Indianapolis Canal Walk
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I have been to the canal walk a few times. The canal walk is so beautiful to be able to get a nice walk or bike ride in at. This visit I had came for an event that was held on the canal. It was called Full Moon Yoga which was hosted by Indy cultural trail and Hot Room Yoga. There was an artist here named Lily Groot who was doing painted prints. She was completing 450 of them and I got number 39. The prints were beautiful. It was so nice getting to know Lily and how she rode her bike to the event with all her material. There was also black vegan there where you could order food and drinks. Hot Room Yoga instructed the yoga class. It was definitely a good workout especially to just take in nature. It was so beautiful as the sun has set and the moon came out. After feeling the burn on the canal they ended the event with a party. There was a DJ out playing nice music. There is so much to do out on the canal and you just never know if there may be an event out here.
Goodness, have I walked the canal about 50 times now?! It's such a unique experience for Indy to have some water space in the middle of the city. This 3 mile loop will take you from 11th Street down to White River State Park to access the green space and extra trails down there. The canal water itself is not super cute, where there can be litter, and the water is rather opaque. They do drain the canal every so often to keep it from getting too uncute. The sidewalks are kept nicer, though a few spots in front of apartment buildings could use some TLC. There are also a few spots where the sidewalk is not level, so take caution if that is an issue. It's mostly stair access to the canal, but I *think* I've seen an elevator around the Ohio street basin. The canal has a few businesses along it for your merriment. Notably, there is Fresco on the Canal (I have a separate review for this) which is open March-October. Eiteljorg museum cafe is open daily around the lunch hours (11-3) and can be accessed through their patio gate. Entertainment wise, there is more going on. I've done the swan boat rentals, where you can pedal around on the canal. This is quite a workout! Rental of swan boats and kayaks is near the Ohio Street basin. There is also the gondolas, where your gondolier can sing, and they've always sounded marvelous. There's also a few stations for the Pacers Bikeshare around the canal, which is free for Marion County residents. Any time the weather is right, you can find me getting my steps in!
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.
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!
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...
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
It's been a while since I've been to the Canal, but when I saw they were having a Full Moon Yoga Party, I knew I wanted to check it out and I'm so glad I did! The yoga was provided by The Hot Room Yoga, and I believe the event was in partnership with Indy Cultural Trail. There was also a local artist, Lily Groot, who was there creating free prints for at least 450 attendees. I got print 13. Honestly, it was such a great event! You could purchase items from Black vegan cafe food truck, while we hung out and watched the sunset. Then around 8:30 PM, we turned on the glow lights they provided and got ready to do yoga under the full moon. The yoga session was about an hour. It was definitely challenging as you really just had to listen on what to do, but it felt so good for my body, mind, and soul. There was something really special about doing yoga outside, surrounded by the Canal, with the sunset fading and the full moon coming out. It was a vibe. I'm really glad I got to experience this! There's another one coming up in September, so if you've never been, you should definitely give it a try, it was free! Such a fun and unique Indy experience! read more
The Canal Walk is one of the major attraction in downtown Indianapolis. It is a long walkway that is right along the water of the canal. Several parks, museums, hotels, and other attractions are situated along this walkway. While walking along the canal, I noticed several tourists and locals walking and running through the walkway. The walkway and surrounding public area was mostly clean and well maintained. In one corner there was a paddle swan boats for rental but it was closed for winter. Some of the canal had scaffolding for construction. Some of the signs around the canal provided historical insight about the canal. read more
Nice river walk nearby center city area. It's refreshing looking at the water flowing through. We saw some fishes so definitely clean water for the city. Love the greens, bridges, arts around it. It would better with warmer weather for sure. I couldn't walk far because of the cold. But overall I love the scenery. read more
I have been to the canal walk a few times. The canal walk is so beautiful to be able to get a nice walk or bike ride in at. This visit I had came for an event that was held on the canal. It was called Full Moon Yoga which was hosted by Indy cultural trail and Hot Room Yoga. There was an artist here named Lily Groot who was doing painted prints. She was completing 450 of them and I got number 39. The prints were beautiful. It was so nice getting to know Lily and how she rode her bike to the event with all her material. There was also black vegan there where you could order food and drinks. Hot Room Yoga instructed the yoga class. It was definitely a good workout especially to just take in nature. It was so beautiful as the sun has set and the moon came out. After feeling the burn on the canal they ended the event with a party. There was a DJ out playing nice music. There is so much to do out on the canal and you just never know if there may be an event out here. read more
Goodness, have I walked the canal about 50 times now?! It's such a unique experience for Indy to have some water space in the middle of the city. This 3 mile loop will take you from 11th Street down to White River State Park to access the green space and extra trails down there. The canal water itself is not super cute, where there can be litter, and the water is rather opaque. They do drain the canal every so often to keep it from getting too uncute. The sidewalks are kept nicer, though a few spots in front of apartment buildings could use some TLC. There are also a few spots where the sidewalk is not level, so take caution if that is an issue. It's mostly stair access to the canal, but I *think* I've seen an elevator around the Ohio street basin. The canal has a few businesses along it for your merriment. Notably, there is Fresco on the Canal (I have a separate review for this) which is open March-October. Eiteljorg museum cafe is open daily around the lunch hours (11-3) and can be accessed through their patio gate. Entertainment wise, there is more going on. I've done the swan boat rentals, where you can pedal around on the canal. This is quite a workout! Rental of swan boats and kayaks is near the Ohio Street basin. There is also the gondolas, where your gondolier can sing, and they've always sounded marvelous. There's also a few stations for the Pacers Bikeshare around the canal, which is free for Marion County residents. Any time the weather is right, you can find me getting my steps in! read more
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. read more
7 months ago
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! read more
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... read more
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. read more
1 year ago
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. read more
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. read more
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. read more
1 year ago
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. read more
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. read more
2 years ago
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. read more
2 years ago
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 read more
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. read more
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. read more
As someone who's only been to Indy a few times in her life, it took me a couple visits to discover the Canal Walk....and it's all thanks to Yelp for helping me find it! We were road-tripping back from Iowa and needed to stop and take a break before getting home. We figured a nice walk would do the trick. The Canal Walk is seriously so pretty to walk around. Some parts of it are on a college campus while others are lined with beautiful condos and apartments. You can even take a gondola ride down the canal, or take a pedal boat... it looked like so much fun! This area will have to be a must-stop for me the next time I'm in town. read more
1 year ago
5 years ago
Can Indianapolis get any more beautiful? A walk or run along the canal is a perfect way to start spring and enjoy Indianapolis. The canal was originally built in the 1800 as a working canal. The area was refurbished about twenty years ago and continues to add new details each year. The canal walk is packed with interesting sites such as the USS Memorial, the Indiana State Museum and the Colts Playscape. There are restaurants along the walk and beautiful bridges. There are freshly planted gardens along the way. The paths are also a great picturesque place to stroll, run or bike. The canal walk crosses the Heritage Trail and other walkways so it is easy to get to. We found free street parking about a block away. The canal walk is mostly accessible with nicely paved access ramps. We had no problem pushing a stroller. In the summer, guests can rent bicycles and pedal boats for a fun scenic trip. The city also has special events including dyeing the canal green for St. Patrick's Day. read more
6 years ago
The canal network is what makes Indy unique and memorable especially for tourist during warmer months. There are more comprehensive reviews here than what mine will be. Enjoy it by tasking a stroll on the walks, grabbing a coffee and people watch. It's a busy place during the Summer. What makes Indy beautiful and unique? It's all about the canals, read more
I was working in the state building and every day for lunch I would walk the canal and discover new things all the time. A nice way to enjoy a day! There are, I believe, 7 miles and I pretty much walked almost all of it. read more
This is a beautiful spot in Indianapolis. I'm very glad they built it and spotlighted the historic canal. It's a lovely place to walk. It would benefit for a little more maintenance. Some of the bricks are cracked and broken, making the walking surface uneven for older visitors. Also, it is adjacent to an office building, and this appears to be their designated smoking area. :( Other than that, it's a delight. A gem for the city. It connects to several museums. You can rent paddle boats and enjoy the water. It's a lovely spot for locals and visitors alike. read more
So I didn't fully experience walking along the canal and seeing all the amenities along the way, but I rented a paddleboat with a couple friends and we boated down the canal. It's a beautiful place that I didn't even realize existed in Indianapolis. The park looked fun and the lighting and flowers told that this place was intentionally well kept. I was a little scared when we began to paddle through the ducks and geese that they might get too close, but as you paddle towards them they'll gently swim out of your way. You also see people riding four person bikes and bunches of runners and walkers. Seems to be a fun place if you want an activity! Only reason for four stars is I wish there were some more restaurants along it and I wish it were longer! read more
3 years ago
It is a bit hard to find at first if you enter by the visitors center that GPS lists from the official addresses. I recommend going to the NCAA or Indiana Art Musuem entrance to make it easier to find. Relaxing canal walk that is enjoyable and something different. The day I went was just water no ducks or boats but still unique and neat to see. read more
3 years ago
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More info about Indianapolis Canal Walk
420 W Ohio St
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Canal Walk, Mile Square
Directions
(317) 233-2434
Call Now
Visit Website
https://whiteriverstatepark.org
Hours
Indoor Amenities
Outdoor Amenities
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…
