Discovery runs through it
Whether it’s a relaxing stroll, vigorous run, day at the ballpark, shark adventure, Indiana history lesson, exploration of Native American art, lessons about Lincoln or an outdoor concert, The Canal and White River State Park has surprises for everyone. This is not your typical state park or urban waterway.
Scattered throughout the Canal and 250-acre state park are the city's most inspiring museums, attractions and celebrations. Discover Indiana's heritage as you meander along the limestone walkway, enjoying a stunning backdrop of the Downtown skyline. This cultural destination boasts seven major attractions, festival space, public art, unique cafes and three miles of walkways on the refurbished historic Central Canal.
Scattered throughout the Canal and 250-acre state park are the city's most inspiring museums, attractions and celebrations. Discover Indiana's heritage as you meander along the limestone walkway, enjoying a stunning backdrop of the Downtown skyline. This cultural destination boasts seven major attractions, festival space, public art, unique cafes and three miles of walkways on the refurbished historic Central Canal.
Outdoors
The Canal Walk is a beautiful and popular urban respite for fitness enthusiasts and serenity seekers alike, providing a unique view of Indianapolis. This is Downtown’s [8220]waterfront,[8221] dotted with pedal boats and gondolas all summer long, with bicycles and surreys gracing the district’s pathways.
The Lawn at White River State Park offers first-rate concerts in a distinctive outdoor setting. Additional outdoor venues, including Military Park, Celebration Plaza and the Canal Walk, host fun festivals, such as Kids' Day on the Canal, SkyConcert, FamilyFest, Indianapolis Irish Fest and numerous run/walk events.
Designated "The Best Minor League Ballpark in America" by both Baseball America and Sports Illustrated, Victory Field is a summertime favorite for baseball up close. Affordable games and fun promotions with a spectacular view of Downtown are guaranteed.
The Indianapolis Zoo is the nation's only accredited combined zoo, aquarium and botanical garden. Here you also can visit the world’s only underwater dolphin-viewing experience at Dolphin Adventure. The zoo’s Waters Building has been transformed into the new [8220]Oceans presented by Old National Bank[8221] exhibit, featuring the only shark-petting tank of its kind. Visitors also may meander among more than 1,000 plant varieties on display in White River Gardens or see how the zoo’s two young elephants -- Kedar and Zahara -- have grown. The playful Meerkats exhibit offers even more fun.
Designated "The Best Minor League Ballpark in America" by both Baseball America and Sports Illustrated, Victory Field is a summertime favorite for baseball up close. Affordable games and fun promotions with a spectacular view of Downtown are guaranteed.
The Indianapolis Zoo is the nation's only accredited combined zoo, aquarium and botanical garden. Here you also can visit the world’s only underwater dolphin-viewing experience at Dolphin Adventure. The zoo’s Waters Building has been transformed into the new [8220]Oceans presented by Old National Bank[8221] exhibit, featuring the only shark-petting tank of its kind. Visitors also may meander among more than 1,000 plant varieties on display in White River Gardens or see how the zoo’s two young elephants -- Kedar and Zahara -- have grown. The playful Meerkats exhibit offers even more fun.
Indoors
The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art is one of only two museums east of the Mississippi that offer both Native American and Western art. In 2005, the museum celebrated the grand opening of the Mel and Joan Perelman Wing, featuring 50 percent more gallery space, an education center, a circular court for performances, the Sky City Cafe and a three-acre garden connecting to the Canal.
Fascinating stories of the state’s past can be found at the Indiana History Center, home of the Indiana Historical Society. The center includes interactive, changing exhibits featuring one of the nation’s largest Abraham Lincoln collections, a state-of-the-art research library, a theater offering more than 300 performances annually, genealogy classes, workshops and two summer entertainment series: Movies in the Park and Concerts on the Canal.
The Indiana State Museum is the crossroads of everything interesting, educational and unique about the state. The museum is a gathering place and learning center. It offers family-friendly entertainment, hands-on exhibits devoted to art, science and culture and an interactive gallery on Indiana’s future.
In addition, the museum houses the IMAX© Theater and serves lunch in the recreated L.S. Ayres Tea Room.
The flavor, pageantry and tradition of intercollegiate athletics gather under one roof at the NCAA Hall of Champions. The Hall highlights all 24 sports and 87 national championships administered by the NCAA, which celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2006. The facility features the enormous Great Hall entrance, three theaters, a Hall of Honor, a small 1920s-era gymnasium and more.
In addition, White River State Park is the proposed home of the future Indiana African American Museum.
The Canal and White River State Park District is clearly a multi-faceted destination. Recreation-lovers, history-seekers and festival-goers easily can plan 52 weeks of fun here.
Fascinating stories of the state’s past can be found at the Indiana History Center, home of the Indiana Historical Society. The center includes interactive, changing exhibits featuring one of the nation’s largest Abraham Lincoln collections, a state-of-the-art research library, a theater offering more than 300 performances annually, genealogy classes, workshops and two summer entertainment series: Movies in the Park and Concerts on the Canal.
The Indiana State Museum is the crossroads of everything interesting, educational and unique about the state. The museum is a gathering place and learning center. It offers family-friendly entertainment, hands-on exhibits devoted to art, science and culture and an interactive gallery on Indiana’s future.
In addition, the museum houses the IMAX© Theater and serves lunch in the recreated L.S. Ayres Tea Room.
The flavor, pageantry and tradition of intercollegiate athletics gather under one roof at the NCAA Hall of Champions. The Hall highlights all 24 sports and 87 national championships administered by the NCAA, which celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2006. The facility features the enormous Great Hall entrance, three theaters, a Hall of Honor, a small 1920s-era gymnasium and more.
In addition, White River State Park is the proposed home of the future Indiana African American Museum.
The Canal and White River State Park District is clearly a multi-faceted destination. Recreation-lovers, history-seekers and festival-goers easily can plan 52 weeks of fun here.
To learn about our other Cultural Districts select a link below:
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