What an amazing venue for a private event! I attended a fundraiser for Storytelling Arts of Indiana on April 11, 2026. The Basile Theatre has wonderful sound and acoustics. The entry area had plenty of room for the crowd of 100+ plus food tables, a bar with drinks, and a merchandise table. The private parking lot is also a plus. The entry to many events, like the fundraiser includes parking. read more

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My wife and I visited here on January 3rd. We didn't know it was the last day of the Festival of Trees, but that made for a pleasant surprise as we toured the building and saw all the different trees. Along the way, we also learned about the Interurban train line, Hoosiers in the Vietnam War, and Hoosiers who resisted the Klan through the exhibits on display. We had a lovely time touring the museum and enjoying both the architecture and the history. Unfortunately, we encountered a great deal of trouble when we went to leave. The person leaving who was two cars ahead of us got their credit card jammed in the gate. It appears that their card paid for the next person in line, but then the reader stopped accepting tickets. The mechanism rejected my parking ticket and required me to pay $25 for a "lost ticket" fee in order to leave. There was already a line of cars trying to get out and the woman whose credit card was jammed was standing in the way of the machine. I walked back into the museum and spoke to someone at the ticket booth who took down my information as well as the ticket and receipt, but this all runs contrary to the museum's promise on their website that they offer free parking. I've tried numerous times to contact the museum for a refund. I was even assured on January 6th that one was forthcoming, but the museum never processed it and will no longer respond to me. I am an ardent supporter of museums and of studying history, but the Indiana Historical Society's unwillingness to correct the errors of their own infrastructure - errors that line their pockets - do a disservice to the passionate work of the docents who presented the history within the building itself. read more

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Very friendly staff and great Indiana exhibits, but the highlight of visiting during the holiday season was definitely the Festival of Trees! So many beautiful trees! read more

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If you have not been to the Indiana Historical Society, this is the time to go. The Festival of Trees is a holiday highlight with over 70 trees decorated by various charities, universities and businesses. The trees are a fabulous venue for Christmas photos and a great way to learn about local organizations. In the Cole Porter room, you can learn about Cole and request some of his great songs. There is currently a special basketball exhibit with info about Hoosier greats. Then kids can design a Converse basketball shoe and post to a rotating screen. Parking is free for members and they have a dedicated lot. But you need to get there early. The views of the adjacent canal are beautiful. The gift shop is interesting. And there is a fun cafe on the canal level. What's not to love. read more

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Tradition lives on to visit IHS for the Festival of Trees! There were 80 trees on display this year. We always have fun exploring and voting for our favorite tree. read more

Indiana Historical Society - Museums Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

If you haven't seen the Eva Kor's exhibit, please go because it is leaving soon! Eva also built a small museum in Terre Haute called Candles. It is small, but very much worth the drive. Only our 2nd year for the annual Christmas Tree Display and it did not disappoint.....thank you to all the vendors. Veterans are FREE along with their partners, makes for a lovely afternoon. And they have their own parking lot, easy. read more

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A Must-Visit Gem in Indiana! I had the pleasure of visiting the Indiana Historical Society Museum today, and it was an incredible experience! The interactive Eva Korr "Auschwitz to Indiana" exhibit was deeply moving and heartbreaking. The Cole Porter room, modeled after a bar at the Waldorf Astoria, is filled with Porter mementos, including his Tony Award. A lovely chanteuse in the room asked me what song I'd like her to sing of Porter's, and "You're the Top" made my day! As I strolled around, she shared various fascinating facts about Porter's life--marvelous! The Chuck Taylor exhibit was fantastic, and the exhibit on how Hoosiers fought back against the KKK in Indiana was both poignant and inspiring. On the fourth floor, a wonderful series of photos about Gene Stratton-Porter, an American writer, nature photographer, and naturalist from Indiana, caught my eye. There are also smaller exhibits on conservation and protests. This museum is amazing, and I can't wait to return! Highly recommended! read more

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My family and I came here to look at all the beautiful Christmas trees and to take pictures. It was my first time going and we had a wonderful time. I liked how laid back it was, you literally walk around and look at all the different tree decorations and man it gets serious in there with how unique the trees look. It takes a lot of effort to decorate those trees. When you first walk in, you are able to get your tickets. They have military and educator discounts which is amazing and sweet. We got our wristbands and were free to roam around and look at the different floors that had Christmas trees. They also had a mini eatery in the lower level headed out to the canal and that was nice too. If you've never been- def try it out. It was a cool experience. Pros Christmas trees Entrance discounts Beautiful environment Cons Maybe some activities would be cool to do in there for the kids and family. Thanks! read more

Indiana Historical Society - Museums Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

Music on the Canal is a wonderful peaceful setting while listening to music. We went to the Beatles tribute (Beatless) and sat on the west side in the shade. Free parking and a short walk down the hill to set up your chairs or blanket. Or you can reserve a table in advance. We bought food from their menu and enjoyed barbecue sandwiches and corn salad while watching mama and baby ducklings in the canal, swan paddleboats going by, and people watching. read more

I have passed this museum many times and was curious as to what was in there. I finally had the opportunity to go and took it. This is one of the best museums that I have been to, hands down. I wish I could give it a few more stars, but I guess 5 will have to do. I have no idea how I was the only one there other than it being a weekday. This place should be packed. They have a private parking lot with free parking. They validate your ticket with admission. The museum is eye catching on the outside. It is well organized, clean and very trendy on the inside. Even though the building looks huge. Exhibit space is small. You can cover all the exhibits under 2 hours. This place is so very interactive. My first stop was the Destination Indiana exhibit. They had a film playing that showed Indianapolis's history. Then they had some kiosks set up where you could pick what you want to learn about, including Indiana railroad, sports, special topics. They have revolving You Are There exhibits. During my visit there was a two on the first floor and one on the second. One the first floor there was the Madam CJ Walker, Empowering Women and Celebrate Indianapolis (1920 Centennial) exhibits. The exhibits were awesome. They had a ton of photos, packed with information and had cool videos. That alone would have been enough, but they take it to another level. They actually have real live actors for you to interact with that take you back to that time. They are pros. They will not break character. The actor playing Madam CJ Walker was amazing. The first floor is also home to the Cole Porter Room. It is a room designed in the likeness of New York's famed Waldorf-Astoria Hotel and a tribute to Peru, IN composer and song writer Cole Porter. This is one of the museums permanent exhibits. They have the Gennett Studio exhibit on the second floor and some more actors for you to interact with. And like the other actors, they still in character. The second floor is also home to a library and history lab, where you learn about historical preservation. This museum is located right off the canal and has a patio area that would be awesome to hand out on in warmer weather. You will definitely learn a lot of Indiana visiting this museum. I really loved, loved, loved this museum. I will surely be back. I love that they have different exhibits, so it can virtually be an entirely different museum every time you visit. read more

The building is beautiful, and lots of interesting displays to learn Indiana history. Check their website, as they often have special deals on admission. Do not miss the Cole Porter room! Sandy was singing the day we visited, and they take requests! Such a lovely experience to enjoy her lovely singing of your favorite Cole Porter tune. After our visit, we enjoyed a lovely walk along the canal. read more

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Went during the festival of trees this year. I have never been here before and it is a very interesting place. The trees are beautiful and I was able to find all but one pickle on the certain trees that had them. There are a lot of trees to see. Didn't find the elf on the shelf! I would like to come back to Visit the Eva Kor exhibit. read more

Indiana Historical Society - Museums Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

I came here with my family for the festival of trees. I wasn't expecting much but to look at trees and that's what it was. I wasn't expecting staff to be short with me and lacking communication when you ask them something. I also didn't expect that the only African American mr and mrs clause to be tucked off into a corner behind an elevator. I also have to mention the lack of African American history here. There was just a great lack of diversity here and there's nothing here for children. It was very disappointing and embarrassing. read more

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How can I even pick one favorite tree???? I can't believe I missed out on this for so many years. This was by far my favorite local Christmas attraction. I will definitely be back. The volunteers were wonderful and the staff were all friendly and helpful. I loved hearing the history behind the Cole Porter room and the Indianapolis pageant and festivities. The exhibits are interesting but the living history enactments put it over the top. As we walked through, every tree we saw was my new favorite tree. It was so difficult to pick a winner. We stopped at the Stardust Terrace cafe for hot chocolate. The hot chocolate is totally worth a stop! They had plenty of COVID-19 precautions in place. Guests had to purchase tickets in advance for timed slots. There wasn't an overwhelming amount of people like other attractions so we had time to leisurely walk through and not feel rushed. There were arrows on the floor to direct the glow of traffic. Not everyone was following the arrows but most were. Each room had a limited number of people to ensure that everyone could keep 6 feet apart. There was also staff/volunteers stationed in each area to help with this. read more

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"Back home again in Indiana, And it seems that I can see The gleaming candlelight, still burning bright, Through the sycamores for me." Most of the country overlooks Indiana. We're widely known for corn and auto racing. "Hoosier," a moniker I wear with pride, is synonymous with "hick" or "yokel" to a lot of our too-cool-for-school countrymen on the coasts. Fortunately, Indiana is far more than corn, racing, and yokels. The Indiana Historical Society (IHS) is proof. The IHS is nearly as old as the State of Indiana itself: founded in 1830 when the Hoosier State was just 14-years-old. It's a living organization, and it grows as our homeland ages. It's an organization celebrating and documenting the contribution of all Hoosiers from the indigenous to the European settler, the Jew and Gentile, and people of all shades. "The new-mown hay sends all its fragrance Through the fields I used to roam." A trip to the IHS is more than a visit to a museum. It's an exploration into what makes us Hoosiers, and the indelible mark we've made on the world entire - through art, science, technology, politics, and business. Just see the Cole Porter Room if you're wondering how a man from a small Indiana town became a major influence on Broadway and Hollywood. Really, upon entrance, you'll feel as though you've traveled through time. Stay awhile. The IHS also has special exhibits highlighting Hoosier achievements through history - and not all Hoosiers were born in Indiana. A relatively new exhibit details the journey of Indiana Sachem and Sagamore of the Wabash, Eva Kor, a Romanian-born victim of Nazi atrocities. Through technology, the visitor is transported to Eva's childhood, including the tragic times she spent imprisoned at Auschwitz. Despite Eva's death, her spirit lives in the virtual space where visitors can continue to interact with her, learning of her journey to peace and forgiveness. If you visit the IHS, whether it be for a casual stroll or to participate in one of its many projects, you'll be proud of this land. "When I dream about the moonlight on the Wabash, How I long for my Indiana home." read more

I had been here once before for a work event, but just visited as a paying customer recently to see the Festival of Trees exhibit which was excellent. 92 trees on 4 floors, each with a different sponsor and theme. There were a lot of really fun, creative designs; we particularly loved the Indiana Parks one that had fun adding Pawnee related items to the tree, complete with Little Sebastian on top, in addition to photos of the real parks around Indiana. Themes of other trees included some historical events, such as the ratification of the 19th amendment and the moon landing, as well as Indiana businesses, including a tree made out of wine bottles. There was live music in the Cole Porter room; the pianist and vocalist were both great! The architecture of the building alone is worth a visit; the grand hall is particularly impressive. I had avoided visiting until now because, frankly, I'm not a fan of interactive exhibits featuring historical interpreters playing roles from time gone by (e.g. cell phone rings..."what demon is in your pocket?!" Sigh...). I'm fine with watching actors...I just don't like joining in on the acting...I know others love it...just not my thing... Anyway, we did visit the exhibits on Angel Mounds and Madame Walker, and it is very easy to avoid going into the role playing areas while still enjoying the rest of the exhibits. Both were excellent and I learned a lot...and no role playing...I stayed in December 2019...read letters and other informative materials, looked at photos, and now want to go visit Angel Mounds and read more about Madame Walker. Parking in the lot off New York Street is validated with paid museum admission which is $13 for an adult. read more

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I almost literally work right next door to the Indiana Historical Society yet, for whatever reason, I simply have never reviewed it. I have such memories of the Indiana Historical Society and their home inside the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center, a large building that hosts the Indiana Experience yet also feels almost hidden amongst downtown Indianapolis. The Festival of Trees is hosted here each year. It's an opportunity for the beautiful Indiana History Center to light up with beauty and classicism and the true holiday spirit. I'll always remember coming here on the day I received Indianapolis's Community Service Award including a paver on Community Service Plaza. I received the award from former Mayor Bart Peterson and the Indiana History Center was a wonderful host. I've attended exhibits here. I've attended special events here. The Indiana Historical Society collects and preserves Indiana's unique stories. It's a Smithsonian affiliate and a member of the International Coalition of Sites of Conscience. The Indiana Historical Society is one of the United States' oldest and largest historical societies and the oldest state historical society west of the Allegheny Mountains. It's a private, nonprofit membership organization functioning since 1830. IHS maintains the nation's premier research library and archives on the history of Indiana and the Old Northwest and provides support and assistance to local museums and historical groups, publishes books and periodicals, sponsors teacher workshops, and provides youth, adult and family programming including Indiana's participation in National History Day. Did you know that IHS also appoints and trains all of Indiana's 92 county historians. Did you even know that every Indiana county has an official historian? I personally think this is very cool. IHS moved into their current 165,000-square-foot headquarters in downtown Indianapolis in July 1999. It's built on the site of the prior Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church and if you're driving by it you'll likely notice the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox official marker. IHS offers regular exhibits, collections, the IHS press, an in-house cafe called Stardust Cafe (and if you're aware of Indiana history you should know the Stardust reference from Indiana native Hoagy Carmichael), the Basile History Market, and they have facilities you can even rent including an auditorium. It's right on the Canal - beautiful setting - and they offer a free 135-space parking lot that does include accessibility. The Basile Theater is a 290-seat theater. There's so much to love here and so much to love about the work of the Indiana Historical Society. If you've never been, I highly recommend a visit. Prices are reasonable, especially when compared to other downtown museums - $13 for adults, $12 for Seniors (60+), $5 for Youth (5-17), and under five folks are free. Access Pass members are $2 (ID required) and they offer a variety of discounts noted on their website. Indiana Historical Society is a true gem in Indiana. It would be a wonderful visit as part of a downtown Indy day trip - perhaps taking in the Eiteljorg, White River State Park, the Indianapolis Zoo, or other spots. Honestly, there are so many things to do in downtown Indy that a day trip should really be a weekend. Indiana Historical Society does well in terms of access including accessible parking, accessible doorways, and a good majority of the building itself is easily accessible. Current exhibits include Gennett Records, Cole Porter, Madame C.J. Walker, and others. Watch for special events and you can even consider a membership! read more

We came here for the Festival of Trees today. I have been to the Historical Society before but never to the seasonal events. We were lucky to come on a Sunday with free street parking but they do validate parking in their lot. The festival of trees showcases 75 trees throughout the museum each decorated from different businesses and organizations. You can also look in the different exhibits. It was pretty busy so it made it a little hard to get through each area. The staff were friendly and helpful. It was a fun Christmas event I would recommend for the family read more

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What a great historical museum, filled with so many fun facts!! Decorated with countless sponsored by countless organizations and local groups. The Madame C.J. Walker was beautiful organized and curated. I really appreciate the actors whom depicted life, and vernacular. The overall atmosphere was perfect for my 4 month old, he was extremely stimulated by the lights on the trees yet not overwhelmed by sounds. If you're in the area I highly recommend a visit!! read more

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This was my first year of going to Festival of Trees. It's 4 floors of Christmas trees from different organizations and businesses. It was so festive from every kind of tree and decorations from conventional to unconventional. There was a tree made from chairs and-one made from wine bottles. There was a tree in a race car and one that looked like a penguin and even one made of basketballs. So needless to do this has to be a yearly thing from now on. I love Christmas and love to decorate so I can enjoy the time that was put into these trees. There was also an area where kids could color and make things to take home with them it was so cute my two-year-old grandson had a good time. read more

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Definitely a nice place to visit--especially around the holidays! I showed up when they were setting up their Christmas trees and everything already looks lovely. Parking is in their lot and validated by the museum. Their gift shop also has awesome prices. I was not expecting this to be the type of museum where the staff in the exhibits are in-character all the time (you have to re-frame your questions!) but I really enjoyed the experience. I came here for the Cole Porter room to check out his stuff. I like that they have it set up as their interpretation of the Waldorf Astoria. They have a lounge singer stationed there and you can choose from a "menu" of Cole Porter songs to her performed live by the singer (and assisted with a player piano). read more

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This very nice building is in a convenient location downtown. I was there tonight with a friend to see Antonio Sacre, at the Storytelling Arts of Indiana. The show was very enjoyable. The event did require masks and vaccination cards upon entry, and this was clearly stated on the tickets to the event. This was my first time going to any event at this location, and I thought it was nice. I would love to return for other events. There is a parking lot off the street for the society, which is a plus for downtown! read more

When I think of the words "Christmas" and "Indianapolis," I think of the Indiana Historical Society. It's solely because of their hugely popular and supremely beautiful Festival of Trees, in which they fill their museum with decorated Christmas trees -- trees that have been decorated by local organizations and businesses all over the Indianapolis area. If you love Christmas as much as I do (and I love Christmas a lot), you need to make the Festival of Trees a part of your holiday to-do list. It will put you in the Christmas mood. Not just because you will get to gawk at the dozens and dozens of beautiful Christmas trees, but because you'll also get to say hello to Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, who roam the halls and hand out candy canes to visitors. But this isn't your generic department-store Santa and Mrs. Claus. These are Clauses who look like they stepped out of a vintage Christmas card. Mr. and Mrs. Claus look so vintage and amazing, it's hard not to take a picture with them (and yes, you can take a picture with them). You can also take part in the scavenger hunt for the Christmas elf that's hiding somewhere in the museum. When you find him, you can go to the front desk and receive your reward! My kids loved this part the most. During our visit, we also got to see a performance of The Nutcracker, which was free with admission. It was about 20 minutes long, but it was a beautiful performance, and we got to check out the theatre that resides in the museum, which is directly in front of the admissions counter. So yeah, if you're into Christmas at all -- or know someone who loves Christmas -- you need to visit the Indiana Historical Society during the holidays. It is such a festive, beautiful place to spend an hour or two! read more

This is what you call a "hidden gem" that isn't quite so literally hidden. Standing proud along the canal walk in downtown Indy, the Indiana Historical Society is both a venue and museum rolled into one. With three floors of exhibits and event space, you've hopefully found yourself here looking to learn or randomly strolling inside after winding up on their doorstep on the canal. Or! You might have found one of their nifty admission coupons around town. The beautiful thing about the Indiana Historical Society is that it is constantly changing - I especially love their living history exhibits "You Are There" with reenactments and interactive displays. In the summer, you'll find concerts along the canal. This museum is heavily focussed on Indiana stories and really gives Hoosiers a lot to be proud of and learn. You'll also find a variety of event offerings that might surprise you. For example, Indy's Premier Bourbon Celebration in late February will celebrate tasting and learning with more than a dozen distilleries from Indiana and beyond. read more

Disclosure: I wrote this in June and forgot to post it! My friends daughter's theater troupe was in town for a few hours and we (the adults) ducked in here to beat the heat while the kids rode the swans on the canal. We did not purchase tickets to see the exhibits, but we were told we can wander around the hallway and hangout at the Stardust Terrace Café. Wandering around the hallways of this beautiful building and getting a preview of Indiana's history, I definitely regret that I've lived in Indy for almost 13 years and I don't know much about the history here. From what I could see there are a lot things to be seen and learn from and I'm definitely making plans to explore the exhibits and learn about the state I live in. The staff at the Stardust Terrace Café were very nice and I'm so use to it now, but my Cali friends were amazed at the hospitality of Hoosiers. They are not used to "Ma'am, Sir, excuse me, thank you" and they are not wrong; definitely another thing I've taken for granted living in the Mid-west. The hubs and I plan on doing a proper tour soon! read more

I'm writing this review after my recent Festival of Trees visit. This year there are some impressive holiday exhibits around Indy to check out, but the price tag is $15+. For those with families or on a budget, you might be wondering what else is out there with a cheaper price tag. The good news: the Festival of Trees exhibit is $9 per adult, and it's worth your 90 minutes of perusing the museum and admiring as you make your way to all 80 trees (you can also check out the museum's other exhibits). Shout out to the businesses and organizations who decorate trees for all to see: I was impressed with the creativity that went into your decorations! I also enjoyed the opportunity to vote and choose my top three. Fingers crossed one of my picks will be crowned! All in all, if you need some good Christmas cheer, I suggest you pay a visit to the Indiana Historical Visit! read more

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Husband brought me here while we were in Indiana for Thanksgiving. During this time the Indiana Historical Society was having a little Christmas tree competition. We spent most of the visit looking at all the different trees decorated and set up by various societies and businesses in the city. It was arranged nicely and despite there being plenty of people, didn't feel too crowded. We stopped to check out a few of the typical exhibits and found a lot of interesting distractions. I hope to give these a closer look during another visit. The few staff we spoke to were all friendly and helpful and really added to the positive vibes of the space. Thankfully there were reminders to submit your vote for your favorite tree near the exit, or we totally would have left without doing so. I had such a blast here when I came during the holiday season. I'm definitely going to do a visit during a different time of the year. read more

They really do a good job with putting Indiana's past right up and into your face here. Changing exhibits pretty much assure you will see something different on each visit. Everything from an actual polio machine thing to whiskey stills from prohibition times have been on display and explained in detail with period dressed characters. Admission prices seemed very reasonable and they offer deals if you sign up with your email. I come here often for the free concerts on the canal. Tonight the band was playing popular hits from the 1980's. Sadly most bands that are hired to play here end up singing the same old tunes. But, it's free! And it's outside in the summer! Sun in your face and music coming at you so it is an excellent spot to visit on THURSDAY! People watching is fun as joggers, stroller people, kids on various wheeled objects are all going by in front of you. Don't forget an umbrella for shade and / or rain. Come early if you want to see some of the exhibits inside. They have nice restroom facilities on the canal level, along with a decent snack bar. You could easily spend half a day here even without the free concert. read more

Indiana Historical Society - Museums Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

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I'm so glad I made my way over here. As I was reviewing TripAdvisor this wasn't on the top of my list. However, it was Monday and the place I wanted to go was closed so I stopped in here. There is a nice gift shop which has the typical touristy trinkets. This is only of note as I found it really hard to find such gifts and memoirs anywhere else in the city (e.g., Indy magnets, Christmas ornaments, etc...). The gift shop staff were really friendly and started talking to me about the exhibits that were currently showing. They had a $5 special (normally $13) I think so I checked it out. I have never stumbled across exhibits like these before. I really liked them. There were 1-2 live actors in each exhibit. First there was the typical museum fare of signage and displays, then a room with the live hosts. I recommend reviewing the museum displays and coming up with a question or two about what you read before going into the live rooms. In the live rooms the hosts speak to you in character taking you back in time. I really enjoyed their presentations. It made the history more memorable than just reading signs. It was also cool to be able to ask specific questions and get additional information on the things you learned in the exhibits. I was the only person in each live room at the time so I had a personal tutor of the time period. It was a really cool experience! read more

50 decorated trees are displayed this year and it felt like walking around a elegant hotel lobby. All the trees were creatively decorated by local organizations and businesses. Besides the trees, I got to learn about how businesses, transportation, athletics and much more came about to Indiana. There were also actors in some exhibits who you get to interact with. There's a small cafe and gift shop that has local themed trinkets available. Also, the museum validates their own parking so don't use street parking. Highly recommend visiting during this holiday! It wasn't crowded at all since they are doing advanced tickets. read more

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We recently went to the festival of trees at the society. Over 70 trees decorated by various charities, sponsors and vendors. It was wonderful and we will go every year from now on! Great trip for families and seniors! read more

This was my first visit and I have to say, I was impressed. If you are into the holidays, I highly recommend going to see the Festival of Trees. The tour was really well done and you can vote on your favorite tree. The other exhibits here were great too. They have actors who pretend to be part of the time period for whatever exhibit you are checking out. If you appreciate history, you are sure to get a kick out of that part. Everyone we met stayed in character! Social distancing was well done. Highly recommend going during the week. We visited on a Tuesday to find the place almost empty. Check it out! read more

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Beautiful building! I got to check out the Madam CJ Walker exhibit. The exhibit is interactive with actors that take you back in time to tell you about her shop and her products. I had no idea she lived in Indy and grew her empire from the ground up. The exhibit also includes the timeline of her life; showcasing her items and giving you an in-depth dive into history. I highly suggest visiting and checking out the exhibit to learn more about Madam CJ Walker and other Indiana historical exhibits. Great for the whole family and a great way to spend the morning learning. read more

I'm not impressed. Went here to attend a wedding. I won't show the pics of the wedding.. the wedding itself was nice the bride floated in from the canal sitting in the gondola. It was a beautiful day. The Historical Society has a lovely view of the canal but also has dirty elevator carpet, bathrooms needed cleaning and the food served at the wedding was just mediocre at best. Bland chicken and just ok salmon. It's time to test ALL workers preparing food for Hep C wear gloves and mask.. they also need to have a food handling license. read more

Indiana Historical Society - Museums Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

We enjoyed this great historical place in Indy. We learned a lot about the state and how things came to be in this state. There are living history pieces throughout. The thing that I liked the most was the singer Josiah he was in the Cole Porter room. Overall this was a nice half day activity. read more

I love the historical society. It's a great place to visit or volunteer at - they have amazing events which are unique and super fun! The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Check out their Festival of Trees during the holidays; very fun! Also their Starlight Cafe may be the best on location food source I've had for a museum. read more

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I recently went to the "Festival of Trees" at the IHS with my wife and friends. Since we chose a Tuesday evening, there was a choir (Encore Vocal Arts) singing Christmas music while we strolled through the collection of 72 Christmas trees. Each of the trees had a unique theme. Some were devoted to a particular state university, while others were from state businesses or charitable organizations. The rest of the building also had some holiday decor as well. The trees are located on the canal level, the first and second floors, and on the fourth floor which is only accessible via the elevator. So, there was some delay waiting for the single elevator to transport people to and from the different levels. Although we didn't take time to explore the interactive exhibits with live period characters, we did stroll into the Cole Porter Room which also had live entertainment performing during the time the carolers were taking breaks. It looked like a cabaret from the Waldorf-Astoria. Not sure if they serve beverages in this barroom setting. There is also a cafe on the canal level that is open during the day (10 to 4) and concerts on the canal during the summer. One of my favorite things about the IHS is that they have an immense archive of historical photographs that you can view from your home computer. As someone who worked downtown over 30 years ago and witnessed the amazing transformation, I really enjoy seeing images from a time before urban blight had brought the downtown to its lowest point. (So glad it is finding a resurgence!) If you have any interest in history and enjoy interaction, this is the place for you. If you are someone who simply likes to look at pieces and read about them, then you will probably want to wander over to the State Museum a block away. Review #206 read more

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The Indiana Historical Society provides a unique approach to presenting history to visitors. Rather than just walking your way through exhibits and reading plaques, signs, etc., you are actually apart of the exhibit. "You are There" exhibits Prior to entering, you are greeted and provided a brief explanation of the time and scene of which you are about to enter. Upon walking through a fog, with a picture of the scene that you are about to enter projected upon it, you are transported through time. The exhibit itself is truly interactive and depends on your participation, which can be a little awkward. You can look around, but the overall goal is to learn by asking the actors questions. The actors portraying the people in the pictures stay true to the time. They must stay true to the time and answer your questions based on the knowledge of that time. Destination Indiana Upon entering, there is a loop of short videos about various topics on Indiana. There are seats to sit and watch the videos. There are 8 stations that have two seats as well as a bench around individual touch screen televisions where you can explore the different counties and/or per-configured journeys on various topics through pictures. You can spend more time than anticipated as you click your way through. - Ticket prices are pretty reasonable at $7 for an adult. -During the summer months, Concerts on the Canal takes place on Thursday night. You can reserve spots or arrive early for free seating off the canal walk. Hours are extended during this time, plus, you visit the exhibits for free. read more

Wow- Indiana Historical Society does it up for Christmas time! What a beautiful picture of Hoosiers coming together- from local businesses beautifully decorating trees, Indiana Historical Society graciously opening their doors and hosting, and young and old Hoosiers alike gathering to see the magic in action. This is certainly becoming a holiday tradition for my family. I also look forward to exploring the Historical Society and what else they have to offer over the course of the year. read more

Indiana Historical Society - A yelp tree at the festival of trees! - Museums Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana

If you are a history buff or a museum enthusiast, the IHS is a must see. I visited during the Christmas Holiday Season and enjoyed the display of 88 Christmas Trees scattered throughout the building. The IHS offers themed events throughout the year. You can visit IHS and take a step back in time and interact with the "You are There" simulations. This is a place that both children and adults can enjoy. read more

Indiana Historical Society - Festival of Trees - Museums Near Me - Indianapolis, Indiana