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Local picks in Indianapolis

Galleries and Fun Activities

A day spent wandering through galleries is a fun way to change the pace.

Based on 727 Opinions
+724
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Updated May 2026
01
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum image 1
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum image 2
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum image 3
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Museum showcases historic race cars and original track bricks in a modern, spacious setting. Atmosphere blends energy and pride with interactive exhibits that engage all ages. Visitors experience a balance of excitement and accessibility, with hands-on activities and calming spaces.

Many galleries feature vintage cars, trophies, and photographs that highlight motorsports history. Interactive exhibits engage both kids and adults, while the Miller cars stand out as true works of art.

Interactive galleries offer fun for all ages with hands-on exhibits. The simulation area provides engaging race experiences that can hold attention for hours.

People are saying

"It's a paradise for racing fans with lots of history."

"The galleries here are spectacular, with lots of history and interactive displays."

"You'll love the fun activities, especially the driving simulators."

Good to know

1

The museum offers a racetrack tour; tickets should be purchased in advance.

2

Kids can participate in car-building and racing events during special occasions.

3

The PIT STOP competition is a fun family activity available during events.

02
Harrison Center image 1
Art center

Large art center combines multiple galleries, a rooftop celebration space, and playful features like a slide to the gallery and a karaoke elevator. Atmosphere stays intimate and creative, with friendly, talented people and events that include circus performers and live music. The space supports all ages and showcases diverse local artists, including those with disabilities.

More than three galleries showcase local artists with impressive art and studios. The gallery walk features a slide to the downstairs gallery, a karaoke elevator, and a Koi pond, creating a lively and interactive art experience.

The event has a fun atmosphere with everyone being chill and friendly. It creates a fun place for children at the Harrison Center.

People are saying

"I loved interacting with the creative artists in their studio spaces."

"You've got to check out the galleries during the First Friday party."

"You should put the gallery walk on your calendar."

Good to know

1

First Fridays are open to the public and feature local artists.

2

Arrive early to explore the many galleries and artists' studios.

3

Unique features include a karaoke elevator and a Koi pond.

03
Nine Lives Cafe & Cat Lounge image 1

Cat cafe with two separate rooms for kittens and adult cats offers a calm, relaxing atmosphere filled with playful cats and cat-themed art throughout. Visitors interact with well-cared-for cats in a clean, safe space that supports local rescues. The environment balances laid-back vibes with community-minded care.

Art appears throughout the space, creating a lovely display that complements the cafe setting. The combination of art, bakery, and gift shop offers a unique gallery experience.

Playing with kittens and adult cats offers a fun and engaging experience. The clean, safe environment adds to the laid-back vibe while enjoying coffee and watching the cats play.

People are saying

"I enjoyed relaxing with the cats and having a coffee."

"It's so much fun playing with the playful, happy cats here."

"The kitten galleries are full of rambunctious, energetic kitties."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to visit the cat lounge, especially on weekends.

2

A 60-minute reservation is ideal for enjoying the cat rooms.

3

The cafe collaborates with local rescues to facilitate cat adoptions.

04
Garfield Park Arts Center (GPAC) image 1

Arts center combines spacious galleries with a family-friendly park featuring picnic areas, a play park, and a pool. Atmosphere stays peaceful and beautiful with large trees and walkways for strolling. Weekends bring more activity, while local art and community events add creative energy.

Spacious galleries on the third floor showcase a lot of local talent with new exhibits each month. The arts center offers a beautiful setting within a city park and appeals to both children and adults.

Sessions offer easy and fun activities. The atmosphere encourages a fun time for everyone involved.

People are saying

"This park is beautiful and great for spending the day."

"It's a wonderful art center with awesome vibes."

"The galleries here are beautiful and spacious."

Good to know

1

The arts center offers affordable classes for all ages throughout the year.

2

Expect busy weekends in the park, especially during events.

3

The park hosts monthly art exhibits that are free to the public.

05
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis image 1

Large museum with three levels and a huge outdoor arena offers interactive exhibits and a dinosaur area that appeals to all ages. Atmosphere varies from quiet rooms for breaks to noisy, lively spaces filled with family activity. Outdoor sports fields and a ferris wheel add to the energetic, fun environment.

Offers endless fun for kids and families without needing to change clothes. Combines learning with play for a day full of unforgettable memories.

People are saying

"It's so kid-friendly with tons of hands-on activities for a whole day."

"It's a hands-on place with interactive exhibits and creative spaces."

"The dinosaur galleries were the largest area, featuring several skeletons."

Good to know

1

On the first Thursday of each month from 4 PM to 8 PM, tickets are $6 per person for ages 2 and up.

2

Parking is available in a garage with skywalk access, making it convenient, especially in bad weather.

3

The food court closes at 2:30 PM, so plan meals accordingly.

06
Indianapolis Art Center image 1

Open air museum with sculptured grounds and string lights creates a charming, peaceful setting. Visitors engage with contemporary art and enjoy hands-on art classes amid nature. Access to a river overlook, kayak launch, and bike facilities adds to the outdoor experience.

Several art galleries and a beautiful library fill the center, showcasing contemporary art pieces and public exhibits. Regular art fairs offer a variety of art, jewelry, and unique items for sale.

Pieces offer a mix of fun, nice, and beautiful elements. Activities here deliver a lot of enjoyment.

People are saying

"I saw hallways displaying lots of beautiful art exhibits."

"It's Kid Friendly with beautiful art exhibits to see inside."

"I loved interacting with the art in this charming outdoor setting."

Good to know

1

Parking is usually available at the Art Center.

2

The Art Center is a minute's walk from the Monon Trail.

3

Art fairs are hosted on Saturdays with various items for sale.

07
NCAA Hall of Champions image 1
Heritage museum

Small, intimate museum combines interactive sports simulators and a 1930s retro gymnasium with traditional exhibits. Atmosphere feels disorganized but offers engaging hands-on activities for all ages, especially kids. Space supports events with modern meeting rooms and easy parking access.

Two levels of interactive exhibits cover over 100 years of college football history in a compact space. Exploring all exhibits and activities takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, though some exhibits do not work and the overall quality has declined over time.

Interactive exhibits on the second floor offer fun trivia and games that engage visitors of all ages. The space combines education and entertainment, making it a lively spot to learn about college sports history.

People are saying

"It's a cool interactive museum with lots of games."

"It's a fun place with interactive games and trivia."

"The galleries here are so interactive, you'll spend hours exploring."

Good to know

1

Admission costs only $2 per person, making it affordable.

2

Parking is available in an underground garage with validation making it free.

3

The NCAA Hall of Champions has two levels of interactive exhibits for visitors.

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