Free Things to Do in Indianapolis for Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2025

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is more than just a holiday—it’s a day to come together as a community, reflect on the progress we’ve made, and commit to continuing Dr. King’s legacy. Indianapolis is full of meaningful ways to celebrate, whether it’s attending inspiring events, visiting local museums, or supporting Black-owned businesses. Let’s make this MLK Day a time to honor the past while building a brighter future together.

Indiana Historical Society Free Admission Day

Enjoy free admission with activities like designing shopping bags for Charity Cares Clothing Closet, creating a community mural, and experiencing Dr. King’s speeches in the theater. Donations of new socks and underwear are encouraged.

• Date: January 20, 2025
• Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Location: Indiana Historical Society, 450 W Ohio St, Indianapolis, IN 46202
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Indiana State Museum Free Admission Day

Participate in hands-on activities, chat with curators, view artifacts, and enjoy multicultural performances. Free parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Date: January 20, 2025
• Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Location: Indiana State Museum, 650 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204
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Eiteljorg Museum Free Admission Day

Engage in a community art project, learn about Dr. King’s famous quotes, and share your dreams on the museum’s comment wall. Free parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Date: January 20, 2025
• Time: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Location: Eiteljorg Museum, 500 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204
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Indianapolis Zoo Free Admission Day

In celebration of MLK Day, admission to the Indianapolis Zoo will be free. Free parking will be available in the surface parking lots at the Indianapolis Zoo on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Date: January 20, 2025
• Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Location: Indianapolis Zoo, 1200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46222
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NCAA Hall of Champions Free Admission Day

Experience interactive exhibits and activities. Free parking will be available in the Victory Field parking lot on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Date: January 20, 2025
• Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Location: NCAA Hall of Champions, 700 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204
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Free shows at IMAX Theatre

IMAX will be playing four free shows of “The Blue Angels in 2D,” the 46-minute special edition version of the fan-favorite documentary from last year. All showtimes are first-come, first serve and are scheduled for 11:15 a.m., 12:45 p.m., 2:15 p.m., and 3:45 p.m.

Free parking will be available at the White River State Park on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Date: January 20, 2025
• Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Location: Indiana State Museum, 650 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204
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The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis Free Admission Day

In celebration of MLK Day, admission to The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis will be free. The museum will host a live musical performance by the Griot Drum Ensemble. The museum will also feature special programs commemorating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., including birthday card decorating, a discussion and reflection of quotes by Dr. King, and an introduction to mixed media.

The museum is collecting ingredient donations for cakes, including boxes of cake mix, containers of icing and candles to benefit Mid-North Food Pantry, Inc.

• Date: January 20, 2025
• Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Location: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, 3000 N Meridian

Ice Skating at Elevance Health Rink at Bicentennial Unity Plaza

Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day with free ice skating sessions. Enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and pizza while supplies last, along with fun and educational activities honoring Dr. King’s legacy. Advance booking is recommended to secure your skating time.

• Date: January 20, 2025
• Time: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
• Location: Elevance Health Rink at Bicentennial Unity Plaza, adjacent to Gainbridge Fieldhouse
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Conner Prairie Free Admission Day

Experience free admission to Conner Prairie with family-friendly activities, including a march through the grounds and a blood drive.

• Date: January 20, 2025
• Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Location: Conner Prairie, 13400 Allisonville Rd, Fishers, IN 46038
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Support Black-Owned Businesses

As you celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day, take the opportunity to support Black-owned businesses across Indiana. Whether it’s grabbing a bite, shopping, or discovering unique services, your support helps strengthen the community and honors Dr. King’s legacy.

Explore Black-owned businesses near you at indyblackbusinesses.com/explore