Indianapolis Museum of Art, Indianapolis (must see)

The Indianapolis Museum of Art (IMA), located at Newfields in Indianapolis, is an esteemed encyclopedic art museum that serves as a cornerstone of a sprawling 152-acre campus. This vibrant campus rebranded as "Newfields" in 2017, includes notable attractions such as the Lilly House, The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres, The Gardens at Newfields, and the Beer Garden, among others. The museum itself retains the name "Indianapolis Museum of Art" as both the title of its central building and the legal entity behind the Newfields organization. The campus offers diverse seasonal exhibitions, classes, tours, and events.

Founded in 1883 by the Art Association of Indianapolis, the IMA is the ninth-oldest and eighth-largest encyclopedic art museum in the United States. Its permanent collection boasts over 54,000 works spanning African, American, Asian, and European art. Notable highlights include Neo-Impressionist paintings, Japanese Edo-period works, Chinese ceramics and bronzes, pieces by Paul Gauguin and the Pont-Aven School, and a substantial selection of J. M. W. Turner's art. Additionally, the museum has a strong focus on contemporary art, textiles, fashion arts, and modern design.

Originally part of the John Herron Art Institute, the museum opened its first permanent space in 1906 before moving to its current location in 1970. Over its history, influential figures such as suffragist May Wright Sewall and philanthropists Eli Lilly, Booth Tarkington, Herman C. Krannert, and Caroline Marmon Fesler have played pivotal roles in shaping its legacy. Contributions from Hoosier Group artists like T. C. Steele and William Forsyth have also left a lasting impact.

The IMA is renowned for its innovation, particularly in open-source technologies and institutional transparency, setting a benchmark for collaboration within the museum community. Its rich heritage, extensive collection, and commitment to creativity make it a cultural beacon in Indianapolis and beyond.