Who We Are
At Conner Prairie, the Smithsonian Museum Institution’s only Indiana affiliate, you’ll find that "look, don’t touch" becomes "look, touch, smell, taste and hear." As you explore five themed historic areas on 200 beautiful, wooded acres, you’ll discover more exciting, memorable ways to experience the past then your family or group can pack into a day.
Honored with the National Medal for Museum and Library Service and recognized by the American Association of Museums as a national leader in quality learning, Conner Prairie offers classic, everyday fun in addition to special events, programs and other activities. Whether you’re five or 75 years young, discover a new historic adventure each time you visit Conner Prairie. Conner Prairie is also a participating museum in the Institite of Museum and Library Services' Let's Move - Museum and Gardens Initiative, which is dedicated to fostering healthy environments to help kids avoid obesity.
During the days from April through October, you’ll take in the hustle and bustle of a thriving pioneer community in Prairietown, jump in and help with chores and mingle with the townsfolk. Visit the Animal Encounters Barn where you can get up close with the animals. Candle dipping is a favorite activity, as is a visit to the Loom House at the Conner Homestead. On a stop at Lenape Indian Camp guests can throw tomahawks at this Indian trading post and learn about the Lenape or Delaware Indians. Finally a visit to 1859 Balloon Voyage provides the thrill of floating 350 feet above Conner Prairie’s landscape in a tethered helium-filled balloon. Our newest historic area, 1863 Civil War Journey: Raid on Indiana, opened to the public in June 2011.
Don’t worry if the weather is bad. Visit the Welcome Center and explore the Science Lab, Discovery Station, Craft Corner or the Wagonmaker’s Shop, where children can play, learn and create all year long.
Check our online calendar to see what other special events and other programs are available, even when our historic areas are closed. Assemble your own Kentucky Long Rifle at our Arts & Arms Making Workshop. Pack a picnic and relax for an evening of Symphony on the Prairie. Visit soldiers’ camps at Civil War Days, sign up your favorite young ones for art and adventure at Summer Day Camps or Prairie Tykes, and get spooked by the Headless Horseman in October.
At Conner Prairie, every day is a new historic exploration!
Mission Statement
To inspire curiosity and foster learning about Indiana's past by providing engaging, individualized and unique experiences.
Annual Report
2010 Annual Report