Katy Mann, founder of Indy with Kids, stopped by FOX59’s Indy Now to share some of the newest family-friendly businesses and attractions around Central Indiana. As a weekly guest on the show, Katy regularly joins the Indy Now team to highlight top picks from IndyWithKids.com, where local families turn for ideas on things to do, places to go, and new experiences worth checking out.
In addition to running Indy with Kids, Katy is also the author of Indianapolis Scavenger and Where to Take the Kids: Indianapolis, two resources designed to help families discover fun close to home. On this week’s segment with Jillian Deam, Katy highlighted a mix of brand-new openings, recently launched spots, and a few newer destinations that families may still be surprised to learn are now open.
New Family Attractions and Businesses Katy Mann Shared on FOX59
One of the biggest highlights of the segment was the new Museum Experience Center at Conner Prairie. Katy described it as one of the most anticipated openings for local families. The space invites guests to step into the stories being told at Conner Prairie through interactive exhibits, immersive imagery, and hands-on opportunities for both kids and adults. She also noted the Spark! Lab and shared excitement about family-friendly features like the giant foam pit.
Another standout pick was Catch Win, the new claw machine arcade in Indianapolis. This colorful new spot is completely dedicated to claw machines, making it a fun destination for kids, teens, and even adults. Katy shared that when her family visited, they spent about $20 and stayed for around an hour, with each child leaving with at least one stuffed animal. For families looking for something different, playful, and prize-filled, Catch Win sounds like an easy win.
Katy also highlighted The Sensory Shop in Carmel, a unique business centered around fidgets, sensory tools, and tactile play. While the shop itself is a great resource for neurodivergent individuals, therapists, and families, Katy said what really stood out to her family were the experiences offered there, including classes and birthday parties. Her kids tried the Slime Lab class and loved getting to make different kinds of slime in a setting that was hands-on, engaging, and sensory-rich.
Next on the list was the Fishers Community Center, which has been open for a little while but still surprises many families who are just now hearing about it. Katy explained that while the center includes amenities like a gym and pool, one of the biggest draws for families is the 5,300-square-foot indoor play area. Even non-residents and non-members can access certain features, including the play area and walking track, by signing up for a free community pass online.
For families who love dining out but want options for everyone, Katy recommended Westfield Collective. She described it as a fun, flexible gathering place with six different restaurant concepts, plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Connected to iBeach, the indoor and outdoor volleyball courts, it’s a great place to grab a meal while watching games or simply enjoying the energy of the space. Katy especially liked that families do not all have to agree on one kind of food, since there are multiple choices in one location.
Family Places Coming Soon in Indianapolis and Beyond
Katy also shared a few businesses families should keep on their radar.
One is The Nest Play Cafe, which she described as downtown Indianapolis’ first indoor play cafe. Designed for children ages 0 to 6, this new concept is expected to open later this month and will be especially exciting for families in the Fall Creek area and nearby neighborhoods. Even though photos were still limited at the time of the segment, Katy said it is definitely one to watch.
Another major addition coming soon is Skyline Adventures, a 126-acre nature theme park opening just in time for summer. Katy said her family is especially excited about the floating water obstacle course, but the park will also feature a lake, an all-season tubing hill, and a treetop ropes course. It sounds like the kind of attraction that could quickly become a summer favorite for adventurous families.
She also mentioned that Slick City, the indoor slide park that opened on the west side last year, is expanding with two new locations. The Geist location is expected to open in May, and Greenwood will follow later this year. Katy described Slick City as being like an indoor water slide park, but without the water, which makes it a high-energy option for kids who love climbing, sliding, and active play.
Why Families Follow Katy Mann and Indy with Kids
What makes Katy’s FOX59 segments so valuable is that they are rooted in real family experience. She is not just sharing a list of places. She is sharing destinations she has explored, researched, or sees as especially useful for local parents looking for fresh ideas. Through Indy with Kids, her books, and her weekly television appearances, Katy helps Central Indiana families stay in the know about what is new, what is worth the drive, and what kids are actually excited about right now.
This latest FOX59 appearance was a great reminder that the Indianapolis area continues to grow with more family-focused businesses, interactive attractions, and creative spaces for play. From immersive museums and sensory experiences to play cafes, food halls, and slide parks, there is no shortage of new places for families to explore together.
For more local family fun ideas, readers can follow along at IndyWithKids.com, where Katy shares weekly recommendations, seasonal guides, and trusted tips for making family life in Indianapolis more fun.
