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Instead of couch-sitting during Fall Break, take advantage of the time off to keep your little learners busy—at the world’s largest children’s museum, we have five floors of fun to discover! If you’re planning a visit (or visits) to the museum, keep these tips equipped:
Use our online Calendar to plan your visit.
Our online calendar gives you the inside scoop on all the exhibit programming and events happening each day at the museum. Find the program that’s just right for your kiddos—each program and event is categorized by type, interest, and age.
Purchase tickets ahead of time—or consider a membership!
Avoid the admission line with online ticket purchasing. Even better, the purchase of a ticket can be put toward a membership! With a membership, you can visit the museum for free all Fall Break—and for a year after your purchase! Members also receive a 10% discount on guests’ admission tickets. You can learn more about memberships here.
Expect inclusivity and accessibility for all children, regardless of unique abilities.
We require all-staff to attend accessibility training to ensure a positive visit for anyone with special needs, including, but not limited to, children with autism spectrum disorder. We provide sensory stories and maps for a clear understanding of what to expect around the museum, as well as sensory kits to help during your visit. We strive to offer barrier-free access for wheelchair users. Read more about our inclusivity and accessibility offerings here.
Pack a snack.
The Food Court has many fresh, hot food choices—including allergy-friendly menu items—for a sit-down meal during your museum adventure, but you won’t regret having something small for the family to munch on. While food is not permitted in exhibits, outside snacks are allowed in designated areas around the museum, including the Food Court. The best spot for your snack break? The tables behind the cafe overlooking Dinosphere have quite the view!
Park for free.
There is free parking in our garage and lots on Illinois Street. The Skywalk is connected to the second floor of the garage. Stroller- and wheelchair-accessible ramps and elevators make moving into the museum a breeze.
Take advantage of the everyday amenities.
The museum offers free wifi throughout, and coat check, lockers, and storage rentals in the Welcome Center. If you are caring for a baby or toddler, we have restrooms and diaper facilities on all levels along with a private nursing area in Playscape. There is always a museum concierge on Level 1 to answer and assist with questions and recommendations.
Experience the museum traditions.
The Carousel has been in Indiana since 1917. We’re happy to house this classic attraction and offer carousel rides free for members and $1 for nonmembers. Wind-down the day by joining us for our end-of-the-day parade, led by the museum’s mascot, Rex.
See everything in season!
The museum is bringing the fun to Fall Break this year with Haunted House: Cursed Castle (tickets here), and our three new exhibits, Dow AgroSciences ScienceWorks, Beyond Spaceship Earth, and Doc McStuffins: The Exhibit! Also, our favorite dinosaur, Bucky, is back in a crowd-favorite, interactive show! See our Fall Break page for special visitors, and activities happening including Paleopalooza, Archaeology Day, and more!
Lastly, but most importantly, have FUN! The Children’s Museum is a place for interactive play. Discover and discuss alongside your kids to learn together and create memories that last a lifetime. Make it an extraordinary day!
