Newfields Autumn Garden Stroll & Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park

About this adventure

Spanning 100 picturesque acres of woodlands, wetlands, and a tranquil 35-acre lake along the White River, The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park at Newfields is one of the premier outdoor sculpture parks in North America—and completely free to the public daily. During Thanksgiving week, families wander along crushed stone and boardwalk trails shaded by golden weeping willows and crimson oaks, discovering world-renowned large-scale interactive artworks. Children love climbing over 'Funky Bones'—a whimsical fiberglass skeleton installation—and exploring 'Free Form Feature' and the floating 'Chopstick' pavilion. Adjacent historic gardens surrounding the Indianapolis Museum of Art and Lilly House offer formal terrace walks and peaceful fall vistas. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: Fairbanks Park features wide, firm crushed-gravel pathways and level wooden boardwalks connecting all major outdoor sculpture installations. • Nursing & Rest Spots: The Ruth Lilly Visitors Pavilion and main Newfields Museum Pavilion offer immaculate, heated family restrooms, private nursing chairs, and drinking fountains. • Age Suitability: Engaging for toddlers through grandparents; whimsical interactive sculptures invite playful climbing and imaginative discovery. • Sensory Tips: Expansive open nature sanctuary with serene water views, rustling autumn leaves, and ample space for neurodivergent children to move freely without feeling confined.