Carmel Clay History Museum
Local history museum
About
The Carmel Clay History Museum tells the story of Carmel and Clay Township in a three-story building on the Monon Greenway, one block south of Main Street. The Carmel Clay Historical Society runs it. When it opened, the first floor held the general history of Carmel, the second floor had space for rotating exhibits, and the third floor covered Carmel Clay Schools, with an interactive children's area and an outdoor patio.
The museum connects at its north end to the old Monon Depot, so the two are one visit. The depot now holds train displays. The society posts one address and one set of hours for the site.
The society's collection includes more than 250,000 photos of Carmel history, and you can search it online. The society also leads 45-minute walking tours of Old Town for groups such as class reunions and families, comparing old photos with the same spots today. Call to set one up, for what it calls a small fee.
History
The depot was built in 1883 and served the Monon Railroad. Passenger service ended in 1961 and freight in 1974. The Carmel Clay Historical Society formed in 1975, and the city gave it the depot that year. The depot went into storage during construction of the new museum, which opened on November 17, 2024.
When to go
It's open Wednesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. It's closed Monday and Tuesday. In November 2026 it closes on the 11th, closes at 5 p.m. on the 12th, and closes on the 26th and 27th.
A Polar Express party is set for Monday, December 21, 2026, at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., with the story, movie clips, crafts, cookies and hot chocolate. Tickets are $10 per child and free for adults, and you reserve a slot.
Good to know
Street parking is nearby, and a garage north of the museum at First Street SW and Third Avenue SW has more spaces. Youth need an adult with them in the children's area.
Price
- Museum and exhibits, through 2026Free
- Children's play area, ages 1 and older$1 per child
The museum's free admission is posted only through 2026. Check for 2027 prices.
Prices checked November 2026 on the website of Carmel Clay History Museum. They can change, so check before you go.
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