Glick Indiana History Center | Indianapolis

The Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center is a premier cultural and educational institution located in downtown Indianapolis at 450 West Ohio Street. It serves as the headquarters for the Indiana Historical Society (IHS), which is one of the oldest and largest historical societies in the United States. The center is a focal point for preserving, interpreting, and celebrating Indiana’s rich heritage through dynamic exhibits, educational programs, research resources, and community engagement.

Location and Architectural Context

Positioned along the scenic Central Canal, the History Center occupies a thoughtfully designed facility that underwent a major renovation and expansion completed in 2009. The building’s modern design combines functional exhibit space with research and archival facilities, while complementing the historic character of the surrounding cultural district. Nearby institutions include the Indiana State Museum and the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, creating a vibrant cultural corridor in Indianapolis.

Core Exhibits and Visitor Experience

The center’s centerpiece is the Indiana Experience, a series of interactive and immersive exhibits that bring Indiana’s history vividly to life:

"You Are There!": This unique exhibit invites visitors to step back in time and engage with key moments in Indiana’s history. Costumed interpreters, authentic props, and recreated environments allow guests to experience events such as the Underground Railroad, early pioneer life, and labor struggles, fostering a deep, emotional connection to the past.

The Cole Porter Room: Dedicated to the legendary Indianapolis-born composer, this exhibit showcases personal artifacts, photographs, and recordings that celebrate his contributions to American music and culture.

"RESIST!": This powerful exhibit explores Indiana’s role in social justice movements, highlighting stories of activism and resilience from abolition to civil rights and beyond.

"The Electric Railway": Detailing the history of Indiana’s interurban rail systems, this exhibit illustrates the technological and social impact of early 20th-century transit on urban and rural communities.

"Chuck Taylor All Star": Celebrating the iconic basketball shoe invented in Indiana, this exhibit examines its cultural significance and evolution over time.

The exhibits use multimedia presentations, artifacts, and hands-on activities to engage visitors of all ages and learning styles, making history accessible and compelling.

Educational and Community Programs

The History Center offers a rich calendar of lectures, workshops, family activities, and traveling exhibits. These programs provide opportunities for lifelong learning and community dialogue on Indiana’s history and its ongoing relevance. School groups frequently visit for curriculum-aligned field trips, and educators benefit from tailored professional development resources.

Special events such as historical reenactments, author talks, and cultural celebrations further enhance the center’s role as a community hub.

William H. Smith Memorial Library and Research Facilities

Integral to the History Center is the William H. Smith Memorial Library, a comprehensive research facility that supports genealogists, historians, scholars, and the general public. The library’s collections include:

Manuscripts and archival documents

Historical photographs and maps

Newspapers and periodicals

Oral histories and rare books

Researchers can access materials on Indiana’s political, social, cultural, and economic history. The library staff provides expert assistance in navigating the collections and conducting historical research.

Visitor Amenities

The center is designed to ensure a comfortable and enriching visit:

Stardust Terrace Café: A casual café offering light meals, snacks, and beverages in a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a break during a museum visit.

Basile History Market: A gift shop featuring books on Indiana history, locally made crafts, educational toys, and memorabilia, allowing visitors to take home a piece of the experience.

The facility is fully accessible to individuals with disabilities, offering ramps, elevators, and assistive listening devices.

Hours, Admission, and Accessibility

Hours of Operation:

Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Closed on Mondays and major holidays

Admission Fees:

Adults: $15

Seniors (60+): $14

Youth (ages 5–17): $5

Children under 5: Free

Indiana Historical Society members, educators, and active military: Free

Access Pass holders: $5

Parking: Free parking is available in a lot off New York Street, located just a half-block east of West Street, with additional street and garage options nearby.

Significance and Impact

The Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center plays a vital role in preserving Indiana’s collective memory and fostering an informed public. Through its immersive exhibits, extensive archives, and vibrant educational programs, it connects residents and visitors with the stories that shaped the state and continue to influence its identity.

The center’s thoughtful curation balances scholarly rigor with public accessibility, making history both informative and inspiring. It serves as a resource for families, educators, students, researchers, and history enthusiasts, ensuring that Indiana’s heritage remains alive and relevant for generations to come.

In summary, the Glick Indiana History Center is a dynamic institution dedicated to exploring and celebrating Indiana’s past. Its blend of innovative exhibits, comprehensive research facilities, and community-centered programs make it an essential destination for anyone seeking to understand the state’s cultural and historical fabric.