Southside Landfill Tour — Indianapolis, Indiana

Discover the Southside Landfill Tour in Indiana

Explore the fascinating world of modern waste management at Southside Landfill, one of the largest and most technologically advanced landfills in the Midwest. This educational tour shows how trash is processed, compacted, layered, and safely managed while generating renewable energy from landfill gas.
Why it’s special:
Southside Landfill offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at real landfill operations, methane-to-energy systems, recycling processes, heavy equipment, and environmental protection technologies.

History/Story of Southside Landfill

Founded in 1971, Southside Landfill has grown alongside Indianapolis, adopting advanced engineering and environmental safeguards as standards evolved. Over the decades, the facility has implemented methane capture systems, groundwater monitoring, and slope engineering to create one of the nation’s more sustainable landfill operations. Today, it continues to serve the region while educating students and community groups about waste, recycling, and environmental responsibility.

What You’ll See & Do at the Southside Landfill Tour

• Learn how trucks enter the scale house and how waste loads are inspected

• Observe bulldozers and compactors shaping and packing trash layers

• See how liners, clay barriers, and leachate systems protect soil and groundwater

• Visit methane gas wells and learn how landfill gas is converted into electricity

• Explore recycling education displays focused on waste reduction

• Understand how daily cover materials minimize odor, pests, and environmental impact

• View environmental monitoring equipment used onsite

Hands-On Elements: Recycling-sorting activities, leachate system models, landfill-gas demonstration displays.
Photo/Video Policy: Photos allowed outdoors; restrictions apply near heavy machinery.
Souvenirs & Extras: Educational packets, environmental booklets, teacher materials, and student worksheets.

Pricing of the Southside Landfill Tour

• Educational Landfill Tour: Free

• School & Group Tours: Free with reservation

• Tours available for students, families, civic groups, and organizations

Practical Info for Visiting Southside Landfill

Duration: 60–90 minutes
Format: Guided driving + walking tour
Schedule & Seasonality: Tours available by appointment; weekdays preferred
Working Hours: Typically 8:00 AM–4:00 PM (tour times vary)
Audience: Schools, environmental groups, engineering students, families, civic organizations
Accessibility: Most of the tour is vehicle-based; walking on uneven surfaces may be required
Safety & Restrictions:

• Closed-toe shoes required

• High-visibility vests provided

• No wandering near active machinery

• Children must stay with adults
  Languages: English
  Group & School Visits: Very popular for STEM classes and environmental programs
  What to Bring/Wear: Weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy shoes
  Facilities: Visitor center, restrooms (at main office), parking
  Closures & Downtime: Tours unavailable during severe weather or peak operational periods

Nearby

• Garfield Park Conservatory & Gardens

• Indianapolis Southside Flea Market

• White River State Park (short drive north)

FAQs About Visiting Southside Landfill

Is the tour smelly?
Some areas have noticeable odors, but most of the experience takes place at a comfortable distance from fresh waste layers.

Can kids participate?
Yes—school-age children are welcome and often find the machinery and engineering aspects fascinating.

Will I see methane gas being collected?
You’ll view gas wells and piping, and guides explain how methane is sent to nearby energy partners for electricity production.

Do we ride in a bus or walk?
Most tours use a bus or group vehicle for safety; brief outdoor segments occur at designated safe points.

How does Southside manage environmental safety?
Guides explain liners, groundwater testing, gas collection, daily cover, and long-term monitoring systems in detail.