Accessible History Attractions In Indianapolis

1230 N. Delaware St., Indianapolis, IN 46202

Guest services: 317.631.1888

Website

The Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site showcases the home of America’s 23rd president who served our nation from 1889-1893. This beautiful Italianate Victorian home built in 1875 resides in Indy’s historic Old Northside neighborhood. Docent-led tours tell the story of the family and the times. Amazingly, more than 75% of the home’s artifacts are originals including paintings, furniture, and political memorabilia. Special exhibits are presented annually on the third level of the home and have featured topics such as historic fashion to presidential pets. Each first Friday of the month, have coffee with the curator and discover unexpected items in the collection. The site’s reconstructed carriage house now serves as the Welcome Center and is the beginning point of public tours. Reserving specific tour time in advance is recommended.

Accessibility tips:

• Accessible parking is available in a small lot that can be entered via 13th and Talbot Streets. Additional accessible street parking is available on Delaware Street in front of the museum.
• An elevator services all three floors of this historic property.
• Accessible restrooms are located in the small parking lot.
• Service animals that are properly identified are allowed inside the museum.
• Because of the historic nature of the home, built prior to current day accessibility standards, visitors should feel free to call for planning assistance.

200 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46204

Tour office: 317.233.5293

Website

Experience the history and current happenings in the chambers and corridors of the 1888 Indiana Statehouse, a grand Neo-Classical Revival building. You may see the legislature in action, view oral arguments in the Supreme Court, or see the Governor and other officials go about their work. Learn how state government functions while walking through spacious atriums and the dome-crowned rotunda. All visitors are welcome to join the publically posted complimentary guided tours. Tours (15-minute or 30-45 minute versions) are experiential, and they move throughout this large building. Guides describe the building’s construction, architecture, and historical events while reminding us of the important legislative functions of our democracy. Self-guided tours are another option – stop by the tour desk for a brochure to direct your experience.

Accessibility tips:

• There is no dedicated public parking for statehouse visitors who must therefore utilize metered street parking or make other parking arrangements. The nearest accessible street parking is along Senate Ave. and Ohio St.
• Visitors who are unable to climb stairs may enter the Statehouse through the lower west door from Senate Ave. Turning left, going down the hall, turning right and then left again after entry will lead you to elevators to take you to the main (2nd) floor.
• Be prepared to go through a security checkpoint which includes metal detectors.
• If mobility is a concern, visitors may opt for only the introduction portion of the tour.

55 E. Michigan St., Indianapolis, IN 46204

Guest services: 317.233.0528 (tour manager)

For Information: 317.234.6823 (front desk)

Website

Built to honor Hoosier veterans of World War I, the 210-foot Indiana War Memorial (IWM) is a key feature of the IWM Plaza Historic District located just north of Monument Circle. On the lower level of the memorial building guests discover an intriguing museum describing conflicts from the Revolutionary War to modern times and the Hoosier veterans who served in them. Within the museum is the USS Indianapolis CA 35 gallery and a fully functioning re-creation of the WWII ship’s radio room. The story of the ship, its cargo, and fate are a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the armed forces. On the upper level of the memorial is the awe-inspiring Shrine Room, considered a “must-see” when visiting Indianapolis. The Pershing Auditorium on the main floor is a popular theater space used for many events.

Accessibility tips:

• There is no dedicated public parking for IWM, visitors must utilize metered street parking or make other parking arrangements.
• The public entry is located on the north side of the Memorial on Michigan St., and specifically the accessible ramp is on the northwest corner of Michigan and Meridian Sts.
• For those with mobility concerns, all spaces can be reached by ramp access or elevator. The elevator to the Shrine Room requires a staff person to operate.
• A limited number of mobility devices are available to the public free of charge.
• Events involving the IWM and the other properties of the District are common and may restrict access, so best to check the event schedule with IWM staff or social media pages prior to your visit.

617 Indiana Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46202

Guest services: 317.236.2099

Website

The inspiring story and legacy of Madam CJ Walker, one of the nation’s first female millionaires, is told at this historic venue which first served as the headquarters of Walker’s African-American hair care and beauty products business. This amazing woman’s story is one of will, perseverance, and superb business acumen. An advocate for social justice and reform, Madam CJ Walker was also well known for her generous philanthropy. The Walker Center opened in 1927 and throughout the years has provided programming, lectures, concerts, and performances inside its historic theater. A major building renovation is now underway, and the center is closed until early 2020. The Walker invites you to visit then when new experiences will be revealed that showcase the astounding life and times of Madam CJ Walker.