The White River Greenway (Central) follows the scenic White River through the heart of Indianapolis, connecting Riverside Park to White River State Park. Ideal for walking, running, or cycling, this urban oasis offers skyline views, riverside overlooks, and access to downtown’s parks and cultural attractions.

Length:
9.3 miles
Surface Type:
Paved
End Points:
White River Pkwy. W. Dr. and W. 38th Street (Riverside Park), S. White River Pkwy. W. Dr. and W. Raymond St. (West Indy)
Open Hours:
24 hours
Suited For:
  • Skate-Friendly
  • Wheelchair-Friendly
  • Pedestrian-Friendly
  • Bike-Friendly
Amenities:
  • Restrooms
  • Splash Pad
  • Parking Lot
  • Hospital Pharmacy
  • Fishing
  • Boat Ramp
  • Pavilion
  • Benches
  • Playground
  • Bike Parking
  • Trash Can
  • Water Station

Along the White River Greenway (Central)

Local Highlights

  • Riverside Adventure Park

    Website
    Riverside Adventure Park in Indianapolis transforms a former golf course into a 180-acre green space with 4 miles of trails, a nature-themed playground, picnic shelters, and outdoor fitness equipment—offering a vibrant, year-round destination for all ages.
    • Restrooms
    • Splash Pad
    • Parking Lot
    • Hospital Pharmacy
    • Fishing
    • Boat Ramp
    • Pavilion
    • Benches
    • Playground
    • Bike Parking
    • Trash Can
    • Water Station

  • The AMP at 16 Tech

    The AMP at 16 Tech is a vibrant food and event hall at the heart of Indianapolis’s innovation district, 16 Tech. Housed in a repurposed industrial building, The AMP features local restaurants, pop-up kitchens, and creative spaces where entrepreneurs and artists connect. Surrounded by trails, public art, and the dynamic energy of 16 Tech—a hub for tech, research, and creativity—it’s a must-visit spot for great food and local culture.

    • Restrooms
    • Splash Pad
    • Parking Lot
    • Hospital Pharmacy
    • Fishing
    • Boat Ramp
    • Pavilion
    • Benches
    • Playground
    • Bike Parking
    • Trash Can
    • Water Station

  • White River State Park

    Website
    Located downtown Indianapolis, White River State Park offers a wide range of cultural attractions and activities. You can rent bikes, pedal boats, or kayaks from Wheel Fun Rentals to explore the park. The Everwise Amphitheater also hosts a variety of artists during the summer for a fun outdoor concert experience.
    • Restrooms
    • Splash Pad
    • Parking Lot
    • Hospital Pharmacy
    • Fishing
    • Boat Ramp
    • Pavilion
    • Benches
    • Playground
    • Bike Parking
    • Trash Can
    • Water Station

  • Indianapolis Zoo

    Website
    The Indianapolis Zoo, located along the White River Greenway, spans 64 acres of immersive animal habitats and three acres of gardens. As a triple-accredited zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden, it features standout exhibits like the International Orangutan Center, a newly opened chimpanzee complex, elephants, dolphins, and more.
    • Restrooms
    • Splash Pad
    • Parking Lot
    • Hospital Pharmacy
    • Fishing
    • Boat Ramp
    • Pavilion
    • Benches
    • Playground
    • Bike Parking
    • Trash Can
    • Water Station

  • IU Natatorium at IU Indianapolis

    Website
    The IU Natatorium aquatic center has hosted multiple Olympic diving and swimming trials, alongside hundreds of other events. The Natatorium offers lap swim passes and other aquatic programming to Indiana University Indianapolis students and the Indianapolis community.
    • Restrooms
    • Splash Pad
    • Parking Lot
    • Hospital Pharmacy
    • Fishing
    • Boat Ramp
    • Pavilion
    • Benches
    • Playground
    • Bike Parking
    • Trash Can
    • Water Station

  • Indiana University Indianapolis

    Website

    IU Indianapolis is Indiana University’s vibrant urban research campus, located in the heart of downtown. The campus blends nationally ranked academic programs in health, law, business, engineering, and the arts with hands-on learning, research, and community engagement. Students benefit from strong industry connections, cultural opportunities, and access to Indianapolis’ thriving professional network, preparing them for careers across Indiana and beyond. The Campus Center Building includes restrooms, restaurants, and a bookstore.

    • Restrooms
    • Splash Pad
    • Parking Lot
    • Hospital Pharmacy
    • Fishing
    • Boat Ramp
    • Pavilion
    • Benches
    • Playground
    • Bike Parking
    • Trash Can
    • Water Station

  • Victory Field

    Website
    Located in White River State Park, Victory Field is home to the Indianapolis Indians. High school and college games are also hosted here throughout the summer.
    • Restrooms
    • Splash Pad
    • Parking Lot
    • Hospital Pharmacy
    • Fishing
    • Boat Ramp
    • Pavilion
    • Benches
    • Playground
    • Bike Parking
    • Trash Can
    • Water Station

  • Back 9 Golf & Entertainment

    Website

    Back 9 Golf & Entertainment in downtown Indianapolis is a lively riverside destination where golf meets nightlife. Featuring high-tech driving bays, a full-service restaurant, and live music overlooking the White River, it’s the perfect spot for groups, date nights, or casual fun. With its stunning skyline views and energetic vibe, Back 9 offers a uniquely Indy experience for golfers and non-golfers alike.

    • Restrooms
    • Splash Pad
    • Parking Lot
    • Hospital Pharmacy
    • Fishing
    • Boat Ramp
    • Pavilion
    • Benches
    • Playground
    • Bike Parking
    • Trash Can
    • Water Station
Explore more on trail map

The White River Greenway is closed between Washington Street and Oliver Avenue for construction of the new Greenlawn Memorial Bridge, with expected completion in early 2027.

About the White River Greenway (Central)

The White River Greenway offers one of the most picturesque ways to experience Indianapolis. Stretching along the banks of the White River, the trail links Riverside Park and White River State Park before transitioning into floodplain forest where you’ll forget you’re in the city. It is part of Central Indiana’s White Riverway network of riverfront parks, cultural attractions, and main street villages.

This smooth, paved path is perfect for walking, running, or cycling. Shaded stretches weave through quiet parkland and open spaces before giving way to stunning views of the downtown skyline and riverfront. The sound of the water and rustling trees create a peaceful escape, while the route’s accessibility makes it easy for everyone to enjoy.

As you move along the trail, you’ll find yourself near some of Indy’s most beloved attractions—from the Indianapolis Zoo and Victory Field to the museums and green lawns of White River State Park. It’s a space where locals and visitors alike come to relax, explore, and enjoy the city’s connection to nature.

The White River Greenway is also a key link in Indianapolis’ growing trail network, connecting with paths like the Central Canal Towpath, the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, the southern portion of the Eagle Creek Greenway, and the B&O Trail through a connector trail link. Planned future expansion will extend this corridor farther south, tying together the city’s major parks and greenways into one continuous riverfront experience.

Whether you’re out for a peaceful walk, an active ride, or a scenic detour through downtown, the White River Greenway captures the spirit of Indianapolis—where nature, culture, and community flow together beautifully.

Cyclist along the westside of the Central White River Greenway outside the Indianapolis Zoo.
Cyclist along the westside of the White River Greenway (Central) outside the Indianapolis Zoo.
Cyclist north of 16th St. on the Central White River Greenway.
Cyclist north of 16th St. on the White River Greenway (Central).
Several Pacers Bikeshare stations available along the Central White River Greenway.
Several Pacers Bikeshare stations available along the White River Greenway (Central).

Helpful to know

  • Between 10th Street and White River State Park, the greenway is on both sides of the river. The portion on the west bank along the Zoo is very beautiful, but is gated at night when the Zoo is closed.
  • Be very cautious of the street crossing at 16th Street. Plans are in the works to reroute the trail beneath 16th Street as part of a bridge reconstruction project.
  • White River Greenway (Central) between 30th and 16th is quite bumpy and not suitable for wheel chairs or skate boards.
  • On the White River Greenway (Central) south of Oliver Avenue you may come across temporary encampments in certain areas. Trail users are encouraged to stay aware of their surroundings and respect all members of the community.

Intersecting trails

bird's view of Fall Creek Greenway Fall Creek Greenway logo

Fall Creek Greenway

A winding trail that takes you along parkways, river views, and major parks. The path follows the waterway and passes beautiful bridges and established neighborhoods.

Total Distance:
13.2 miles
Region:
Central, East
Central Canal Towpath Central Canal Towpath logo

Central Canal Towpath

Indy's only compacted stone regional trail, the waterside Towpath takes you from Broad Ripple, past Butler University and the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, and into Riverside Park.

Total Distance:
6.1 miles
Region:
Central, North
People walking on Eagle Creek Greenway Eagle Creek Greenway logo

Eagle Creek Greenway

The Eagle Creek Greenway winds through wooded parklands and along Eagle Creek Reservoir on a paved surfaces. Connecting neighborhoods to Eagle Creek Park, it offers scenic views, abundant wildlife, and access to Indiana’s largest city park.

Total Distance:
11.1 miles across two segments
Region:
West
Cyclists on the Indianapolis Cultural Trail in White River State Park.

Indianapolis Cultural Trail

Named "the biggest and boldest step by any American city" by Project for Public Spaces, this internationally-acclaimed 8-mile biking and walking trail connects all six of Indy's Cultural Districts.

Total Distance:
8 miles
Region:
Central