One of the most memorable moments as a parent is watching that sweet little tot tear into an oversized piece of cake on their first birthday. Why not make it memorable for your guests too? I’ve compiled a list of places in Indy to hold a 1st birthday party. Whether your guests are 1 or 100, you can be certain that they will have a great time!
Indianapolis Zoo: Did you know you can plan a zoo birthday with the zoo itself, with packages including a private party room, cupcakes and ice cream, ride tickets, crafts, and zoo admission and free parking? You can! Contact them at IndyZooStore@eventnetwork.com and they’ll help you with available dates. If you’re not feeling up to setting up the party at the zoo, you can always make a day of it with your guests, and contact the group sales department at the zoo, to allow you and your guests to get a discounted group rate. Since there will be kids in the group that are barely walking, you can always take advantage of stroller rental. You can also rent wheelchairs for anyone else in your crowd that may need some assistance moving around the zoo.
Gymboree Play & Music: If you’re looking for a great experience for a 1st birthday, this is it! Gymboree offers a special themed first birthday party, which is geared specifically for the littlest of littles. The birthday package offers use of the facility for 90 minutes or more, a Gymboree teacher, party supplies, special party invites, a gift for the birthday baby, and goody bags for all guests! Gymboree’s website states that 1st through 5th birthday parties are their specialty, so you know this isn’t their first rodeo! Most locations can accommodate up to 20 kids. More info here.
Stony Creek Swim Center: Even though your 1 year old won’t likely be able to swim, kids love the water! Sheesh, even as adults, we love the water! At Stony Creek, they offer birthday party packages for kids, with different priced packages. Per their website, their “gold” package offers pizza, ice cream, drinks, party supplies, 75 minutes of swimming, 45 minutes of party room time, and “no hassle” set up and clean up by facility staffers. More info is available on their website at stonycreekswimcenter.com. This is such a fantastic option, especially if there will be older kids at the party, that way they don’t get “stuck” watching a baby open gifts all day—they’ll benefit from the pool too!
Picnic and splash parks: check out our awesome article here for a comprehensive list of FREE splash pads and spray parks around Indy. If you’ve got a baby with a summer birthday, what better way to celebrate, than with a picnic-style lunch and time for the kiddies at the splash park?! Many of the splash pads can be found in a park setting, where there are shelters and picnic tables set up, and would make the perfect party spot. This is also a great option if there will be kids of different ages at the party, so no one gets bored.
The Music Playhouse: This is a great opportunity for kids to learn, play, and have an awesome birthday party! The facility is great for kids of all ages, and they cater to kids under 5 years old. The birthday party packages that are offered include 1 ½ hours in the studio, access to instruments and props, covered tables, and instrument party favors (available for purchase). The instructors sit with kids and parents in a circle and lead a fun and engaging music program that involves singing, dancing, and instruments. Check out this article from IWK that highlights The Music Playhouse: click here.
Rhythm! Discovery Center: You know how 1 year olds just love to bang on pots and pans, and make all sorts of noise? Here is their chance to do just that! The Rhythm! Discovery Center offers a birthday package that includes a 20 minute drum circle. The museum is open for browsing following the drum circle, and tables and seating are available for the party as well.
Indianapolis Children’s Museum: How many times do we have to tell our readers? The Children’s Museum is awesome! Here’s just another reason why. Offering birthday packages with a private party room, museum admission for up to 20 guests, free carousel rides, cake, and birthday supplies, there are options for members and non-members. Their “signature birthday” package even includes 1 hour of private play in a specific gallery. Your kid will pretty much be the coolest 1 year old in town, especially if you have your party at the Children’s Museum.
*Editor’s Note: Audra offers so many great places for a first birthday party! We personally love The Urban Chalkboard, a picnic in Holliday Park with a visit to Habitat Hall, or swimming party at the JCC or Monon Community Center! If you want more party choices check out our complete birthday party location list!
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