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During your Indianapolis vacation, don't miss these great establishments and attractions:
Children's Museum of Indianapolis
This is one of the largest children's museums in the world, with interactive exhibits covering everything from archaeology to world cultures to biotechnology, plus extensive toy and dollhouse displays, a working antique carousel ($1 per ride), and a planetarium. At press time, the museum was about to open Dinosphere, a $25-million multisensory exhibit that's a unique attempt to combine serious science (a working laboratory and the largest collections of juvenile fossils in the world) with kid-friendly interactive exhibits (dressing up in a dinosaur costume to sit on a nest of simulated eggs). If you have kids, this is the place to take them.
Indianapolis Zoo
This $64-million, 64-acre facility celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2004 and features 2,000 animals roaming through simulated environments. Get up close with an armadillo or try your hand at feeding a giraffe. The zoo's immense Dolphin Pavilion was being renovated at press time and is scheduled to reopen in summer 2005; for an aquatic fix, check out the new seahorse exhibit. The zoo is in the 250-acre White River State Park, 801 W. Washington St. (tel. 317/634-4567; www.inwhiteriver.com).The White River Botanical Gardens are also located on the zoo grounds. Admission to the gardens is $7 adults, $6 seniors and children in summer; reduced admission in winter. The gardens are open from 9am to 4pm (longer hours in summer).
Indianapolis Museum of Art
This world-class museum has notable paintings by El Greco, Rubens, American Impressionists, and European neo-Impressionists -- and there's no admission charge to the permanent collection. Other strengths include African art, Japanese Edo-period paintings, American furniture, textiles, costumes, and a superb collection of Turner works on paper. The sculpture garden includes Robert Indiana's famed LOVE. In summer, the museum hosts the Summer Nights concert and film series. Bring a picnic, find a spot on the lawn, and enjoy open-air performances or classic films. Also on the grounds is the Oldfields-Lilly House, a historic 22-room mansion open to the public (admission $5 adults, $4 students and seniors). At press time the museum was undergoing an extensive, multimillion-dollar expansion that may affect opening times, and some galleries and facilities may be closed during construction. Call ahead for more information.
Red Roof Inn Indianapolis South
The Indianapolis South Red Roof Inn is located just 8 miles from beautiful downtown Indianapolis and now features T-Mobile wireless Internet access (daily fee may apply). Experience our coffeehouse-style service featuring fresh brewed, ground whole bean coffee. Area attractions include the Indianapolis Event Center, Market Square Arena, Greenwood Park Mall, the RCA Dome and the Indianapolis ...
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