Reviewed by:
D. Goren
Head of Content
Updated March, 30
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Navigating Indianapolis International Airport with Kids: A Parent's Overview
Indianapolis International Airport (IND) is regularly cited as one of the best mid-sized airports in North America. With a single modern terminal opened in 2008, IND is spacious, well-designed, and easy to navigate — qualities that benefit families who want a low-stress airport experience.
Family Travel at IND
IND's award-winning terminal features nursing rooms, baby changing stations, and family restrooms distributed across the concourses. The open, airy interior gives children room to move, and the airport's efficient security process means less time in lines and more time at the gate. Dining options span a solid range of American and international fare, with several restaurants offering children's menus and family-oriented seating.
Read on for a complete overview of family facilities at Indianapolis International Airport — a consistently impressive option for travelers of all ages.
Nursing Rooms and Baby Care Facilities at Indianapolis International Airport
Nursing rooms and breastfeeding facilities
Indianapolis International Airport (IND) is designed with families in mind, and breastfeeding parents generally have a few practical options. In many U.S. airports, including IND, you can usually find private lactation/nursing rooms or wellness spaces intended for nursing and pumping. These rooms are typically more private and quieter than using seating areas, and they generally include a chair/bench, a small counter or shelf for pump parts, and a door that closes for privacy.
Availability can vary by terminal area. At many airports, nursing rooms may be located both landside (before security) and airside (after security), but it is more common and convenient for families to use airside locations once you have cleared TSA, since that’s where most waiting happens. If you need help finding the nearest nursing room, airport staff or information desks can point you to the closest option without requiring you to share personal details.
Privacy note: Nursing is generally permitted throughout airports, but dedicated nursing rooms provide a private space for parents who prefer it or who need to pump.
Baby changing stations
At IND, as in most modern airports, baby changing stations are typically installed in many public restrooms. You’ll most often find them:
- In women’s and men’s restrooms throughout the terminal
- In accessible/family or companion-care restrooms where available, which can be helpful if you need extra space for a stroller or a second caregiver
- Near high-traffic areas such as the main terminal corridors, food courts, and gate concourses
Most changing stations are fold-down units with a safety strap. For accessibility, family/accessible restrooms are often the easiest choice if you’re traveling solo with a baby or managing a toddler who doesn’t want to stay still.
Baby care centers (what to expect)
When airports label a space as a baby care center, nursing room, or family room, it usually means a dedicated area created to make feeding and diaper changes easier away from busy restrooms. If IND’s available family rooms are in service during your visit, they commonly include some combination of the following features:
- A private or semi-private nursing/pumping area with a seat and a place to set down supplies
- A changing table (often sturdier and more comfortable than a standard restroom fold-down table)
- A sink for handwashing and quick rinsing of bottles or pump parts
- Trash and diaper disposal nearby
- Extra space to park a stroller inside or just outside the room
Because exact amenities can differ by location and maintenance schedules, it’s best to treat these rooms as a comfortable, private place to feed and change rather than counting on any one specific feature beyond seating and privacy.
Bottle warming and formula preparation
Airports generally do not provide public bottle warmers the way some baby lounges do, and IND is no exception in the sense that bottle-warming equipment is not guaranteed in common areas. The most reliable, realistic options in the terminal are:
- Using warm water from a restaurant or café: Many food vendors can provide a cup of warm (not boiling) water to let you warm a bottle by placing it in the cup for a few minutes.
- Using a nursing/family room sink (if available): You may be able to run warm water to help warm a bottle or rinse items.
For formula preparation, parents typically use pre-measured formula and add water when needed. Safe prep depends on your baby’s needs and your pediatrician’s guidance, but from an airport-facilities standpoint, the key practical point is that you may need to ask a food outlet for warm water and plan on mixing at your seat or in a family/nursing room.
High chairs in restaurants
In the main dining areas at IND, many sit-down restaurants and some larger quick-service locations typically have high chairs, but availability depends on the specific vendor and how busy the terminal is. High chairs are usually kept inside the restaurant rather than in shared seating areas. If you don’t see one, a staff member can often confirm whether they have high chairs available at that moment.
Notable family-friendly features
IND is widely regarded as a compact, easy-to-navigate airport, which can make basic baby-care tasks less stressful—restrooms and amenities are generally not far apart compared with larger hub airports. While specific room locations can change, families can generally expect well-maintained restrooms and a terminal layout that makes it practical to step away for a quick diaper change or a calm feeding break without a long trek.
TSA Security Tips for Families at Indianapolis International Airport
Stroller Check-In & Gate Check
Many airlines let you take a stroller through the airport and then have it checked either at the ticket counter (check-in) or at the airplane door (gate check), depending on the stroller size and airline rules. At security, you will usually need to take your child out and send the stroller through the X-ray; if it does not fit, TSA will inspect it by hand while you fold it. Expect to remove any bags attached to the stroller and place loose items (blankets, toys, snacks) in bins so screening goes smoothly. For gate check, airline staff typically place a gate-check tag on the stroller, and you leave it on the jet bridge or at the aircraft door just before boarding. Strollers are usually returned to you either at the aircraft door after landing or in baggage claim, depending on the airport, aircraft size, and airline process.
Carrying Formula & Breast Milk
You may bring breast milk, formula, toddler drinks, and baby food through TSA security in quantities over 3.4 oz (100 mL), even if you are not traveling with your child. Tell the TSA officer at the start of screening that you have these items, and be ready to take them out of your bag for inspection. These liquids do not need to fit in a quart-size bag, but they may be screened separately, including visual checks, testing a small amount, or additional screening of the container. Ice packs, freezer packs, and gel packs are allowed to keep these items cold, even if they are partially melted, as long as they are used to cool breast milk or formula. To make screening smoother, keep these items together and accessible, and use clearly sealed containers when possible.
Priority Lanes for Families
Some airports offer family or “special assistance” priority lanes that can be faster and less crowded for travelers with young children, but they are not available at every checkpoint and access rules can vary by airport. If a family lane is offered, it usually leads to the same TSA screening process—your bags, stroller, and any baby items will still be screened—just with more space and staff used to working with families. Look for overhead signs or ask the TSA officer at the checkpoint entrance where families should line up, and be prepared that you may be directed to the standard line if the lane is closed or busy. Having everyone’s boarding passes and IDs (if required) ready and keeping small loose items together helps the officer move your group through smoothly.
Kids and the Shoe Rule
At TSA security, most travelers must remove their shoes, but children age 12 and under can usually keep their shoes on during screening. This means your child can typically walk through the metal detector with shoes on, while adults in your group may still need to take theirs off unless they are in TSA PreCheck. If your child’s shoes set off an alarm or if an officer needs a closer check, you may be asked to remove the shoes for additional screening. To make things smoother, choose shoes that are easy to slip on and off and avoid pairs with lots of metal pieces or bulky decorations. Expect that policies can vary slightly by lane or airport needs, but the general rule is that younger kids keep shoes on unless extra screening is required.
Keeping Kids Busy at Indianapolis International Airport
What to Expect at IND for Kids’ Play Time
Indianapolis International Airport (IND) is a modern, family-friendly airport, but it is not widely known for having large, signature children’s play zones like some bigger hub airports. Families should plan for small kid-friendly corners and open seating areas rather than a full-size playground. When airports do offer play areas, they are most often located airside (past security) near clusters of gates, because that’s where families spend the most time waiting to board. At IND, the terminal layout is straightforward (one main terminal with concourses), so any family-focused features are generally found near gate waiting areas and main passenger corridors rather than in a separate “kids wing.”
Typical Play Area Setups You May Find
If you come across a children’s zone at IND or in a similar-sized U.S. airport, it’s usually designed for quick, supervised play between flights, not long, unsupervised roaming. Common features include:
- Soft-play elements (padded flooring or small foam features) that are safer for toddlers than metal structures
- Low climbing shapes, tunnels, or small step-on platforms meant for short bursts of movement
- Interactive wall panels (spinners, sliders, simple puzzles) that keep little hands busy without requiring a lot of space
- Open floor space where kids can stretch, play with a small toy, or read while staying close to your seat
- Occasional screen-based activities (where provided) that may offer simple games or motion-based prompts; these vary by airport and may not be present
Because equipment can change over time, it’s best to think of IND’s kid options as “bonus play spots” rather than a guaranteed, dedicated playground.
Best Ages for Airport Play Zones
Most airport play areas—when available—are designed primarily for toddlers and preschoolers (roughly ages 2–6). The equipment tends to be low to the ground, with smaller steps and simple activities. Older children (around 7–10) may still enjoy a quick break there, but they often outgrow the structures and do better with:
- Walking the concourse together to burn energy
- Looking for planes from seating areas with good window views
- Quiet table activities (coloring, stickers, small building toys)
Quiet or Calm Spaces for Overstimulated Kids
Even when a dedicated play area is limited or crowded, IND’s terminal environment typically offers calmer alternatives. For younger children or anyone getting overwhelmed, the most practical “quiet zones” in airports are usually:
- Quieter gate areas a few gates away from busier clusters (especially if a large flight is boarding nearby)
- Seating at the ends of concourses, where foot traffic is lighter
- Less crowded corridor corners near windows—often good for a stroller break, snack, or a calming cuddle
For families, these quieter spots can be just as helpful as a play zone—especially for babies who need a calmer place to feed, nap, or reset.
Before or After Security: Where Play Areas Usually Are
At most airports, children’s play areas (if provided) are usually airside (past security) so families can use them while waiting to board without worrying about re-clearing security. Landside (before security), space is typically focused on check-in, baggage, and ground transportation. At IND, you’ll generally have the best chance of finding kid-friendly waiting space after you’ve gone through TSA security screening, near the gates.
Notable Kid Attractions at IND
IND is not known for a major, must-see children’s attraction on the scale of airports with large themed playgrounds. The most reliable “kid wins” here tend to be simple and practical: a clean terminal, straightforward navigation, and enough room to settle in near your gate without feeling squeezed. For many families, that ease and calm is actually the standout feature—especially when traveling with a stroller and carry-ons.
Parent Tips for Using Play Spots During Waits
- Build in time after security so kids can move before boarding—fewer wiggles on the plane makes everyone’s flight easier.
- Keep play short and supervised. Airport play areas are meant for quick breaks, and little ones can slip out fast if they spot something exciting.
- Choose timing carefully: a play area can get crowded when multiple flights are boarding nearby; stepping in during a quieter moment often works better.
- Have a “calm-down kit” ready for when play ramps kids up too much—think a snack, water, a favorite book, or headphones.
- Wipe hands before snacks. Airports are high-touch environments, and play features are touched by many children throughout the day.
- Plan your exit: start packing up a few minutes earlier than you think you need, since transitions away from play are often the hardest part.
Family Dining and Kids' Menus at Indianapolis International Airport
1
Scholar's Inn Bakehouse
Scholar’s Inn Bakehouse at Indianapolis International Airport is a local Indiana bakery-café concept best known for its artisan breads and scratch-made baked goods, giving you a comforting “real bakery” option amid typical airport fast food. It’s a counter-service stop, so the pace is quick and practical for families—order, grab your tray, and settle in—making it easy when kids are hungry and time is tight. For little travelers, the grab-and-go setup and casual seating keep things low-pressure, and while a dedicated kids’ menu may not be the focus, parents can usually piece together simple, kid-friendly picks from baked goods and sandwiches. Frequent favorites tend to be the bakery staples—think a signature fresh-baked bread or pastry for snack time—along with sandwich-style options that work for both adults and picky eaters. Portions are typically bakery-café sized (enough for a light meal or to share), and service is straightforward rather than full-service, which helps keep the experience moving. Expect to spend about $8–$15 per person depending on whether you’re doing a pastry-and-coffee stop or a fuller sandwich meal, which can be decent value for families when you share baked items. As an Indiana-based brand, it has a bit of local flavor and gives parents a chance to 먹 like locals do—especially if you want something freshly baked before boarding.
2
Yats Cajun Creole
Yats Cajun Creole at Indianapolis International Airport (IND) brings a popular Indianapolis-born fast-casual favorite to the terminal, known for hearty Louisiana-inspired comfort food served cafeteria-style over rice. In its home market, Yats has a strong local following for big flavors, generous portions, and a simple, no-fuss menu centered on stews and étouffées rather than a full-service restaurant experience. For families, it’s an easy stop: you order at the counter, food comes out quickly, and the lively, casual setup is forgiving with kids; a dedicated kids’ menu isn’t a hallmark of the brand, but the straightforward bowls and milder options can work well for picky eaters. Crowd-pleasers for parents and older kids often include the Chicken Maque Choux and other rich, rice-topped specialties like étouffée-style dishes, while spice levels can vary, so it’s worth steering little ones toward the gentler choices. Expect a fast pace and friendly efficiency—more “grab a bowl and dig in” than linger-long dining—with filling portions that can be shareable for younger children. Pricing typically lands around $10–$18 per person at the airport depending on what you order, and it generally feels like good value for a hot, satisfying meal that can keep everyone full between flights.
3
Brugge Brasserie
Brugge Brasserie at Indianapolis International Airport is an outpost of Indianapolis’s much-loved Belgian-inspired brewpub, known at home for its cozy brasserie vibe, European comfort food, and a beer list that leans heavily Belgian. For families, it’s a solid pick because the setting is casual and welcoming, and the pub-style dining room tends to be lively enough that kids don’t feel like they have to whisper; ask for high chairs when available and look for a kids’ menu or kid-friendly small plates depending on the day’s airport lineup. Parents typically gravitate to the Belgian classics like moules-frites (mussels with fries) and hearty sandwiches, while many kids happily stick with fries and simple comfort options. Service is generally quick by sit-down standards—order at the table, food comes out in a steady, efficient pace that works well before a flight—and portions are filling without being over-the-top. Expect about $15–$25 per adult (less for kids), which can feel like good value for an airport meal when you want something more interesting than fast food but still family-friendly. Locally, Brugge developed a reputation in Indianapolis for bringing Belgian beer culture and brasserie fare to the city in an approachable way, and the airport location keeps that same easygoing, “treat yourself” spirit for travelers.
4
Applebee's
Applebee’s at Indianapolis International Airport (IND) brings the familiar, crowd-pleasing Applebee’s formula to the terminal: a casual neighborhood grill serving American comfort food like burgers, chicken, salads, and appetizers, with a reputation for being reliable rather than trendy. For families, it’s an easy fit thanks to its relaxed, sports-bar-leaning vibe that can handle kid energy, plus a kids’ menu and typically available high chairs, making it less stressful than quieter sit-down spots. Parents and kids often gravitate to shareable starters and staples like Boneless Wings, mozzarella sticks, and simple burgers or chicken tenders. Service is standard sit-down dining with a steady pace—usually quicker than a fine-dining restaurant but not “grab-and-go”—and portions tend to be generous, which helps when sharing with little ones. Expect a midrange check for an airport meal, roughly $15–$30 per adult (kids less), and value often comes from sharing apps and larger entrées. Applebee’s is a long-running U.S. chain that’s been a go-to for families and groups for decades, and at IND it’s best thought of as a familiar, no-surprises option when you want everyone fed without a lot of negotiation.
Family Airport Guide FAQ
Where are the nursing rooms or breastfeeding pods at Indianapolis International Airport (IND)?
Where can nursing mothers breastfeed or pump at IND after security?
Can I bring formula, breast milk, and a cooler bag through TSA security at IND?
Can I bring breast milk, formula, or toddler juice through TSA at IND, and how should I prepare it?
Is there a kids’ play area at Indianapolis International Airport (IND) and where is it located?
Is there a children’s play area at IND, and where is it located?
Can I take a stroller through security and gate-check it at IND, and are strollers allowed on the shuttle to parking?
Can I take a stroller through TSA and gate-check it at IND?
Does Indianapolis International Airport (IND) have a family security lane or family-friendly check-in for traveling with kids?
Does IND have a dedicated family lane or family-friendly screening at TSA?
