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Forget spring cleaning—it’s Spring Break at the world’s largest children’s museum! If you’re planning a visit (or visits) to the museum, keep these tips equipped:
1. 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. This year, meet Jeanne White Ginder, see a show in the new Schaefer Planetarium and Space Object Theater, or encounter dinosaurs up close! Find the program that’s just right for your kiddos. Each program and event is categorized by type, interest, and age.
2. Purchase tickets ahead of time—or consider a membership
Avoid the admission line and secure the lowest price with Plan-Ahead Pricing using our online ticket calendar. By buying up to two weeks in advance, you can save up to 25%! Choose the “email tickets” option and there’s no need to print—just show your tickets on your phone! Even better, the purchase of a ticket can be put toward a membership! With a membership, you can visit the museum as often as you’d like all Spring Break—and for a year after your purchase! Members also receive a 10% discount on guest admission tickets. Learn more about memberships.
3. 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 social narratives, visual checklists, 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. If you’re just looking for a place to settle down and get some quiet from the crowds, visit the Paleo Art Gallery or Power of Children®. Read more about our inclusivity and accessibility offerings here.
4. Bring a backpack and 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. Stroller parking is available outside of exhibits, so having a backpack helps keep your items secure and with you at all times.
5. Park for free
There is free parking in our garage and lots on Illinois Street. Additional surface lot parking is available in lots north of the garage on Illinois Street. The Skywalk is connected to the second floor of the garage for safe entry into the museum. Stroller- and wheelchair-accessible ramps and elevators make moving into the museum a breeze.
6. Take advantage of everyday amenities
The museum offers free wifi throughout, and coat check, lockers, and storage rentals in the Welcome Center for a small fee. 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, for those who prefer a quiet space. There is always a museum concierge on Level 1 to answer and assist with questions and recommendations.
7. Experience the museum traditions
Join us in the Atrium at 10 a.m. for a good-morning greeting from Rex, our museum mascot. Take a ride on the Carousel, which 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.
8. Get a science fix
Real science is everywhere! With three different labs in-house, we keep paleontologists, archaeologists, and scientists on-staff to answer your toughest questions. There’s always something to see between the three: Archaeology Lab, Paleontology Lab, and the STEMLab and SciencePort!
9. Catch a show
Live theater is a memorable experience in Lilly Theater. Check here for a listing of current shows and times. Be sure to get your ticket (free with admission) first thing, because they’re only available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Head to the Lower Level ticket booth and choose from two showtimes a day during peak Spring Break.
10. 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!
