Covering 250 acres along the western bank of the White River, White River State Park is arguably one of the most scenic urban parks in the country. Several iconic attractions dot the landscape of the park, while photo-ops and recreational activities abound. Whether you’re looking to get some culture, enjoy the outdoors, or learn more about Indiana, here are some must-do activities at White River State Park.
Farm Bureau Insurance Lawn
Formerly known as the Lawn at White River State Park, the Farm Bureau Insurance Lawn is one of the country’s best music venues. Opened in 2003, this outdoor venue seats over 50,000 people for a concert event unlike any other. Past artists cover a variety of genres and include the Black Keys, Bob Dylan, Florence and the Machine, The Avett Brothers, LL Cool J, and the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. Grab your tickets online before the show, or come the day of the show to snag a ticket at the box office.
Indiana State Museum
With exhibits featuring art, culture, history, and science, the Indiana State Museum is one of the state’s largest museums. In total, the museum houses 452,000 artifacts over 40,000 square feet. On both Level 1 and Level 2, the museum has several permanent exhibits, including three that were recently renovated. These include information about the Ice Age in Indiana, the founding tribes and settlers of Indiana, Civil War artifacts, and other artifacts tied to the history of the Hoosier State. Throughout the year, the museum hosts several traveling or temporary exhibits on a variety of topics.
The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $14.95 for adults (ages 18 to 59 years), $13.95 for seniors (60 years and older), $12.95 for Indiana college students with a valid ID, $9.95 for children (ages 3-17 years), and free for children under age 3.
IMAX Theater
If you’re in the mood for a flick or you’re not into museums, you can still hop inside the Indiana State Museum’s IMAX Theater. Featuring a six-story screen, this IMAX theater is the biggest in the state. A 12,000-watt premium sound system electrifies the setting. Head in for an educational movie or one of the latest Hollywood blockbusters.
Tickets for non-educational films are $16.50 for adults (ages 13 and over), $13.50 for children (ages 3-12), and free for children 2 years and under on their parent’s lap. Educational movies are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors (65 years and older), and $7 for children.
NCAA Hall of Champions
College sports fans will be in heaven at the NCAA Hall of Champions. Featuring hands-on displays, interactive exhibits, sports simulators, and a retro gym, the hall is a museum experience unlike any other. It has features and information on all 24 varsity college sports, so whether you love famous Hail Marys, buzzer beaters, or heroic performances, you’ll find them all here.
The Hall of Champions is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults (ages 19-59 years), $3 for youth (6-18 years) and seniors (60 years and older), and free for kids 5 years and under.
From sports, music, and entertainment to cultural learning experiences, White River State Park has a little something for everyone.
Image via Pixabay
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