Grassy Creek Park's Environmental Center and Playground Is Here
A giant owl… turtles… ants… bees… and frogs. Take one peek into the newest features at Grassy Creek Environmental Education Center on the far Eastside of Indianapolis, and you’ll feel surrounded by the beauty and magic of nature.
CityMom Ashley and her fam enjoying a sneak preview of Grassy Creek Environmental Education Center before its public opening.
The new addition is part of a roughly $12 million project to enhance the connectivity of the park and help bring nature to life. From swings and slides to zip lines, a tree house structure, and an accessible sensory tunnel, every detail aims to inspire a safe haven for tiny tots and big kids, too.
Alex Cortright - Chief Communications Officer for Indy Parks - said local leaders and neighborhood groups were strong advocates for the project, and everyone is thrilled to see it open. “Parks like this are huge quality-of-life boosts for our communities, and Eastside residents know how much of a game changer this project will be.”
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More Than Meets The Eye
What’s even more of a game changer with the new project is the attention to detail, especially regarding accessibility for parents of little ones. Moms and dads know “the need to go” can happen in an instant, especially when trying to potty train a toddler. That’s why there’s an outdoor restroom just steps away from the playground—equipped with everything you need, including a changing table.
And that’s not all!
The playground is also divided into sections based on age, so there’s an appropriate play area for kids ages two to five and an area for kids ages five to 12. An added bonus: Fun for adults who might be “kids at heart!” Remember that zip line? We tested it out, and it seems the grownups have a chance to feel like kids all over again, too!
The list of well-thought-out features for the new project seems never-ending, and that list even includes playground equipment accessible to children with special needs. There are adaptive swings and a ride called “Sway Fun,” where children in wheelchairs can roll up on the ramp and enjoy the motion, all without having to leave their seats.
The new Grassy Creek Environmental Education Center in Indianapolis welcomes everyone and guarantees a fun time for all!
Just the Beginning
With so much to experience, we’re happy to report this is only the beginning of what the new Grassy Creek Environmental Education Center offers. One of its biggest goals is to redefine the region’s community engagement and sustainability, which means that along with innovative playground features, the new park will also include the following:
Environmental center
Multi-purpose rooms
Picnic and bird-watching areas
New trails
Pavilions
(Eventual summer camps and other programs)
How does the project bring nature to life? For starters, it connects to an existing wetland trail where you can see plants and animals up close. The nature-themed features are sure to be a big hit with kids of all ages, a definite asset to the Eastside of Indianapolis, but as Cortright explained, really, to the entire Central Indiana region.
Playground equipment at Grassy Creek Environmental Education Center
Funding the Grassy Creek Environmental Education Center Project
With such a big project now complete, you may wonder how it was all paid for. Good question! We’re told funding comes from multiple sources, including the city’s Circle City Forward Initiative and the Lilly Endowment Grant. Most importantly, the upgrades will offer something for residents of every age and ability, from education to recreation, to the natural beauty of our environment. While you’re visiting the new location, don’t forget about the original Grassy Creek Park just down the road at 10510 E. 30th St. where you can still enjoy basketball and tennis courts, a splash pad, and open green space.
Let’s Go!
Stay tuned for an official opening date! Be ready to pack a picnic, plan a day trip, and come enjoy the new project near North German Church Road. It’s a fun, new spot that is bound to be cherished by the entire community for years to come.
Fresh air, sunlight, and the great outdoors… await!
MORE INFO: Grassy Creek Park is located at 10510 E 30th St, Indianapolis, IN 46229, however the new Environmental Education Center and Playground may be found at 3510 N German Church Road. Note: It is directly north of the Hindu Temple. Hours are dawn to dusk. To learn more, visit Grassy Creek Regional Park - Indy Parks & Recreation or call 317-327-7162.
