Fun For Everyone At White River State Park, By Melody Schubert

White River State Park offers a unique opportunity for family and friends to enjoy a variety of educational and recreational attractions, and entertainment in the heart of Indianapolis, Indiana.

Activities and Attractions At White River State Park

Throughout the year White River State Park hosts many events and festivals. Children will enjoy the free concerts and activities during the Family Arts Series in the outdoor Celebration Amphitheater, which seats about 1,500 people, located at the west end of Celebration Plaza in White River State Park. Bring your blankets and picnic baskets to enjoy the entertainment from the grass. Food and beverages are also available for purchase, as well. Remember, The White River State Park Family Arts Series Is A FREE Event For All! So come out and have a great day in the park.

In the Summer, The Lawn at White River State Park is the place to catch acts like the Moody Blues, and other performances. Or, check out the festivities at Military Park, located on the opposite side of the Canal across from the Indiana State Museum that also host many events; including the Indy Irish Fest.

One of the thrilling things to try is a Segway because it's a fun adventure, and the professionals at Indiana Segway Booth just outside the Visitor's Center will guide you ever step of the way. The concept is easy once you understand the principles of gravity. Lean the handle forward slightly and the segway goes forward. Lean the handle to the side and your turning in the direction you want to go. Very simple really, just a little intimidating at first. No worries though because you are in the hands of professionals who are very good teachers, and your safety is their top priority! Should you prefer to keep your feet on the ground feel free to run or walk the canals, or enjoy a picnic.

If time allows, rent a Surrey Bike and take the whole group or family on a fun cruise through the park. Or, bring your bikes for a relaxing ride. Another option is to take a cruise along the canal in a Gondola while Goffrodo serenades you with a romantic Italian song, which has inspired many marriage proposals.

On a afternoon out in the White River State Park you can visit several attractions including the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art. This museum's activities, events, and exhibits change throughout the year offer a unique perspective in the history and art of the Old West and Native American's of the past, and those who retelling their history and heritage today.

Next door is the Indiana State Museum that has a rare collection of artifacts and Indiana treasures to explore. Among this collection are historic items that reveal the life of President Lincoln.

The athletes in your family will have a great time exploring the hands-on activities at the NCAA Hall Of Champions. From Basketball to Fencing, and Wrestling; the NCAA Hall Of Champions engages, enlightens, and encourages us to go for the goals we set on and off the field. 

White River State Park is not just a park with shady trees that ideal for a picnic, and trails ride, walk, or run. It is also home to the Indian's Baseball Team and Victory Field, where you'll find many fans headed for a afternoon in the Ball Park.

Within the White River State Park there are creative works of arts to admire on a bridge that crosses to the Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens. These are among our favorite places to visit. At the Indianapolis Zoo they focus on educating us about animals, nature, and how we can protect our environment by make small changes in our daily lives. It's always fun to visit the Indianapolis Zoo because you never know what you'll see like the newest residences that include a baby giraffe and baby lemurs clinging to their mothers. 

White River Gardens, next door to the Zoo, is included in your admission to the Indianapolis Zoo. This means you enjoy two attractions that showcase nature. Among the current exhibitions at the White River Garden is one filled with beautiful Orchid's. It is also a wonderful place to learn about gardening, find unique gifts, and a perfect setting for holding special events. 

Whether you live in Indy or are planning to visit you'll discover White River State Park offers natural beauty, entertainment, and attractions to enjoy all year!

When visiting the White River State Park you'll enjoy everything from wildlife to America's Old West and Indian heritage. One way to take in all the sites at White River State Park is with the Park Pass that gives you access to the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians & Western Art, IMAX Theater, Indiana State Museum, Indianapolis Indians Baseball at Victory Field, Indianapolis Zoo, and the NCAA Hall of Champions.

All of these attractions feature engaging exhibits and special events everyone will enjoy for one low price. The current price for the Adult Park Pass is $42, and a Child Park Pass is $30, and with these passes you can enjoy one-time admission to each of the 6 attractions. If you call 1-800-665-9056 or stop by the Visitor’s Center in the heart of the White River State Park you can learn more about and order the Park Passes.

Plan Your Indiana Getaway

Visit the White River State Park website at http://inwhiteriver.wrsp.in.gov/ParkPass.aspx to find out about the Park Pass, special events, attractions, and upcoming concerts at The Lawn and in the Free Family Concert Series that takes place each summer.

To see what's new and exciting to do in Indy, as well as find attractions and restaurants, and other sites to see around the state of Indiana visit the Indianapolis Convention and Visitor's Bureau at www.visitindy.com, or visit Indianapolis Downtown Inc. at www.indydt.com . You'll find maps, learn about upcoming events, festive, sports, and much more.