You won't see animals in cages at the Indianapolis Zoo. Instead, they are in habitats designed like the ecosystems the animals would live in out in the wild: Deserts, oceans, plains that are like African Savannahs and forests that simulate a tropical forest. There's another area called Encounters, which features bird species. The zoo's 65 acres contains 250 different species of animals. It's geared toward families and people of all ages and ability levels because it is completely wheelchair accessible.
When to Go and When to Stay Away from the Indianapolis Zoo
The best time to go to the zoo is morning, especially if you need to rent one of the electric carts, wheelchairs or zoo strollers that are available on site on a first-come, first-serve basis. Avoid weekdays in May and the first two weeks of June when the zoo is filled with students on school field trips. Go anytime in April, September, October and early November when the animals are more active in the cooler temperatures.
Must See at the Indianapolis Zoo
- The International Orangutan Center with eight orangutans that you can watch and interact with.
- The free daily Dolphin Presentation and the underwater dolphin viewing dome in the Oceans exhibit.
- The Animal Keeper Chats where you can learn first-hand about the animals from those who care for them.
Admission to the Indianapolis Zoo
Admission prices vary widely based on when and where you buy your tickets, and whether you buy individual tickets or specially-priced packages. Prices also vary by season. The lowest prices are online from the zoo's website. Discounts apply for children 2 to 12 and seniors. Children under 2 get in free. Military discounts are also available, and all current and former members of the military are admitted free on Memorial Day and Veterans Day.
Parking at the Indianapolis Zoo
Parking is free to zoo members, and $10 or less for non-members, depending on the size of your car, RV or camper. If the parking lot is full, you may be able to park at the adjacent White River Gardens.
Public Transportation to the Indianapolis Zoo
The Indy Go Route 8 bus takes visitors to and from the Indianapolis Zoo every 15 minutes, with other stops, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. weekdays, and from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. every 30 minutes Saturdays and Sundays. Check the indigo.net website for more updated information.
Food Options at the Indianapolis Zoo
The zoo has several cafes and food carts on the grounds so you don't even have to leave when you need to grab a meal or a snack. Ice creams, drinks or pretzels can be bought at the food carts, or eat at one of the cafes for burgers, barbecue, pizza, hot dogs, salads, veggies with hummus, yogurt parfaits and fresh fruit. You can't bring your own food into the zoo, but can picnic at tables provided at the entry plaza.
Insider Tip for Visitors to the Indianapolis Zoo
Buy your tickets online from the zoo's website before you go for the best price and to avoid standing in line at the window. To avoid heavy traffic in downtown Indianapolis during rush hours and special event dates, route your trip to the zoo from the west side of town.
Author's bio: Susan Hoskins Miller is a writer who lives in metropolitan Indianapolis and works in a university library. In her free time, she enjoys being with her family and exploring places in the Midwest.
The Soldiers and Sailors Monument is one of the most recognized attractions in Indianapolis. Located in the center of downtown, the monument has a Civil War museum, gift shop and observation deck. Visitors can enjoy a 360 degree view of Indianapolis from the observation deck and take the stairs or elevator down to the basement to see the Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War Museum.
Parking and public transportation at Soldiers and Sailors Monument
Metered parking is available along Vermont Street, Meridian Street, Pennsylvania Street and Michigan Street in Indianapolis.
Best and worst time to go to the Soldiers and Sailors Monument
The Soldiers and Sailors Monument operates on an unusual schedule. From May to October, it is open Wednesday through Sunday. From November to April, it is open Friday through Sunday. One of the worst times to go to the monument is during lunch hour because it is crowded with people eating on the stairs.
Admission to the Soldiers and Sailors Monument
Admission to the interior of the monument is free. You can also visit the observation deck for free by using the stairs. The elevator costs in the $1 to $2 range, but veterans are able to use it for free.
Must see/do at the Soldiers and Sailors Monument
The Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War Museum, located in the basement of the monument, is a popular attraction that gives visitors the chance to learn more about the war's impact on Indiana. In addition, you do not want to miss the chance to see downtown Indianapolis from the observation deck. You should also explore the exterior of the Soldiers and Sailors Monument to discover its dramatic sculptures, art and bronze work.
Other places to visit near the Soldiers and Sailors Monument
The monument is located near multiple restaurants, and you can choose from sophisticated entrees or casual dining. In addition to its large yogurt selection, PEARings Frozen Yogurt & Beyond has inexpensive sandwiches, wraps, crepes, salads and pastries. If you are looking for a more refined menu, then you can try Fogo de Chao's seafood or filet mignon.
Insider tip for visitors to the Soldiers and Sailors Monument
The stairs have 362 steps and are narrower as you get closer to the top, so it is easier to take the elevator.
Author's bio: Lana Bandoim is a freelance writer and editor who lives in Indianapolis. Her work has been published on websites ranging from Examiner to Technorati.
