Riverway Destinations
From culture to recreation, there’s so much to discover.
Things to Do
Beyond parks, the destinations of the White Riverway offer something for everyone to connect to the river. Enjoy a delicious meal, paddle a kayak, catch a film or concert, uncover history, reel in a catch–whatever your taste, you’ll find it along the White River.
Featured Attractions
Beyond parks and trails, the White River connects most of what Central Indiana has to offer and has something for everyone’s taste.
Memorial Grove
Hidden in the woods just north of the Municipal Gardens family center, and on the site of the Camp Robinson civil war training camp, is a boulder memorial to the Union’s 11th Indiana Volunteer Regiment.
30th St Bridge
Perhaps the most beautiful historic bridge in Central Indiana, the 30th Street bridge links both sides of Riverside Park in Indianapolis. It was built in 1907 after a series of floods destroyed many of the original bridges across the river. It was state-of-the-art for its time, consisting of concrete and steel arches faced with Indiana limestone, and included scenic overlooks and grand staircases down to the river. The bridge today is in serious disrepair but is slated for significant rehabilitation beginning in late 2021.
Belmont Beach
During the era of segregated public parks and swimming pools, Black residents found a naturally-sandy but heavily-polluted section of the White River just south of 16th Street in Indy as one of the few places they could access water recreation. During times of low water you’ll still find a sandy beach beneath the ruins of the Emrichsville Dam, and residents of the Haughville neighborhood are working to honor the site’s history.
Outdoor Recreation
Sleep under the stars and close to the water at the White River Campground, rent a canoe or kayak from the White River Canoe Company. or Frank’s Paddlesports. Play a round at Prairie View or Coffin golf courses. Catch a smallmouth bass.
Arts & Culture
Take an in outdoor concert at Federal Hill Commons or Everwise Amphitheater. Learn about Indiana’s rich history at Conner Prairie or the Indiana State Museum. Take in – or create your own – art at the Indy Art Center or Noblesville Creates. Connect to the river while exploring Downtown Indianapolis or the Noblesville Square.
Shopping & Villages
Some of the best shopping districts and villages are connected by the river. You’ll find unique shopping experiences at the most upscale of national shops as well as the most eclectic of local ones.
Historical Sites
The river’s nearly 20,000 years of natural and human history is on display up and down its banks. Discover the stories of previous generations and civilizations along the river’s edge.
Waterways, Bridges & Dams
While the river itself is a piece of natural infrastructure, people have long been constructing other infrastructure like waterways, bridges, and dams that connect to it.
Find Your Park
Love to walk a trail? In need of a quiet spot? Want to explore an open green space? Take the Find Your Parks quiz to discover which Riverway park(s) is the perfect spot for you.
