Eiteljorg Museum Winter Western Art & Native American Family Workshops

About this adventure

Perched on the scenic Central Canal in downtown Indianapolis's White River State Park, the Eiteljorg Museum is one of only two museums east of the Mississippi dedicated to both Native American cultures and Western American art. Throughout January and February, the museum provides an inspiring, warm indoor destination for families to discover rich storytelling, intricate beadwork, pottery, and striking landscapes. In the Nina Mason Pulliam Education Center on the canal level, families explore the interactive R.B. Annis Western Family Experience. Here, children can climb aboard a full-scale reproduction stagecoach, build miniature totem poles, weave on traditional yarn looms, and try on frontier costumes. Museum educators lead weekend family art workshops where children create their own pottery, clay medallions, and mixed-media collages inspired by Native artists. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: Fully accessible facility with wide elevator access to all levels, smooth floors, and broad ramps connecting to the downtown canal promenade. • Nursing & Rest Spots: Dedicated private nursing lounge with glider rocker on the lower education level, cozy atrium seating, and clean family restrooms with diaper changing stations. • Age Suitability: Welcoming all ages; hands-on stagecoach play and craft activities are especially engaging for children ages 3 to 12. • Sensory Tips: Warm, earthy adobe-inspired architecture with soft ambient gallery lighting; the family discovery level is interactive and tactile while upper galleries remain peaceful.