Insider Secrets: Save Big at Conner Prairie with These Money-Smart Tips
For all the fun there is to get into around the greater Indianapolis area, my family and I have really come to love the Conner Prairie Interactive History Park in Fishers. Maybe it's the way they just know how to put on a festival (hiiii Headless Horseman and History on Tap!). Maybe it's how smitten we are with summer nights for Symphony on the Prairie (more on that below). Or maybe it's that as the kids have gotten older, they just love learning more about history and the stories of Indiana's roots. Either way, a visit to Conner Prairie doesn't have to break the bank.
From free admission days to tips for Conner Prairie discount tickets, we’ve rounded up the best insider tricks to save big on your next visit.
Here are 10 Money Smart Tips for Saving Big at Conner Prairie:
1. Save $2 on General Admission When You Purchase Online
Skip the ticket desk and book your general admission tickets online in advance - prices are automatically discounted $2 per person. It’s a quick, easy way to trim costs before you even step foot the famed Conner Prairie outdoor experience areas.
2. Visit After 3pm for Half Off Admission
Rolling in a little later? Score 50% off admission when you arrive after 3PM. It’s a perfect option for after-school adventures or a spontaneous weekday outing. Note: This discount is only available at the box office - not online!
3. Score Big with the Access Pass Program
If your family receives benefits like Hoosier Healthwise, SNAP, or TANF, you're eligible for the Access Pass Program, which drops general admission tickets to just $2 per person. Just bring your photo ID and qualifying documents.
Bonus: The Access Pass also works at other local museums, including the Indiana State Museum and Eiteljorg Museum.
4. Become a Member - It Pays for Itself
A Conner Prairie membership unlocks unlimited daytime admission, member rates on special events like Headless Horseman, the annual Fall Jupiter Flights Balloon Festival and Merry Prairie Holiday, early priority registration for summer camps, discounts in the Conner Prairie Store, and come in various membership levels to choose from. Plus, we hear members will get first access to the new Welcome Center (aka the Discovery Center) when it re-opens in 2026!
5. Plan for Free Admission Days
Throughout the year, Conner Prairie offers free admission days, including Juneteenth (6/19), and more. Keep an eye on their website or Instagram page for updates!
PSSST: HAVE YOU DONE THE INDIANAPOLIS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA SYMPHONY ON THE PRAIRIE YET?
More Money Smart Tips for Saving Big at Conner Prairie…
6. Military Members, You’re Covered
Military members and veterans with valid military ID receive free daytime admission at Conner Prairie and 50% off general admission for immediate family members.
7. Use the Smithsonian Affiliate Program
Are you a member of any Smithsonian affiliate museums or historic sites? Through the Smithsonian Affiliate initiative program, you may qualify for free or discounted admission to Conner Prairie. Check with your home museum to confirm!
Pro tip: And in converse, if your existing Conner Prairie membership purchase includes an Explorer or Conner Society level membership, you also get the benefits of the Smithsonian Affiliate Program, which includes free admission to 19 museums and galleries around the US, a one-year subscription to Smithsonian Magazine, and more.
8. Take Advantage of Caregiver Perks
Have a grandparent, nanny, or friend who helps with outings? Conner Prairie allows a designated caregiver to visit with member children use your membership card, making it easier to share the fun without being there every time.
9. Go With a Group (of 15 or More)
Planning a field trip, birthday party, or family reunion? Groups of 15 or more receive discounts off the admission price. Contact Guest Services at (317) 776-6000 or groups@connerprairie.org to book your spot in advance and save!
10. Ask for Gift Certificates (or a Gift Membership!)
This is always a favorite hack, especially when grandparents or other family members ask that age-old "what would you like for the holidays?" Ask for a gift membership, or just sneak this link into their inbox for more details.
