Indiana Central Canal

Activity Overview

The Indiana Central Canal is a canal that was originally intended to connect the Ohio River to the Wabash and Erie Canal. However, only 8 out of the 296 miles of canal were able to be constructed due to financial issues. Today, its most popular attraction is the Canal Walk, a 1.5-mile long section of canal in the heart of Indianapolis. If you're wanting to explore Indianapolis, the Canal Walk is a great way to see the beauty of the city and its small canal while walking or biking. Families can also enjoy touring the area on a Segway, in a pedal boat, or while relaxing in a gondola!

Things to Do

• See the canal in style by going on a gondola ride! In the summer months, the whole family can enjoy a gondola ride together, complete with a singing gondolier, by booking a ride with Old World Gondoliers.
• Get some exercise, have fun, and see the canal by renting a kayak, double kayak, or pedal boat from Wheel Fun Rentals. Rentals cost between $15 and $30 per hour.
• Stop and admire the beautiful public art that is located along the Canal Walk and in the surrounding White River State Park. You can view a full list of permanent public art here.

Indiana Central Canal Insider Tips

• If you have a teen who gets bored on tours, consider taking a Segway tour, which provides the added excitement of exploring the canal area on this unique two-wheel personal transporter.
• Bring along a picnic lunch and eat in one of the many green spaces that line the canal instead of spending money in a restaurant or cafe.
• Check out the rest of White River State Park, an urban state park that contains part of the Canal Walk. It is full of family-friendly attractions, including a zoo, a botanical garden, a baseball field, a history museum, and a Native American art museum.