Conner Prairie Unveils Reimagined Museum Experience Center Opening April 3

LarryInFishers.com

Conner Prairie is set to open a newly reimagined Museum Experience Center (MEC) next month, introducing an expanded, year-round destination designed to deepen how visitors engage with history, science and the arts.

The two-floor facility, built as a transformation of the museum’s Welcome Center, is aimed at broadening access to interactive learning while providing visitors with a deeper foundation before they explore the outdoor living history areas.

Museum officials say the new center reflects a shift toward more inclusive storytelling and hands-on educational experiences. As Indiana’s first Smithsonian Affiliate, Conner Prairie is emphasizing innovation and accessibility as part of the redesign.

“This is more than a renovation — it is a reimagination of how we welcome our community,” said Norman Burns, president and CEO of Conner Prairie. “The Museum Experience Center will set the tone for a visit that is curious, reflective, and inspiring.”

Six interactive experience areas

The reimagined MEC will feature six signature spaces designed to engage visitors of all ages:

  • Power of Place – An immersive look at how land and environment shape identity and community over time.
  • Wellspring – A combined art installation and playscape created with artist Wes Bruce and The Curious Life.
  • TORN: A Family Portrait – An exhibit exploring family, resilience and the history of the Lenape people and Conner families.
  • Spark!Lab – A Smithsonian-developed innovation space focused on invention and hands-on learning.
  • Caring for Collections – A behind-the-scenes look at preserving more than 20,000 historical artifacts.
  • Traveling Exhibit Gallery – A rotating space for national and regional exhibitions.

Together, the spaces are designed to serve as a central hub that prepares visitors for the museum’s outdoor experiences while offering meaningful engagement indoors throughout the year.

Part of $44 million campaign

The project is part of Conner Prairie’s Prairie Pathways Campaign, a $44 million initiative funded through private philanthropy. The campaign also supports development of the Trails at Conner Prairie and the Promised Land as Proving Ground project.

In addition to new exhibits, the MEC emphasizes accessibility, with features including elevators, wheelchair and stroller access, a sensory room, sensory kits and designated sensory-friendly hours.

Visitors will also find new amenities, including the Harvest Café and the Ricker Prairie Overlook, offering indoor gathering space with views of the historic grounds.

Opening dates

The Museum Experience Center will open to the public on Friday, April 3, 2026. Members will get early access during preview days March 31 through April 2.

Museum leaders say the new facility is designed to expand Conner Prairie’s reach, making it a destination for learning, reflection and community connection in every season.