Indiana State Museum Wedding
All you need to know to have a historical wedding at the Indiana State Museum feat. Tim & Maria
Are you and your partner history buffs or just love the view of the Indy canal? The Indiana State Museum offers a front row seat for a wedding on the Canal and access to the iconic views of the Indianapolis cityscape.
Nestled in the heart of Indianapolis, the Indiana State Museum is a perfect blend of Indiana’s historical charm and unique backdrops that show off the best parts of the city. In my time as a wedding photographer, I’ve had the joy of capturing these timeless moments at the museum, capturing each couple’s story as it becomes a vibrant thread in the tapestry of this historical venue.
Get a glimpse into what your wedding at the Indiana State Museum could look like through Tim and Marie’s wedding day!
What makes the Indiana State Museum a unique venue?
The Indiana State Museum is more than just a venue; it’s a gateway to a world where every corner tells a story, every room holds a secret, and every moment is steeped in Hoosier history. Here’s a few reasons why my clients feel this venue is unlike any other:
Unique Architecture and Photographic Opportunities: The museum’s striking architecture, combining modern design with historical elements, offers a visually stunning backdrop. Whether it’s the floor to ceiling windows in the Great Hall or the city views from the outdoor terraces, the museum provides diverse and photogenic settings for whatever vision you share for your wedding. The Canal Overlook Bridge also offers an indoor space with great lighting for getting ready or indoor portraits.
Versatile Spaces: Whether you dream of an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, the museum caters to all. With a variety of unique spaces like the West Canal Terrace for smaller, more private events, or the Redbud Grove’s green space for larger celebrations, there’s a perfect spot for every couple. The Indiana State Museum has spaces for weddings ranging from 15-500 guests.
Easy Access to the Canal: Wherever you choose to have your wedding at the museum, you will have easy access to the canal and all it offers. It allows for a blend of city and nature in your photos, and of course the iconic views of the Indianapolis skyline!
Access to the Museum Galleries: For couples who want to give their guests the opportunity to explore the Indiana State Museum during your wedding, you can add access to view the current galleries for an additional fee.
Activities for your Wedding by the Canal
Getting married at the Indiana State Museum means you have access to the Canal and all it has to offer on your wedding day! Here are some fun activities you could incorporate into your day to make the most of this prime Indianapolis location.
Rent a peddle boat or kayak (new swan peddle boats are now available!)
Rent a bike or Surrey to explore further areas of the canal
Do a private vow reading at your favorite spot on the canal
Grab a snack at a local food truck
Explore White River State Park
Have a canal-side picnic and watch the ducks
Use it as a backdrop for your wedding party and couple’s photos
Things to keep in mind while planning a wedding at the Indiana State Museum
With any wedding venue that’s in a more public spot, there are a few things you should keep in mind going into your wedding day to help things run smoothly.
Understand you will have a few extra guests in the audience for your ceremony.
This is pretty unavoidable given the prime location right on the canal. Your ceremony will be roped off to keep out uninvited guests, but you might have some passerby's stopping for a look. If you want total privacy, it might be best to do an indoor ceremony in the Indiana State Museum or use one of their outdoor terraces..Double check the Indianapolis calendar for events in the city at locations you may want photos.
It’s good to be aware of any big events taking place in the city that could make taking photos difficult or impossible in certain spots. Road closures, busy traffic, and large crowds are all possibilities especially for summer wedding dates.Add extra time for traveling between locations and finding parking.
If you are getting ready at a different location or want to travel to multiple spots for photos, make sure to allow extra time in case of traffic and finding parking. The Indiana State Museum does have it’s own parking garage that makes it easy for you and your guests for the ceremony and reception, but finding parking around the city can be difficult on busy days. Having a designated chauffeur or hiring transportation can make driving around the city less stressful.
How to Book your Wedding at the Indiana State Museum
Inquire for the space you are interested in on their website. There is an inquiry form at the bottom of each rental space they have available.
An Indiana State Museum event planner will reach out with more information regarding requirements for booking each space and answer your questions.
To officially rent a space at the Indiana State Museum, you must sign a contract with ISM and pay a 50% deposit.
You’ll then move forward with your event planner to plan your wedding day!
The Indiana State Museum includes tables/chairs, security, and catering in-house but you will need to book your other vendors to make your day complete!
Email me below to learn more about wedding photography packages for your wedding at the Indiana State Museum!
Hey there! I’m Reagan - an Indianapolis wedding and elopement photographer documenting candid and colorful love all over Indiana & Michigan.
I’m a Muncie native but currently live on the east side of Indy with my partner, Will, and our two dogs, Winston & Poppy. When I’m not out documenting wedding days, you can find me at a concert, building legos, watching Star Wars, eating Thai food, or exploring a new city.
