The Best Winter Family Activities in Indianapolis, Indiana

Indiana is "blessed" to have four distinct seasons, and each of them offers its own delights for Hoosiers. Winter is no exception, and just because the weather turns cold does not mean that Indianapolis families need to batten down the hatches and hibernate until spring. Here are some of the very best winter activities that the Circle City has to offer.

Indiana Ice
The Indiana Ice carry on the proud tradition of minor league hockey in Indianapolis, a pedigree that includes the old Indiana Racers and Checkers. For those that might not know, the Checkers were Indy's entry into the World Hockey Association (WHA) in the 1970s and once counted Wayne Gretzky among its team members. Today's Ice present an exciting brand of hockey and play their home games in the Pepsi Coliseum at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. Check their web site for ticket information and game schedules.

Indiana Pacers
The Pacers have fallen on some rough times in recent years, but Indiana is undeniably a basketball state at heart, and the team has shown some signs of life this season. With Larry Legend (Bird) guiding the team, it's always interesting to see how the Pacers will fare. Check their web site for schedule and ticket information, and then head out to a Pacers home game at Conseco Fieldhouse.

Indianapolis Children's Museum
Consistently voted one of the best children's museums in the country, the Indianapolis Children's Museum (ICM) is a veritable wonderland for the whole family, and it's easy to lose a whole day wandering through the amazing attractions. From dinosaurs to American history to Star Wars, the ICM has something for everyone. Admission is less than $20 per person, and the museum is open most days from 10 am to 5 pm ET.

Eiteljorg Museum
With a tip of the cap to Indiana's rich Native American underpinnings, the Eiteljorg Miuseum allows visitors to step into the early American frontier and experience the art and culture that predate European influence by hundreds or thousands of years. Open Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm ET and Sunday from Noon to pm ET, the Eiteljorg is a great place for family learning and exploration. Admission is less than $10 per person.

Indiana State Museum
Located just west of downtown Indianapolis, the Indiana State Museum (ISM) provides families with a unique and comprehensive walk through Indiana history and culture. From prehistoric rock formations and creatures to an exploration of Hoosiers' roles in the United States' space program, ISM covers all of the bases. At an admission price of $7 or less per person, the ISM represents a great value. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm ET and on Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm ET.

Indianapolis Museum of Art
The Indianapolis Museum of Art gives Hoosiers the opportunity to view works of master painters like Picasso and T.C. Steele while also exploring various styles and learning some art history along the way. At an admission price of *FREE*, you really can't beat the value. Hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm ET and on Sunday from Noon to 5 pm ET.

Indianapolis Zoo
While you might not normally think to the zoo as a logical winter destination, the Indianapolis Zoo maintains regular hours throughout the cold season. The seasonal lights are beautiful, and the crowds are generally tiny, giving visitors the chance to take their time and really enjoy strolling through Indy's wild kingdom. The animals are there all year, so why not visit them? Be sure to check the zoo web site for seasonal hours and admission prices.

Skating at the Pepsi Coliseum
When the Ice aren't playing, you can still play on their ice. Public skating is available at the Pepsi Coliseum costs $5 or less per person, depending on age. Check their website and call the arena (317- 927-7622 ) to make sure that the rink is open before you go.

Don't let the winter doldrums get you down and keep you inside. Take the opportunity that the cold weather provides to explore some of Indianapolis' family gems. You might just learn something while building some great family memories!