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    University Park

    4.6 (11 reviews)
    Open 6:00 am - 11:00 pm

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    Brittany S.

    This park is gorgeous. From shady spots featuring picnic benches to the beautiful water fountain in the center that anchors the park's design, University Park is underutilized and under-appreciated to say the least. This park runs between Meridian and Pennsylvania Streets with the Indiana War Memorial as its neighbor to one side and the Federal Building to the other side. It's also only one bloc from the south start of Mass Ave and two blocks from Monument Circle. Bonus: Croute Bakery by Cunningham Restaurant Group just opened up across the street (pastry picnic, anyone?!). In addition to plentiful shade, benches and picnic benches, you'll also find statues of Abraham Lincoln and President Benjamin Harrison. Fun fact from Downtown Indy: University Park is the oldest portion of the Indiana War Memorial Plaza, once the planned site of a university in 1821. Five stars for design, shade and beauty and four stars for the lack of public activation. I suppose a portion of that problem is on the citizens who could be using it more and proposing fresh ideas?

    Benjamin Harrison by Henry Charles (1908).  The 23rd President of the United States
    Ken N.

    I really like this park. Not only does it have a lot of greenery (both trees and gardens), but it is filled with fountains and statues too! Back in 1821, when Alexander Ralston drew up the plat map of Indianapolis, plat 25 was designated as University Square. Over time, the name has changed slightly to become University Park. In 1887, a statue of the first Vice President of the United States from Indiana, Schulyer Colfax was placed. Colfax was the 17th VP who served under the 18th President Grant (Andrew Johnson was the 17th President after Lincoln's assasination and the VP position was left vacant during the remainder of Johnson's term.) On the side of the statue's base is a relief of Rebecca and Eliezer at the Well in honor of his establishing the Rebekah Degree organization. In 1908, a statue of Benjamin Harrison, our 23rd President and Indiana's only one, was placed. The sculpture was created by artist Charles Henry. In 1914, the park was redesigned by George Kessler (yes, that's the same Kessler that the boulevard is named after). The Depew Memorial Fountain was centered in the park in 1919. The surroundings of the fountain were designed by Henry Bacon. In 1923, the original "Pan" and "Syrinx" sculptures were installed by famed local artist Myra Reynolds Richards. Sadly, both original statues were stolen later. In 1934, "Seated Lincoln" was created by Henry Hering whose work can also be seen on the obelisk in Veteran's Memorial Plaza (two blocks north) and adorning the Indiana World War Memorial on the block immediately north. He created the relief figures at the top of the memorial as well as the "Pro Patria" statue on the southern steps. In 1973, artist Adolph Wolter created replacements for the Pan and Syrinx statues, but used his own designs instead of following Richards' originals. Sadly, the Pan was stolen again and has been replaced by a third Pan by Roger White in 1980. Then after it was stolen, White created a fourth Pan in 2005. What is it about small sculptures that thieves keep stealing them? Anyway, the park is easily within walking distance for most downtown workers who can pry themselves away from their desks long enough to enjoy the setting. Review #1864

    Nicole S.

    This place is absolutely gorgeous. A relaxing area to stroll, read, or take some beautiful pictures. A must see in Indy.

    Fountain with Indiana war memorial in the background

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    8 months ago

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    8 months ago

    A quaint area with lots of history and good places to eat. We rented a sociable bike and enjoyed the paved bike route.

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    7 years ago

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    2 years ago

    The location was a wonderful setting for our grandson's small, laid-back wedding. The fountain was the perfect backdrop.

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    11 years ago

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    Review Highlights - University Park

    Other than Garfield Park, I can't think of another fountain I love so much in Indy.

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    Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Gardens

    Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Gardens

    4.6
    (153 reviews)
    2.9 mi

    The conservatory offers a variety of plants, flowers, and serene views of the waterfall. The…read morewaterfall and fish pond was definitely my favorite view out of everything offered at the conservatory with their scenic views and decor. The sunken garden was an okay view, the fountains were beautiful but there wasn't any other foliage, flowers, or scenery out there to enhance the view. The garden definitely has potential to be better than it is.

    This is a great spot for locals and visitors alike! We stopped by from out of town thinking it…read morewould be a good winter activity for our little one while it's too cold to walk much outside. The conservatory exceeded our expectations! Admissions is affordable at $5 per person, but it was free the day we visited because of a reptile show! We got to see tortoises, skinks, salamanders, tarantulas, snakes, and more! Inside the conservatory, there are fish and a couple other critters permanently on display. The signage around the gardens is informative and interesting- and the plants are simply beautiful! So well cared for and healthy. I could have walked around the loop 5 times and noticed new things each time. There are several places to sit and relax throughout the gardens (we fed our baby on one of the benches). There is a restroom and coat racks- which you'll need because the gardens are quite warm! What a great find for the afternoon! Bonus that it's located right in a park, by a library, several cute places to stop and eat, and public art. The only downside I can think of is that there wasn't a ton of parking- probably more accessible when there isn't a special event going on!

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    Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Gardens
    Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Gardens
    Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Gardens

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    Holliday Park

    Holliday Park

    4.7
    (153 reviews)
    6.9 mi

    I haven't visited Holliday Park in several years, but I was glad I did this week. There is so much…read moreto see and do at the Park. The history of the park is interesting. I was glad to find plaques describing the Holliday family. John Holliday was a journalist who founded the Indianapolis News. The property of the Park was the country home for his family. Holliday donated the property to the City of Indianapolis to serve as a Park. The "Ruins" on the property were formally the entrance facade to the St Paul Building in New York City. Indy Artist, Elmer Taflinger, won the facade when the building was demolished in the 1950's. Taflinger designed the exquisite monument that now stands as a focal point in Holliday Park. The monument includes a water feature that kid's (and I) were playing during my visit. The surrounding garden and fountain are beautiful and provide a magnificent backdrop for photos. The Nature Center in the Park is currently housing summer programs for kids. There are two classrooms and an auditorium. A bird watching room and library are relaxing spaces to enjoy. A nature area on the other side of the building offers interactive activities for children. Trail 3 starts from the Nature Center and meanders through a lovely rock garden filled with perennials in bloom and trees. The trail is a perfect spot to watch birds. The playground is sprawling with multiple climbing features and slides. Shaded benches and lots of mature trees provide shade. The matting is cushy under the equipment to keep the kids safe. I saw a nearby pavilion with restrooms. I saw several parking lots. Signs mark where to find different venues. Bring sunscreen, water and wear bug repellent. Don't leave valuables in your cars according to signs.

    Holliday Park is a mix of nature and joy--once you go, you'll want to stay all day…read more From climbing towers and hillside play to hammocks under the trees, this park truly has something for everyone. Mix of natural play materials: turf, padded ground, rock & mulch Slides built into the jungle gym AND into the hills Lots of swings Open-ended building materials + natural loose parts play Bathrooms fairly close by Lots of trails + open space for exploring Small rock garden + historic ruins Fountain area where kids can splash and get wet Nature center on-site Hammocks + shaded areas for relaxing Plenty of seating for parents + cute little tables for kids This is one of those parks where kids can explore, climb, create, and slow down all in the same visit

    Photos
    It's hard to beat their nature center.
    It's hard to beat their nature center.
    Squirrels on trail 2 along the river
    Squirrels on trail 2 along the river
    The Ruins

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    The Ruins
    Indianapolis Canal Walk

    Indianapolis Canal Walk

    4.5
    (206 reviews)
    0.5 mi

    Goodness, have I walked the canal about 50 times now?!…read more It's such a unique experience for Indy to have some water space in the middle of the city. This 3 mile loop will take you from 11th Street down to White River State Park to access the green space and extra trails down there. The canal water itself is not super cute, where there can be litter, and the water is rather opaque. They do drain the canal every so often to keep it from getting too uncute. The sidewalks are kept nicer, though a few spots in front of apartment buildings could use some TLC. There are also a few spots where the sidewalk is not level, so take caution if that is an issue. It's mostly stair access to the canal, but I *think* I've seen an elevator around the Ohio street basin. The canal has a few businesses along it for your merriment. Notably, there is Fresco on the Canal (I have a separate review for this) which is open March-October. Eiteljorg museum cafe is open daily around the lunch hours (11-3) and can be accessed through their patio gate. Entertainment wise, there is more going on. I've done the swan boat rentals, where you can pedal around on the canal. This is quite a workout! Rental of swan boats and kayaks is near the Ohio Street basin. There is also the gondolas, where your gondolier can sing, and they've always sounded marvelous. There's also a few stations for the Pacers Bikeshare around the canal, which is free for Marion County residents. Any time the weather is right, you can find me getting my steps in!

    Nice river walk nearby center city area. It's refreshing looking at the water flowing through…read more We saw some fishes so definitely clean water for the city. Love the greens, bridges, arts around it. It would better with warmer weather for sure. I couldn't walk far because of the cold. But overall I love the scenery.

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    Indianapolis Canal Walk
    Indianapolis Canal Walk
    Look for this tall colorful mosaic to start your canal adventure!

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    Look for this tall colorful mosaic to start your canal adventure!
    White River State Park

    White River State Park

    4.7
    (109 reviews)
    0.8 mi

    White River State Park is one of the most popular parks in the city, and for good reason! The…read morenickname for it is Indy's backyard. With riverfront and canal-front trails, a pedestrian bridge to the zoo, proximity to the city, and the amphitheater, so much goes on down here. Over the years, my favorite special events have been the food truck festival and the solar eclipse festival. The area is kept to be pedestrian friendly, with parking being underground to the park and wide walking and biking lanes. During warmer weather, I often see a hotdog vendor for a nice and easy lunch. There's lots of sculptures around the park too, which helps to keep things scenic. There's also a huge lawn space for running around.

    This park is such a gem! As I write this review while listening to "Here Comes The Sun" by The…read moreBeatles, I feel like I'm right back walking through the beautiful pathways and taking in skyline views. From the canal and trails to the open green spaces, there's something here for everyone to enjoy. Plenty of smaller festivals and walks/runs are held at this park, and it truly seems like the perfect spot for them. My favorite festival that happens here is the Taste of Indy, which takes place in the summer and the MS Walk is always a well organized event here. I also really enjoy walking the paths behind the zoo, especially in the spring when the cherry blossom trees are in bloom. Absolutely gorgeous! Ps - As beautiful as it is, be sure to stay alert while on the pathways!

    Photos
    Finish by Terrence Karpowicz.
    Finish by Terrence Karpowicz.
    White River State Park
    White River State Park

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    Colts Canal Playspace

    Colts Canal Playspace

    4.3
    (24 reviews)
    0.5 mi

    If you're looking for a great park to take the kids, get a walk or run in, or even hop on a bike,…read morethis spot is perfect! The playground equipment is super nice--you can definitely tell they put some money and effort into making it great. It's right next to the canal, so once the kids are done playing, you can head out for a walk or rent a bike and ride along the water. There's even a dog park area, which is a huge plus if you want to bring your pup along. They have poop bag stations stocked and ready, so no worries if you forget yours. The whole place was really clean too--I didn't see any trash around, which shows people actually care about keeping it nice. The only downside is that there aren't any restrooms by the park. So definitely make sure you (and especially the kids) empty your bladders before you get there, otherwise you'll end up leaving to find a bathroom nearby. Parking is mostly street parking, and yes, you'll need to feed the meter. But if you go on a Sunday or a holiday (like I did), you're in luck--free parking! And honestly, who doesn't love free parking downtown?

    This place is really dang cool. Tons of things for the kids to climb around on and explore. The…read moresurface was pretty spongy so if one did fall it would most likely not be too bad. I took my family here to get them amped up before heading down the road to goto the awesome Childrens Museum. This is a must visit park if your kids love climbing on EVERYTHING!

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    Colts Canal Playspace
    The motor bike rental by the canal
    The motor bike rental by the canal
    Posing in front of the playground

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    Posing in front of the playground

    University Park - parks - Updated July 2026

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