Home › Destinations › White River State Park
White River State Park, United States of America - Things to Do in White River State Park

Things to Do in White River State Park

White River State Park, United States of America - Complete Travel Guide

White River State Park is a unique 250-acre urban cultural park located in downtown Indianapolis, Indiana. Unlike traditional state parks, this innovative green space serves as a cultural district that seamlessly blends nature with world-class attractions, museums, and entertainment venues. The park sits along the White River and features beautiful walking trails, gardens, and waterways that connect visitors to some of Indianapolis's most iconic destinations. Established in 1979, White River State Park has become the crown jewel of Indianapolis's cultural landscape, hosting millions of visitors annually. The park is home to major attractions including the Indianapolis Zoo, Indiana State Museum, Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, and the NCAA Hall of Champions. With its combination of natural beauty, educational opportunities, and family-friendly attractions, the park offers a perfect blend of outdoor recreation and cultural enrichment in the heart of the city.

Top Things to Do in White River State Park

Visit the Indianapolis Zoo

Explore one of the nation's leading zoos, featuring over 1,400 animals from around the world across beautifully designed habitats. The zoo is renowned for its conservation efforts and interactive experiences, including the popular Dolphin In-Water Adventure and the Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center. Don't miss the White River Gardens, a stunning botanical conservatory attached to the zoo.

Booking Tip: Zoo admission costs around $25-30 for adults with discounts for children and seniors. Purchase tickets online in advance for better prices and to skip lines during peak times. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the most active animals, and consider annual memberships if planning multiple visits.

Explore the Indiana State Museum

Discover Indiana's rich history, culture, and natural heritage through interactive exhibits spanning 15,000 years of the state's story. The museum features everything from prehistoric fossils and Native American artifacts to modern industrial displays and an IMAX theater. The building itself is an architectural marvel, constructed with Indiana limestone and designed to reflect the state's geological features.

Booking Tip: General admission is typically $15-17 for adults, with additional fees for IMAX movies ($8-12). Look for combination tickets that include multiple attractions in the park for better value. Free admission days are occasionally offered for Indiana residents, so check the website before visiting.

Experience the Eiteljorg Museum

Immerse yourself in the art and culture of the American West and Native America at this world-class museum. The Eiteljorg houses an impressive collection of contemporary and traditional Native American art, Western paintings, and sculptures by renowned artists like Georgia O'Keeffe and Frederic Remington. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year.

Booking Tip: Adult admission ranges from $15-18, with free admission for children under 5. Consider visiting during First Fridays events for extended hours and special programming. Museum members receive free admission and discounts at the gift shop, making membership worthwhile for art enthusiasts.

Stroll the White River Wapahani Trail

Walk or bike along this scenic 2.5-mile trail that winds through the park and connects to the larger Indianapolis Cultural Trail system. The trail offers beautiful views of the White River, downtown skyline, and park attractions while providing a peaceful escape from urban life. Interpretive signs along the way share information about local wildlife and the area's history.

Booking Tip: Trail access is completely free and available year-round from dawn to dusk. Bike rentals are available at various locations throughout downtown Indianapolis for $8-15 per hour. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for all fitness levels, with benches and rest areas strategically placed.

Attend Events at the Farm Bureau Insurance Lawn

Enjoy outdoor concerts, festivals, and community events at this popular 7,500-seat amphitheater within the park. The venue hosts everything from classical music performances by the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra to contemporary concerts and cultural festivals. The lawn setting provides a relaxed atmosphere with the downtown skyline as a backdrop.

Booking Tip: Ticket prices vary widely depending on the event, ranging from free community concerts to $50+ for major performances. Bring blankets or low-back chairs for lawn seating, and arrive early for the best spots. Food and beverages are often available for purchase, but check individual event policies regarding outside items.

Getting There

White River State Park is easily accessible in downtown Indianapolis, located just west of the city center. If flying, Indianapolis International Airport is about 15 miles southwest of the park, with rental cars, taxis, and ride-sharing services readily available for the 20-30 minute drive. For those driving, the park is conveniently located near major highways including I-65, I-70, and I-465, with clear signage directing visitors to the park. Multiple parking areas are available throughout the park, with both free and paid options depending on the specific attraction you're visiting.

Getting Around

The park is designed to be walkable, with well-maintained pathways connecting all major attractions and plenty of benches for resting. The White River Wapahani Trail provides scenic routes throughout the park and connects to the Indianapolis Cultural Trail for exploring the broader downtown area. Free shuttle service operates during peak seasons and special events, connecting various park attractions. For longer distances or to explore Indianapolis beyond the park, the IndyGo bus system, Bird scooters, Pacers Bikeshare, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are all readily available.

Where to Stay

Downtown Indianapolis
Mass Ave Cultural District
Fountain Square
Broad Ripple
Carmel
Fishers

Food & Dining

White River State Park and the surrounding downtown area offer diverse dining options for every taste and budget. Within the park, several attractions have their own cafes and restaurants, including the Zoo's Safari Grill and various food stands. Just steps away in downtown Indianapolis, you'll find everything from food trucks and casual eateries to upscale restaurants featuring farm-to-table cuisine and international flavors. The nearby Mass Ave Cultural District is particularly known for its eclectic dining scene, while the park often hosts food festivals and farmers markets that showcase local vendors and regional specialties.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Indianapolis

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

View all food guides →

Conner's Kitchen + Bar

4.7 /5
(4891 reviews) 2
bar

The Eagle Mass Ave

4.5 /5
(4801 reviews) 2
meal_takeaway

Yard House

4.5 /5
(4459 reviews) 2
bar meal_takeaway

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
bar

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

White River State Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when temperatures are comfortable and the park's gardens and trees are at their most beautiful. Summer months offer the most events and activities but can be hot and humid, while winter provides a quieter experience with indoor attractions still fully operational. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, especially during the school year. Special events and festivals occur throughout the year, so check the park's calendar when planning your visit to either catch exciting programming or avoid larger crowds.

Insider Tips

Purchase a White River State Park annual pass if visiting multiple attractions - it often pays for itself in just two visits and includes parking benefits
Many attractions offer reciprocal admission discounts, so ask about combination tickets when purchasing admission to your first stop
The park hosts free outdoor movies and concerts during summer months - bring a blanket and enjoy entertainment under the stars with the Indianapolis skyline as your backdrop

Explore Activities in White River State Park