Indianapolis opens Riverside Adventure Park with over $13M investment

The City Council of Indianapolis held a press conference on May 2, 2025, to celebrate the grand opening of the Riverside Adventure Park, a significant milestone in the ongoing revitalization of Riverside Park. This historic park, which has served the community for over 125 years, has seen more than $36 million invested since 2019, largely through the Circle City Forward initiative and support from the Lilly Endowment.

The event featured remarks from several key figures, including the city council president, Vapo Soley, who emphasized the importance of community engagement in shaping the park's development. Soley highlighted the new amenities available to residents, such as a pavilion, playground, outdoor exercise equipment, and over four miles of newly paved trails that enhance connectivity within the park and to surrounding areas.

Adele Stokes, representing the Riverside Civic League, expressed pride in the park's revitalization, noting that it provides much-needed green space for families and neighbors to gather and enjoy nature. Former Riverside Regional Manager Tony Johnson reflected on the park's master plan, which was created in 2017 to better serve the community, and he expressed excitement about the future developments planned for the Adventure Park.

Phyllis Boyd, the director of Indy Parks, reiterated the transformative investment in Riverside Park, which is part of a broader $140 million initiative across the park system. She underscored the importance of green spaces for community well-being and quality of life.

The press conference concluded with a call to continue investing in infrastructure and community spaces, ensuring that every resident has access to recreational opportunities. The Riverside Adventure Park is seen as a vital step in creating a destination that fosters connection and wellness for the Indianapolis community.