ARI Blog

Thanks to generous grant funding, ARI is transforming its campus to make archaeology more accessible, expand learning opportunities, and preserve southeastern Indiana's history for future generations.

This summer, ARI and local libraries are working together to bring archaeology, history, and discovery to families through engaging library programs inspired by the 2026 theme, Unearth a Story.

A mammoth tooth. An 18-inch cephalopod fossil. A mysterious artifact found in a backyard. Every month, ARI's free Artifact, Rock, and Fossil Identification Day helps community members uncover the stories behind their discoveries while connecting them to the rich archaeological and natural history of the Ohio River Valley.

Discover how FIRST LEGO League students partnered with ARI to solve real archaeological challenges. Through hands-on STEM learning, innovative archaeology tools, and collaboration with professional archaeologists, these young innovators are helping shape the future of the field.

Join ARI and the Oxbow Nature Conservancy for a free 2026 Summer Hiking Series featuring guided hikes that explore archaeology, wildlife, wetlands, and the rich history of the Ohio River Valley.

Experience a day of adventure at ARI's Adventure Trek on June 6, 2026. From a scenic 5K and interactive archaeology challenges to live music, food trucks, and family-friendly activities, this community event offers something for explorers of all ages.

From interactive archaeology experiences and exciting auction items to dancing, discovery, and community connection, ARI in Bloom 2026 was a memorable evening celebrating the people and partnerships that make ARI's work possible.

Experimental archaeology brings history to life by recreating ancient tools, techniques, and processes through hands-on experience. Instead of simply observing artifacts, participants actively engage with the methods used thousands of years ago. Through ARI workshops, individuals gain a deeper understanding of how these technologies were created, used, and refined over time.

How do archaeologists share discoveries? Learn why conferences play a vital role in presenting archaeological research, exchanging ideas, and advancing the field.

When the dig ends, archaeology moves indoors, where winter lab work, artifact analysis, and public archaeology keep discoveries unfolding year-round.

This MLK Day, explore how hands-on learning through archaeology advances equity, strengthens community service, and inspires youth to engage with the past and shape the future.

Educational field trips give students the opportunity to learn beyond the classroom through hands-on, experiential learning. This post explores the research behind field trips and how ARI brings archaeology education to life for students.