Indianapolis, January 9, 2026
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis has announced several engaging exhibits that will debut in the near future. These attractions are designed to inspire curiosity and provide immersive learning experiences. Highlights include ‘Tiana’s Joyful Celebration,’ an interactive Mardi Gras exhibit, and the reopening of the ‘All Aboard!’ Gallery featuring a historic steam engine. These new offerings emphasize the museum’s commitment to fostering creativity and innovation, while also contributing to the local economy through cultural and educational investments.
Indianapolis, IN – Children’s Museum Unveils Exciting 2026 Exhibits
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis has announced a series of engaging exhibits set to debut in 2026, promising to captivate visitors of all ages. These new attractions aim to inspire curiosity and provide immersive learning experiences, showcasing how cultural and educational investments bolster local economies.
As Indianapolis thrives under the spirit of entrepreneurship and community engagement, the new offerings at the Children’s Museum highlight the importance of fostering creativity and innovation. Less regulatory burden can pave the way for more initiatives like these, attracting families and tourists alike, and strengthening the Marion County economy through learning and recreation.
Tiana’s Joyful Celebration
Opening on March 7, 2026, “Tiana’s Joyful Celebration” invites guests to join Princess Tiana in preparing for a Mardi Gras parade. Visitors can decorate parade floats, design costumes, cook traditional gumbo, rehearse with a spasm band, and participate in a special performance. This exhibit is recommended for children aged 6 to 10.
All Aboard! Gallery Reopening
After a period of renovation, the “All Aboard!” Gallery is set to reopen in fall 2026. This exhibit features an 11,000-pound steam engine designed by Reuben Wells in 1868, offering insights into the history of transportation and the innovations that shaped the industry.
Centennial Ferris Wheel
In celebration of its 100th anniversary, the museum introduced a 110-foot tall Centennial Ferris Wheel on March 15, 2025. This attraction provides panoramic views of the museum campus and downtown Indianapolis, enhancing the visitor experience and offering a thrilling perspective on the city.
Fireworks of Glass
Visitors can marvel at the “Fireworks of Glass,” a 43-foot tower composed of over 3,200 pieces of red, yellow, and cobalt blue blown glass. Created by artist Dale Chihuly in 2006, this installation is one of the museum’s most striking features, embodying artistic achievement and attracting crowds year-round.
Broad Ripple Park Carousel
The Broad Ripple Park Carousel, a National Historic Landmark installed in 1917, offers a nostalgic ride experience. With its intricately carved animals, the carousel continues to delight visitors with its historical charm, emphasizing the value of preserving Indiana’s rich heritage.
These upcoming exhibits and attractions underscore the museum’s commitment to providing diverse and enriching experiences for families and visitors in Indianapolis. As community investment strengthens local educational endeavors, the potential for economic growth continues to flourish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is “Tiana’s Joyful Celebration”?
“Tiana’s Joyful Celebration” is an interactive exhibit opening on March 7, 2026, where visitors can join Princess Tiana in preparing for a Mardi Gras parade. Activities include decorating parade floats, designing costumes, cooking traditional gumbo, rehearsing with a spasm band, and participating in a special performance. This exhibit is recommended for children aged 6 to 10.
When will the “All Aboard!” Gallery reopen?
The “All Aboard!” Gallery is scheduled to reopen in fall 2026 after undergoing renovations. This exhibit features an 11,000-pound steam engine designed by Reuben Wells in 1868, offering insights into the history of transportation.
What is the Centennial Ferris Wheel?
The Centennial Ferris Wheel is a 110-foot tall attraction introduced on March 15, 2025, in celebration of the museum’s 100th anniversary. It provides panoramic views of the museum campus and downtown Indianapolis, enhancing the visitor experience.
What is “Fireworks of Glass”?
“Fireworks of Glass” is a 43-foot tower composed of over 3,200 pieces of red, yellow, and cobalt blue blown glass. Created by artist Dale Chihuly in 2006, this installation is one of the museum’s most striking features.
What is the Broad Ripple Park Carousel?
The Broad Ripple Park Carousel is a National Historic Landmark installed in 1917. It features intricately carved animals and continues to delight visitors with its historical charm.
Key Features of the Upcoming Exhibits
| Exhibit | Opening Date | Description | Target Audience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tiana’s Joyful Celebration | March 7, 2026 | Interactive Mardi Gras parade preparation with Princess Tiana | Children aged 6 to 10 |
| All Aboard! Gallery | Fall 2026 | Reopening of the steam engine exhibit after renovations | All ages |
| Centennial Ferris Wheel | March 15, 2025 | 110-foot tall Ferris wheel offering panoramic views | All ages |
| Fireworks of Glass | Ongoing | 43-foot glass tower installation by Dale Chihuly | All ages |
| Broad Ripple Park Carousel | Ongoing | Historic carousel ride with intricately carved animals | All ages |
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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
