, and the beloved Dinosphere where real specimens tower overhead. Interactive elements are woven throughout, ensuring that kids are doing, not just observing.
Every age group is served. The Riley Children's Health Sports Legends Experience outdoor area is exceptional for active older kids, while the Early Childhood galleries are designed specifically for infants and toddlers. Tweens and teens will gravitate toward the science, history, and technology exhibits.
Allocate most of a full day — the museum rewards unhurried exploration far more than a rushed two-hour sprint. On-site dining means you can recharge without leaving. Located on North Meridian Street, the museum is central to Indianapolis and easily accessible by car. For any family visiting Indianapolis, this is the single most essential stop on the itinerary.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Nursing / Changing
true
Kid Meals
true
Setting
Rainy Day
Great option!
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings for smaller crowds; first entry of the day is least crowded
Wait Times
Little wait on weekdays; 15–30 minute entry waits on busy weekends and holidays
Nearby Food
The museum has an on-site café and restaurant. The Broad Ripple neighborhood is a short drive away with many family-friendly dining options.
Why Kids Love It
The largest children's museum in the world, kids are absolutely blown away by the sheer scale, the dinosaur exhibit, and the SpaceQuest Planetarium.
Pro Tips from Parents
- Arrive when the museum opens to get the most popular exhibits before they get crowded.
- The museum is enormous — plan to spend most of the day and don't try to see everything in one visit.
- The outdoor sports/play area is excellent in good weather but confirm seasonal availability.
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes — the museum is very large
- Stroller for very young children
- Snacks for toddlers; the museum has a café for meals
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
USD 80–120
Tips to Save
- Purchase tickets online in advance for discounts.
- Check for Indianapolis residents' free days and the annual membership which pays for itself in 2 visits.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Monday
- Closed
- Sunday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM