Every winter just south of Indianapolis, something magical takes shape. It’s called Veal’s Ice Tree. This towering sculpture of ice and color is not only a stunning roadside attraction but also a heartwarming family tradition that has delighted Hoosiers for more than 60 years. For those in search of a hidden gem in Indiana, this frozen wonder is a must-see.

A Tradition Born by Accident

The story of Veal’s Ice Tree began in 1961, when the Veal family attempted to create a frozen backyard slide. A gust of wind carried water onto nearby bushes, freezing them into glittering shapes. What started as an accident soon became an annual winter tradition, and over the decades the “ice tree” has grown into one of Indiana’s most unique seasonal attractions.

Today, the third generation of the Veal family continues the tradition, building the tree each year when temperatures dip below freezing.

How the Ice Tree Is Built

Creating the Ice Tree is a mix of creativity, science, and a little Hoosier ingenuity:

• A frame of brush and wood is set up as the foundation.

• Garden hoses spray water from a spring-fed pond, freezing layer by layer.

• Food coloring is added, giving the ice its spectacular shades of blue, purple, and green.

• As the ice grows, the family adjusts hoses and adds brush to build “branches,” shaping the structure into a colorful frozen tower.

On average, Veal’s Ice Tree stands 30 to 40 feet tall, but in some years it has soared to nearly 80 feet.

When and Where to Visit

Visiting Veal's Ice Tree has become a favorite Indiana winter road trip. Here’s what you need to know:

• Season: Construction begins once temperatures stay in the 20s for several days. The tree usually lasts from January through March (sometimes April).

• Hours: Open daily from 8 a.m.–10 p.m., with lights illuminating the tree after dark.

• Admission: Free! The Veal family invites donations to Wheeler Mission instead of charging admission.

• Address: 6445 Mimosa Lane, Indianapolis, IN 46259

• Getting There: From I-465, take I-74 east toward Cincinnati, exit at #99 (Acton Rd). Head south, then turn onto Southeastern Ave and finally Mimosa Lane.

Plan Your Winter Adventure

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind winter attraction in Indiana, make sure to add Veal’s Ice Tree to your travel list. Whether you drive through to admire it from your car or stop for photos, this frozen masterpiece is a true Hoosier treasure that showcases the creativity, community spirit, and beauty of Indiana winters.