Indianapolis has a rich history of high society during the Victorian era. With historical houses nestled all over in downtown Indianapolis many of them offers tours and a few even offer special tea times, activities and special events for young children.

Coming up on July 21 at 2pm is the semi-annual children's tea at the historic Propylaeum, this summer known as Tea for Teddy Bear and Me. With a special menu meant just for children and their families, the children are encouraged to bring a special teddy bear to share in activities along with this unique "high society" opportunity.

Later in the year on November 14th in the Morris Butler House is the Children's Etiquette Tea for children ages 7-12. Not only will they get to learn proper tea etiquette but they will also get a special tour of where the Butler girls lived and what their lives were like in turn of the Century Indianapolis.

Although the Hannah House doesn't offer tea it does open its doors once a month or so to conduct public tours. Upcoming tours include July 5th and August 2nd from 1-4 pm.

Probably one of the most well known people from Indianapolis history is the 23rd president of the United States, President Benjamin Harrison. His home, located just outside downtown Indianapolis offers hour long tours every half an hour. The top floor houses historical presidential artifacts in a grand ballroom. Coming up on the 4th of July is the 33rd annual Ice Cream Social, be sure to arrive early for the best entertainment and activities.

I still have yet to make it into the actual Lilly House, located on the grounds of the IMA, the gardens surrounding the house are just too beautiful. My mom declared the Oldfields-Lilly gardens one of the most beautiful places she has ever been. With no cost to the Lilly house it is for sure one of the best free things to do in Indianapolis when it comes to historical homes.

Another great neighborhood to visit right in downtown Indy is Lockerbie Square, the oldest surviving neighborhood in Indianapolis has been brought back to life with amazing attention to detail and original architecture.

The home of James Whitcomb Riley is also in Lockerbie Square and is open to the public for tours. It is the country's only late Victorian era preservation (meaning everything is as it was when Mr. Riley passed away.) James Whitcomb Riley is one of America's most famous poets and a today Riley is a name that is synonymous with helping the children of Indianapolis.

I know as a child I always loved when my mom took my sister and me to old historical houses, I loved pretending I was in a castle or a mansion of my very own. My daughter isn't any different. With the availability of different tours, homes, styles and activities all over downtown there's bound to be one your whole family can enjoy together.