Newfields Indianapolis Museum of Art
A vast cultural campus blending art, nature, and history with immersive exhibitions and beautiful gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for gardens
Newfields Indianapolis Museum of Art
Best Time
Pleasant weather for gardens
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast cultural campus blending art, nature, and history with immersive exhibitions and beautiful gardens.
"An absolute amazing collection of art from all genres, and all areas of the World."
Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be exploring vast gardens and multiple museum floors. Comfortable footwear is a must for enjoying your visit.
Check for Free Days :money_with_wings:
Newfields occasionally offers free general admission. Check their website to plan your visit and save on tickets.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Gardens of Newfields
Outdoor grounds
Expansive, meticulously maintained gardens offering serene beauty and a peaceful escape. Perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
Lilly House & Gardens
Lilly House
A charming historic mansion with elegant interiors and stunning gardens, ideal for proposals and photoshoots.
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THE LUME Indianapolis
4th Floor
Immersive digital art experiences, currently featuring Salvador Dalí's dreamscapes. An engaging way to interact with art.
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Art Installations
Various galleries and pavilions
Discover unique and interactive art, like the 'Kelp Pods' installation or art you can walk on.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors & Indoors
Book Tickets in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be exploring vast gardens and multiple museum floors. Comfortable footwear is a must for enjoying your visit.
Check for Free Days :money_with_wings:
Newfields occasionally offers free general admission. Check their website to plan your visit and save on tickets.
Explore the Gardens First :deciduous_tree:
Many visitors recommend starting with the beautiful grounds before diving into the museum's collections.
Interactive Art Fun :sparkles:
Don't miss the chance to engage with interactive exhibits, like the art you can walk on!
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be exploring vast gardens and multiple museum floors. Comfortable footwear is a must for enjoying your visit.
Check for Free Days :money_with_wings:
Newfields occasionally offers free general admission. Check their website to plan your visit and save on tickets.
Explore the Gardens First :deciduous_tree:
Many visitors recommend starting with the beautiful grounds before diving into the museum's collections.
Interactive Art Fun :sparkles:
Don't miss the chance to engage with interactive exhibits, like the art you can walk on!
Plan Your Visit :calendar:
With so much to see, consider prioritizing what you want to experience to make the most of your time.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Newfields for its stunning gardens, diverse art collection, and engaging interactive exhibits, particularly THE LUME. The historic Lilly House and its grounds are frequently highlighted as beautiful and romantic spots. While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, a few suggest improvements to garden maps for better navigation.
"An absolute amazing collection of art from all genres, and all areas of the World. Tons of interactive displays, and the LUME Experience was wonderful. My daughter, and I truly enjoyed the museum. The staff was fantastic, and the building was extremely clean. A great place to take family, friends, clients, dates, etc… I’m so glad we decided to make the trip."
Doug Fee
"My husband and I did a date day here, there was so much to see with 4 floors of art exhibits, cafes spaced throughout and the amazing gardens all around the outside. We weren't able to see it all in one trip, and will go back soon. I'd love to visit the gardens in every season. There are lots of walking trails too that we will enjoy another time."
Heather Doan
"One of the highlights during a recent visit to Indianapolis. Even as adults, we were delighted by the interactive displays. And, despite light rain, our walk around the grounds was wonderful. Then, of course, there is all the amazing art. Our meals in the cafe were tasty and pricing was on par with other area options."
Lynda Waddington
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Newfields is located at 4000 Michigan Road, Indianapolis, IN 46208. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the museum.
Yes, Newfields offers parking for visitors. It's advisable to check their website for any parking fees or specific instructions, especially during special events.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient way to reach Newfields. The drop-off point is typically near the main entrance.
The grounds are extensive. While maps are available, some visitors suggest they can be outdated. Consider using your phone's GPS or looking for signage to orient yourself.
Newfields strives to be accessible. The museum building is generally accessible, and many outdoor paths are paved. It's best to contact them directly for specific accessibility details.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission prices vary, and some days offer free entry. Special exhibitions like THE LUME may require separate tickets. It's highly recommended to check the official Newfields website for the most current pricing and to book tickets in advance.
Yes, Newfields sometimes offers free general admission days, often tied to community events like Juneteenth. Keep an eye on their announcements for these opportunities.
Yes, THE LUME is a special ticketed exhibition. You'll need to purchase separate tickets for this immersive experience, which can be done online through the Newfields website.
Opening hours can vary depending on the day of the week and any special events. Always check the official Newfields website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
While possible, it's best to purchase tickets online in advance to guarantee entry and potentially avoid queues, especially for popular exhibitions.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
Highlights include the extensive gardens, the historic Lilly House, interactive art installations, and special exhibitions like THE LUME. The diverse art collection spans various genres and cultures.
Yes, Newfields offers interactive displays and beautiful outdoor spaces that children can enjoy. The variety of art and nature provides engaging experiences for all ages.
The Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields boasts a diverse collection, including European paintings, American art, contemporary works, decorative arts, and more. They also host rotating special exhibitions.
Information on guided tours can usually be found on the Newfields website. They often offer tours focusing on specific collections or exhibitions.
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted in most galleries for personal use, but always check for signage or ask staff if unsure.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Newfields has dining options, including cafes that offer tasty meals and snacks. The cafe concept for THE LUME is 'El Mercado Surreal' featuring Spanish-inspired bites.
Reviewers generally find the cafe food to be tasty and reasonably priced, comparable to other local options.
Outside food and beverages are typically not permitted inside the museum galleries. However, picnicking in designated outdoor areas of the gardens might be an option; check their policies.
While specific menus can change, most museum cafes offer a variety of options. It's best to check the current menu at the cafe or inquire with staff about dietary accommodations.
Newfields primarily offers cafe-style dining. For more formal dining experiences, you might need to explore options outside the museum grounds.
📸 📸 Photography
The gardens, Lilly House, and various art installations offer stunning photo opportunities. The architecture of the museum itself is also quite photogenic.
Newfields is a popular spot for weddings, events, and photoshoots. You'll likely need to inquire about permits and fees for professional photography sessions.
Generally, flash photography is not permitted inside the museum galleries to protect the artwork. Always look for signage or ask staff for clarification.
Early morning or late afternoon 'golden hours' offer beautiful lighting for garden photography. Weekdays also tend to be less crowded, allowing for more unobstructed shots.
Interactive pieces like the art you can walk on, or visually striking installations like the 'Kelp Pods,' make for unique and memorable photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The expansive gardens and grounds provide plenty of space for kids to run around and explore, making it a great place for a family outing. While the main museum galleries offer a wealth of art, focus on areas with more visual appeal or interactive elements for younger visitors. The Lilly House and its gardens also offer a charming setting for a family stroll. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of ground to cover!
❤️ Couples & Date Ideas
+1 Strolling hand-in-hand through the serene gardens or exploring the diverse art collections can spark meaningful conversations and shared experiences. Consider visiting during a special event, like an evening concert or an exhibition opening, for a more unique date night. The museum's cafes also offer a pleasant spot for a relaxed meal or coffee.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Culture Seekers
Beyond the permanent collection, the immersive experiences like THE LUME provide a modern twist on art appreciation, blending technology with artistic expression.
+1 Take advantage of any available guided tours or lectures to gain deeper insights into the artworks and their historical context. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Art Collection
Beyond the traditional galleries, Newfields is known for its interactive and modern art installations. Pieces like Do Ho Suh's artwork that visitors can walk on, or the suspended 'Kelp Pods,' offer unique ways to engage with art. These contemporary additions provide a dynamic contrast to the historical collections and are often a highlight for visitors seeking novel experiences.
+1For those interested in specific themes, Newfields has hosted exhibitions celebrating drag and queer art, such as 'Resplendent Dreams: Reawakening Rococo,' showcasing the intersection of art, fashion, and identity. This demonstrates the museum's commitment to diverse and inclusive artistic representation.
The Enchanting Gardens and Grounds
The Lilly House, a historic mansion on the grounds, adds another layer of charm. Its elegant interiors and surrounding gardens make it a picturesque spot, often highlighted for its suitability for events and photoshoots.
+1 The combination of art, architecture, and nature creates a unique and immersive environment that many find transporting. While the gardens are a highlight year-round, experiencing them in different seasons is a common recommendation. Each season brings its own unique palette and ambiance, making repeat visits worthwhile for those who appreciate the outdoors.
Immersive Experiences: THE LUME
+1 This is not just about viewing art; it's about stepping into it. The experience is designed to engage multiple senses, making it a memorable outing for visitors of all ages. The exhibition goes beyond just visual displays. Visitors can engage with art in unique ways, such as the 'Let's Get Surreal' space where AI can translate thoughts into visuals. This innovative approach to art appreciation is a significant draw for those seeking contemporary and interactive cultural experiences.
Complementing the digital art, THE LUME also showcases original artworks from the Indianapolis Museum of Art's permanent collection, including four spectacular watercolors by Salvador Dalí. This blend of digital immersion and tangible art provides a comprehensive look at the artist's work.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit