White River State Park

About

White River State Park is something rare - a true urban state park right in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. Spanning 250 acres along the White River, it welcomes over 4 million visitors each year and brings together seven world-class attractions, miles of canal and river trails, and wide open greenspace, all within walking distance of each other.

The park is home to some of Indiana's most celebrated cultural institutions. The Indiana State Museum explores the state's natural and cultural history across multiple floors of interactive exhibits. The Indianapolis Zoo features animals from around the world alongside one of the largest dolphin pavilions in the country. The Eiteljorg Museum showcases Western art and Native American culture in a striking building overlooking the canal. NCAA fans won't want to miss the NCAA Hall of Champions, and history buffs can explore the Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial, a striking waterside tribute.

Beyond the attractions, the park itself is a destination. The canal walk stretches for miles, perfect for a leisurely stroll, a morning jog, or a pedal boat ride. Open lawns host concerts, festivals, and outdoor movie nights throughout the warmer months. The park's central location means restaurants, hotels, and downtown Indianapolis are just steps away.

For families, the park offers something for every age group. Kids love the zoo and the hands-on exhibits at the state museum. Adults appreciate the art, history, and the simple pleasure of walking along the water on a nice day. The park connects to Indianapolis's broader trail network, so cyclists and walkers can extend their adventures well beyond the park's borders.

White River State Park operates year-round, though individual attractions have their own hours and admission fees. Parking is available in an underground garage and several surface lots nearby. Whether you're visiting for a single museum or spending a full day exploring everything the park has to offer, it's one of the best ways to experience Indianapolis.

Accessibility

White River State Park is well-suited for visitors with mobility needs. All major attractions within the park meet or exceed ADA requirements, with accessible entrances, restrooms, and viewing areas throughout. The park provides wheelchair rentals at several locations, making it easier for visitors who need them to explore comfortably.

Accessible parking is available in the White River State Park underground parking garage, which offers ADA-compliant designated spaces with clear signage on both levels. Additional accessible parking spaces are located near all major attractions.

The park's trails and pathways are paved or feature compacted surfaces, and the canal walk provides a flat, smooth route well-suited for wheelchairs and mobility devices. The terrain throughout the park is generally level, which is a significant advantage for visitors with limited mobility.

Each attraction within the park - including the Indiana State Museum, Indianapolis Zoo, and Eiteljorg Museum - maintains its own accessibility accommodations. These typically include elevator access, accessible seating areas, and adapted restroom facilities.

For visitors with specific sensory or cognitive accessibility needs, it's best to contact individual attractions directly, as accommodations vary by venue. The park's outdoor spaces are open and spacious, offering a comfortable environment for visitors who prefer less crowded settings.

Contact White River State Park at (317) 233-2434 or visit their website for the most current accessibility details and to arrange any specific accommodations before your visit.

More accessible places in Indiana

• Eiteljorg Museum (Indianapolis)
• Indiana Medical History Museum (Indianapolis)
• Newfields (Indianapolis)
• The Children's Museum of Indianapolis (Indianapolis)
• Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art (Indianapolis)
• Indiana War Memorial Museum (Indianapolis)