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 Spend a Day Learning About Indianapolis History

Indianapolis offers plenty of opportunities to explore Indiana’s past. Visitors can spend a day at these historic attractions and take a closer look at the people, events, and institutions that helped shape the Hoosier State.

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Fort Harrison State Park

Fort Harrison State Park is a 1,700-acre park that features hiking trails, forests, and recreation areas along with a few prominent historical landmarks.


Military History

Fort Benjamin Harrison was established as a U.S. Army post in 1903 and was named in honor of Benjamin Harrison, the 23rd president of the United States and a longtime Indiana resident.  During World War I, the fort served as a training site for combat officers, medical officers, and railroad engineers before continuing as a military post through much of the 20th century.


Citizen's Military Training Camp

Beginning at Fort Harrison in 1925, the Citizen's Military Training Camp gave young men military training and discipline before they were old enough to enlist. The program was intended to develop future military officers and operated nationwide until 1940. Today, portions of the former camp are preserved in the Camp Glenn area around the park office.


Museum of 20th Century Warfare

Located in the historic Camp Glenn area, the Museum of 20th Century Warfare explores military life and technology through artifacts, models, uniforms, and rotating displays. 



Some notable exhibits include:

  • USS Indianapolis Model: A 14-foot model of the USS Indianapolis is one of the museum's permanent collection highlights.
  • World War I and II Displays: Visitors can see original military uniforms and equipment including a distinctive Prussian pickle helmet, maps, models, and artifacts.
  • German Panther Tank Turret: A full-size replica of a German Panther tank turret provides an impressive look at armored warfare during World War II.

Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site

Benjamin Harrison was the 23rd president of the United States, serving from 1889 to 1893. His legacy is preserved for all visitors to explore at the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site.


President Benjamin Harrison

Born in Ohio in 1833, Benjamin Harrison moved to Indianapolis in 1854. There, he established a successful law practice, served as a Union officer during the Civil War, and later represented Indiana in the U.S. Senate. His Indianapolis home became the center of his famous 1888 front-porch presidential campaign.


Site Tour

The Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site preserves the 16-room home where Harrison lived before and after his presidency. Guided tours take visitors through the historic residence where they can see:

  • Historic Rooms: Tour the rooms of Harrison's home while learning about their original uses and the family's daily life.
  • Original Artifacts: See furnishings and personal items connected to Harrison and his family.
  • Presidential History: Learn about Harrison's presidency, political career, military service, and approach to public service.
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Grand neoclassical building with a green dome and fountain in front, viewed from a landscaped plaza

Completed in 1888, the Indiana Statehouse has served as the center of Indiana's state government for more than a century.


History of the Statehouse

The four-story statehouse was constructed from Indiana limestone and features marble floors, granite columns, two- and three-story atriums, and an impressive stained-glass dome. The building continues to house all three branches of Indiana government.


Guided Tours

Free guided tours offer a closer look at both the architecture and the work that takes place inside the Statehouse.


Visitors can expect to see:

  • Government Chambers: Visit available legislative chambers and learn how Indiana's House and Senate conduct state business.
  • Executive Branch: Explore an available executive office and learn about the governor's role in the Indiana government.
  • Judicial Branch: See an available courtroom and learn about Indiana's judicial system.

Indiana Statehouse

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Indiana War Memorial & Museum

Learn more about the Hoosier State’s military contributions from the Revolutionary War to today.


Museum Exhibits

The Indiana War Memorial Museum occupies a 30,000-square-foot space and traces Indiana's military history from the Revolutionary War through modern conflicts and peacekeeping operations.


Guests can learn more about:

  • Revolutionary War through Civil War: Exhibits introduce visitors to Indiana's military contributions during America's early conflicts.
  • World War I and II: Explore uniforms, weapons, equipment, photographs, and other artifacts connected to the two world wars.
  • Korean and Vietnam Wars: Displays examine the experiences of Hoosier service members during these conflicts.
  • Modern Conflicts: Exhibits continue through the Gulf War, the War on Terror, and international peacekeeping operations.


Self-Guided Tour

Visitors can explore the broader Indiana War Memorial Plaza Historic District at their own pace using a GPS-based app.


Guests can visit:

  • Indiana War Memorial
  • American Legion Mall
  • Veterans Memorial Plaza
  • USS Indianapolis Memorial
  • Medal of Honor Memorial
  • Indiana World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War Memorials

Stay at Lafayette Inn & Suites

After a day exploring Indianapolis history, Lafayette Inn & Suites provides a comfortable place to relax just minutes from downtown. Guests can choose from accommodations ranging from standard two-bed rooms to suites and Jacuzzi rooms. They can also enjoy amenities including complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, refrigerators, a fitness center, business center, and free parking. 


Book your stay today!