By John Handley

The Eiteljorg Museum impresses visitors with its collection of Native American and Western art. Indiana Tourism photos

The Indy 500 claims to draw the world’s largest crowd for a single sporting event. But that’s just one reason to visit Indianapolis. The Indiana capital is rich in many other major attractions.

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis (3000 N. Meridian St.), one of the finest in the world, will keep kids busy for hours. See Dinosphere, where dinosaurs from 65 million years ago are still scary. Then ride the full-size indoor carousel, and check out the hands-on science center.

You don’t have to travel to Florida to interact with dolphins. The Dolphin Adventure at the Indianapolis Zoo (1200 W. Washington St.) is the Midwest’s only in-water dolphin program. Participants 14 and older can jump right in–for $185. Or watch them frolic in the underwater dome. AAA members receive a discount for zoo admission.

It’s surprising to find western art museum in the Midwest, but Indianapolis has one. The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art (500 W. Washington) displays pieces from many tribes, and even has a stagecoach. AAA members receive a discount on admission.

The only U.S. president from Indiana was Benjamin Harrison. Visitors can tour the home (1230 N. Delaware St.) of the 23rd president and see 16 rooms with period furnishings and 3,700 artifacts. AAA members receive a discount on admission.

If you miss the Indy 500 race, see the speedway’s Hall of Fame Museum (4790 W. 16th St.). Racing fans will love the vintage machines, including the first car to win the 500 in 1911.

For more information, contact the Indianapolis Convention & Visitors Bureau, (800) 238-4639, www.indy.org.

The Indianapolis 500 is celebrated with a month of activities in May, culminating with race day on May 25 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.