5 Places For Nature Lovers Near Indianapolis

Nature lovers will definitely love all the outdoorsy attractions in Indianapolis, IN. Despite being a large city, Indianapolis is full of fun things to do for those who love nature. Let’s take a look at five places to visit if you enjoy being in green spaces.

Indianapolis Zoo

The Indianapolis Zoo is centrally located in downtown Indianapolis IN in White River State Park. The area offers easy access to various bike trails in the city. The Zoo also includes a botanic garden and an aquarium, so you’ll have 64 acres of plant and animal life to explore. There are both indoor and outdoor exhibits and nearly 1,300 animals that call the Zoo home. Getting to the Zoo is easy via the multiple interstates with exits nearby.

Eagle Creek Park

Eagle Creek Park is an unexpected gem in Indianapolis, IN, with spacious trails for walking and beautiful observation areas. As the name suggests, the park is home to many different kinds of birds, including herons, eagles, and ospreys. The trails are well-kept and easy for most people to walk or hike. A scenic lake can also be found in the park and includes a kayak boat launch area. Many professional bird-watchers visit this park, but it’s also great for nature lovers and their families.

White River State Park

This park is also home to the Indianapolis Zoo, but it’s a nice place to visit in its own right. The White River State Park is right in downtown Indianapolis IN and features 250 acres of trails, green spaces, waterways, and big attractions like the Zoo. Occasionally, the Park also plays host to a farmer’s market and food vendors, as well as concerts in the nearby amphitheater. If you’re looking for nature walks and stunning views of the city, this park is the place to be.

Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Garden

The conservatory is located in Garfield Regional Park, and it features a 10,000-square-foot rainforest exhibit. Also located on the grounds are a three-acre sunken garden, various fountains, and a garden for children. This attraction is not far from the Indianapolis Zoo, so it’s a good combination trip for visitors to Indianapolis. The tropical conservatory will transport you into a rainforest environment with tropical plants and water features with fish.

Holliday Park

Holliday Park has everything from playgrounds, nature trails, gardens, and ruins of old 19th-century architecture. This park features 94 acres of various green spaces and hiking trails. It also features a 13,000-square-foot Nature Center, a rock garden, and an arboretum. This park is a great place for families and can take an entire day to fully explore.

Indianapolis is for Nature Lovers

Indianapolis, IN, offers many fantastic hidden gems in the city for nature lovers and anyone who likes to explore. Whether you like to hike, bird-watch, or take in scenic views, there’s a place to visit in Indianapolis.