White River Gardens
A serene botanical oasis and the primary entrance to the Indianapolis Zoo, featuring vibrant gardens, a butterfly atrium, and tranquil water features.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak tulip and spring bloom
White River Gardens
Best Time
Peak tulip and spring bloom

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene botanical oasis and the primary entrance to the Indianapolis Zoo, featuring vibrant gardens, a butterfly atrium, and tranquil water features.
"Absolutely beautiful! So much opportunity for pictures, or to sit and relax somewhere to sit. So well maintained!"
🦋 Butterfly House Magic
Don't miss the butterfly house! It's a highlight, though sometimes fewer butterflies than expected.
📸 Picture Perfect Spots
Abundant photo opportunities! The gardens are beautifully maintained and offer many scenic backdrops.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Butterfly Garden
Atrium
Wander through a lush atrium filled with fluttering butterflies. A magical experience for all ages.

Water Gardens
Various locations
Tranquil reflecting pools and fountains create a serene atmosphere, especially lovely with blooming water lilies.

Sculptural Elements
Throughout the gardens
Discover whimsical sculptures, like the dancing turtles, adding a playful touch to the beautiful landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Bloom
Zoo Integration is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦋 Butterfly House Magic
Don't miss the butterfly house! It's a highlight, though sometimes fewer butterflies than expected.
📸 Picture Perfect Spots
Abundant photo opportunities! The gardens are beautifully maintained and offer many scenic backdrops.
♿️ Accessible Exploration
Easy to navigate with wheelchairs and strollers. Mobility aids are available for rent.
🌸 Seasonal Blooms
Check for seasonal flower reports to catch tulips, irises, or annuals at their best.
Tips
from all over the internet
🦋 Butterfly House Magic
Don't miss the butterfly house! It's a highlight, though sometimes fewer butterflies than expected.
📸 Picture Perfect Spots
Abundant photo opportunities! The gardens are beautifully maintained and offer many scenic backdrops.
♿️ Accessible Exploration
Easy to navigate with wheelchairs and strollers. Mobility aids are available for rent.
🌸 Seasonal Blooms
Check for seasonal flower reports to catch tulips, irises, or annuals at their best.
🚶♀️ Zoo Entrance Hub
The gardens serve as the new main entrance to the zoo. Plan to explore both!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise White River Gardens for its beauty and tranquility, especially appreciating the seasonal blooms and the immersive butterfly atrium. The integration into the zoo's new entrance is seen as a positive enhancement, offering a serene start to the day. While some note fewer butterflies than expected, the overall well-maintained landscape and accessible design make it a highly recommended spot for relaxation and photography.
"We came to the gardens right after the tulips finished blooming and before the summer annuals were planted on the weekend before Mother's Day. It was great to see really flowers like columbine, a few irises and rock roses, and more. And the structure of the garden is beautiful. We also loved the whimsy, like the dancing turtles.
There are lots of mobility aids for rent, from wheelchairs to strollers and more.
There's accessable parking, and its easy to get around in a wheelchair."
Janet Kragen
"Spring flowers in bloom. Lots of tulips everywhere. Butterfly house was open. Next time I'll bring a book and find a shady spot to hang out for awhile."
Nick Schroeder
"Very cool green space and butterfly house. Not quite as many actual butterflies but a neat place to walk as part of the zoo"
Nope Can't
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
White River Gardens is located at the Indianapolis Zoo and serves as its primary guest entrance. You can reach the zoo via car, with accessible parking available. Public transportation options to downtown Indianapolis are also available, followed by a short walk or ride to the zoo.
Yes, there is accessible parking available at the Indianapolis Zoo, which leads directly into White River Gardens. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
White River Gardens is now integrated as the main entrance to the Indianapolis Zoo. Therefore, access to the gardens is typically included with your zoo admission.
The gardens are designed for walking and are very accessible. For those needing assistance, wheelchairs and strollers are available for rent at the zoo.
White River Gardens is part of the Indianapolis Zoo, located near the downtown canal. The canal itself offers a scenic walk or bike ride, and other downtown attractions are within reach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to White River Gardens is typically included with your Indianapolis Zoo ticket. Check the official Indianapolis Zoo website for current pricing and any special offers.
The gardens generally follow the operating hours of the Indianapolis Zoo. It's best to check the zoo's official website for the most up-to-date hours, as they can vary seasonally.
While not always mandatory, booking your Indianapolis Zoo tickets online in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to save time and guarantee entry.
Discounts may be available for zoo members, seniors, children, and military personnel. Check the Indianapolis Zoo's website for details on admission prices and potential discounts.
Yes, the Indianapolis Zoo offers mobility aids like wheelchairs and strollers for rent, making it easier to explore both the gardens and the zoo.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire garden is a photographer's dream! Look for the reflecting pools, blooming flower beds, the butterfly atrium, and the various sculptures for stunning shots. The new entrance plaza also offers great perspectives.
Yes, photography is generally allowed in the butterfly house, but be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash, which can disturb the butterflies.
While personal photography is encouraged, commercial photography or videography may require special permits. Always check with zoo staff if you have specific professional needs.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is helpful for the atrium, while a versatile lens is great for capturing both wide landscapes and close-ups of flowers and sculptures. Even a smartphone can capture beautiful images here.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, reducing harsh shadows and creating a more pleasant atmosphere for photos. Golden hour can be particularly magical.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Explore diverse themed gardens, a vibrant butterfly atrium, tranquil water features, and unique sculptures. It's a beautiful space for a leisurely stroll and relaxation.
While primarily a botanical garden, you might encounter some animal ambassadors, such as lizards, snakes, or tortoises, especially near the new entrance.
Absolutely! Children often love the butterfly house and the whimsical sculptures. It's a great place for them to connect with nature.
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the zoo, including White River Gardens. Concessions are available within the zoo.
You can spend anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on your pace and interest. Many visitors combine it with a full day at the zoo.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The gardens are also very accessible for strollers, making it easy to navigate with little ones. Plus, with the gardens now being the main entrance to the zoo, it's a seamless transition into a day of animal encounters. Consider packing snacks and drinks for the zoo portion, as outside food is generally not allowed in the gardens themselves.
♿️ Visitors with Mobility Needs
Mobility aids, including wheelchairs and strollers, are available for rent, ensuring a comfortable visit. The numerous benches provide opportunities to rest and enjoy the scenery. The thoughtful design makes it easy for everyone to experience the beauty of the gardens.
📸 Photographers and Art Lovers
Visit during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best light. The butterfly atrium is particularly magical, though remember to be mindful of flash photography. The blend of natural beauty and artistic elements makes it a rewarding location for capturing memorable images.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The New Entrance Experience
This redesign means that exploring the gardens is now an integral part of the zoo experience, rather than a separate attraction. Visitors can wander through the flowers, arbors, and fountains before even reaching the animal exhibits. It's a thoughtful way to transition guests into the zoo environment, setting a peaceful and natural tone for the day.
Expect to encounter animal ambassadors as you first enter the gardens, adding an element of surprise and delight. This new flow ensures that the beauty of White River Gardens is showcased to every visitor, making it a more prominent and appreciated part of the Indianapolis Zoo.
Seasonal Splendor and Blooms
As summer arrives, the water gardens come alive with blooming water lilies, creating a serene and picturesque scene. The lush greenery provides a refreshing escape. Even in fall, the gardens offer a different kind of beauty with changing foliage and late-season blooms. Checking the zoo's website for their 'bloom reports' can help you plan your visit to coincide with your favorite floral displays.
Beyond the flowers, the garden's structure, including its reflecting pools and sculptures, provides year-round visual interest. The whimsical sculptures, like the dancing turtles, add a touch of playful charm that delights visitors of all ages.
Accessibility and Comfort
For those who may need them, mobility aids such as wheelchairs and strollers are available for rent at the Indianapolis Zoo. This thoughtful provision allows visitors to explore the gardens and the rest of the zoo at their own pace and with ease.
The gardens also offer numerous places to sit and rest, with benches strategically placed throughout. This allows visitors to pause, take in the scenery, and enjoy moments of tranquility amidst the blooms. The overall design prioritizes comfort and enjoyment for everyone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit