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Things to do in Indianapolis for MLK Day celebrations

Free admission to Indy attractions
Things to do (for free) in Indy this MLK Day
Posted at 6:00 AM, Jan 13, 2020
and last updated 2022-03-03 13:28:35-05

INDIANAPOLIS — There are many things to do in the Circle City to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday. From volunteering to exploring a local attraction for free, there is something for everyone to do in Indianapolis.

If you don't feel like doing a particular activity, an excellent place to make a stop on this Monday would be, of course, the 'Landmark for Peace Memorial.' Martin Luther King Park, 1702 Broadway Street, is home to the memorial created by Indiana artist Greg Perry. This site is where Robert Kennedy gave his memorable speech the night Dr. King was assassinated in 1968.

Free admission to Indy's top attractions:

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. families can experience performances and activities that celebrate Dr. King's life and black history throughout all five floors of the museum.

Eiteljorg Museum
Every exhibit, including its 'Jingle Rails' exhibit, is free on Monday. Visitors can visit exhibits that showcase Native American and Western cultures, while also enjoying lunch specials at Eiteljorg's cafe.

Indiana Historical Society
So much is scheduled to happen here — you can donate coats for those experiencing homelessness, participate in activities (such as making your own activism poster), play games and learn more about the Indianapolis community at the Historical Society on MLK Day.

Indiana State Museum
Watch some of Dr. King's iconic speeches, create a "dream" mural and so much more at the state museum.

Indianapolis Zoo
From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. everyone is welcome at the Indianapolis Zoo for a free visit with the animals. Also, bring your canned goods, and other non-perishable foods, for Gleaner's Food Bank.

NCAA Hall of Champions
Experience all 24 sports at the NCAA Hall of Champions with interactive exhibits, scavenger hunts and an hourly raffle for official NCAA merchandise.

Newfields
Spend MLK Day with art, poetry, song and dance at Indianapolis's art museum. From noon to 4 p.m., Newfields will have a "Speaking Love" event open and free to the public.

White River State Park
The biggest thing here is free parking. From 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. you can park your car for free in the WRSP parking garage, of on the surface lot located at 801 West Washington Street.

Indianapolis events on MLK Day:

Harlem Globtrotters
Go check out this famous performance at Bankers Life Fieldhouse for $26 on MLK Day. Sure to please all ages.

Madame CJ Walker Theatre
A free celebration from 10 a.m. to Noon that includes a freedom march from the Kurt Vonnegut Museum starting at 9:45 a.m. to the Walker Theatre. The program is highlighted with a talk from criminal justice reform advocate, Kevin D. Richardson — who is one of the Exonerated Five.

Services offered:

Indiana State Bar Association
Get free legal help from the Indiana State Bar Association on MLK Day. Individuals seeking advice can visit with one of more than 200 attorneys volunteering their time during a 10 to 15 minute consultation.