Initiatives of the Master Plan
The Master Plan addresses not only new exhibits, buildings, access points, and infrastructure projects, but also plans for the green spaces: woodland, riverbank, wetlands, and the prairie for which Conner Prairie was named. The following projects outlined in the Master Plan and funded by the Prairie Pathways Campaign will further illuminate our vision for Conner Prairie. These initiatives help build a lasting impact at Conner Prairie for decades to come. Explore each project currently in the works on the Historic Campus in Fishers and their relationship to our mission.
In the works
Museum Experience Center Transformation
This space will provide six experience areas, an immersive play space, a brand-new entry onto the grounds and the opportunity to display even more historical objects from our collections that contain over 27,000 artifacts.
Trails at Conner Prairie
Find a deeper connection with nature as you explore the wonders of the natural world through the prairie and along the oxbow of the White River.
The Trails at Conner Prairie is approximately two miles long and is located on the grounds of Conner Prairie as a guest experience. Consisting of two pathways — a paved Prairie Trail and a more rugged, natural R.B. Annis Vista Trail — our wildlife-friendly trails provide discovery for everyone.
Promised Land as proving Ground
Promised Land as Proving Ground covers 500 years of African American history from pre-colonial Africa to the present day and specifically explores the development of African American faith ways and their expression through food, music and dance, and activism from traditional African religion to the African American church.
The above experiences are funded by Prairie Pathways Campaign.
View our latest press release
Conner Prairie Expands and Enhances Visitor Experiences with Announcement of $24 Million in New Capital Projects
Development of unique exhibits and guest experiences will transform the way visitors engage with the museum FISHERS, IN (August 12, 2022) – Indiana’s premier living history museum and one of…
Completed Projects
Makesmith Workshop
Through various types of tools and materials, Makesmith Workshop was designed to pilot hands-on experiences with guests. allowing the Museum to better understand what the needs of tomorrow will be in the maker movement.
See the project, what we learned and its next iteration.
Shen Ho Shi
Shen Ho Shi was originally used as Eli Lilly’s summer home. Through an extensive restoration and expansion project, the house continues to make a lasting impact on the community, preserving Lily's legacy and interest in Chinese art and culture. The space now includes The Bluffs, build in partnership with Ritz Charles, and serves as a welcoming gathering place for special events.
Prairie House
With the remodel and expansion of our Prairie House, this space has become home to our residential teacher program, and first ever Museum school. When not used during the school year, it's home to our ever-growing Summer Camp program.