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Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, United States of America - Things to Do in Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields

Things to Do in Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields

Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, United States of America - Complete Travel Guide

Indianapolis, the capital city of Indiana, is a vibrant Midwestern metropolis known for its rich cultural scene, world-class museums, and iconic sporting events. The city seamlessly blends historic charm with modern attractions, offering visitors everything from the renowned Indianapolis Motor Speedway to thriving arts districts and exceptional dining experiences. At the heart of the city's cultural landscape stands the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, one of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States. The Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields represents a unique destination that combines fine art with beautiful gardens and outdoor experiences across 152 acres. This cultural gem houses an impressive collection of over 54,000 works spanning 5,000 years of art history, from ancient to contemporary pieces. Beyond the galleries, visitors can explore the stunning 100-acre botanical gardens, historic Lilly House mansion, and innovative contemporary art installations that make this one of the most comprehensive cultural destinations in the Midwest.

Top Things to Do in Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields

Explore the Contemporary Art Galleries

Discover cutting-edge contemporary works and rotating exhibitions featuring both established and emerging artists from around the world. The museum's contemporary collection includes significant pieces from the 20th and 21st centuries, with special focus on American art and innovative multimedia installations.

Booking Tip: General admission is typically $18 for adults, with discounts for students and seniors. Visit on Thursday evenings for reduced admission prices, and check the museum's website for special exhibition fees which may require separate tickets.

Stroll Through the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park

Experience where art meets nature in this 100-acre contemporary art park featuring large-scale installations by renowned artists. The park offers walking trails that wind through meadows, wetlands, and forests, creating an immersive outdoor gallery experience that changes with the seasons.

Booking Tip: Access to the Art & Nature Park is included with museum admission. Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather as this is primarily an outdoor experience. Allow 2-3 hours to fully explore all the installations and trails.

Tour the Historic Lilly House

Step back in time with a guided tour of this 1930s mansion that showcases period furnishings, decorative arts, and architectural details. The house provides insight into Indianapolis high society and features beautiful interiors designed in various historical styles.

Booking Tip: Lilly House tours are offered on weekends and select weekdays for an additional $5 fee beyond general admission. Tours are limited to 15 people and often sell out, so book in advance online or arrive early to secure your spot.

Experience the Beer Garden and Food Offerings

Enjoy locally-sourced cuisine and craft beverages at the on-site restaurants and seasonal beer garden. The dining options range from casual café fare to upscale dining, all featuring ingredients from the museum's own gardens when possible.

Booking Tip: The beer garden operates seasonally from late spring through early fall, typically Thursday through Sunday. Reservations are recommended for weekend visits, and prices range from $12-25 for entrees. Check for special events and live music schedules.

Participate in Art-Making Workshops

Engage in hands-on creative experiences through various workshops and classes offered throughout the year. These range from family-friendly activities to advanced techniques for serious artists, often inspired by current exhibitions or the museum's permanent collection.

Booking Tip: Workshop fees typically range from $25-75 depending on duration and materials provided. Popular workshops fill up quickly, especially during school holidays and weekends. Register online at least a week in advance and check age requirements for each session.

Getting There

Indianapolis is easily accessible by multiple transportation modes, with Indianapolis International Airport serving as the primary gateway located just 7 miles southwest of downtown. The airport offers direct flights from major US cities and some international destinations. For those driving, Indianapolis sits at the intersection of several major interstates (I-65, I-70, I-74) making it highly accessible from across the Midwest. Amtrak provides train service to Indianapolis Union Station with connections to Chicago and New York, while Greyhound and Megabus offer budget-friendly bus options from various cities.

Getting Around

Getting around Indianapolis is most convenient by car, as the city is designed with automotive transportation in mind. Rental cars are readily available at the airport and throughout the city. For those preferring public transportation, IndyGo operates bus routes throughout the metropolitan area, including the Red Line rapid transit that connects downtown to the airport. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available and popular for shorter trips. The downtown area is quite walkable, and the Cultural Trail provides a scenic 8-mile loop connecting various neighborhoods and attractions, perfect for walking or biking.

Where to Stay

Downtown Indianapolis
Mass Ave Cultural District
Fountain Square
Broad Ripple
Carmel (North Indianapolis)
Meridian-Kessler

Food & Dining

Indianapolis has evolved into a notable food destination with a thriving culinary scene that celebrates both Midwestern comfort food and innovative cuisine. The city is famous for its pork tenderloin sandwiches, sugar cream pie, and craft beer scene with numerous local breweries. Downtown offers upscale dining options and trendy gastropubs, while neighborhoods like Mass Ave and Fountain Square feature eclectic restaurants, food trucks, and international cuisines. The city's farm-to-table movement is strong, with many restaurants sourcing ingredients from local farms and producers, making it an excellent destination for food enthusiasts seeking authentic regional flavors alongside contemporary culinary creativity.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Indianapolis

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Conner's Kitchen + Bar

4.7 /5
(4891 reviews) 2
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The Eagle Mass Ave

4.5 /5
(4801 reviews) 2
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Yard House

4.5 /5
(4459 reviews) 2
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Harry & Izzy's

4.7 /5
(4251 reviews) 3

The Fountain Room

4.7 /5
(1596 reviews) 3

Fire by the Monon

4.6 /5
(1365 reviews) 2
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Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Indianapolis is during late spring through early fall (May through October) when the weather is most pleasant for exploring outdoor attractions like the Art & Nature Park at Newfields. Summer months offer the most activities and events, including the famous Indianapolis 500 in May, though this is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit. Fall provides beautiful foliage and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor exploration with fewer crowds. Winter can be quite cold with occasional snow, but indoor attractions like museums remain excellent options, and hotel rates are typically lower during this season.

Insider Tips

Visit on the first Friday evening of each month for extended hours, special programming, and a more social atmosphere with local residents
Bring a picnic to enjoy in the gardens - outside food is welcome in designated outdoor areas, making for an affordable and scenic dining experience
Download the museum's mobile app before your visit for interactive maps, audio tours, and detailed information about current exhibitions and installations

Explore Activities in Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields