Children's Museum of Indianapolis, Indianapolis

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis holds the title of the world's largest children's museum. Spanning a massive 472,900 square feet (43,933.85 square meters) across five floors, the museum attracts over one million visitors annually. It is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and is celebrated for its commitment to interactive family learning.

The museum boasts a collection of over 120,000 artifacts divided into three core domains: the American Collection, the Cultural World Collection, and the Natural World Collection. Notable exhibits include a simulated Cretaceous dinosaur habitat, a historic carousel, a steam locomotive, and the stunning Fireworks of Glass Tower and Ceiling, a four-story glass sculpture by artist Dale Chihuly.

Founded in 1925 by Mary Stewart Carey and local civic leaders, the museum is the fourth-oldest children's museum in the world. It has grown considerably since moving to its current site in 1946, with its present building completed in 1976 and expanded four times since. The museum’s unique spiral ramp serves as a central architectural feature, offering stroller, wheelchair, and walker accessibility across all levels.

The Children's Museum hosts a wide array of activities, including plays at the Lilly Theater, classes and workshops for schoolchildren, and traveling exhibits. It is also a hub for community engagement with thousands of annual events, including fundraising efforts. Whether exploring the wonders of history, science, or art, the Children's Museum of Indianapolis stands as an enduring monument to curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning.