Garfield Park in Indianapolis is a wonderful, large park within the Indy Parks system. One of the things that makes Garfield Park so unique is the Conservatory. Tropical plants bloom and creep year round in this greenhouse, stretching towards the windowed ceilings and walls. Koi frolic in the ponds and water rushes over the waterfall.
Gnome Away From Home
Every spring, visitors are treated to delightful displays of gnomes throughout the conservatory. Guests walk along the paths, spotting dioramas dedicated to the theme of the year and created using gnomes. This year, the theme ‘Gnomes on the Big Screen’ is a delightful nod to favorite and classic movies.
Gnome Show at Garfield Park
While the movie selections that are depicted will mostly appeal to the grownup audience, kids will love the set ups and details. A popcorn 
seek and find is scattered throughout the conservatory for children (and their adults) to attempt to find. During our visit, we found seven pop corn buckets but another family visiting at the same time found eleven! The Gnome show will run March 20 – April 11, 2021. Tickets must be purchased in advance, there will be no tickets for sale at the front desk. Visitors are to select a time slot when purchasing tickets and limit their visit to 45 minutes.
Due to COVID 19, the path throughout the conservatory is marked with one way directional arrows. Guests are to continue on the path following the arrows and not turn around. You can loop back around as many times as you wish within your 45 minute window. Face coverings/masks are to be worn at all times.
Children of all ages will find things to love about Gnome Away from Home. The Conservatory is also home to several reptiles and fish. There are bathrooms available near the reptile terrariums.
Admission to Garfield Park Indy
Admission to the Gnome Away from Home is $4 per person age three and up and can be purchased online or by phone.
Garfield Park Hours
Appointments and tickets are available every hour on the hour.
Sunday 1 – 4 pm
Monday – Saturday 10 am – 4 pm
Parking at Garfield Park
Free parking is available in a lot right outside of the Conservatory. Additional parking is available in other lots throughout the park.
Garfield Park Conservatory Address
2505 Conservatory Dr, Indianapolis, Indiana
Gnomes at Garfield Park
If you’re making plans for spring break or an Indy spring break staycation, the gnomes at Garfield Park Conservatory are a great place to visit.
Garfield Park Conservatory in Indy
There are so many other activities at Garfield Park in the Sunken Garden and the Conservatory. The Conservatory Crossing holiday display is a favorite among children and adults. During the spring and summer months, visitors love watching the lighted fountains in the Sunken Garden. During a visit to the gardens, don’t forget to stop in to the seasonal Garfield Park Children’s Garden.
Garfield Park with Kids
Garfield Park is home to the GPAC, Garfield Park Art Center. In the art center, you can participate in a weekly activity called Arts for All. During COVID, this opportunity has moved to a take and make kit. The Burello Family Center has a lot of great programming, including a weekly indoor play time for young children.
If you love exploring gardens in Indy, check out the gorgeous gardens at Coxhall Gardens in Carmel.
