Feeding the Ducks in Indy Really “Fits the Bill”

Ok, that title was pretty rough. Waddle you do if I keep up with the duck puns? No, really. This article is going swimmingly so far. I promise I’ll stop. I don’t want to ruffle any feathers.

Anyway, I have decided that I love free stuff. I especially love free stuff that I can do with my family. With the high cost of admissions nowadays, I think it’s time we get back to nature, and be reminded that hanging out with some of our “fowlest” friends can be relaxing and great fun for the family. Check out some of these places in and around Indy that are free, or of very minimal cost, where you can take your littles to feed the ducks.

*Note: check out this info THIS INFO on what to feed the ducks. There’s research out there that supports that feeding them bread is not the best thing for them.

1. Painted Rainbow Bridge in downtown Broad Ripple. The bridge itself is a sight, but considering it runs directly over the White River, you’ll be able to take the family directly onto the bridge, and feed the ducks over the side. Broad Ripple is an amazing haven full of fun, art, food, and family-oriented shops, so while you’re there, take a jaunt through town. Free!
2. Indianapolis Canal and White River State Park. Depending on what your plans are, this is a free experience. You can kayak or experience other adventures at a cost, but to walk the canal and feed the ducks, it’s free. Just watch out for the duck droppings!
3. Falls Park in Pendleton. I’ll admit it—I’m biased. I grew up around this park, and it holds a special place in my heart. I fed the ducks there as a kid, and it’s where I take my daughter now. It’s located northeast of Indy, about 35 minutes away. It’s nestled in Pendleton, a quaint little town full of shops and small town eateries. The park is known for its lighthouse, museum, falls, ducks, and playground equipment, which ranges from the littles all the way up to the big kids. Free!
4. Morse Park and Beach in Noblesville. There’s a beach in Noblesville! Hours are 11am to 6pm, with a FREE swim from 4pm to 6pm. $2 for adults, $1.50 for kids ages 3-17, and 2 and under are free. There is (obviously) swimming, duck feeding, playground equipment, picnic shelters, fishing, and boating.
5. Eagle Creek Park. This is Indy’s largest park, and it’s a wonderful way to spend your time in Indy! Gates open from dawn to dusk, and there is a $5 a car admission if you live in Marion County. If you live outside of Marion County, admission is $6 a car. They offer Summer Day camps, a beach, facility rentals, nature centers, a marina, and obviously, tons of ducks!
6. West Park in Carmel. Gates open dawn to dusk. FREE parking. They offer playgrounds, open land (great for summer-time pics of the kids frolicking!), a splash park, and it’s not wildly popular, so it’s not likely to be too crowded. It’s also a great place to lay down a picnic blanket and enjoy the Indiana summer.
7. Duck Pond at Butler University. The pond is located behind the Holcomb Observatory and Planetarium. The Central Canal Trail also runs along the length of the campus as well, with plenty of land in front of the pond for relaxing and picnicking. Take a stroll through the campus grounds, and stop for a picture with the bulldog! Free!