Indianapolis, Indiana – On Thursday, May 1, local leaders and residents gathered to mark the grand opening of the Riverside Adventure Park, a major new addition to Indianapolis’ growing public green spaces. Spearheaded by Mayor Joe Hogsett, the City-County Council, and Indy Parks, this $13 million project brings state-of-the-art amenities, scenic trails, and a bold new vision to the city’s Near Northwest side.
Funded through a combination of the Circle City Forward Initiative and a generous grant from the Lilly Endowment, Riverside Adventure Park now spans more than 180 acres of what was once largely underused parkland. With four miles of newly paved trails, a nature-themed playground, a spacious pavilion with restrooms, a welcoming plaza, and a fitness loop complete with outdoor gym equipment, the new park is designed for everyone—from children and families to fitness lovers and nature enthusiasts.
“Through investments from our Circle City Forward initiative and the Lilly Endowment, it is with great pride that we continue to bring major improvements to one of our largest parks,” said Mayor Joe Hogsett during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. “The new Riverside Adventure Park will play a vital role in the city’s park and trail systems, and we are looking forward to seeing the great value it brings to our neighbors here on the Near Northwest side.”
The event also featured remarks from City-County Council President Vop Osili, who reflected on the deeper significance of the project beyond its physical design. “The Riverside Adventure Park is not just a new destination — it is a bold affirmation of what is possible when we invest in people and place,” said Osili. “This park embodies a vision shaped by community input, rooted in equity, and designed for connection — connection to nature, to movement, and to each other.”
This opening marks the completion of the first phase of the Riverside Adventure Park. Planning and community engagement began in August 2024 with an open house designed to gather public feedback and refine the park’s schematic design. That collaborative input played a crucial role in shaping what visitors see today.
Future phases are already in the pipeline. Phase two, scheduled to begin in early 2026, includes the creation of an archery range. Phase three will see the construction of a nature center, aimed at expanding the park’s educational offerings and deepening its connection to the surrounding natural landscape.
Riverside Adventure Park is part of a larger, ongoing investment in the broader Riverside Regional Park. Since 2019, Indy Parks has committed over $36 million to projects in this area. Of that, $11 million went directly toward Riverside Adventure Park and the Promenade Trail, which opened in 2023.
Parks Director Phyllis Boyd emphasized how access to well-designed greenspaces like this one isn’t just about leisure—it’s about improving health and enhancing community well-being. “Research shows that access to greenspaces like the Riverside Adventure Park improves both mental and physical health. People know that parks are crucial to their quality of life, that’s why 86% seek high quality parks when choosing where they want to live,” said Boyd. “With this project and over $140 million being invested in our Indy Parks system, we’re making it clear that Indianapolis has the park amenities that improve your quality of life.”
In addition to Riverside, Indy Parks is also turning its attention to the nearby Taggart Memorial Playground. Slated to begin construction this summer, the $2 million project is funded by the Lilly Endowment and is part of a broader mission to modernize more than 40% of the city’s playgrounds in the coming years.
Riverside Adventure Park is now open year-round from dawn until dusk. With 180 acres of active, thoughtfully designed parkland set within the 862-acre Riverside Regional Park, the site is poised to become a favorite destination for Indianapolis residents and visitors alike.
For more details, including a park map and photos from the grand opening, residents are encouraged to visit Indy Parks’ official website.
