Not just for kids: How adults can have fun at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
It’s true - the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis might be kid-centered, but that does not mean it’s kids-only!
Brace yourself because we're about to embark on a journey that includes everything from dinosaurs and outer space to American pop icons and the roarin’ 20s. We’re breaking down all the fantastic ways that you can enjoy the world's largest children’s museum, no kids required.
Let's go!
10 ways adults can get in on the fun at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis:
1. Give back and party on at Museum by Moonlight!
Don’t miss The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis’ largest single-night fundraising event! Imagine strolling through the museum as the moon casts a magical glow on all the exhibits as you take them in on your own time. Live music, special attractions, and the chance to explore after hours - set in a magical, fairytale realm. But don’t wait - tickets are on sale now for this once-a-year event!
Museum by Moonlight: “Museum Ever After” is happening Aug 24, 2024
2. Visit the SpaceQuest Planetarium.
Didn’t we all want to be an astronaut at one point? Now’s your chance, and the planetarium at The Children’s Museum will absolutely amaze you. Get lost among twinkling stars, learn about galaxies far, far away, and witness mind-blowing visual displays that will leave you in awe. It's like a space adventure without leaving Earth. Moon Boots optional.
3. Jet off without the jet lag to Greece.
The Take Me There: Greece exhibit whisks you away to the sunny shores of this South Eastern European peninsula. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this beautiful Mediterranean country. From the Acropolis to the blue-domed chapels of Santorini, you'll feel like you've landed on the Greek islands. Opa!
Last call! The Children’s Museum departs Greece in 2025 as the exhibit is made over for a new destination.
4. Heat up date night with a little friendly competition in the Riley Children’s Health Sports Legend Experience.
Get ready to leave it all on the field (or court, or track). From an Indianapolis Colts-worthy training camp to a full-sized tennis court, you will have no shortage of activities to flex your athletic skills. Cool down with a stroll around the grounds on the paved walking path or with a friendly round of mini-golf!
This experience is open seasonally/weather permitting.
5. Channel your inner scientist in the ScienceWorks exhibit.
Engage in immersive experiences and demonstrations. From generating your own weather reports to taking the wheel of a John Deere to harvest crops, you'll leave with a renewed sense of wonder at the science behind our everyday lives.
6. Marvel at ancient mysteries with the National Geographic Treasures of the Earth.
This exhibit showcases the tomb of Egyptian pharaoh Seti I, the burial site of China’s Terra Cotta Warriors, and the Caribbean shipwreck of Captain Kidd. It's like an epic archaeological expedition!
Read this next…
7. Bring on the nostalgia with American POP!
From Beanie Babies to Beyoncé, this captivating exhibit celebrates the figures and moments of American pop culture. Explore a collection of memorabilia, costumes, and artifacts that take you on a journey through music, fashion, film, and more. It's a tribute to the icons who have shaped our pop culture landscape that today’s kids just wouldn’t understand.
8. Unleash your inner 90s kid in the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Secrets of the Sewer exhibit.
If you were a cowabunga dude kid - do not skip this last chance to discover the secrets of the sewer with the famous heroes in the half-shell. Flex your (rusty) ninja skills in Splinter’s Dojo, strike a pose with your favorite turtle, and enjoy the other immersive sections before the exhibit retires for good!
Exhibition run: March 9-September 2, 2024
9. Have a Mesozoic experience.
We get it; you might be a little bit tired of dinosaurs, but hear us out. The Dinosphere is not your average fossil-filled exhibit. Step back through the ages and channel your inner paleontologist - or stop by the Paleo Lab to chat with a real one. You can even get up close and personal with Bucky the T. rex, who is in his Cretaceous era (aren’t we all?), mid-hunt.
10. Make it truly a no-kids-allowed experience at an After Dark event!
Let loose and enjoy the museum in a relaxed atmosphere sans kiddos. Sip on a tasty adult beverage while you leisurely explore the galleries. Take your time, soak in the vibes, and indulge in the unique offerings. MNO anyone?
Photo thanks to The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
Age is just a number when it comes to experiencing the joy and excitement of a world-class museum like The Children's Museum of Indianapolis.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your visit today!
