The Children's Museum of Indianapolis: Bigger than Your Basement, Way More Fun (Probably)
So, you've (unwisely?) volunteered to be the "Fun Aunt/Uncle" for the day, and brace yourself, because you're heading to the Children's Museum of Indianapolis, the world's LARGEST children's museum. Yes, you read that right. World's Largest. That's a lot of wiggle room for little (and maybe not-so-little) hands to get into trouble... I mean, explore! But fear not, weary babysitter, for this post will be your guide to surviving, and maybe even enjoying, a trip to this magical land of wonder.
What Can You Do At The Children's Museum Of Indianapolis |
Gearing Up for Adventure (and Avoiding Meltdowns)
First things first, pack like you're going on a safari. Snacks are key - hangry children are a recipe for disaster. Water bottles are a must, because let's face it, chasing toddlers is thirsty work. Comfy shoes - this ain't the place for your stilettos, unless you're aiming for Olympic-level dodgeball skills. And most importantly, a healthy dose of patience. Remember, you're the adult here, so channel your inner zen master.
Pro Tip: The museum offers lockers for a small fee, so you don't have to lug around a backpack the size of a small child.
QuickTip: Revisit posts more than once.
Exhibits Galore: Where to Take Your Tiny Terrors First?
The Children's Museum is a sprawling labyrinth of exhibits, so buckle up! Here's a quick rundown of some crowd-pleasers:
- Dinosphere®: Become a paleontologist for the day and dig up some dino bones (replicas, of course... safety first!). Just watch out for rogue T-Rex costumes.
- Riley Children's Health Sports Legends Experience: Unleash your inner athlete! This brand new exhibit lets you hit a home run, score a goal, or race on a pedal car track. Just don't forget to loosen up those hamstrings first - nobody wants to pull a muscle showing off in front of a bunch of five-year-olds.
- The Doud Character Collection: Meet your favorite storybook characters (and maybe some you've never heard of) in this massive collection. Perfect for little ones who like to play dress-up. Although, there's no guarantee they won't get attached to Raggedy Ann and refuse to leave.
Remember: This is just a taste of what the museum has to offer! Check out their website for a complete list of exhibits [The Children's Museum of Indianapolis].
Tip: Slow down when you hit important details.
Don't Forget to Refuel! (and Maybe Escape for a Second)
Let's be honest, even the most fun-filled day can leave you famished. The museum has a variety of food options, from kid-friendly cafes to sit-down restaurants. There's even a spot for grown-ups to grab a cup of coffee (clutch!) while the little ones burn off some energy.
Need a Grown-Up Break? The museum has a designated relaxation area for parents. Think comfy chairs, soft lighting, and maybe even a complimentary glass of wine (okay, maybe not that last one, but a person can dream!).
QuickTip: Return to sections that felt unclear.
So You've Conquered the Children's Museum... Now What?
Congratulations, you've survived a trip to the Children's Museum of Indianapolis! Your reward? Exhaustion, a backpack full of random souvenirs, and a lifetime of memories (hopefully good ones) for the little ones. You might even find yourself wanting to come back... minus the tiny terrors, of course.
FAQ: Children's Museum of Indianapolis Survival Guide Edition
How to avoid meltdowns? Be prepared! Pack snacks, drinks, and activities to keep little ones occupied while waiting in line.
QuickTip: Focus on what feels most relevant.
How much does it cost? Ticket prices vary depending on the day and time of year, but generally range from $19.50-$40. Children under 2 are free [Visit Indy].
How long does it take to see everything? There's no way to see the entire museum in one day, so plan on spending at least a few hours.
What if I have a stroller? The museum is stroller-friendly, with elevators and ramps throughout.
Are there any special events? The Children's Museum offers a variety of special events throughout the year. Check out their website for details [The Children's Museum of Indianapolis].