For many, the arrival of August marks the beginning of a new school year. From back-to-school shopping to packed lunches and parent-teacher conferences, the fall can be a chaotic time for many families. If you’re looking to cherish the last few weeks of fun before school starts back up again, check out our top 6 picks for family-friendly adventures in Indy to close out the summer.
Visit the Children’s Museum
With the new school year approaching, one great way to recharge your brain is with a visit to the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. With five floors of activities and 12 exhibits, there is sure to be something of interest for visitors of all ages. From digging up dinosaur bones in the Dinosphere exhibit to playing various sports in the newly-opened Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience, this is a surefire way to entertain the entire family.
Purchase tickets for your upcoming adventure online, or in person at the museum.
Explore the Indianapolis Zoo
The Indianapolis Zoo is one great way to unleash your family’s wild side. Attendees will have the chance to run with the cheetahs, watch the orangutans soar through the trees or even take an African Safari. The zoo’s newest experience even allows visitors to feed the flamingos!
With so many thrilling exhibits, you’ll be sure to get your kids’ “seal” of approval with this fun outing.
Plan your next zoo adventure here.
Venture to Go Ape Zip Line & Treetop Adventure
Are you a thrill seeker? Go Ape offers an exhilarating obstacle and zip lining course for only the most daring individuals. Fly through the trees and feel like an ape for the day at this Eagle Creek escapade.
Tickets for participants ages 10 and over can be found on the Go Ape website.
Kick back at the Summer Nights Film Series
The Summer Nights Film Series, hosted by the Indianapolis Museum of Art, offers a wide variety of outdoor movie showings ranging from black-and-white films to international short films and more. The 16 unique showings run until August 31. Pack a blanket and some snacks for the perfect family picnic experience.
You can buy tickets for your family’s favorite film online.
Discover the Indiana State Fair
The Indiana State Fair is the place to be for classic family fun, especially if you are on the hunt for delicious fried food, agriculture and entertainment. Kids can enjoy rides and carnival games at the Midway, step back in time in the Pioneer Village and meet friendly farm animals. Adults can enjoy Indiana’s greatest beer, wine and spirits in the Grand Hall.
Looking to save some money at the fair? Check out this list of 100 free activities.
Relax with a Staycation at Ironworks Hotel
Once the kids are back in school, you might be wondering how you can treat yourselves for a parents’ night out. There’s no better way to get some R&R than with a staycation at Ironworks Hotel Indy.
Unwind with the hotel’s numerous amenities that have your utmost comfort in mind. From a relaxing spa experience at Massage Heights to upscale fare from one of the hotel’s restaurants, you’ll be able to find rejuvenation for yourself before heading into another crazy school year.
With smart TVs, a minibar and breakfast services, you don’t want to wait too long to book your stay with the hotel online today.
Happy Exploring!
Indianapolis has so many fun things to do before heading back to school this fall! If you're looking for a creative activity, consider exploring some awesome LEGO projects. Game of Bricks offers fantastic lighting kits that can add a unique touch to your LEGO creations, making them even more exciting. It’s a perfect way to unwind and get inspired before the school year starts, combining fun and creativity for the whole family to enjoy!