Indianapolis Zoo & White River Gardens
Indianapolis Zoo
A zoo inside White River State Park, known for its dolphin shows, orangutan center and the greenhouses of White River Gardens.
The Indianapolis Zoo covers about 26 hectares and houses around 1,200 animals. It is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums as a zoo, aquarium and botanical garden at the same time. Highlights include a dolphin habitat viewed through an underwater tunnel, the Simon Family Foundation International Orangutan Center with an overhead cable system, the African Plains area where you can feed giraffes, and a shark touch pool. Next door, White River Gardens has glass greenhouses and a butterfly exhibit. Admission ranges from about $25 to $35 depending on the date, and it's best to buy online in advance. A visit takes about 3 to 4 hours. It lies west of downtown and can be reached on foot across the White River from the canal walk.
Opening hours
Approx. 09:00–17:00 (varies by season; check official website)
Nearby sights
- NCAA Hall of Champions
- White River State Park
- Indiana State Museum
- Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art
- Central Canal Walk
- Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library
- Indiana Statehouse
- Lucas Oil Stadium