Indianapolis summers can be long, but when the warm weather arrives there are endless ways to keep kids entertained and make family memories around the Circle City. From interactive museums to outdoor adventures, here’s your guide to family-friendly things to do around Indianapolis this summer.

Make animal friends at the Indianapolis Zoo
The Indianapolis Zoo in White River State Park is a staple for families, with habitats ranging from the Oceans building and Dolphin Pavilion to the Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center. Check the zoo’s calendar for special events and animal feedings, and don’t miss the Bicentennial Pavilion’s animal presentations. Kids under two are free, and memberships pay for themselves in just a few visits. Learn more about hours and tickets on the zoo’s official site.

Experience the Children’s Museum and Sports Legends Experience
No summer list is complete without the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. The permanent exhibits span five floors, and the Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience gives kids and adults a chance to play baseball, basketball, football, hockey and more in a giant outdoor playground. Special rotating exhibits this year include unique science displays and immersive art experiences. Reserve timed-entry tickets online and plan to spend several hours exploring.

Pedal or stroll along the Monon Trail
When you’re ready to get outside, head to the Monon Trail, which runs from downtown Indianapolis north through Broad Ripple Village to Carmel and beyond. The paved rail-trail connects to Fall Creek Greenway, the Central Canal Towpath and the White River Wapahani Trail, making it easy to plan a family bike ride or stroller-friendly walk. Along the route you’ll pass parks like Frank & Judy O’Bannon Park, Martin Luther King Jr. Park and the Indiana State Fairgrounds.

Cool off at Midtown Plaza and other splash pads
Carmel’s Midtown Plaza is a short drive from downtown and offers public games like ping pong, cornhole and giant chess. Kids can cool off in the interactive splash pad and watch retro cartoons on the outdoor movie screen. Closer to the city, splash pads at Tarkington Park, Holliday Park and the Commons in Columbus are perfect for burning off energy on a hot afternoon.

Ride the rails at Nickel Plate Express
For a unique adventure, book a ride on the Nickel Plate Express railbikes in Hamilton County. These pedal-powered bikes let families cruise down the historic Nickel Plate Railroad, taking in views of rural Indiana and the White River. Kids must be at least four years old to ride with an adult. Tickets and schedule information are available on the Nickel Plate Express website.

Visit a farmers market

Summer is peak season for local produce, and farmers markets are a fun way to teach kids about where food comes from. The Original Farmers’ Market at Monument Circle runs every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. May through September. On Saturdays, head to the Broad Ripple Farmers Market at Glendale Town Center (May–September 8 a.m.–noon, October 9 a.m.–noon) for fresh produce, artisan goods and live music. Many neighborhoods also host evening markets and food truck rallies.

Free concerts, campfires and movies
There’s no shortage of free or low-cost entertainment around Indy in the summer. Hamilton County Parks’ Cool Creek Campfires series offers s’mores and storytelling under the stars. Many suburban towns host outdoor concert series on weekends—bring a picnic blanket and enjoy local bands. Check Visit Indy’s calendar for details. Downtown, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s community concerts and Movies at the Monument in Carmel are perfect for budget-friendly nights out.

Other ideas
– Take a walk through White River State Park and rent a pedal boat along the downtown canal.
– Catch an Indianapolis Indians minor-league baseball game at Victory Field.
– Sign up for Indy Parks’ nature programs or a library summer reading event.

By mixing cultural attractions with outdoor fun, you’ll keep your family exploring all summer long. Check official websites for the most up-to-date schedules and ticket information, and don’t forget sunscreen and water!