Please note that Allisonville Rd. at 146th St. will close for 90 days beginning on or around March 1. Traffic to Conner Prairie from 146th St. and 116th St. might be heavier than usual.
Regular hours start March 26
Protecting Habitats Protects Life
Habitats provide homes for all living things, from the tiniest ant to the tallest tree. The exhibition Habitat explores the critical need for varied habitats, how interconnected and fragile they are, and what we can do to protect them. The experience showcases the unique habitats throughout the gardens and landscapes of Conner Prairie.
Habitat was developed by Smithsonian Gardens and is made available by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service.
Mother's Day Programming
Kick off your Mother's Day with our brand-new program, Rosé and Roses. On Friday, May 10, pamper yourself with wine tastings from Oliver Winery, fun appetizers and desserts, along with activities that include make your own floral bouquet, make your own goat milk soap, mindfulness meditations, nature walks and yoga sessions.
On May 11, spend the day immersed in the beauty of spring with the 1836 Garden Party in Prairietown. Experience music of the 19th century and learn how it has emerged in different forms over the decades.
Then on Sunday, May 12, celebrate that special person in your life with Mother's Day Brunch! Table reservations are still available for 6, 8, or 10 seats. Mother's Day Brunch also includes admission to our grounds for your entire party. It's a great way to spend the afternoon at our tea party in Prairietown.
Upcoming Programs & Events
Past Events
Winter on the Prairie: Architectural Tour
March 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21 and 23
Join us for a journey through time as we explore the architecture that defines Conner Prairie's rich history. Our Architectural Tour will take you on a guided walk through our grounds, showcasing the various styles and designs that have shaped the buildings on our grounds.
Winter on the Prairie: Owl Pellet Dissection
March 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21 and 23
Discover how owls connect to their habitats with our Owl Pellet Dissection program. Owl pellets are the undigested part of the owl’s food. Through the dissection process, find undigested contents such as bones and fur throughout the pellets. This program encourages all participants to gain a better understanding of an owl’s diet, habitat, and hunting patterns.
Winter on the Prairie: Loose Part Art
March 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21 and 23
Let your creativity guide you through the artistic process of Loose Part Art. Loose parts are materials which can be combined, moved, carried and redesigned during the artistic process. This form of transient art allows guests of all ages to enjoy the movement, change, design/re-design and experimentation with loose parts. Choose the parts you want and start creating.
Winter on the Prairie: Tile Storyboard
March 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22 and 24
Storytelling is common to all peoples across time. Draw inspiration from the stories of the Lenape people or your own favorite tale as you design your own storyboard tile and explore the many ways that people share their stories.
Winter on the Prairie: Wonder Walk
March 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22 and 24
Expand your sense of wonder in nature. From the birds soaring through the sky to the wildlife nestled in the ground and everything in between, our Wonder Walks give you the time, space, and freedom to connect with nature. Engage your senses and ignite curiosity as you explore natural habitats using scientific tools.
Winter on the Prairie: Animal Encounters
March 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22 and 24
Throughout Winter in the Prairie, enjoy exclusive visits with a selection of the animals from Animal Encounters. Learn about the importance of our Heritage Breeds and how the conservation and awareness of these rare and endangered breeds of livestock impact the world around us.
Daytime Session: Wheel Thrown Pottery
March 4
Discover the basics of wheel thrown pottery. Students will be able to practice all aspects of throwing and shaping pottery. Whether a beginner or intermediate student, you will be able to progress at your own rate and develop your skills.
Evening Session: Wheel Thrown Pottery
March 5
Discover the basics of wheel thrown pottery. Students will be able to practice all aspects of throwing and shaping pottery. Whether a beginner or intermediate student, you will be able to progress at your own rate and develop your skills.
Daytime Session: Wheel Thrown Pottery
March 7
Discover the basics of wheel thrown pottery. Students will be able to practice all aspects of throwing and shaping pottery. Whether a beginner or intermediate student, you will be able to progress at your own rate and develop your skills.
Corn to Cocktail: Burbon
March 14
Corn: we know it, we love it, it’s a vital part of Indiana’s agricultural heritage. But what’s it got to do with alcohol? Join us for Corn to Cocktail, where we’ll investigate Hoosier corn provision, learn how corn becomes spirit, share some history, and make a couple of potent potables.
Knifesmithing
March 6, 13, 20 and 27
Under the guidance of Nathan Allen, you'll learn about the history and creation of a traditional hand-forged knife. Topics include proper steel selection, use of a coal forge and anvil, filing, and finishing a handle. You can expect to complete at least one knife during class.
Cheers to Chocolate
March 19, 26 and 27
Join us for Cheers to Chocolate! We’re playing matchmaker with some perfect pairings: chocolate & whiskey and chocolate & wine. Perfect for dates – or friends!
Regular Hours
March 26
Plan for an unforgettable day this spring at Conner Prairie and discover new sights and sounds as our outdoors come alive.
Breakfast with the Bunny
March 30
Enjoy a delicious Easter breakfast buffet and visit with the Easter Bunny for a photo op. Don't forget to bring your own camera to capture the memory! Assigned seating will be arranged in advance for registered guests.
Springtime on the Prairie
March 30
Join us for Springtime on the Prairie and enjoy engaging activities all day long. We will have our traditional Easter egg hunt — divided by age group — as well as exciting cultural activities and celebrations that brings color and inspiration to spring from all around the world.
Trails at Conner Prairie Open House
March 30
Learn about the new Trails at Conner Prairie during our Trails Open House. Enjoy warm drinks and a make-your-own Trail Mix bar at Hilltop Pavilion while chatting with Conner Prairie staff about our new nature programs for 2024.
Playtime on the Prairie ages 3 - 5
April 5
Playtime on the Prairie for 3-5 year olds is an hour long program designed for early learners and their parents or guardians. During these classes, attendees will have the opportunity to explore natural materials, participate in age-appropriate play invitations, CREATE, PLAY, and LEARN!
Total Solar Eclipse
April 8
Indulge your senses as you take in live performances from musical acts, dance companies and enlightened talks from renowned experts who will shed light on the science behind this mesmerizing event. The festival experiences all build up to the breathtaking convergence of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacle – the total eclipse!
Playtime on the Prairie ages 0 - 2
April 12
Playtime on the Prairie for 0-2 year olds is an hour long program designed for early learners and their parents or guardians. During these classes, attendees will have the opportunity to explore natural materials, participate in age-appropriate play invitations, CREATE, PLAY, and LEARN!
Homeschool Day
April 17
Give your students a unique and personal experience to connect with history and nature. At Conner Prairie we invite guests to “Step into the Story,” and we also strive to step into theirs. Through observation, deep listening, and thoughtful questioning, we create meaningful connections, offering guests an opportunity to go beyond “doing” and experience “being.”
Wheel Thrown Pottery (Tuesdays)
April 2, 9, 16 and 23
Discover the basics of wheel thrown pottery. Students will be able to practice all aspects of throwing and shaping pottery. Whether a beginner or intermediate student, you will be able to progress at your own rate and develop your skills.
Wheel Thrown Pottery (Thursdays)
April 4, 11, 18 and 25
Discover the basics of wheel thrown pottery. Students will be able to practice all aspects of throwing and shaping pottery. Whether a beginner or intermediate student, you will be able to progress at your own rate and develop your skills.
Corn to Cocktail - Vodka
April 18
Corn: we know it, we love it, it’s a vital part of Indiana’s agricultural heritage. But what’s it got to do with alcohol? Join us for Corn to Cocktail, where we’ll investigate Hoosier corn provision, learn how corn becomes spirit, share some history, and make a couple of potent potables.
Playtime on the Prairie ages 3 - 5
April 19
Playtime on the Prairie for 3-5 year olds is an hour long program designed for early learners and their parents or guardians. During these classes, attendees will have the opportunity to explore natural materials, participate in age-appropriate play invitations, CREATE, PLAY, and LEARN!
Raising Sheep and Goats
April 20
Have you ever wanted to raise sheep or goats, but weren’t sure where to start? Do you have a small farm but want to learn more? Do you wonder what it takes to raise livestock? Then this class is for you! Join Conner Prairie’s Ag Staff as we discuss everything you need to know about sheep and goats, including breeds, handling, basic care, nutrition, housing, and reproduction.
Curious by Nature
April 19
Join us for a brand new Homeschool nature program designed to enhance your current home studies by offering your children the time, space and freedom to let their innate curiosity for the natural world around them thrive!
Earth Day at The Trails at Conner Prairie
April 20
Honor Earth Day at Conner Prairie with nature-focused programs along the Trails. Meet community members focused on nature and conservation, take guided strolls along the trails with Conner Prairie staff, and engage in playful invitations to connect with our beautiful planet. This event is included with daily admission ticket.
Harmonic History: A Celebration of Folk Music
April 27
Prairietown is a buzz with excitement when the Arrowoods, a family of musicians from North Carolina, come to visit their cousins the Bakers. Explore your relationship with music, along with the community of Prairietown, as the village comes alive with singing, dancing, and a variety of musical instruments. This program is free with General Admission.
We Can Camp
April 27 - 28
Join us as you learn basic camping skills, enjoy fun outdoor experiences and spend the night on our grounds in a tent! This program is perfect for first-time campers or anyone looking for a refresher.
Playtime on the Prairie ages 3 - 5
May 3
Playtime on the Prairie for 3-5 year olds is an hour long program designed for early learners and their parents or guardians. During these classes, attendees will have the opportunity to explore natural materials, participate in age-appropriate play invitations, CREATE, PLAY, and LEARN!
Breads from the Wood-Fired Oven
May 4
There are few things in the kitchen that are more rewarding than making fresh bread! And if you haven’t had bread from a wood-fired oven, you are in for a special treat! This hands-on workshop will introduce you to some of the favorite breads of the citizens of Prairietown, and our expert bakers will tell how you can make them at home even if you don’t have a wood-fired oven.
We Can Camp
May 4 - 5
Join us as you learn basic camping skills, enjoy fun outdoor experiences and spend the night on our grounds in a tent! This program is perfect for first-time campers or anyone looking for a refresher.
Corn to Cocktail - Gin
May 9
Corn: we know it, we love it, it’s a vital part of Indiana’s agricultural heritage. But what’s it got to do with alcohol? Join us for Corn to Cocktail, where we’ll investigate Hoosier corn provision, learn how corn becomes spirit, share some history, and make a couple of potent potables.
Playtime on the Prairie ages 0 - 2
May 10
Playtime on the Prairie for 0-2 year olds is an hour long program designed for early learners and their parents or guardians. During these classes, attendees will have the opportunity to explore natural materials, participate in age-appropriate play invitations, CREATE, PLAY, and LEARN!
Rosé and Roses
May 10
Join us for Rosé and Roses, a Mother's Day Ladies Night Out! This 21+ event includes a wine tasting with Oliver Winery! Other activities include mindfulness meditation, nature walks, yoga sessions and a photo backdrop to share with your following! Additionally, you will create your own flower arrangement that you can take home with you!
Heirloom Plant Sale
May 10 & 11
Prairietown Garden Party
May 11
You are invited to our 1836 Garden Party at the Campbell House for an immersive musical experience. Explore the cultural diversity of classical music and learn about the impact it had on the daily lives of people in the 1800s, regardless of their social and economic status. This program is free with general admission.
Trails at Conner Prairie: Wellness in Nature
May 11
Give yourself the gift of time and space to be fully present and enjoy what nature can offer during our Wellness events at Conner Prairie. Enjoy yoga geared to adults, yoga for families and Forest Therapy walks.
Mother's Day Brunch
May 12
Playtime on the Prairie ages 3 - 5
May 17
Fun in the Forge
May 18
Take history home with you by completing several projects such as barbeque skewers, a flint and steel firestarter and a dinner bell.
Curious by Nature
May 20
Join us for a brand new Homeschool nature program designed to enhance your current home studies by offering your children the time, space and freedom to let their innate curiosity for the natural world around them thrive!
Heritage Breeds Week
May 18 - 24
Participate in exciting activities, watch fascinating demonstrations, learn about Conner Prairie's efforts to preserve heritage breeds and discover what makes these rare animals so special. Meet and Greet with animals all across the grounds.
Juice and Canvas
May 23
Explore the outdoors while enjoying a juice box and observing nature; then use your senses to paint your own art piece to take home with you!
Playtime on the Prairie ages 0 - 2
May 24
Wheel Thrown Pottery Evening Classes
May 6, 13, 20 and 27
Discover the basics of wheel thrown pottery. Students will be able to practice all aspects of throwing and shaping pottery. Whether a beginner or intermediate student, you will be able to progress at your own rate and develop your skills.
Wheel Thrown Pottery Morning Classes
May 7, 14, 21 and 28
Discover the basics of wheel thrown pottery. Students will be able to practice all aspects of throwing and shaping pottery. Whether a beginner or intermediate student, you will be able to progress at your own rate and develop your skills.
Black Birders Week
May 26 - June 1
Homeschool Day
May 30
Give your students a unique and personal experience to connect with history and nature. At Conner Prairie we invite guests to “Step into the Story,” and we also strive to step into theirs. Through observation, deep listening, and thoughtful questioning, we create meaningful connections, offering guests an opportunity to go beyond “doing” and experience “being.”