Holliday Park

A Natural Oasis in the City

Just six miles north of downtown Indianapolis lies Holliday Park, a 94-acre slice of wilderness that feels worlds away from the urban bustle. This park isn't just one of the city's oldest green spaces - it's a natural refuge where the White River flows past a diverse patchwork of woodlands, prairies, wetlands, and beech-maple forest.

The biodiversity here is remarkable. Over 400 species of plants call this place home, from towering trees to delicate wildflowers. If you're patient (and maybe a little lucky), you might spot deer wandering through the underbrush, foxes slipping between the shadows, or beavers working away near the water.

Bird enthusiasts, grab your binoculars - with more than 200 species of birds recorded here, this place is excellent for birdwatching. The Nature Center even has a dedicated bird observation area where you can get up close with the park's feathered residents.

The Ruins: Art Meets History

One of the most unique features in the park is "The Ruins" - a fascinating architectural salvage project featuring pieces of the 19th-century St. Paul Building from New York City. It's not every day you find pieces of Manhattan in the Midwest!

The installation showcases remarkable sculptures by artist Karl Bitter, including limestone figures that once symbolically supported the New York skyscraper. The area around The Ruins has evolved into a community gathering space, complete with beautiful gardens and a stage for performances.

During summer evenings, the "Rock the Ruins" concert series brings this historic space to life with intimate musical performances under the stars.

Couple watches White River's flowing waters

Explore, Learn, Discover

The heart of the park's educational mission beats within the walls of the 13,000-square-foot Nature Center. This isn't your typical dusty museum - it's a dynamic space filled with interactive exhibits and enclosures housing native wildlife.

The Habitat Hall offers a rare perspective from the forest canopy, while the bird observation area lets you tune into the sounds of nature with special audio equipment. For children, there's a water play table, climbing tunnel, treehouse, and bee colony exhibit.

You'll also find enclosures with turtles, snakes, and other local reptiles.

The park's east section is densely forested

Get Moving, Get Relaxing

Feeling energetic? Lace up your hiking boots and hit more than 3.5 miles of trails winding through diverse landscapes. The paths vary in difficulty, and some lead right to the White River where you can dip your toes in during warmer months.

If you've got kids in tow, the playgrounds offer plenty of options for recreation. There's equipment for all ages - safe, enclosed spaces for the little ones and more challenging structures for older children ready to test their climbing skills.

When you need a break, settle in at one of the many picnic areas dotting the landscape. For larger gatherings, shelters are available to reserve.

Nature lovers will appreciate the arboretum and seasonal gardens that showcase the region's flora. And when winter blankets the park in snow, an outdoor ice skating rink opens up for cold-weather fun.

A Legacy of Conservation

The city has John and Evaline Holliday to thank for this urban sanctuary. In 1916, they generously donated their estate to create a public space dedicated to recreation and nature education.

More than a century later, their vision continues to thrive. The park hosts educational workshops, concerts, nature exploration activities, and even yoga classes at The Ruins all year long.

It's become a favorite spot for photographers too - the natural beauty and unique architectural features provide perfect backdrops for everything from casual family portraits to romantic engagement photos.