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Indianapolis Canal Walk

4.5 (206 reviews)
Closed 7:00 am - 8:00 pm
Updated 2 months ago

Indianapolis Canal Walk Photos

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Scenic walkway with many bridges
Rebecca S.

If you're looking to enjoy the canal walk a great place to start is White River State Park. They have a visitor center there where you can pick up a map which is very helpful. You basically want to look for the tall colorful mosaic that's pretty much your starting point for the canal. We accidentally got confused and started on the trail that goes alongside the white river and that's very different than the canal. There are entrances to all the major museums right off the canal. There are bikes, swan paddle boats as well as kayaks that can be rented to change up how you see things. You'll see art, memorials and wildlife as you walk. We were really surprised that there weren't shops, restaurants or cafes that you can easily access while walking, but maybe it was still too early in the spring for some of those things to be open. There are certainly signs of wear and graffiti on some of the murals but overall it's a very enjoyable walk and a great free activity in the city of Indianapolis. Round -trip from the visitor center to the end of the canal on 11th St. is a 3 mile walk. Be sure to use restrooms at the visitor center before you leave as there are very few places you can access along the canal itself. During the spring of 2026 when we visited, there were a number of sections where there's construction being done along the canal and they had temporary metal walkways ensuring that you still have full access on both sides of the canal. My teenage boys had fun, stopping and playing at Colts playground. It's great for all ages! There are some really neat monuments of remembrance along the pathway including a 9-11 one and one for the USS Indianapolis. Wear good walking shoes and plan to bring your own water bottle. Enjoy!

Aaron S.

I imagine this is a much better attraction in spring, summer, and fall while winter and the cold weather don't feature events and as many people walking around. We did see plenty of ducks, geese, birds, and squirrels all around the canal area where we walked. Nice shortcut to get to the state Capitol and other nearby attractions. We saw the 9/11 Memorial just above the canal and were glad to have stayed in a nearby hotel where you can walk right down the steps to walk along or cross over the canal on a bridge. Next time we're here, we'll be sure to explore some more of the canal and if in nice weather, maybe take a gondola ride.

Odalis G.

At the museum before entering the Canal, there is a little spot called 'The Legacy Theather.' Should check it out and walk through there. It's interesting, touching and FREE. The Canal itself is very peaceful and enjoyable. You can walk, skate, ride your bike, etc...

Trish L.

Great place to get some steps in on a nice day! We strolled around the canal, played on the playground, checked out the giant koi fish swimming, and even saw a group setting up big neon letters for a marriage proposal. There was a little business renting out bikes and those trolley looking ones that seat 2+. Unfortunately, you can't ride any of the local Bird scooters along the canal; they have the area listed as a "no flight zone". It was clean, no visible trash, and we felt safe during the day. We saw several people running along the paved path. Would recommend for a peaceful activity in the city.

Such a beautiful and peaceful spot right in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. I loved walking along the water. The Canal Walk is perfect for a relaxing stroll, jog, or even a paddle boat ride. It's clean, peaceful, and well-maintained, with plenty of benches and scenic views along the way. It's the perfect place to take a stroll, grab a coffee, or just unwind after a busy day. The views are gorgeous, especially around sunset, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafés nearby if you want to make a whole outing of it. I've only come here once before, but I can see why locals rave about this attraction so much. Definitely one of my favorite spots in Indianapolis. Winter is probably not as cool of an experience here, but who knows. I'll have to make another visit during that time just to see what it's really like.

View towards downtown along the canal
Christina L.

If you have ever wishes Indy was more of a waterfront city you probably just haven't visited the canal yet! This is one of our favorite places to take a walk in Indianapolis. Start on the north end by the Stutz to get a coffee or a pastry and then walk downtown to White River State Park where you can easily access the State Museum, Eiteljorg, zoo, concert venues and lots more restaurants. With canalside condos and cafes and parks, this feels like walking in Charleston or some other well known waterfront community. There's a lot to see and great duck and people watching with gondolas and paddle boats in the water. There is also a big playground for kids on the north end (best for kids who can climb; there is not a lot for toddlers). In the summer, they have free fitness classes along the canal, so check out their social media pages. My only critique is that I'd love to see even more local restaurants fill the available retail. Although it does get crowded, we always bring our giant stroller and have plenty of room. Historically, I know there have been some safety issues after dark along the canal; I think that has improved with livestream cameras to the police, but I would still stick to the daylight hours (as I would in any secluded area of a city). All in all, this is one of the best free things to do on a sunny morning or afternoon in Indy, especially with kids.

Fatima G.

Indianapolis Canal Walk is pretty much on my list for Indy's tourist spots and a warm summer/fall day. You can choose and pick to walk, picnic, rent boats, pedal swans or simply stroll around the massive park! The park itself never gets too crowded and is such a lovely spot to enjoy Indy's downtown views and simply soak in the summer feels. I ended up visiting on a day where an event was happening at Canal walk despite which there wasn't too much crowd on the other side of the canal. We found street parking which was much easier on the other side. There's attendants at the entrance who help you with garage parking options. A safe park to get in anytime through the day.

7/3/21
Aileen C.

Located Downtown. This is a fun exploration of walking the city of Indy through the 3 mile canal loop. This is also considered to be a romantic walk as well. There's many things to see like the different underpass murals, gondolas, paddle boats, kayaks, segways, bicycles, vendors selling drinks and ice cream novelties. I've had a few walks here with my family. It is a very beautiful walk. Alongside the canal are mostly residential buildings. It is quiet most of the times. You will also find a USS Indianapolis Memorial as well. No swimming allowed, however, there are designated "Float days" you can take your tube and float on the water. If you are ever visiting Indy, I highly recommend stopping by and staying at the canal for awhile.

Helen H.

The Canal Walk is a 3-mile loop that runs from White River State Park up to 11th St. It is one of the main tourist attractions in Indy and is conveniently located in downtown. There is a -NDY sculpture located here, where you can be the "I" in Indy.

Enrique C.

Beautiful canal walk. Right outside my rental on our Indianapolis trip. Ducks and geese on the canal. It's not the season but it looks like when it gets warmer you can rent pedal boats. Also a few cafes and restaurants along the canal but again closed for the season. Still was able to enjoy the call and take nice pictures

Kristine H.

Oh, what a beautiful sight it was. I truly enjoyed my walk around the canal--so peaceful, quiet, clean, and infused with nature. The weather was perfect for the walk; I didn't want it to end. It had a few entrances and exits from the sides and a bridge to cross to the other side. Highly recommended spot to visit if you're in the area.

John B.

The canal, which has abandoned any industrial function it once had, is now a tourist attraction. Boating is available, but the main use will be for bikers and pedestrians to traverse the touristy part of the city. Several museums and other attractions lie close. Outside of the museums, I didn't see a ton in terms of water fountain/bathroom facilities, and I noted with some annoyance that because the place is below the street level it does not get a great wireless signal, but it's definitely worth a walk.

Joseph G.

Indianapolis canal walk is a beautiful and peaceful walking and recreational area that is below the main street levels of downtown Indianapolis. My family and I were in town for the weekend my daughter cheer Competition held inside the Convention center. Over the two days while waiting between performances and awards ceremonies me and sometimes my family walked the surrounding areas and explored as the public art scene here is plentiful and creative. So while discovering and stopping to look at the 9/11 tribute that sits out in front of one of the major canal steps I found Thai wall by accident. I noticed some boats you could rent (ones here in December in the snow so not an option on my day) so I walked down closer to the canal and noticed it was a walking trail full of lovely views and public art. As you walk along the canal each Underpass has giant murals on each side of the canal. Very pleasant place to walk and take in a very different side of Indianapolis. Overall This was one of my favorite places I discovered while exploring the area. I'll absolutely come back and finish checking out the canal. Hopefully in warmer weather next time so we can take full advantage of all its features.

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Great environment with easy walking in the heart of the city. There are surrounding shops and venues that surround it as well.

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Ask the Community - Indianapolis Canal Walk

How much does it cost for the paddle boats?

The swan paddle boats are $42 an hour. They fit up to five people.

How long does the canal stay green after they dye it for the St. Patty's Day kickoff?

The southern area (where it's "released") will stay green for a few days, but I'd encourage you to get there the day of or the day after as that is when it's the strongest!

How much is it to rent a paddle boat?

$35/hour with a 4-person capacity. You can rent a double kayak for $25 and a single kayak for $20 - they supply life jackets.

How much is it for a gondala ride?

It depends on whether you want a public or private ride. Old World Gondoliers offers private rides for 2-8 people ($150 for 30 minutes plus 20% gratuity to the singing Gondolier; $300 for 60 minutes plus the same gratuity). Essentially, with a… Read more

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Review Highlights - Indianapolis Canal Walk

Indy definitely has it going on and utilizes this space and experience for the benefit of locals and tourist.

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Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Gardens - Dragon for the castles  and dragon theme this year.

Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Gardens

4.6(150 reviews)
3.0 mi

This is a great spot for locals and visitors alike! We stopped by from out of town thinking it…read morewould be a good winter activity for our little one while it's too cold to walk much outside. The conservatory exceeded our expectations! Admissions is affordable at $5 per person, but it was free the day we visited because of a reptile show! We got to see tortoises, skinks, salamanders, tarantulas, snakes, and more! Inside the conservatory, there are fish and a couple other critters permanently on display. The signage around the gardens is informative and interesting- and the plants are simply beautiful! So well cared for and healthy. I could have walked around the loop 5 times and noticed new things each time. There are several places to sit and relax throughout the gardens (we fed our baby on one of the benches). There is a restroom and coat racks- which you'll need because the gardens are quite warm! What a great find for the afternoon! Bonus that it's located right in a park, by a library, several cute places to stop and eat, and public art. The only downside I can think of is that there wasn't a ton of parking- probably more accessible when there isn't a special event going on!

There is something about plants and nature that brighten up my mood. I came here on a gloomy rainy…read moreday, and it was the perfect decision to lift up my spirits. It's close to the highway so easy access and near my house - double plus. The admission to get in was $4 per person, and they take card - another plus for being inexpensive. They have plants for sale and host events/activities, the lady working was friendly and explained all of that. They have brochures in the front as well. Inside is so astonishing, there is so much to see. It's so beautiful, I adore and admire all of it. I love how things are labeled and have informational tidbits about the plants. They have ponds with live fish and waterfalls around. They have a restroom and it had a window so of course there is a plant inside, I love it. I'll have to take note next time I go here that it was very warm inside, I felt very hot so dress accordingly. There is parking available. Check hours before coming, holidays vary.

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Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Gardens
Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Gardens
Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Gardens

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Holliday Park - Bird at the ruins

Holliday Park

4.7(149 reviews)
7.0 mi

This place was cute and a nice stop on our vacation. We showed up just after a couple had gotten…read moreengaged which was cute. Let them sit and take pictures while we waited to go explore, luckily my son was patient :P we were going to dinner after this so we didn't stay to long.

It's been a decade since my last review of Holliday Park, so it's time for an update. I've been…read morevisiting this park since I moved to Indiana more than 10 years ago, and it had stayed reliably the same, until recently. Now, there's a brand-new playground! The playground at Holliday Park has been completely redesigned as of November 2025. The new playground is nature-inspired, with lots of wooden elements. My favorite part of the playground is the loose parts area, where kids can make teepees and build forts with the collection of natural elements that are there: sticks, tree limbs, stumps, rope, wooden crates, straw and other things that allow kids to use their imagination to create. The playground is designed for all ages, but to me, it skews slightly in favor of younger kids. Which is nice for parents of younger children, because most playgrounds seems to be built for older kids. But there are some elements for older kids here, like the huge rope climbing structure. A niggling thing: There is zero shade on the playground now. None. Which isn't a big deal on overcast or cool days, but once summer comes around, this playground is going to be insufferable. They got rid of some of the trees that used to be where the new playground is, which is a shame. One cool thing, though, that I've never seen in any other playground: hammocks! There's an area near the trees with a bunch of hammocks that kids can lie in and just relax under the trees. The rest of Holliday Park is the same. There's still a splash pad by The Ruins during the summer. There's still a nice nature center. There are still lots of trails to explore. This is one of the best parks in Indianapolis, in my opinion.

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Holliday Park - It's hard to beat their nature center.

It's hard to beat their nature center.

Holliday Park - Squirrels on trail 2 along the river

Squirrels on trail 2 along the river

Holliday Park - Statue at Holliday Park

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Statue at Holliday Park

White River State Park

White River State Park

4.7(109 reviews)
0.4 mi

White River State Park is one of the most popular parks in the city, and for good reason! The…read morenickname for it is Indy's backyard. With riverfront and canal-front trails, a pedestrian bridge to the zoo, proximity to the city, and the amphitheater, so much goes on down here. Over the years, my favorite special events have been the food truck festival and the solar eclipse festival. The area is kept to be pedestrian friendly, with parking being underground to the park and wide walking and biking lanes. During warmer weather, I often see a hotdog vendor for a nice and easy lunch. There's lots of sculptures around the park too, which helps to keep things scenic. There's also a huge lawn space for running around.

This park is such a gem! As I write this review while listening to "Here Comes The Sun" by The…read moreBeatles, I feel like I'm right back walking through the beautiful pathways and taking in skyline views. From the canal and trails to the open green spaces, there's something here for everyone to enjoy. Plenty of smaller festivals and walks/runs are held at this park, and it truly seems like the perfect spot for them. My favorite festival that happens here is the Taste of Indy, which takes place in the summer and the MS Walk is always a well organized event here. I also really enjoy walking the paths behind the zoo, especially in the spring when the cherry blossom trees are in bloom. Absolutely gorgeous! Ps - As beautiful as it is, be sure to stay alert while on the pathways!

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White River State Park - Finish by Terrence Karpowicz.

Finish by Terrence Karpowicz.

White River State Park
White River State Park

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Colts Canal Playspace - Outside

Colts Canal Playspace

4.3(24 reviews)
0.5 mi

If you're looking for a great park to take the kids, get a walk or run in, or even hop on a bike,…read morethis spot is perfect! The playground equipment is super nice--you can definitely tell they put some money and effort into making it great. It's right next to the canal, so once the kids are done playing, you can head out for a walk or rent a bike and ride along the water. There's even a dog park area, which is a huge plus if you want to bring your pup along. They have poop bag stations stocked and ready, so no worries if you forget yours. The whole place was really clean too--I didn't see any trash around, which shows people actually care about keeping it nice. The only downside is that there aren't any restrooms by the park. So definitely make sure you (and especially the kids) empty your bladders before you get there, otherwise you'll end up leaving to find a bathroom nearby. Parking is mostly street parking, and yes, you'll need to feed the meter. But if you go on a Sunday or a holiday (like I did), you're in luck--free parking! And honestly, who doesn't love free parking downtown?

This place is really dang cool. Tons of things for the kids to climb around on and explore. The…read moresurface was pretty spongy so if one did fall it would most likely not be too bad. I took my family here to get them amped up before heading down the road to goto the awesome Childrens Museum. This is a must visit park if your kids love climbing on EVERYTHING!

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Colts Canal Playspace
Colts Canal Playspace - The motor bike rental by the canal

The motor bike rental by the canal

Colts Canal Playspace - Posing in front of the playground

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Posing in front of the playground

Indianapolis Canal Walk - hiking - Updated May 2026

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