Garfield Park Arts Center (GPAC)
Rating
Family of 4
USD 0
Duration
1-2 hours
Best Ages
Toddlers to teens (2-17)
About
Garfield Park Arts Center, known locally as GPAC, is a beloved community arts center nestled within Garfield Park on Indianapolis's south side. GPAC serves as the neighborhood's creative hub, offering rotating art exhibitions, studio classes, community events, and family programming in an approachable and welcoming environment. The gallery features works by Indianapolis-area artists working across a wide range of media and styles, giving families a genuine window into the city's vibrant local arts community.
Admission to gallery exhibitions is free, making GPAC one of the most accessible cultural venues in Indianapolis for families of all income levels. Children benefit from exposure to original artwork in a real gallery setting, and GPAC's community-focused approach ensures the work on display feels relevant and connected to real lives rather than distant or elite. Youth workshops and family events add a hands-on dimension to the experience, with modest fees for structured programming making even these options highly affordable.
The arts center's location adjacent to Garfield Park makes it easy to combine a gallery visit with an afternoon in the park — creating a full, low-cost family day that includes both art and outdoor recreation. GPAC's programming evolves throughout the year, so families who visit multiple times will always find something new to engage with.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Setting
Rainy Day
Great option!
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Year-round; check for current exhibitions and youth programming
Wait Times
No wait
Nearby Food
Several casual dining options are located near Garfield Park along Shelby Street and surrounding blocks.
Why Kids Love It
Kids love seeing local artists' work in an accessible neighborhood gallery and participating in hands-on creative activities when available.
Pro Tips from Parents
- Combine a GPAC visit with a walk through Garfield Park next door for a full nature-and-art afternoon.
- Check the GPAC event calendar for free family workshops and opening receptions that are open to the public.
- The gallery features rotating exhibitions by Indianapolis artists — a great way to introduce kids to the local arts scene.
What to Bring
- A curious attitude toward local and contemporary art
- Camera for gallery photography if permitted
- Comfortable shoes for walking between GPAC and Garfield Park
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
USD 0
Tips to Save
- Gallery admission is free; some workshops and classes have minimal fees.
- Check the schedule for free family event days.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 12:00 – 7:00 PM
- Monday
- Closed
- Sunday
- Closed
- Tuesday
- 12:00 – 7:00 PM
- Saturday
- 12:00 – 5:00 PM
- Thursday
- 12:00 – 7:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 12:00 – 7:00 PM