Tarkington Park

A Piece of Indy History

Tucked near the corner of 39th and Meridian Streets in Indianapolis, Tarkington Park spreads across 10.5 acres of urban greenspace in the heart of the Butler-Tarkington neighborhood. Since 1945, this park has been bringing people together, named after Booth Tarkington, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author who once called this area home.

There's something special about places that hold generations of memories. Many long-time residents can tell you stories of growing up here, playing games on the same ground where their grandchildren now laugh and explore. It's a park that's also a living timeline of how Indianapolis neighborhoods have evolved over the years.

Get Your Game On

Today's Tarkington Park blends recreational spaces with thoughtful urban design that brings people together. Whether you're looking to shoot some hoops on the basketball courts (both full and half-courts available), rally on the tennis court, or kick a ball around the multi-use sports field, there's room for whatever game you're in the mood for.

When summer temperatures climb, the extensive splash pad becomes the neighborhood's favorite cooling spot. Families gather while kids dash through spraying water, creating the soundtrack of Indiana summers. Around the perimeter, walking paths wind through enhanced landscaping, offering quiet spots under shade trees when you need a moment to catch your breath.

Playgrounds That Wow

The excellent playground area might be what Tarkington Park is best known for these days. Thoughtfully divided for different age groups, there's a safe zone for toddlers and more challenging equipment for older kids. The playgrounds feature artificial turf that stays clean and soft, climbing walls for adventurous youngsters, and musical activity stations where kids can make their own tunes.

One of the simple pleasures here? Watching children discover the joy of rolling down the park's built-in hills - sometimes the most basic activities bring the biggest smiles. The playground strikes that perfect balance between classic structures and modern design, encouraging kids to move, imagine, and play in ways that feel fresh every visit.

Where Community Happens

What makes Tarkington truly stand out is the Tarkington Park Café (also known as Teas Me Café) - something you don't often find in city parks. Stop in for tea, coffee, or a bite to eat while you watch the park life unfold around you. The café, along with the adjacent performance shelter, regularly hosts community gatherings and events, including popular concerts like the Toy Factory performances.

Bring your four-legged friends (it's dog-friendly) or pack a lunch for the picnic areas. Recent redevelopment has breathed new life into this space, making it a destination that draws people from neighboring areas and downtown alike.

What You Need to Know

You'll discover indoor restrooms here (always a plus for families with young children), drinking fountains, and plenty of parking. Being at the intersection of busy streets means it's easy to find, although you might notice some traffic noise during peak hours.

More than just a collection of amenities, Tarkington Park is where sports practices, community events, and everyday social connections happen, making it an important gathering space for the surrounding neighborhoods.