Looking for a unique venue?

A true gem, the James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home is a National Historic Landmark tucked away on the cobblestone streets in the historic Lockerbie Square neighborhood, within walking distance to Mass Avenue Cultural District. Unlike any outdoor venue in downtown Indianapolis, the home features an oasis of lush gardens under a canopy of mature trees. The venue also features the Billie Lou Wood Visitor Center, an indoor/outdoor facility with a walk out patio through picturesque French doors, perfect for cocktail hour. With the historically preserved home, the idyllic and lush grounds, and the indoor/outdoor visitor center, this exclusive property is a premier location for your wedding or special event.

Depending on the outdoor event style, the James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home can comfortably host 60-200 guests. Our beautiful grounds feature an outdoor patio, multiple courtyards, and an open lawn space under a canopy of trees. The James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home is perfect for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, or any celebration in your life.

For indoor only events, the Billie Lou Wood Visitor Center is perfect to host groups of 10-60 people, depending on the set-up style. This visitor center was an addition to the property in 2014 and was designed to mirror the original carriage house that once stood behind the James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home. The visitor center features a butler’s kitchen, two levels for two different spaces, and windows and French doors that allow in natural lighting. Each space includes a screen and wireless internet.

Indoor Space

• Classroom Set-Up on top floor: 30 guests max
• Classroom Set-Up on bottom floor:
• Theatre Set-Up on top floor: 60 guests max
• Theatre Set-Up on bottom floor:
• U-Shape Set-Up on top floor: 20 guests max
• U-Shape Set-Up on bottom floor:
• Rounds Set-Up on top floor: 40 guests max

Photography and Photo Sessions

The James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home is a National Historic Landmark. While photography is allowed both inside the museum home and on the museum grounds, it is imperative that all must abide by the guidelines established to protect the historical significance of the property.

Indoor sessions can be arranged for up to 3 individuals inside at a time (photographer included). All arrangements, for inside and outside, can be made in advance. Please contact us for more information. (Alexis Nicole Photography has indoor photos from 2019 wedding that I’ve reached out to include – screenshot of it below from Instagram, but have reached out for permission, a professional copy, and more photos)

Your event is special – let us help!

Please contact our Event Coordinator, Amanda Mirani, at AMirani@RileyKids.org for more information.