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Indianapolis Travel Guide: Rediscovering the City at the Crossroads

Where to Stay

Where to eat & drink, how to save money on your trip to indianapolis.

Once considered a humdrum city best seen while zipping past on the interstate, Indianapolis has gone through a remarkable renaissance in the last decade. Craft beer bars , art galleries, record shops, and a revitalized Canal Walk set the stages for a memorable ramble in a city that’s much more than a mere “Crossroads of America.” These are the best destinations and things to do in Indianapolis.

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Best Budget Sleep: Stone Soup Inn

Set in the historic Northside neighborhood, the Stone Soup Inn offers excellent value for its eight spacious guest rooms. Each is handsomely furnished with Mission-style or Victorian antiques, and the top-floor loft rooms with small kitchens are reminiscent of overnighting in a Parisian garret. It’s a short hop to the restaurants of Massachusetts Ave and downtown Indy, and you can also stroll over to the Benjamin Harrison House, home to the 23rd president of the United States.

• Nearest airport: Indianapolis International Airport
• Time: 25 minutes by car
• Distance: 15 miles
• Rates: From $129/night
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Best Base for Nightlife: Hotel Broad Ripple

In the heart of the Broad Ripple neighborhood some 7 miles north of downtown, this aptly named hotel puts you within walking distance of a burgeoning assortment of urban amusement — restaurants, bars, clubs, record shops, boutiques, and galleries. The 13-room inn has a lodge-like feel, and there’s a small lounge where you can linger over a cocktail. The individually designed rooms have unique details sprinkled throughout — exposed brick, rustic wood furniture, and propeller-like ceiling fans. The best rooms have balconies overlooking the Monon Trail.

• Time: 35 minutes by car
• Distance: 23 miles
• Rates: From $165/night

Best Atmosphere: Ironworks Hotel Indy

Embracing Indy’s industrial heritage, the Ironworks Hotel sets the stage with red brick, distressed woods, and artfully exposed piping. Yet, while its masculine verve comes on strong, the boutique-style rooms do not lack creature comforts. King-size beds, oversize industrial windows, framed vintage prints, and spa-style bathrooms make for a relaxing stay. Although it’s 11 miles north of downtown, there’s much to do here, with half a dozen good restaurants, a brewery, and two fitness centers just steps from the front door of the hotel.

• Time: 40 minutes by car
• Distance: 30 miles
• Rates: From $229/night

Best Luxury Stay: The Conrad

For downtown digs, the Conrad is an obvious choice. In addition to its luxurious, oversize rooms, the hotel is home to an art gallery and a wine-tasting bar with one of the best outdoor patios for downtown people-watching. Its location, adjacent to the glass-domed Artsgarden (which hosts public exhibitions and occasional performances), and easy walk to everything downtown make it an ideal home base for travelers.

• Time: 15 minutes by car
• Distance: 13 miles
• Rates: From $235/night

Best Art-Filled Interiors: The Alexander

Another fine choice for its walkable, downtown location, the Alexander has a modern, steel-and-glass exterior with 209 plush rooms and outstanding amenities. The hotel works closely with the Indianapolis Museum of Art to curate a collection of fixed and rotating art exhibits, and every guest room contains a unique piece of art. Even for non-guests, it’s worth a visit, if only to grab one of the city’s best espressos or a bespoke cocktail from Plat 99.

• Time: 17 minutes by car
• Rates: From $190/night

In downtown, Mass Ave is a great place to take the pulse of Indy. You’ll find plenty of intrigue in this arts and culture district, with icons like the Atheneum, a late 19th-century German-Renaissance revival building (it’s worth having a brew and/or a meal at the vintage Rathskeller restaurant and Biergarten). There are also chocolate shops, a former bank-turned gallery called Art Bank that was once robbed by John Dillinger, and curious hybrids like Books & Brews, which has food, craft beer, and secondhand books , plus live music and other events. For a bit of old-time nostalgia, check out Stout’s Footwear , America’s oldest operating shoe store — in business since 1886.

If you head a half-mile or so west of Mass Ave, you can connect with the Canal Walk, a 1.5-mile-long waterway that runs from 11th Street down to the White River State Park. The waterside promenade is a great spot for a walk or a run, and you can hire kayaks and pedal boats for a glide across the water (Wheel Fun rentals off Ohio Street can hook you up). Monuments, memorials, and museums dot the Canal Walk, and if you need to bone up on your Hoosier lore, there’s no better place than the expansive collections of the Indiana State Museum.

Getting Behind the Wheel

If you’re not around for the Indy 500, you can still get a taste of the excitement. The aptly named Indy Racing Experience allows just about anyone with a driver’s license to get behind the wheel of a legit Formula One race car. Wanna-be drivers can lap the world-famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway at up to 130 miles per hour. If getting behind the wheel is too intimidating, opt for a Ride Along, hop into a purpose-built tandem racer with a professional driver, and rip up the straightaways at up to 180 miles per hour.

James Dant is Indy’s best nod to a modern haberdashery. The industrial storefront boasts every bit of clothing, accessory, and grooming essential a snappily dressed gentleman could want. Hemp chambray shirts, Selvedge jeans, elegantly rugged footwear , vintage Japanese canvas bags, organic shave oils, and solid colognes are all on offer.

Shave & Trim

If you’re looking a little rough around the edges, head to the 1930s-inspired Red’s Classic Barber Shop Co. It’s a local institution known, first and foremost, as a great place to get a haircut and a shave. But their solid selection of men’s accessories (gorgeous razors, skincare products, hats) is second to none. Their “who’s who” gallery wall of celebrity customers — including the likes of Tom Brokaw, Von Miller, and former Indiana governor Mitch Daniels — is a testament to the barbershop’s long-standing popularity.

Best Food Hall: City Market

Going strong since 1886, Indy’s massive food hall is not to be missed. Get fully charged on a Turkish coffee at Cath Coffee & Tea House, then snack and shop your way around the cast-iron and red-brick market. Some 30 vendors hock everything from chicken and waffles to creative salads, barbecue, and Asian fare. Afterward, pay a visit to Tomlinson Tap Room, with 19 rotating taps of Indiana craft beer. There’s also a weekly outdoor farmers market (held on Wednesdays), showcasing the best of Indiana’s local produce, which runs from May through October. Below the market are Roman-looking catacombs, which you can explore on guided tours on the first and third Saturdays of the month.

Best Farm to Table: Bluebeard

The Kurt Vonnegut-inspired Bluebeard is situated in one of Indy’s oldest neighborhoods. The small but well-curated menu showcases high-quality ingredients sourced from local farms. Highlights include miso-glazed salmon, shaved fennel and beet salad, and pork chops with melted leeks.

Browse Menu

Best Brunch: Milktooth

Set aside at least one morning to pay a visit to the auto-garage-turned-diner at Milktooth. The experimental brunch menu  is unlike anything you’ll find within 500 miles of the city. Think Oaxacan ribeye with mole Verde, refried black beans, egg, and plantains; or grilled cheese on cranberry walnut bread with smoked gouda, a duck egg, and truffle honey. The specialty coffees are just as intriguing as the unusual cocktails.

Best Distillery: Hotel Tango

Tap into the city’s burgeoning craft cocktail scene at Hotel Tango, the first combat-disabled veteran-owned distillery in the country. The rustic but inviting design features a custom-built stone fireplace, a reclaimed wood bar, and a small outdoor patio. In short, it’s the perfect setting to sip rye whiskey , reserve bourbon , or wild rum — whether neat or in a well-made cocktail. Grab a bottle of Orangecello or gin to-go.

Indianapolis experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, but bring lively festivals and other outdoor events to town. Winters are cold but less brutal than in Chicago. Crisp days and changing leaves mark autumn, while spring can be a mixed bag (icy drizzle one day, blue skies and sunny perfection the next).

It’s also worth keeping in mind a few major events, either for planning a trip around or for pure avoidance purposes depending on your motives. In late May (the Sunday before Memorial Day to be exact) hundreds of thousands of race fans descend on the city to watch the high-speed thrills of the Indy 500, one of America’s premier auto races. Independence Day is another big celebration, featuring parades, concerts, and loads of fireworks (typically launched from the Indiana War Memorial downtown) on the evening of July 4.

If you’ve never experienced a proper state fair, then you’ve been missing out on one of the great quirky pleasures of life in the Midwest and frankly never experienced a real state fair. For nearly 170 years, the Indiana State Fair has brought old-fashioned fun to Indy. The two-week event packs all the essentials: barnyard petting zoos, Midway rides, free concerts, and fried everything on a stick.

Experiences

Indianapolis is the ideal city to discover, explore, and experience new things, given all the wide variety of cuisines, day and night scenes, and other types of leisure it has to offer — just the perfect getaway from your corporate life. And if you’re unsure what kind of activities to start with, offers unique activities hosted by experts that you will surely love.

One of the most important things to consider when traveling to a whole new place is the accommodation, and travelers from other cities and states are nothing new to Indianapolis. Fortunately, , , and Booking.com  have got you covered to provide the best accommodation for you.

Vehicle Rentals

Indianapolis may not be the best when it comes to the public transportation system. However, you can use  for the best deals for car rentals if you want to get around the city with convenience.

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However, the city boasts a strange charm that most hardcore Mexican tourist centers lack. So, if none of this is your cup of horchata — if you’re looking to dig a little deeper — here are a few of our favorite places to play, eat, and stay in Baja California’s most well-known waterfront playground. Know your geography

A New Look at What's Hot in Sin City In March 2020, the Las Vegas Strip suddenly emptied out and became eerily quiet. A drive down the famous street lined with mega-resorts and their glitzy lights was reminiscent of a drive through a post-apocalyptic city in any number of dystopian movies and video games. The cause of that desertion — the COVID-19 pandemic — only amplified that uneasy eeriness.

Halfway into 2022, Las Vegas is back with a vengeance. A brand-new casino resort has already made waves on the Strip. The restaurant scene is back and better than ever, with a mix of mainstays that survived 2020 and hot new spots that have everyone talking. Nightclubs and pool day clubs are once again open to all who seek the most scandalously good times this side of Ibiza. The airport and the freeways are jam-packed with travelers again. Finally, Las Vegas is on the mend, and we're here to guide you through all the best re-openings, all the hot new attractions, and everything else you need to know about Las Vegas travel. What's Happening in Las Vegas Now?

Looking for travel adventure, eats, and endless experience in a perfect urban mountain metropolis? Medellín, Colombia should be high on your list. Medellín is almost always between 63 and 83 degrees Fahrenheit. In Colombia, the weather is dictated by elevation rather than location. With its borders both above and below the equator, the country remains hot n' steamy at sea-level Cartagena, cool on Bogotá’s plateau high in the Andes Mountains, and, not unlike the best of Goldilocks’ burglary, Medellín is juuust right, tucked into the Aburrá Valley under mountains that keep the warm air in and the rain out.

There are almost endless places to visit, view, and eat under the Medellín sun. Colorful homes line up next to colonial hotels, modern museums, and swanky hotels. Music adds spice to the air, as do grilling meats and the lights that splash across the evening. After you’re done with consumption, the city offers an abundance of urban retreats. Swim, hike, fly across the sky via this Manual guide.

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Indianapolis: Planning Your Trip

Indianapolis Guide: Planning Your Trip

Home to award-winning restaurants, a growing craft beer scene, and funky art galleries, Indianapolis is quickly becoming one of the coolest cities in the Midwest. Add that to the city's already-established and beloved museums, parks, Indianapolis Colts, and world-renowned Indy 500 race, and you've got a city that has a little bit of everything for everyone.

To help you find the best things Indy has to offer, we've put together a guide to help you plan a trip to Circle City. Hoosiers are some of the most welcoming people you will ever meet, so you will feel right at home when you get there.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: The weather is best at the end of May and early June, and during September and the beginning of October. If you are wanting to attend the Indianapolis 500, though, you should plan your trip for May.
• Language: English
• Currency: U.S. dollar
• Getting Around: Until recently, you needed a car to get around in the "Crossroads of America." You can rent one at the airport or call an Uber or Lyft to get around. Alternatively, you can take the Red Line, which IndyGo recently introduced. This rapid-transit line travels 13 miles and runs from Broad Ripple to the University of Indianapolis. Another option is to get a bikeshare , which costs $1 a ride, plus an additional 15 cents every minute.
• Travel Tip: You need to be prepared for all types of weather in Indianapolis. The weather shifts in unpredictable ways, and if you come in the spring or fall, it's a good idea to pack for all four seasons.

Things to Do

Trailing Washington, D.C., in having the country's largest number of war memorials  , Indianapolis undoubtedly has an interesting history that's waiting to be explored. Dive into the city's history at one of its many museums—but if history isn't your thing, no worries. There are a bunch of family-friendly activities to enjoy, including the Children's Museum of Indianapolis and the Indianapolis Zoo. And that's not to mention the city's budding culinary scene and growing number of beloved breweries.

• Indianapolis Motor Speedway: The Indy 500 is the city's biggest event of the year—but even if you aren't in town for it, you can still visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum . Here, more than 25 cars that have won the race are on display, as well as the Borg-Warner trophy, and other memorabilia. You can also take a ride around the famous track and "kiss the bricks."
• The Children's Museum of Indianapolis: This is the largest children's museum in the world  , and you don't even need to have kids to enjoy it. Here, you can discover dinosaurs and an Egyptian tomb, and explore everything from an international space station to a 35-foot-long steam engine. There's even a gigantic playground—complete with musical instruments and an underwater pond habitat—for children five and under.
• White River State Park: This park is home to many downtown attractions: the Eiteljorg and Indiana State Museums, the Indianapolis Zoo, and the NCAA Hall of Champions. In the park itself, you can find public art sculptures, outdoor concerts on the Farm Bureau Insurance Lawn, and a lovely promenade along the Central Canal.

Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on the best things to do in Indianapolis and the best free things to do .

What to Eat and Drink

If Indiana had a state dish, it would be the breaded pork tenderloin sandwich: It's a giant cutlet of pork loin that has been pounded thin, coated in breadcrumbs or saltine crackers, and deep-fried. In order for this to truly be a pork tenderloin sandwich, though, the meaty portion has to essentially dwarf the hamburger bun that holds it all together.

For dessert, the sugar cream pie (also known as Hoosier Pie), is a state staple. It's exactly what it sounds like, a delicious concoction of sugar and milk, cream, or half-and-half. If that's too sweet for you, try persimmon pudding, a moist cake topped with ice cream, whipped cream, or crème anglaise. And be sure to pick up some gourmet popcorn while you're in the area.

But the city isn't all fried foods and sweet treats. With three semi-finalists in the 2019 James Beard Awards , Indy is gaining quite the culinary reputation. Order up a cheeseboard at Bluebeard , or go for the shrimp cocktail at St. Elmo Steak House . Indianapolis is also home to a wealth of incredible breweries, so try a craft beer or two during your visit.

Explore our articles on the best restaurants in Indianapolis and the best breweries .

Where to Stay

If you want to be right in the heart of things and intend to check all the sights off your list, you should book a hotel downtown (also known as Mile Square). It is close to all the main attractions and is very walkable—although the hotels here can be more expensive.

If you're less into history and museums and more into trendy spots, book a stay in the historic Fountain Square. With an eclectic range of restaurants, shops, and live entertainment, this quirky neighborhood has transformed into an artsy enclave in recent years. Likewise, Broad Ripple is a good option if you're looking for another great selection of restaurants, art galleries, artisan and vintage shops, and a buzzing nightlife scene.

Explore the different neighborhoods you can stay in, and our recommendations on the best hotels .

Getting There

If you are flying, book a ticket to Indianapolis International Airport to kick off your trip. To reach downtown, your best option is to rent a car, but you can also take an airport shuttle, bus, or a Lyft or Uber to get there.

There is also a Greyhound station at the Indianapolis Bus Station . You can get to and from every major U.S. city with this option. Or, you can take an Amtrak into the city.

Money Saving Tips

Indianapolis is one of the cheaper cities in the the U.S., but there are still ways to cut back.

• Many museums participate in Free Museum Days, which take place throughout the year. You can usually get free entry to most places on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, while others offer free admission on Presidents Day, Smithsonian Museum Day, and more.
• From 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays, you have to pay a parking meter; however, parking is free on Sundays.
• You can find free live music throughout the city and surrounding suburbs in the summer.
• The oldest family-owned winery in Indiana offers free tours at 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. on weekends. Afterwards, you can taste seven different wines for $5.

Visit Indy . "Monuments & Memorials."

Visit Indy . "Top Family Attractions."

James Beard Foundation . "The 2019 James Beard Award Semifinalists." February 27, 2019.

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Get ready for Indy: all you need to know before your trip to Indianapolis

Jul 22, 2022 • 6 min read

Time your visit to coincide with the Indianapolis 500, the most exciting Indy weekend of the year © Grindstone Media Group / Shutterstock

With its vibrant public art, booming craft beer scene, iconic museums and a state park smack dab in its center, Indianapolis is much more than just the host city for the largest single-day sporting event on the planet, the Indianapolis 500 . 

While car culture is indeed king in Indy, countless public trails and a central canal make the capital of Indiana easy to explore by foot, scooter, bike, kayak or other means. Everywhere around town, public art installations shine. 

It’s no surprise that many visitors flock to this vibrant Midwest metropolis. So here’s our list of everything you need to know before visiting Indianapolis.

Stay in the Fountain Square, Chatham Arch or Broad Ripple neighborhoods to experience small-town charm in the city

While Indianapolis is a major city, each of its neighborhoods has a distinct personality that lends a small-town feel. If you don’t want to stay in a hotel downtown, opt for a boutique hotel or Airbnb in a neighborhood that matches your mood.

Southeast of downtown, Fountain Square is dotted with 19th-century homes, green spaces and (naturally) fountains. Art galleries and local theaters thrive in Chatham Arch, part of the Mass Avenue Cultural District . Home to Butler University, Broad Ripple Village offers a lively social scene. Indianapolis’ newest neighborhood, the Bottleworks District was once the largest Coca-Cola bottling plant in Indiana; today, it’s anchored by the luxury boutique Bottleworks Hotel  (which once housed company executives’ offices) and a food hall with more than 21 local vendors.

Whether you choose to stay downtown or in a neighborhood enclave, you’re bound to experience Indiana’s small-town feel and meet down-to-earth, friendly people.  

Park your car and explore Circle City on foot

Indianapolis is known as “Circle City” because of Monument Circle , a plaza at the heart of the city where four streets converge: East and West Market streets and North and South Meridian streets. An appealing free attraction , the grand Soldiers and Sailors Monument rises at the circle’s center. This intersection isn’t the only reason Indianapolis is called the “Crossroads of America”: the city is also at the junction of four major Interstate highways (Interstates 65, 69, 70 and 74).

Indianapolis’ downtown is on the smaller side and can be easily explored on foot. Thanks to its grid system, the city is easy to navigate – just be aware of a number of one-way streets. While public transportation is limited to the public bus system , the network is extensive. You’ll likely have to hop in a car to visit key sites that are away from the city core, including the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. 

Indy has much to see by bike

Indianapolis was the backdrop for Breaking Away , a 1979 hit movie about a working-class teen obsessed with the Italian cycling team. Some 40 years later, the city remains a fabulous place to explore on two wheels. Pick up your ride from the  Indiana Pacers bike share , or catch one of the many Lime scooters found across the city.

Bike trails crisscross Indy. The 8.1 bikeway the  Indianapolis Cultural Trail  loops through downtown, with three spurs. The northeastern one runs along Massachusetts Ave before connecting to another popular path, the Monon Trail , while the southeastern spur follows Virginia Ave into the Fountain Square neighborhood. To the south, a third spur connects the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium.  

Dress for fluctuating weather

Midwestern weather can swing from sunny and warm to rainy and chilly, so you’ll want to dress in layers. The summer’s average daily temperature lingers above 74°F, with an average high of 83°F during July, the peak month of summer. (Bring a swimsuit to cool off in a local  pool or water park .) The winter season lasts for a solid three months, from December through the end of February, with average daily highs below 46°F, so bring a good winter jacket.

Fall is one of the best times to visit Indianapolis, when the air is crisp and the trees are dressed in their autumnal best. Spring is lovely, too, with mild weather and flowers popping up in gardens across the city.

See downtown differently with an offbeat method of transport

You can also explore downtown Indianapolis with more unusual modes of transportation. Rent a swan pedal boat or kayak at Wheel Fun Rentals at Canal Walk and paddle the Indiana Central Canal , a 3-mile commercial waterway. Otherwise, hop on a surrey, chopper, quad sport or deuce coupe and ride along the many trails of the 267-acre White River State Park , Indianapolis’ green jewel

Plan your visit around the Indy 500

Indianapolis’ key annual event, the Indy 500  brings thousands of spectators and loads of excitement to the 2.5-mile-long, oval-shaped track of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. A permanent seating capacity of 257,325 makes it easy to find tickets. Just be sure to reserve in advance: ticket sales usually open in late fall for the Memorial Day weekend event. 

If you’re not here for the big event, you can still experience the celebrated race's history year-round at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum , which is home to one of the world's largest collections of vintage race cars, including more than 30 Indy 500 winners. The museum offers 30-, 60- and 90-minute tours that take visitors behind the scenes at the Speedway, which dates all the way back to 1909.  

Download the Indy Craft Pass to best experience Indy’s hoppin’ brew scene

Indianapolis is an increasingly popular destination for craft-beer aficionados (and was recently voted a Top Five Beer City ). Five blocks from the Speedway,  Daredevil Brewing Co  offers a wide array of craft beers plus a lively 8000-sq-ft patio. Chilly Water Brewing Company pairs its hoppy IPAs with hoagies, while  Bier Brewery specializes in Belgian dubbels and German hefeweizens. To enjoy a beer while touring the city, step aboard the Pickled Pedaler ’s 12-passenger BYOB bike. And be sure to download the Indy Craft Pass , a mobile passport app that maps out the city’s best craft breweries and distilleries: if you check in at eight locations, you’ll earn an Indy Craft Pass T-shirt.

Don’t leave without trying a Hoosier pork tenderloin sandwich

You mustn’t leave Indy without sampling Indiana’s unofficial state lunch: the Hoosier pork tenderloin sandwich. This mega pork cutlet is served breaded, fried and nestled between two slices of bread. The sandwich is so popular that the state has even created a Tenderloin Lovers Culinary Trail . You can find the sandwich on menus across town; we especially love the spicy version at the classic Steer-In  drive-in restaurant.

Save room for a slice of Indiana's state pie, too.  Hoosier sugar cream pie  is made from a single crust with a simple and simply delicious filling made from butter, vanilla, cream and brown sugar.

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Movies & film, gaming & arcades, indy's best restaurants, food guides, about indianapolis, attraction pass, transportation & parking, travel guides, events indy is action packed, corks & forks presented by kroger, eclipse extravaganza weekend, ajr - the maybe man tour, andrea bocelli with the indianapolis symphony orchestra, st. benno festival, tim mcgraw - standing room only tour with carly pearce, mercyme - always only jesus tour, indy film fest, dining out for life, indy popcon, find the perfect stay, explore the neighborhoods.

Experience Indianapolis the local way and discover the neighborhoods and lifestyle of some of Indy's coolest and most historic areas.

Broad Ripple Village

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Fountain-Fletcher

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• Indy Attraction Pass
• The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
• Indianapolis Zoo
• Conner Prairie
• White River State Park

Black Culture

• Crispus Attucks Museum
• Through2Eyes Indiana Walk & Talk Tours 
• Kicasso Sneaker Art Bar
• Hampton Inn - Indianapolis Canal IUPUI
• Madam CJ Walker Legacy Tour

Highlights:

• Indiana Pacers Basketball
• Indy Fuel Hockey
• U.S. Olympic Swimming Team Trials

History Buffs

• Conner Prairie, a Smithsonian Affiliate
• Bottleworks District Art Deco Restoration
• Indiana Historical Society
• Indianapolis City Market
• Indiana State Museum

Nature Lovers

• Monon Bicycle Trail
• Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park
• Indianapolis Museum Of Art
• Fort Harrison

Urban Adventurers

• Bottleworks District
• Indianapolis Cultural Trail
• Pacers Bikeshare

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The Complete Travel Guide To Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis, Indiana, is perhaps most famous for being the “racing capital of the world.” It is home to the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway , which hosts top-tier events like the Indy 500, Verizon 200, Brickyard 400, and formerly the United States Grand Prix. But those aren’t the only major sporting events in the city. Incredible Indy harbors several professional franchises, including the Indiana Pacers (NBA), Indianapolis Colts (NFL), and Indiana Fever (WNBA), making sports one of the best things to do in Hoosier State .

Sports aside, Indianapolis has a lot more in its bag of goodies. It hosts several award-winning restaurants, boasts a bustling craft beer scene, offers national historic landmarks, and lays claim to the world’s largest children’s museum. Indy has a little bit of everything, which is why it is one of the coolest Midwest cities tourists can visit. Check out the complete travel guide to Indianapolis and all the things to do there.

UPDATE: 2023/09/23 10:39 EST BY LANE VASQUEZ

With so many things to do in Indianapolis, it can be tough to narrow down the itinerary. Here are some of the best things to explore in Indy no matter the length of your trip.

Top Things To Do In Indianapolis

Consider this your Indianapolis travel guide to everything worth seeing!

1 Visit The Indianapolis Motor Speedway

This iconic racing venue has put Indianapolis on the map for years by hosting top events like the Indianapolis 500 (which offers a fun-filled weekend) , U.S. Grand Prix, and Verizon 200. Auto racing fans gather from around the country to cheer and jeer as the rubber meets the tarmac in a battle of speed and agility at this bucket-list Indiana State landmark .

Guests can also visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, which displays exclusive racing car collections and artifacts chronicling a century of racing history and culture.

Inside the museum, the Hall of Fame holds precious records of former drivers and team owners who graced the venue and left a lasting impression on the IMS.

• Admission and hours: Visit the website to confirm, as these vary depending on the event
• How much are tickets to the Indy 500? General admission starts at $45

Visitors can take a guided tour for a closer look at the historical arena; it only costs a few extra dollars. While the tour dates may differ depending on the weather, the museum is open year-round between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.

2 Can You Walk Around Downtown Indianapolis?

Downtown Indy, also known as “Mile Square,” is the city's heartbeat and features architectural marvels from the late 1800s. This is the perfect walkable spot of Indy. The area offers tourists much to do and discover, with several historic sites, public art, event spaces, and shopping options spread throughout.

History buffs can visit the Indiana War Memorial Plaza Historic District to pay homage to the heroes who fought in different battles in America’s history.

Downtown is also where visitors will find the Old National Center to enjoy a live performance by top musicians or watch a thrilling Indiana Pacers game at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse arena.

Explore the Mile Square with a self-guided audio tour from Walk Indianapolis.

3 Take The Kids To The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Visitors vacationing with their young ones can take them to this magnificent facility dedicated to providing useful learning opportunities to children and satisfying their curiosities.

Established in 1925, the world's largest children’s museum features amazing displays of huge dinosaur fossils that will leave the kids lost for words.

A good example is the Mastodon skeleton from 12,500 years ago. Children can also experience the pirate shipwreck in the planetarium or marvel at multiple interactive galleries exhibiting art pieces and artifacts.

• Admission: Prices vary depending on days and times (around $19 for adults), confirm on the website
• Hours: Tuesday to Sunday (10 am – 5 pm, closes at 8 pm on Thursdays)
• How long does it take to go through the children's museum of Indianapolis? Anywhere from three to five hours, depending on age/interest (and energy!).

Book tickets online to avoid spending more by paying at the gate. Also, visitors can save further by touring the museum on the first Thursday of each month between 4 and 6 p.m., when admission is only $6.

Related: Indiana Beach Is Home To A Boardwalk, Amusement & Water Park

4 Explore The White River State Park

Located in downtown Indy, the White River State Park is a 250-acre outdoor space on the bank of the White River. It hosts diverse attractions that draw visitors in their thousands, including the Indianapolis Zoo, IMAX Theater (largest in the state), and the NCAA Hall of Champions Museum.

Guests can also venture into the water by renting a kayak, Stand-Up paddleboard, or pedal boat to enjoy a laid-back drift down the calm river.

• Admission : Free
• Hours : 5 am – 11 pm daily

The White River hosts about five biking and walking trails, such as the Waterfront Trail, Cultural Trail, and River Promenade, that will give vacationers a good workout. Wear comfortable shoes or rent a bike from Wheel Fun Rentals to make the most of these spectacular routes.

5 Cheer The Home Team At Lucas Oil Stadium

Indianapolis is one city that revolves around its sports teams (even if the local fans aren’t the most spirited). Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Indianapolis Colts (NFL), brings fans together in the city's heart to enjoy an exciting football game.

The 67,000-capacity facility features a retractable roof and offers awesome views of the ongoing action.

Attending a football game at the Lucas Oil Stadium is one of the best ways to spend time in Indy, but the facility also hosts concerts; George Strait and Little Big Town are only one example.

For a smooth experience at the Lucas Oil Stadium, arrive two or three hours earlier to get through the security checks and settle down in time for the game. Also, the most convenient parking spots are on the southwest side of the arena.

6 Get Cultured At Newfields

Newfields is a complex housing diverse attractions, including the Indianapolis Museum of Art, a greenhouse, gardens, and a nature park. Spanning 152 acres, art lovers can range over 50,000+ art pieces in the IMA, which features collections from Asian art and neoimpressionist paintings.

The facility also boasts the country's largest contemporary art park, Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park, where outdoor lovers and conservationists can enjoy a tranquil atmosphere in the green space. This comprises several art installations amidst wetlands and woodlands and a 35-acre lake.

• Admission : Adults $18, Kids $10
• Hours : Thur-Sat (11 am - 8 pm), Sun, Tue, & Wed (11 am - 5 pm)

While outside the Newfields complex, be sure to stop by the 1900s Lilly House and The Gardens. This charming French-inspired estate is listed as a National Historic Landmark.

7 Discover Native American History & Culture At Eiteljorg Museum

One of the more historic things to do in Indianapolis is visiting the Eiteljorg Museum. Tourists interested in Native American and the American West societies will have an eye-opening experience here.

It has the distinction of being the only facility of its kind in the Midwest and houses an impressive permanent collection featuring works by renowned artists like Andy Warhol, Frederic Remington, and Georgia O'Keefe.

However, the museum's highlight is the contemporary Native art collection, which holds special exhibitions on topics like Native American history and the development of Native art. Eiteljorg Museum also hosts the exciting Indian Market and Festival every year.

• Admission : Adults $15, Youth $8
• Hours : Monday to Saturday (10 am - 5 pm), Sunday (12 - 5 pm)

Eiteljorg Musem is an excellent attraction for the family and features a kids' dedicated gallery with fun, hands-on experiences like building a sod house and dressing up in Western regalia. There is also a cute gift shop and cafe worth stopping by after the tour.

8 Honor Fallen Heroes At The Indianapolis War Memorial Plaza

American war historians will have a surreal experience visiting the iconic Indianapolis War Memorial Plaza. A dedication to veterans, the 25-acre plaza consists of the Indiana World War Memorial and Museum, Soldiers and Sailors Monument, Legion Mall, University Park, USS Indianapolis CA35 Memorial, and Veteran's Memorial Plaza.

It is the second-biggest war memorial plaza after Washington D.C.'s National Mall and features a 30,000-square-foot shrine. There are endless interesting artifacts, relics, and exhibits at the center, including military uniforms and firearms, old manuscripts, and an AH-1 Cobra Attack Helicopter.

• Hours : Wed-Sun, 9 am - 5 pm

Guests can sign up for a guided tour for a more immersive experience at the Indianapolis War Memorial Plaza. Just remember to book in advance.

9 Uncover The State's History At The Indiana State Museum

Found within the White River State Park, the Indiana State Museum chronicles the region's past from the Ice Age to what has become of the state today. In the permanent collection, guests can marvel at wonderful exhibits, including an ice cave replica, a dire wolf, and a sabertooth tiger.

Other exhibits recount the history of the state's Native Americans by displaying traditional pottery, artwork, recipes, and navigational techniques used by the day's civilizations before Christopher Columbus's arrival, including the Potawatomi people.

Outside the museum, visitors can also check out the 92 beautiful sculptures, with each representing the state's counties.

• Admission : Adults $17, Youth $12
• Hours : Wed-Sun, 10 am - 5 pm

Not too far from the Indiana State Museum is the Central Canal, a delightful 3-mile waterway where vacationers can walk along or rent a kayak for a serene cruise while enjoying the scenes from the water.

10 Savor The Outdoors At Eagle Creek Park

Eagle Creek Park is the largest park in the state and spans about 3,900 acres, making it a sweet escape for vacationers with a penchant for secluded natural spaces. There are various fun activities at the park, including hiking over 16 miles of trails, attending summer concerts, and playing a round of golf at the 36-hole golf course.

Those who don't mind getting wet can try fishing at the creek or rent a kayak, canoe, or pedal boat to get on the water. For an adrenaline-rushing experience, Treetop Adventures provides guests with a series of thrilling adventures, combining rope ladders, zip lines, swings, and crossings.

• Admission : $6 per car, plus $5 per dog
• Hours : 7 am to sundown

Guests can grab a map at the park's entrance to comfortably navigate their way through the sprawling facility.

11 Best Time To Visit Indianapolis

The best time for visitors in Indianapolis is from May to August when the weather is warm and ideal for getting out and exploring the city.

Summer is marked by clear skies, plenty of sunshine, and humid conditions, with the temperatures rising to a high of over 83 degrees Fahrenheit in the peak of July.

This is the busiest time for tourists in Naptown, featuring multiple outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring outdoor attractions. As flight and lodging providers hike prices to take advantage of the inflow of travelers, tourists are advised to book well in advance to avoid overspending.

Key summer events include the 4th of July celebrations, Symphony on the Prairie, and the Indiana State Fair .

Pack a swimsuit to cool off in a wading pool or water park when the heat gets unbearable.

For those trying to skip the crowds and avoid the high humidity, the shoulder seasons in spring and fall are an excellent time to visit. Spring hosts the biggest show in town as the Indianapolis 500 race draws fans in their thousands to enjoy the speed spectacle.

During fall, the air is crispy and clean, and the cool colors of fall foliage bring a cheerful vibe to the city. The mild weather allows guests to remain cozy in jeans and a sweater while exploring Indianapolis.

This is a great time to get swept in the festival atmosphere of an Indianapolis Colts game at Lucas Oil Stadium and partake in other festive activities in Indiana during fall , including the Oktoberfest celebrations or the spooky Headless Horseman fall festival.

Winter can be harsh in Indianapolis, lasting three months, with temperatures dipping to a freezing low of 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Several events like the Indianapolis Marathon and Circle of Lights help spread the holiday cheer in winter, but visitors skip town after the New Year’s celebrations.

The best time to travel on a budget is from November to March. Guests can take advantage of great deals during this low season, and hotels offer generous discounts from January to March. Just be ready to brave the Indy cold!

12 Best Ways To Get Around Indianapolis

Travelers have ample options for moving around the beautiful city of Indianapolis and need not worry about getting from point A to B.

Public transportation

There is every reason to learn the ins and outs of public transportation in a new place, as there is a high likelihood it will come in handy. In Indianapolis, IndyGo operates a public bus transit system to ferry residents. The buses offer 31 fixed routes traversing different areas in the city, making it convenient for tourist expeditions.

IndyGo introduced the Red Line, comprising a fleet of new rapid-transit e-buses covering a 13-mile route from Broad Ripple to the Indianapolis University campus via the downtown district.

These come with luxuries such as phone-charging ports, Wi-Fi, and bike storage, which tourists will find convenient.

• Hours: Monday to Friday (5 am – 1 am), Saturday (6 am – 1 am), Sunday (7 am – 10 pm), passing at 15-minute intervals
• Ticket: Red Line ($2), Non-Red Line ($1.75, 1-day pass $4, 7-day pass $20, 31-day pass $60, or $17.50 for 10 trips)

Tourists can download the MyKey app to purchase Red Line tickets digitally.

Indy is an excellent city to explore on two wheels, and its Pacers Bikeshare program boasts more than 500 bikes spread across 50 stations in the downtown area that travelers can grab anytime they feel like cycling. The bikes are available for hire 24/7, accessible at a bike-share kiosk or via an app.

Bike trails abound in the city, with the Indianapolis Cultural Trail among the list of favorites. This state-of-the-art bike path cost the city $63 million and stretches 8 miles, linking five districts in downtown Indy (Mass Ave, the Canal and White River State Park, Fountain Square, the Wholesale District, and Indiana Avenue).

• Bike rental rates: $1 plus .15 per minute or $125 for an annual pass (unlimited hour-long rentals)

Related: The Hike To Rose Island Is Indiana's Perfect Spooky Trail

Those who prefer a less strenuous way of moving around can opt for an electric scooter as a bike alternative. These come in handy when covering short-range travels or bridging the gaps between stops on the IndyGo routes.

However, users can only ride the scooters on the street and bike lanes, never on sidewalks. To rent one, visitors can download an app and then scan a QR code to access the scooter.

• E-scooter rental rates : $1 plus .30 per minute

Tourists risk a fine when parking their hired electric scooter in restricted areas, including parking spaces and private driveways, or when blocking sidewalk ramps.

Taking a cab is another great option when tourists are unsure where to go or what to see. These can be found at the airport upon arrival and all the way to the downtown district.

Over 30 taxi companies in the city offer this critical service, so it shouldn’t be a problem finding one whenever necessary.

• Taxi rates: On average, $30-$35 for a 20-minute drive (may vary subject to traffic)

Those who like to soak in the city’s sights and sounds at a snail’s pace will be glad to know that Indy is also very navigable on foot. The downtown area is especially suitable for walkers thanks to its relatively small size and grid system.

Take this opportunity to explore the lively scene and stores in the area. Still, you’ll need to catch a cab to get to key attractions outside the city’s core, such as the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.

13 Where To Stay In Indianapolis

Indianapolis is a mesmerizing metropolis split into 237 neighborhoods. Each comes with a unique cultural vibe mixed with trademark Hoosier hospitality to culminate in the perfect setting for first-timers to mingle with locals and learn about their lifestyles.

Guests should have no issues finding a nice neighborhood for their accommodation options. Here are the top areas to stay in while visiting Indianapolis.

Short for Massachusetts Avenue, Mass Ave is one of the four cultural districts within Indy’s urban core. It is among the city’s most coveted addresses, known for its vibrant atmosphere.

The area features a five-block stretch dotted with art galleries, theaters, restaurants, hotels, shopping centers, and watering holes.

Some nearby attractions include the Old National Center on New Jersey Street, which hosts thrilling live music performances and Broadway productions.

Just across the street, guests can find Rathskeller, the perfect joint to sample authentic German cuisine and beer.

Fall Creek Place

Situated two miles from the downtown area, this upcoming suburb consists of old residential structures being remodeled into modern homes. It boasts an urban core ripe with shopping centers, entertainment options, and lush green parks and open spaces.

There’s plenty to do in Falls Creek, with quaint coffee shops and old-school diners among the highlights. Tourists can also check out the Goose the Market deli or hop into the Koelschip for a refreshing craft beer.

Broad Ripple

Many Indianapolis residents consider Broad Ripple among the town's best places to stay. This scenic neighborhood offers a laid-back vibe and can easily be accessed by bike, electric scooter, or foot. Several businesses feature in the area, culminating in a buzzing atmosphere with so much to do.

From boutiques and restaurants to coffee shops and breweries, there is always something new to be discovered. But if tourists want a break from the hustle and bustle, they can head to the nearby Broad Ripple Park, which offers a calm and quiet environment, perfect for a lazy stroll.

Woodruff Place

Visiting Woodruff Place is like taking a trip down the Midwestern memory lane. This classic neighborhood comprises well-manicured Victorian homes dating back to the 1890s. Esplanades and fountains highlight the streets of the first organized residential neighborhoods in the city.

Some tourist attractions include Beholder, a classy restaurant with fine cuisine and a sophisticated ambiance. Shops, grocery stores, and several taverns also draw visitors to the area, and on every first weekend of June, a summer flea market turns the area into a bee hive of activities.

Speed enthusiasts and drag racing fans converge at the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway to witness one of the best shows Indy has to offer. The electric atmosphere when a race with roaring engines and cheering spectators makes for an awesome experience.

However, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is still worth visiting, even without a race. Several businesses like restaurants, wineries, microbreweries, and distilleries line the area, making it the perfect spot to sample the local nightlife.

14 Top Hotels In Indianapolis

Guests need not worry about finding a nice cozy place to rest and rejuvenate after a long day of exploration and discovery. Indianapolis offers multiple accommodation options that bring out the best of Hoosier hospitality.

Luxury options:

Crowne Plaza at Union Station

• Address: 123 West Louisiana Street, Indianapolis, IN 46225
• Cost per night: Starts from $284 for 2 guests
• Amenities: Complimentary high-speed internet, valet parking, fitness center, coffee machine business center, bar/lounge, an indoor pool, on-site restaurant, tea/coffee maker, room service, express check-out

The Westin Indianapolis

• Address: 241 West Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204
• Cost per night: Starts from $255 for 2 guests
• Amenities: Large flat-screen HD TVs, meeting facilities, fitness center, bar/lounge, coffee machine, coffee shop, Wi-Fi in all areas, valet parking, business center, roll-in shower, cable/satellite TV

Mid-range options:

Courtyard by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown

• Address: 601 West Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204
• Cost per night : Starts from $184 for 2 guests
• Amenities: 24-hour fitness center, complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, valet parking, business center, coffee machine, on-site mini-market, restaurant, bar/lounge, 24/7 front desk

Hotel Broad Ripple

• Address : 6520 Westfield Boulevard, Indianapolis, IN 46220
• Cost per night: Starts from $165 for 2 guests
• Amenities : Free self-parking, meeting/banquet facilities, free internet, coffee machine, room service, free toiletries, bar/lounge, daily housekeeping, snack bar, hairdryer, refrigerator, ironing board

Related: 9 Perfect Cabin Rentals In Indiana

Budget options:

Sleep Inn & Suites And Conference Center Downtown

• Address : 1244 West 16th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202
• Cost per night : Starts from $109 for 2 guests
• Amenities : Free Grab n Go Breakfast, microwave, free Wi-Fi, banquet facilities, meeting rooms, iron and ironing board, an indoor pool, refrigerator, desk, flat-screen TV, hair dryer, and a hot tub in some rooms.

Super 8 by Wyndham Indianapolis

• Address : 4033 East Southport Road, Indianapolis, IN 46237
• Cost per night: Starts from $62 for 2 guests
• Amenities : Laundry facilities, free internet, coffee maker, free toiletries, free parking, cable/satellite TV, wake-up service, 23-hour front desk, room service

15 Where To Eat While Visiting Indianapolis

Indianapolis boasts a lively dining scene with a blend of local flavors and international cuisine. Many restaurants focus on farm-fresh and sustainable ingredients to prepare healthy and delicious dishes inspired by creative menus that keep changing depending on the available seasonal produce.

Whether looking for fine or local dining options, there is no shortage of eateries and food houses to cater to all preferences. Here are the best places to eat and drink in Indianapolis.

For breakfast:

Café Patachou

Café Patachou is where Hoosiers go to get a sumptuous serving of the day's most important meal. This quaint joint in downtown Indy offers an interesting menu with creative made-from-scratch dishes like cinnamon, avocado, and prosciutto toasts.

Their delicious omelets feature playful names such as the "Hippie with a Benz.” Café Patachou has four more locations across the Hoosier capital, so tourists can always be on the lookout for this popular joint wherever their adventures take them.

• Address: 225 W. Washington St. Indianapolis, IN 46204317-632-0765
• Business hours: Monday to Friday (7 am – 3 pm), Saturday & Sunday (8 am – 3 pm)

For lunch and dinner:

King Dough Pizza

This local pizzeria is the perfect place to stop by for a lunchtime pizza. Specializing in handmade pizzas prepared from classic recipes, customers can choose from a wide selection, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan pies.

The menu features starters such as fried calamari, homemade meatballs, and salads. The fresh and high-quality food makes Kind Dough Pizza a crowd favorite in Indianapolis.

• Address : 452 N Highland Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
• Business hours: Thursday–Sunday from noon to 9 pm, Monday–Wednesday from 4 pm to 9 pm

St. Elmo Steak House

Indy is big on meat, and residents converge at this lively spot to get a tantalizing taste of dry-age steak and fresh seafood. The menu impresses with a mix of traditional steakhouse options like wedge salads and shrimp cocktails served with sweet sauces on the side.

The bar seating area features large kitchen windows that allow customers to watch all the action as chefs prepare the meals. There’s also a wine cellar with thousands of fine bottles guests can indulge in while waiting for the meal.

• Address: 127 Illinois St, Indianapolis, IN 46225, USA
• Business hours : Sunday to Friday (4 pm - 10 pm), Saturday (3 pm - 10 pm)

For drinks:

The Rathskeller

Hoosier capital is famous for its numerous craft breweries, and The Rathskeller represents the best of what the city has to offer. This vibrant joint offers a mix of Bavarian ambiance and great beverages in the downtown Mass Ave district.

The sprawling facility features a dining room, event area, and spacious outdoor with picnic tables where patrons converge to enjoy a refreshing craft beer while watching live entertainment.

• Address : 401 E Michigan St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, USA
• Business hours: Sunday to Thursday (11 am - 9 pm), Friday & Saturday (11 am – 10 pm)

16 Indianapolis Travel Guide: What To Know When Visiting

An aerial view of Indianapolis after dark

Indianapolis, also known as Indy and Naptown, is the capital of Indiana and the most populous city, with over 800,000 residents. Indy is renowned for its friendly and down-to-earth locals, so don’t hesitate to stop a stranger for directions. Hoosiers are always happy to lend a helping hand.

The city is centrally located in the state and the country, at the intersection of four major interstate highways. This is why it is sometimes referred to as the Crossroads to America. Thanks to this, adventure travelers get easy access to various charming small Indiana towns worth exploring and extend the fun with a visit to Chicago , just three hours away.

What is the weather like in Indy?

Indianapolis experiences a typical Midwestern climate, and the unpredictable weather can swing from cozy sunny to dull rainy without warning. A warm 70-degree Fahrenheit day could be followed by a wet and cold day.

Is it worth visiting Indianapolis?

Absolutely! Indianapolis is best known for its races and professional sports, but it also has an artsy side.

Check out Indianapolis' tourism site for maps and guides to everything from accessible attractions to the best spots to park.

Related: 10 Sights Worth Seeing In Hendricks County, Indiana

17 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Indianapolis

How do you spend a day in Indy? With all the things to do in Indianapolis, packing everything into a single day is nearly impossible. Here are some highlights to make the most of 24 hours in Indy.

Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Milktooth and enjoy luscious dishes like grilled cheese, Dutch pancakes, and potato latkes. Head to the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis for fun family time and learning opportunities for the young.

Catch a ride to Mass Ave and explore the numerous stores in the area. Be sure to stop by The Flying Cupcake for a sweet treat and Global Gifts, Silver in the City, to get a cute souvenir to take back home.

For lunch, King Dough Pizza will be perfect for rejuvenating and stocking up on energy reserves in preparation for the afternoon’s adventure. Afterward, discover the over 30,000 plant types and at least 1000 animal species at the Indy Zoo before visiting the Monument Circle to honor fallen heroes at the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial.

Before the day ends, tour the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway for an exciting go-kart drive and hop into St. Elmo’s Steak House for a sumptuous shrimp cocktail with a side of spicy sauce.

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A Luxury Travel & Lifestyle Compendium

City Guides , Indiana , Indianapolis , Travel , United States · June 27, 2019

Indianapolis: The Luxury Travel Guide

I hope this Indianapolis Luxury Travel Guide helps you fall in love with this iconic midwestern capital city just as we did!

Where to Stay

We loved our stay at the beautiful art hotel right in the center of downtown Indianapolis, Conrad Indianapolis, so it only makes sense that I include it here in my Indianapolis Luxury Travel Guide. The staff were exceptional, our suite was decked out in Salvador Dalí art, and there are other famous works of art by Picasso and Andy Warhol scattered around the hotel. They have a full Aveda salon and spa, a fitness center, and on site fine-dining. What more could a person ask for? Read my full review of the hotel, and why we loved our stay so much, here .

Where to Eat

Indianapolis is home to some of the best food in the midwest. Whether you’re in the mood for Asian food, something vegan, uniquely crafted dishes you can’t find anywhere else, fusion food, craft beers or wines, Indianapolis has an excellent assortment of options for everyone. Each restaurant in my Indianapolis Luxury Travel Guide has ample gluten free options.

Bluebeard We enjoyed a wonderful dinner here, and the atmosphere was casual, light hearted, and the restaurant itself is reminiscent of a used book store. It’s very quaint yet lively, and the food was phenomenal. I Recommend: Charcuterie, Tartine, Curry, & Sanctuary

Café Patachou  We first tried Café Patachou during our first visit to neighboring Carmel, IN in Hamilton County , and we loved it! Everything is very fresh and thoughtfully paired with drinks. Perfect for a light brunch or breakfast. I Recommend: Simple Broken Yolk, Yogurt, Granola & Berries, Gluten Free Vegan Omelette

The Capital Grille Located inside our hotel on the ground floor, The Capital Grille was a convenient and delicious fine dining option. They had a delightful variety of seafood and vegetable based dishes, in addition to their dry-aged steak selection. The Conrad Hotel in Indianapolis also has an in house sommelier, so it’s of course necessary to sample the hotel’s wine selection while in town. I Recommend: Cast Iron Garlic Shrimp, Tuna Tartare with Avocado, Mango, and Sriracha, Pan Seared Sea Bass

Commissary Café Grab a coffee whilst strolling the Indianapolis Cultural Trail near Monument Circle, and enjoy some of Indianapolis’ finest coffee. You can even buy bags of coffee beans to make at home. I Recommend: Iced Black Coffee

Fresco Café A charming Italian inspired café along the Central Canal, just behind where the Indianapolis Gondola Rides pick up. This café serves Italian food, Italian drinks, and gelato. I Recommend: Trillium Cheese Board, Aperol Spritze

Garden Table I loved Garden Table so much I’ve dreamt of it. Okay, it was just one dream, but it was a wonderful dream nonetheless. Featuring raw, fresh pressed juices, vegan and main stream fare in a bright and airy setting, Garden Table is one of my favorite places to eat in the Midwest. Read my full restaurant review here . I Recommend: Fresh Pressed Juice Flight, Açai Bowl with Homemade Almond Butter and Seasonal Fruits, Smoked Salmon Hash, and Green Matcha Latté.

Milktooth Another fabulous Indianapolis staple, Milktooth serves breakfast and brunch starting at 9am daily, but from 7am to 9am they offer casual café staples such as pastries, iced and hot coffees, and more. Read my full breakdown of Milktooth here . I Recommend: Cranberry Walnut with Gouda & Raclette Grilled Cheese featuring black truffle honey, and a local sunny duck egg, as well as the Fried Swiss Cheese Polenta Cake with Sunny Egg on top of horseradish sauce, pickled apple, and celery, cashew, pesto

Subito They have a different soup every day, and create some of the best sandwiches we’ve ever had. I Recommend: Giovanni, Tomato Basil Soup

Tastings An awesome spot to grab a drink and sample wine.

Tinker Street Have I mentioned how awesome Indianapolis’ food scene is? It’s amazing! Tinker Street was one of the more inventive restaurants we dined at, as they served reimagined version of classic dishes like their delicious take on Pad Thai, or their repurposed S’mores dessert. Read more about Tinker Street here. I Recommend: Mushroom Bruschetta, Squash Pad Thai, Blistered Indiana Asparagus with Quinoa,  S’More Pot De Créme

As the capital of the state of Indiana, there’s more to do in Indianapolis than anywhere else in the area, so no matter what your interests are, you’re bound to find something exciting to any time of the week. When I’m traveling somewhere new and looking for something specific to do, I simply Google the activity and the city I’m in, and I have great luck with that. I know that seems obvious, but since it’s impossible to list out each individual activity here in this Indianapolis Luxury Travel Guide, below are a few of my favorites to spark your curiosity that.

Garfield Park Conservatory A beautiful spot to explore in the cooler months, or a rainy warm weather day. I love coming here when we are in town and enjoying the tropical plants.

Gondola Ride Enjoy an hour long cruise in an authentic Venetian Gondola down the Central Canal. The views were surprisingly lovely in this aritifically built canal, and we were able to see some Indianapolis’ most expensive and prestigious real estate along the way. Plus, our gondolier, Flavio, serenaded us in Italian.

Highland Park This park might be small, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in beautiful views. Get an awesome view of the Indianapolis skyline, and watch the sunset in this walkable park. It’s the perfect place to take photos of the city skyline.

Indianapolis Cultural Trail This 8 mile long trail connects Indianapolis’ six cultural districts, which not only improved the walkability of the city, but it also helped improve nearly a dozen other metrics of city quality and citizen happiness. The Indianapolis Cultural Trail is credited with also improving the health of Indianapolis’ citizens and pets, increasing the number of jobs in the city and property values in the area, plus it has made the city even more beautiful. Along the trail we found museums and art galleries, camera shops and used book stores, cafés, boutiques, public parks, murals, and so much more.

Indianapolis Zoo & Botanical Gardens + Butterfly House This zoo and gardens was beautifully maintained and very involved in conservation efforts both locally and globally. We witnessed zoo staff talking lovingly about the animals in their care, most of which were either rescued or could not survive on their own in the wild, and it was truly inspiring to see how much they cared about the work they were doing. In addition to conservation efforts and city wide recycling initiatives, they also teach classes about wildlife and what visitors can to do encourage a healthy ecosystem.

Monon Trail This four and a half mile long trail connects even more of the city and is a fantastic spot for jogging, biking, or walking.

Newfields Museum & Gardens 1 of top 10 largest museums in the United States, Newfields has a beautiful museum, which currently houses a vast array of Japanese art and artifacts, as well as a sprawling garden and sculpture park. Located on more than 100 acres of beautifully manicured gardens and lawns, we loved strolling around the grounds, admiring the foliage and exploring the pop ups that change every time we visit. It’s also one of the more beautiful gardens we’ve visited, so of course I had to include it in my Indianapolis Luxury Travel Guide.

White River State Park Where city dwellers go to get a taste of the outdoors right in downtown Indianapolis. If you’re looking for a place to have a picnic, rent kayaks, or just enjoy the expansive 250 acre green space, this is a beautiful option. Once you’re done enjoying the park, head over to the nearby Indianapolis Zoo & Botanical Gardens. 

Indianapolis Motor Speedway (Home of the indy 500) Indiana World War Memorial Monument Circle Soldiers and Sailors Monument

Getting Around & Parking

Indianapolis has an extensive bike sharing program through the city, as well as an ample supply of Bird scooters conveniently located around town, so if you’re interested in exploring more or less independently, this is the way to go if you’re not much for walking. Otherwise, the city is very drivable, and ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are popular enough that there’s never much of a wait time.

If you’re interested in a unique view of the city, try a Gondola Ride through the Central Canal.

Parking in Indianapolis is inexpensive and there is ample parking all around the city.

Indianapolis is moderately safer than most cities of a comparable size. As with anytime you’re out in public, be sure not to wander alone late at night, stick to well lit streets, and don’t flash your valuables. Indianapolis’ police have a reputation for being very kind and helpful to everyone and they like to walk around town, which made us feel safer during our time in Indianapolis.

Sometimes Bird scooters aren’t left propped up, or they fall down and we witnessed someone trip and fall over one as they were walking and texting. Be aware of the black and white powered scooters strewn around town, and check parking spots, sidewalks, and doorways for errant scooters.

Day Trips From Indianapolis

Cincinnati 112.2 Mile Drive The Queen City has an abundance of art galleries, fine dining options like Boca Restaurant , the most gorgeous zoo and botanical garden in the nation, and a strong sense of community unlike any other large city.

Columbus 175.6 Mile Drive Enjoy a dinner at M. Miranova or The Refectory, Columbus’ finest dining establishments, and then head to Franklin Park Conservatory, Columbus Museum of Art, or a local winery. Enjoy a stay at Le Méridien Columbus Luxury Hotel’s Deluxe Executive Suite, the most elegant hotel room in Columbus.

French Lick West Baden 100.3 Mile Drive French Lick West Baden is a fascinating town in Southern Indiana that was once one of the most sought after vacation destinations in North America for the well-to-do. After the Great Depression set the town, and most of the United States, down a path to near ruin, the town was revitalized and is enjoying a resurgence in popularity, attracting visitors from around the world to marvel at some of the most impressive architecture in the nation, like West Baden Springs Hotel , as well as the area’s incredible natural beauty. This area is one of the midwest’s best kept secrets, and one of the most interesting cities to visit in all of Indiana.

Grand Rapids 263.2 Mile Drive Grand Rapids, MI is the art and beer capital of the midwest, and is home of the world’s largest art competition, Art Prize. More than a dozen incredible museums, an abundance of festivals, pop-up restaurants, and proximity to Lake Michigan, as well as more breweries per capita than just about any other U.S. city, Grand Rapids is a wonderful place to spend a weekend, or longer. If you’re craving a taste of nature, head to Frederik Meijer Gardens’ Japanese garden to walk about a garden that expertly replicated from gardens in Japan.

What are your favorite things to do in the city? Let me know in the comments, and I might include them in my Indianapolis Travel Guide!

Safe travels!

xAnnie Fairfax Follow Me for More: @ AnnieFairfax

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Carrington Barfield says

June 27, 2019 at 10:13 am

Ahhh I so wish I would have had this last year! I went to Indianapolis for a work conference and had NO IDEA what to go out and do lol. Good thing is we go to the conference every year so I’m sure I’ll be going again and will most definitely be referring back to this!

anniewearsit says

June 27, 2019 at 10:18 am

Indianapolis is lots of fun, I hope this guide helps you enjoy the city even more on your next visit!

Rebecca P says

June 27, 2019 at 12:08 pm

What a great and thorough travel guide!!! Looks like such a great time! Do you have any recommendations for salons in the area?

Anna Lazarson says

June 27, 2019 at 2:48 pm

I never realized how many things there are to do in Indiana! It also looks so gorgeous!

Melanie says

June 27, 2019 at 4:01 pm

Staying the center of downtown of any destination is always a good idea!! Love being close to all the FUN!

Laura S says

June 27, 2019 at 5:28 pm

So fun! I’ve never been to Indianapolis but it looks so fun!

Savannah says

June 27, 2019 at 5:45 pm

Garden Table and Milktooth sound perfect to me! And wow look at those pretty flamingos.

gretahollar says

June 27, 2019 at 11:13 pm

I’ve never been but I’ve always wanted to go! Saving this guide for later!

kileen says

June 28, 2019 at 1:56 am

Such an amazing travel guide!! Definitely need to bookmark this for future reference, thanks for sharing babe!

Kileen cute & little

Stephanie says

June 28, 2019 at 11:06 am

One of my best friends is from Indianapolis, and she’s always raving about it. I really want to plan a trip here at some point, so I definitely will be saving your suggestions so I can refer to them when I go!

July 1, 2019 at 6:43 am

Such great tips & info on Indy! It’s been forever since I have been there!

July 1, 2019 at 8:19 am

Indy is one of my favorite spots! Such a beautiful city that has a lot to offer. Great guide lady!!

sewsarahr says

July 2, 2019 at 10:45 pm

Been dying to check out Indianapolis! Ill have to bookmark this post for when I go!

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Best Things To Do in Indianapolis: Weekend Itinerary

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There are so many incredible things to do in Indianapolis, Indiana! From culture to cuisine, historical sites to contemporary entertainment, the array of activities in Indianapolis is outstanding. For visitors planning an Indianapolis getaway weekend itinerary – and for locals wondering what to do this weekend in Indianapolis – we compiled a list of fabulously fun things to do in Indy. 

We highlight the top Indianapolis tourist attractions and the best places to visit so that you can create an ideal weekend in Indianapolis.

46 Things To Do in Indianapolis Weekend Itinerary

Indianapolis is often an overlooked destination – we certainly bypassed it for far too long. After a longer-than-anticipated stint in Columbus, Ohio – (from which we made weekend trips to Cleveland , Cincinnati , Pittsburgh and Louisville ) – we finally planned an Indianapolis getaway vacation.

Our trip to Indianapolis was not my first. It was, however, the first Indianapolis trip for Kris and my first trip in a really, really long time. When tasked with figuring out what to do in Indianapolis – we spent ample time coming up with Indy weekend trip ideas. 

Planning a Weekend in Indianapolis

In my initial research, I quickly learned that things in Indianapolis had changed; the city now boasted revitalized entertainment districts and hip places to go for dining – and I was excited to find so many fun things to do in Indianapolis for adults.

To really get a good feel for the reinvigorated city, I was intent on creating an Indy weekend trip plan that included the top things to do in Indianapolis, the best attractions and local culinary treats.

The more I researched what to see in Indianapolis, the more things I found to do in the city. Indy has changed a lot since my previous visits, and I was astonished at the number of really cool things to do in Indianapolis today.

Meeting up with friends was the motivation for our Indy trip – but we decided to squeeze in some Indianapolis sightseeing and, I have to say, we were pleasantly surprised.

Organizing a Weekend Trip to Indianapolis

As you begin to make plans and book reservations for weekend trips to Indianapolis, staying organized is essential! We recommend using a travel planner – like our Printable Travel Planner – to stay on top of all the details of your Indianapolis weekend vacation!

Indianapolis Things To Do FAQs

Before we get to our list of the best things to do in Indianapolis, we want to answer a few of the most frequently asked questions about planning a trip to Indy.

Are There Things To Do in Indianapolis with Kids?

Yes! The city is family friendly and there are plenty of things to do in Indianapolis for kids. In fact, visitors will find many Indianapolis activities that are dedicated to children – and we highlight the best things to do with family in Indianapolis in our list.

Are There Fun Things To Do in Indianapolis for Free?

Budget travelers will have no problem finding free things to do in Indianapolis. While many of the city’s museums charge entry fees, there are ample things to see in Indianapolis that are free of charge. Our list details both ticketed and free things to do in Indy.

What is there to do in Indianapolis with Dogs? 

Planning to visit Indy with your pooch and looking for Dog-Friendly Things To Do Indianapolis? You are in luck! Indy is a pet-loving city. In addition to the many outdoor parks (which we highlight throughout our list), several of the best bars and restaurants in Indianapolis allow dogs. Plus, there are hotels that welcome four-legged friends, too. 

Is it Worth it to Plan a Trip to Indy?

Absolutely! Indy is one of the most Underrated Destinations in the US . Sure, it may pale in comparison to big cities, like New York or Chicago , the best places to visit in Indianapolis feature a fun mix of intriguing history, unique art and fantastic food.

How Do I Find Events in Indianapolis this Weekend?

Whether you are looking for things to do in Indianapolis tomorrow, free events in Indianapolis today or things to do in Indy this weekend, you can use our list of things to do to plan your trip.

To help fellow travelers plan an Indy weekend getaway, we wrap up all of our suggestions into a convenient Indianapolis travel itinerary at the end of the article. Furthermore, we share tips on how to get there, where to stay and what to pack – plus we provide an Indianapolis map of sights.

That said, visitors planning a weekend getaway Indianapolis itinerary may also want to attend a comedy show, live music performance or fun festival. You can find events on this calendar .

46 FUN THINGS TO DO IN INDIANAPOLIS

We were astounded by the number of fun things to do in Indy! Because our list of places to go in Indianapolis extends beyond the city center, we have separated it into categories. In addition to listing the top things to do Downtown Indy, we also feature the city’s best districts to explore, what to do in Indy beyond the downtown core and top Indianapolis restaurant recommendations.

Save, Pin or Bookmark this Indianapolis travel post so that you can plan your Indy trip!

Things To Do Downtown: Indianapolis Attractions

We are kicking off our list with the best things to do in downtown Indianapolis. The urban core – called Mile Square – hosts some of the best attractions in Indianapolis.

#1 Climb to the Top of Soldiers and Sailors Monument

Climbing to the observation deck of the Soldiers and Sailors Monument is a must-do Indianapolis activity.

Standing at 285.5 feet in the heart of downtown Indianapolis, the Soldiers and Sailors Monument honors Hoosiers who fought in America’s earliest wars. The monument, which was completed in 1902, is a symbol of the city and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Inside the tower, visitors can stop by the gift shop – and then start climbing the 330 steps to the top for panoramic views of Indy. Climbing up the stairs is one of the best things to do in Indianapolis for free, but visitors can also catch a ride on the elevator for a small fee.

Pro Tip : The nearby City-County Building also offers a free observation deck for visitors. The super views are well-worth the effort it takes to find the right elevator!  

#2 Walk the Indianapolis Cultural Trail

Without a doubt, one of the best things in Indianapolis is walking, jogging or biking the Cultural Trail.

The 8-mile paved path weaves through downtown Indy passing some of the best cultural institutions in the city. Along the route, there are multiple works of art. Visitors intrigued by historic figures should not miss the section called The Glick Peace Walk, which celebrates the lives of profound luminaries.  

Pro Tip: One of our favorite spots on the Indianapolis Culture Trail is the bridge on Blackford Street (on the southwest corner of Military Park) – where the views of downtown are picture-perfect!

#3 Feast at the Indianapolis City Market

Foodies, history buffs and architecture fans will all want to put City Market on their Indianapolis to-do list.

The City Market dates to 1821 when it opened as a farmers’ market – and relocated to the current building in 1886. Today, the Indy City Market is a bustling food court with some of the best eateries under one roof.

Diners will find a wide range of fare – from southern comfort food to authentic Mexican tamales to Parisian crepes. Don’t miss the view from the second floor – and the Tomlinson Tap Room, if you are thirsty for a local Indy beer. Just keep in mind, the City Market hours vary by day and season.

Pro Tip: One of the unusual Indianapolis points of interest is a nearby plaque honoring Elvis Presley. The King played his last concert at the Indianapolis Market Square Arena (which is no longer standing) in 1977– and there is a plaque near Market and New Jersey Streets commemorating the event.

#4 Go Underground to the Indianapolis Catacombs

Visitors looking for unique things to do in Indianapolis should consider going underground to the city’s historic catacombs.

The subterranean passageway leads through brick barrel-vaulted arches under the City Market Whistler Plaza. It was used for storing goods for the market upstairs, and many people believe it’s one of the haunted places in Indy.

Pro Tip: The catacombs can only be visited on tours. The short half-hour tours are offered on select Saturdays by Indiana Landmarks .  

#5 Stand in Awe at the Indiana War Memorial

The Indiana World War Memorial is one of the must-see places in Indianapolis. The sheer magnitude of the building leaves visitors in awe, but there is much more to see inside.

A National Historic Landmark, the magnificent Indiana War Memorial was built to honor military veterans of World War I.

Inside the Indy War Museum – which is free to visit – displays cover US battles from the American Revolutionary War to recent conflicts. Military flags, war bond posters and wartime paraphernalia (everything from firearms to uniforms to a Cobra helicopter) are on display throughout.

The solemn Shrine Room, displaying a giant US flag and the Star of Destiny, is absolutely not to be missed.

Pro Tip: The entire Indiana War Memorial Plaza covers five city blocks and, all inclusive, ranks as the largest war memorial in the United States.

#6 Stroll along the American Legion Mall

From Veterans Memorial Plaza (marked by the Obelisk) north to the Indy Library is the American Legion Mall. It’s one of the reverent Indianapolis places to visit.

The grassy lawn of the American Legion Mall sits between two buildings used as the American Legion National Headquarters. Memorials dedicated to Indiana military members killed in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War line the walkway.

Pro Tip: On the north end of the American Legion Mall, Cenotaph Square commemorates the first Hoosier to be killed in action in World War I.

#7 See the Indianapolis Central Library

An architectural gem, the Indianapolis Central Library building features an eclectic mix of historic Greek and modern glass styles. Not only is the building intriguing, but there are many interesting Indy things to do inside the library, as well.

The Classic Wing hosts the most beautiful and historic aspects of the building – but the 6th floor of the sleek glass structure is a highlight for the fantastic views. The Indy Library also displays art exhibits in a variety of mediums. 

Pro Tip: The Indianapolis Library offers free events throughout the year. Check the calendar to see what you might want to include in your Indy itinerary.

#8 Check out the Bottleworks District

Spending time in the revitalized Bottleworks District is one of the best things to do in Indianapolis for adults (and it can be fun for kids during the daytime, too!). Hip eateries and cool entertainment are highlights of the Bottleworks District.

Featuring art deco buildings that were once used as a Coca-Cola bottling factory, the structures have been repurposed to house a posh hotel, an upscale food court, entertaining bars (like Pins Mechanical), chic shops and the modern Living Room Theater showing both indie and blockbuster films.

Pro Tip: The Garage Food Hall at Bottleworks is a must for your Indianapolis itinerary. Whether you stop by for lunch, go for dinner or just grab drinks, you won’t want to miss it!

#9 Relax at White River State Park

An urban park in the city center, White River State Park is one of the fun family things to do in Indianapolis.

In addition to the sprawling green space just steps from the bustle of the city, the park also features museums, public artworks and trails. Additionally, there are a myriad of Indianapolis events – from concerts to farmers’ markets – in the summertime.

Perfect for a relaxing walk or a summertime picnic, the landscaped park is a top Indy destination.

Pro Tip: White River State Park is home to some of the best cultural institutions in Indianapolis – which we will highlight in detail later.

#10 Get Wild at the Indianapolis Zoo

One of the kid-friendly things to do in Indianapolis is to go to the zoo. The Indy Zoo houses many fascinating animals in a downtown location right along the White River.

Top attractions at the Indianapolis Zoo are the Shark Touch Pool, the Dolphin Viewing Dome, the funny orangutans, the colorful macaws and the White River Gardens.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the fun Indy Zoo events! In addition to the year-round animal shows and zookeeper talks, winter visitors can explore the park after dark in the glow of Christmas lights.

#11 Discover the Indianapolis Canal Walk

One of the best outdoor activities in Indianapolis is walking along the historic city canal.

The Central Canal in Indianapolis was dug in the early 1800s as a means of moving goods…but the project fell apart after just 8 miles were completed. In the mid-1800s, the canal was used as a water supply for downtown Indy.

Today, however, the canal is lined by a paved path – and the Indy Canal Walk is one of the most popular inner city recreation areas.

Pro Tip: Looking for romantic things to do in Indianapolis? A leisurely stroll along the Indy Canal is a fun and frugal date activity .

#12 Boat the Indy Central Canal

Hands down, one of the unique downtown Indianapolis things to do is to take a boat out on the Central Canal.

Visitors can rent pedal boats and kayaks to explore the waterway during the summer months – or leave the work to someone else and take a gondola ride along a 3-mile stretch of the canal.

Pro Tip: For an informational trip up and down the Indy Central Canal, join a local for a guided kayak tour!

#13 Visit the Indiana Statehouse

The Indiana State Capitol Building is one of the iconic places to see in Indianapolis. The historic building, which was completed in 1888, is made of Indiana limestone and is modeled after the US Capitol Building. Grand granite columns, a soaring dome and marbled floors exemplify the Renaissance Revival style – and the manicured gardens add a finishing touch to the extravagant building.

The Statehouse is home to all government executive offices – including the State Senate, the Indiana House of Representatives and the State Supreme Court.

Pro Tip: The Indy Statehouse offers free guided tours on weekdays and Saturdays. The short 45-minute tour explores the interior of the building, offices and chambers.

#14 Delve into History at the Indiana State Museum

One of the best museums in Indy, the state-of-the-art Indiana State Museum focuses on the history and culture of Indiana. Ideal for history enthusiasts, visiting the museum is also one of the top things for kids to do in Indianapolis.

Housed in an architecturally unique structure (made completely from Indiana materials and featuring icons on the exterior walls to represent all 92 counties in the state), the museum is spread over three floors of exhibition space.

Pro Tip: In addition to the displays and hands-on experiences, the Indiana State Museum also has an on-site IMAX theater.

#15 Cheer on an Indianapolis Sports Team

Indy is known as a sports city – so, naturally, one of the fun things in Indianapolis is attending a game to cheer on the local team (or your team!).

Indianapolis is home to several sports teams – including NFL Colts (who play at Lucas Oil Stadium), NBA Pacers, WNBA Fever (both play at the downtown Gainbridge Fieldhouse) and the Triple-A baseball team Indianapolis Indians (who play at Victory Field) – just to name a few!

Pro Tip: Watching sports is one of the best things to do in Indy – so even if there isn’t a home game while you are in town, check out one of the city’s sports bars, like High Velocity or The District Tap.

#16 Take in the View from Indianapolis Artsgarden

The Artsgarden is one of the interesting attractions in Indianapolis, Indiana. Straddling the intersection of West Washington Street and Illinois Street, the glass-and-steel structure seems to hover in mid-air, like a spacecraft.

The public art space presents exhibits and performances throughout the year – all of which are free of charge. Additionally, from the elevated vantage point, visitors can take in the view and compare classic Indy street photos with the current view.

Pro Tip: When visiting the Artsgarden, try to find one of the city’s ‘Hidden Monuments’: a tiny bronze face concealed within a staircase.

#17 Seek out Indy Street Art Murals

Some of the best free entertainment in Indianapolis is seeking out the colorful street art murals that decorate buildings throughout the city.

Graffiti art, commissioned murals and unique artistic installations (like Recordface) are prominent in downtown Indy and the adjoining districts.

Fun for photo ops and an intriguing way to sightsee, the artistic expressions are one of the cool things in Indianapolis.

Pro Tip: Seeing what art murals you can find on your own is one of the fun downtown Indianapolis activities, but if you want a little guidance, check out this post on the city’s wall murals .

#18 Catch a Show at an Indianapolis Theater

One of the best things to do in Indianapolis at night is to attend a live performance…and there are plenty of theaters where visitors can do just that!

Some of the best theaters in the city are the Indiana Repertory Theatre (Publix Theatre), Old National Centre (formerly Murat Theatre), The Cabaret (both intimate and sophisticated) and Madam Walker Legacy Center (a National Historic Landmark).

Additionally, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra – which was founded in 1930 – performs at the Hilbert Circle Theatre on Monument Circle. 

Pro Tip: For an eccentric evening at the theater, go to White Rabbit Cabaret in the Fountain Square District.

#19 Appreciate Native American History at Eiteljorg Museum

A must-see Indianapolis museum, the Eiteljorg features exhibits and Western art that tell the story of American Indians. The extensive collection of Native American artwork and artifacts is considered to be the best in the world.

In addition to the permanent collection, the museum also displays rotating exhibits and hosts lectures.

Pro Tip: The Eiteljorg Museum has a special kid’s area, making it one of the Indy attractions that is great for families!

#20 Play at the NCAA Hall of Champions

The National Collegiate Athletic Association – or NCAA – is headquartered in Indy…and the NCAA Hall of Champions is one of the fun places in Indianapolis to spend an afternoon.

The interactive museum let’s visitors play, learn and explore the history and culture of college sports.

On the first level, visitors are challenged with trivia and fun factoids. On the second floor, however, is where the fun really starts! Visitors can test their skills at sports, like basketball, baseball and skiing.

Pro Tip: Did you know that there are 24 NCAA sports? Every single one of them is represented at the NCAA Hall of Champions.

#21 Make Some Noise at the Rhythm Discovery Center

A family fun Indy activity, the Rhythm Discover Center is an interactive Indianapolis museum.

Rhythm boasts a collection of percussion instruments…and the opportunity to play them! Explore the collections, learn about playing techniques and beat on some drums.

Pro Tip: On Saturdays, Rhythm hosts musical programs and live performances that are included with the price of admission.

#22 Learn about Author Kurt Vonnegut

A must-do in Indianapolis for literary fans, the small Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library celebrates the legacy of Vonnegut as a cherished American writer.

Kurt Vonnegut, author of Slaughterhouse-Five and Cat’s Cradle (among many, many others), was born and raised in Indianapolis. The museum displays personal artifacts that detail Vonnegut’s life and career.

Pro Tip: While tours are not required for admission to the museum, they are highly recommended for the additional insight.

#23 Pedal through the Streets on a Bike

Biking is one of the fun activities in Indianapolis – and there are miles of paved paths and dedicated bike lanes throughout the city.

Riding a bicycle along the Cultural Trail and the Central Canal Towpath is one of the best downtown Indy things to do. That said, adventurous travelers who want to explore beyond the city center can pedal their bike north from downtown on the Monon Rail Trail that extends 26 miles.

Pro Tip: Visitors can rent a bike from Wheel Fun Rentals or Bicycle Garage Indy – or use one of the Bike Share bicycles found throughout downtown.

#24 Set Off on a Downtown Indianapolis Tour

Exploring the city on foot is one of the best ways to get acquainted with downtown Indy.

We have highlighted the best downtown Indianapolis attractions – and because of their close proximity, it is easy to create your own self-guided walking tour to the top Indy sights.

That said, visitors can also download a Self-Guided Walking Tour  that provides useful step-by-step directions, site information and fun trivia questions. 

For a more personal introduction to the city, we recommend joining a local guide who leads the way to the top sights and attractions on an informative and fun 1.5-hour tour. Get the details here !

Pro Tip: In our weekend itinerary for Indianapolis below, we outline a self-guided walk through downtown – and provide a link to a Indy walking tour map.

Fun Things To Do: Indianapolis Districts

Exploring the many distinct districts is one of the fun things to do in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are highlighting the top Indy neighborhoods to discover while on a trip to the city.

#25 Fountain Square: Funky Neighborhood

The fun and funky Fountain Square neighborhood is a top destination for Indy visitors. The neighborhood dates to the 1870s and is an enclave for creativity and entertainment.

At the heart of the district is the Fountain Square Theater, a red brick building that was built in 1928 – and today houses vintage duckpin bowling lanes and classic cocktail bars.

Other Fountain Square Indianapolis fun things to do are indulging in the cuisine. The neighborhood is well-known for its culinary contributions and visitors can get a taste on a Fountain Square Food Tour . 

Pro Tip: Fountain Square is one of the 7 Indy neighborhoods designated as Cultural Districts for their outstanding historic value.

#26 Mass Ave Arts District and Foodie Haven

Massachusetts Avenue – or Mass Ave – is one of the originally planned diagonal streets in downtown Indy. The street was wildly popular when a streetcar ran down it in the early 1900s but fell into disrepute in the 1960s and 70s. However, in recent years, the district has experienced a phenomenal revival.

Top historic attractions along Mass Ave are the Athenaeum (Das Deutsche Haus), the Old National Centre and St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

For a bit of fun in Indianapolis, visitors should check out the district’s numerous theaters, restaurants, art galleries and boutique shops. Travelers looking for other fun things to do downtown Indianapolis at night can create a pub crawl down Mass Ave.

Pro Tip: Find the NDY sculpture at Massachusetts Ave and Alabama Street and stand as the “I” in Indy for a fun photo op!

#27 Lockerbie Square: Scottish and German Village

The oldest residential neighborhood in downtown Indy, Lockerbie Square is a charming district. Historic cottages and brick homes from the 1800s line the streets.

Scottish immigrants were the first to build homes in the area, but German settlers moved in during the mid-1800s and the neighborhood was dubbed Germantown.

The most famous house in the neighborhood is the James Whitcomb Riley House, and is now a museum. The renowned poet – known for his children’s poetry, like Little Orphan Annie and The Raggedy Man – lived in the house in the last years of his life.

Pro Tip: While in the neighborhood, take a break from sightseeing in Indianapolis and pop into the St. Joseph Brewery, a fantastic brewpub which operates out of a Catholic church that was built in 1879. Try the Confessional IPA and the German Sausage Sampler!

#28 Fletcher Place: A Diverse Community

Fletcher Place is a historic district that was established in the late 1800s as one of Indy’s more diverse working-class neighborhoods.

True to its roots, the district is one of the best places to go in Indianapolis for ethnic cuisine. Fletcher Place also happens to be home to numerous bars – making it one of the fun things to do at night in Indianapolis.

Pro Tip: The main thoroughfare through Fletcher Place is the diagonal Virginia Avenue – and it is often referred to as ‘Indy’s Best Angle.’

#29 Broad Ripple Village: Young and Fun

North of city, the Broad Ripple District is one of the best places to visit near Indianapolis downtown.

A mecca of shopping, dining, recreation and cultural experiences, Broad Ripple is popular with young professionals as a place to live, work and play.

Shops in the district sell vinyl records and vintage fashions. Restaurants dish out vegan and farm-to-table specialties. The Monon Trail serves as the district’s favored recreational artery – and year-round events bring the community together.

Top Fact: Late-night talk show icon, David Letterman, was raised in the Broad Ripple neighborhood.

#30 City of Carmel: Indy Suburb

To the north of Indy is the suburb of Carmel – and visiting the area is one of the fun things to do near Indianapolis.

The city has been named by several publications as one of the Best Places to Live in America – and for good reason. The Palladium is a state-of-the-art venue, the elegant Coxhall Gardens provide ample green space, and Main Street Carmel hosts an array of bars, restaurants and shops.

Pro Tip: An easy way to get to Carmel from Indianapolis is via two wheels! Hop on the Monon Trail and pedal 15 miles north Carmel.

More Things To Do Indianapolis Beyond Downtown

We have highlighted the fun things to do downtown Indy and the city’s best districts, but there are more great things to do around Indianapolis!

#31 Race over to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Museum

Indianapolis’ claim to fame has long been the high-speed Indy 500 car race…and it’s absolutely thrilling. The Indianapolis 500 Mile Race has been taking place annually for more than 100 years – and the racetrack, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, is just 5 miles west of downtown.

Unfortunately, The Greatest Spectacle in Racing only occurs one day of the year, but visitors can experience the thrill of the race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum year round.

The museum, which is located inside the track, is dedicated to the history and tradition of Indy car racing.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the bus tour that takes museum guests around the Indy track and stops on the historic brick finish line.

#32 Experience The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

A colossal museum complex on the north side of the city, The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is one of the area’s top attractions.

The award-winning museum is the largest children’s museum in the world. Top attractions at the museum are the dinosaurs at Dinosphere, Chihuly glassworks at Fireworks of Glass, a historic Carousel and the Sports Legends Experience.

Pro Tip: While the Children’s Museum is certainly one of the best things to do with kids in Indianapolis, it’s fun for adults, too!  

#33 Find the Most Off-Beat Museums

Whether you are looking for indoor activities in Indianapolis or fun places to go in Indianapolis that are a bit off the beaten path, the city’s off-beat museums are a good bet!

Visit the Teeny Statue of Liberty Museum and find heaps of Lady Liberty memorabilia. Go to the Indiana Medical History Museum on the site of the former Central State Hospital to see a room full of brains. Stop by the Koorsen Fire Museum and tour a room full of historic fire extinguishers.

Pro Tip: Looking for more weird things to do in Indianapolis? Find Indy’s best kept secrets and quirky places in this attractions book .

#34 Tour the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site

The 23rd US President, Benjamin Harrison, lived for many years on the north side of the city – and his preserved home is now one of the historical Indianapolis, Indiana attractions.

Visitors who want to learn about President Harrison, his life and his home can take a tour of the house interior and grounds.

Pro Tip: For a unique opportunity to see the inside of the presidential mansion, we suggest attending a Candlelight Theater production at the home.

#35 Drink in the Local Flavor at Indianapolis Breweries

Indy breweries are the best places in Indianapolis to get a taste of locally produced craft beer – and there are several breweries in and around the city to sample the fresh suds.

Sun King Brewing is – by far – Indy’s most popular brewer. Visitors who want a behind-the-scenes look at the production can even take a Sun King Brewery Tour.

Other top breweries in and around downtown are the previously mentioned St. Joseph Brewery, Chilly Water Brewing Company and Fountain Square Brew Company.

Pro Tip: Indianapolis is not just for beer drinkers…there are wineries in the city, too. Wine aficionados can sample Indy wine at Easley Winery or Peace Water Winery.

#36 Get Nostalgic at Tibbs Drive-In Movie Theater

For a full dose of nostalgia, visitors should head west of the city center to one of the cool places in Indianapolis: Tibbs Drive-In Theater.

Showing both retro classics and new releases, Tibbs Drive-In theater has been a mainstay in Indy since 1967. Featuring four screens (and a concession stand), guests pick a parking space and tune in the movie sound on their FM radio.

Pro Tip: While we think going to a drive-in theater is one of the best things for couples to do in Indianapolis, it’s one of the top Indianapolis attractions for families, as well.

#37 See Sculptures at the Indianapolis Art Center

One of the more relaxing activities to do in Indy is to visit the Indianapolis Art Center to see local artwork and sculptures.

The 6 galleries at the free Indy Art Center feature exhibits created by local and national artists. The highlight of the center, however, is the outdoor riverside Artspark, where nature and sculptures co-exist.

Pro Tip: Locals (or long-term visitors) can enroll in one of the many art classes taught at the center.

#38 Pay Respects at the Crown Hill Cemetery

Established in 1863, the historic Crown Hill Cemetery ranks as the third-largest cemetery in the United States – and it’s one of the top attractions in Indianapolis.

Covering 555 acres, the cemetery encompasses 25 miles of paved road that winds through architecturally beautiful mausoleums, monuments, memorials, tombstones and a Gothic chapel.

Cemetery visitors can pay their respects at the graves of Indy’s famous residents – like US President Benjamin Harrison, poet James Whitcomb Riley and bank robber John Dillinger. Tours are available for those who want an in-depth look at the history of the burial ground.

Pro Tip: There is a phenomenal Indianapolis skyline view from the highest hill in Crown Hill Cemetery…and you can drive right up to it! Follow the signs for the James Whitcomb Riley gravesite for the best downtown Indy views.

#39 Appreciate the Artwork at Newfileds Indianapolis Art Museum

Spending a day appreciating the artwork at the Indianapolis Museum of Art is one of the top things to do around Indy. Masterpieces, pop art and art from around the world are on display.

In addition to the Indy Art Museum, the sprawling Newfields campus is home to multiple attractions. The highlight is the restored Lilly House, which dates to 1913. Guests are invited to tour the interior and gardens.

While most visitors think of Newfields as one of the indoor things to do in Indianapolis, there are outdoor attractions, too. At the on-site Virginia B Fairbanks Art and Nature Park (which is free), guests can seek out sculptures. Furthermore, the entire Newfields grounds are open for the public to enjoy (and are perfect for a picnic).

Pro Tip: The Newfields outdoor summertime Beer Garden is a unique place to relax and enjoy a local craft beer.

#40 Frolic in the Flowers at the Garfield Park Conservatory

Showcasing hundreds of tropical plant species from around the globe, visiting the Garfield Park Conservatory ranks as one of the interesting Indianapolis, Indiana things to do.

Promoting a rainforest theme throughout, visitors will find flora like orchids, palms and ferns. Some of the other noteworthy plant species to see during a visit are the vanilla, banana and coffee plants. The Sunken Garden is also not to be missed.

Pro Tip: Visiting the Garfield Park Conservatory costs just a few dollars, making it one of the cheap things to do in Indianapolis, IN – but visitors can see the kid-friendly Blake’s Garden for free. 

#41 Reflect on the Monument at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr Park

The Landmark for Peace (also known as the Kennedy-King National Commemorative Site) at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park is an Indianapolis must-see monument.

The monument, which features Martin Luther King and Robert Kennedy extending a hand to each other, commemorates both the assassination of King and the speech given by Robert Kennedy in Indianapolis the night of King’s death.

Pro Tip: The words from Kennedy’s speech are displayed on a nearby plaque.

#42 Create your own Glass Artwork

One of the fun things to do in Indianapolis for couples and families (with kids aged 10 and up) is learning the art of glassblowing at GRT Hot Glass Studios.

Under the instruction from pros at GRT Glass Design, visitors are guided through the process of glass making – and leave with their very own crafted piece!

Pro Tip: Visitors can join one of the classes or book a private lesson.

Parks in Indianapolis

Some of the best places to visit in Indianapolis are the great outdoors! While we have already mentioned some of the top outdoor activities in Indy, visitors who really want to immerse themselves in nature should seek out the parks near the city.

#43 Eagle Creek Park

Eagle Creek Park is a massive nature area northwest of the city. With forest, meadows, ponds and a reservoir, it’s the top green space near Indy for hiking, biking, fishing, boating and zip lining.

Other top attractions at Eagle Creek are the nature center and bird sanctuary.

Pro Tip: While Eagle Creek Park is one of the fun things to do around Indianapolis, there is a required fee to enter and use the park.

#44 Fort Harrison State Park

A park for all seasons, Ft. Harrison State Park is one of the favorite outdoor things to do in Indianapolis.

Canoe on Fall Creek in the summer, hike through the colorful leaves in the autumn, sled down the hill in winter and see the flowers in bloom in the springtime.

Additionally, Fort Harrison has a dog park, nature center, picnic areas and a barn where visitors can go horseback riding.

Pro Tip: Just like Eagle Creek Park, there is a fee to enter Fort Harrison State Park, which is charged per vehicle.

#45 Glenns Valley Nature Park

Although smaller than the other recommended Indy parks, the Glenns Valley Nature Park features wooded hiking trails, grassy picnic areas and a sledding hill for snowy winter days.

The beautiful Glenns Valley House at the top of the hill is available for rent for private events.

Pro Tip: Visiting Glenns Valley Nature Park is one of the fun free things to do in Indianapolis!

#46 Holliday Park

A fantastic green space just north of the city, Holliday Park is one of the top things to do in Indianapolis, IN – especially for families and nature lovers. In addition to the enormous Nature Center and playground (both top Indianapolis kids activities), the park boasts trails through wooded forests and blooming gardens. 

The most intriguing part of the park, however, is the Ruins – which is the remains of a New York City building made of Indiana limestone and was saved from complete demolition. 

Top Tip: There is no admission fee to enter Holliday Park – it is one of the best Free Things To Do in Indianapolis, Indiana! 

What To Eat in Indianapolis: Restaurants

One of the best things happening in Indianapolis is the foodie scene! If you are wondering what to do in Indianapolis on your weekend trip, put a few of these epic eateries on your list!

Indulge in an Indianapolis Tenderloin Sandwich

Before we get to our list of Indy restaurants, we need to chat about one of the must-do things in Indianapolis: Eat a pork tenderloin sandwich.

The tenderloin sandwich – sometimes called a Hoosier Tenderloin – is the most famous food in Indianapolis. The large-but-thin pork cutlet is breaded and deep fried, then served on a way-too-small hamburger bun. It’s unhealthily delicious, but its an Indianapolis tradition. 

Pro Tip: Mug-n-Bun is an old fashioned drive-in on the west side of Indy that is notorious for making the biggest and best tenderloin. However, it’s a bit outside of the city center. No worries; tenderloin sandwiches feature on many menus in Indianapolis.

Bars and Restaurants in Indianapolis

We have already highlighted some of the best places to eat in Indianapolis – The Garage Food Hall at Bottleworks, the Indy City Market and any of the numerous restaurants on Mass Ave are always a good place to start. That said, visitors spending a weekend in Indianapolis should include one – or more – of these iconic bars and restaurants on their Indy itinerary.

St. Elmo Steak House

An upscale eatery in the heart of Indy, the landmark St. Elmo Steak House specializes in steaks, but is better known for their world-famous shrimp cocktail.

The Rathskeller

A German beer hall that serves sophisticated German fare, as well as steaks, seafood and pasta – and has live music.

Bru Burger Bar

A midwest chain, Bru Burger Bar specializes in gourmet burgers and features a long list of craft beers.

Inspired by Latin flavors, Livery is a chic urban restaurant situated along Mass Ave and boasts a fun rooftop for summer gatherings.

Slippery Noodle Inn

The oldest bar in the state of Indiana and once a stop on the Underground Railroad, the Slippery Noodle Inn serves up a heaping dose of eclectic history alongside fun vibes, live music and a big menu of pub favorites.

Goose the Market

A gourmet butcher shop and market known for charcuterie boards of smoked and slow-cured meats, which are provided by Smoking Goose.

Hotel Tango

A brick warehouse distillery (not a hotel!), Hotel Tango is a veteran-owned distillery that specializes in crafted spirits.

A diner tradition since 1960, Steer-In was featured on the Food Network for their stuffed pizza, hearty home-cooked meals and all-day breakfast.

His Place Eatery

A soul food and BBQ restaurant, His Place Eatery features southern classics and savory meats.

Rock-Cola 50’s Café

With a nod to the past, Rock-Cola Café is a 1950s style diner with counter service, rock-and-roll memorabilia and all-American eats.

Long’s Bakery

Sugar cream pie might be the state dessert, but visitors should not miss out on the donuts at Long’s Bakery. Simple and scrumptious, they are the best donuts in town – so expect a line!

Coat Check Coffee

Located inside the Athenaeum Building in a hip, throwback space, Coat Check Coffee serves hand-crafted coffees, delectable pastries and bialy breakfast sandwiches.

Where To Get Brunch in Indianapolis

Brunch may be in order during your Indianapolis weekend getaway – and there are a few restaurants in Indy that specialize in the mid-morning meal. Yolk, Café Patachou, Good Morning Mama’s Café and Milktooth are all good options for a weekend brunch in Indy.

INDIANAPOLIS MAP OF ATTRACTIONS

Use this link to Google Maps for an online, interactive version of our Things To Do in Indianapolis Map. 

WEEKEND IN INDIANAPOLIS ITINERARY

On an Indianapolis weekend getaway, we assume that you will arrive Friday evening and have 2 days in Indianapolis to explore. We created an easy-to-follow itinerary that showcases the best things to see and do in Indianapolis.

2 Day Itinerary Indianapolis (Plus Night of Arrival)

Use this day-by-day Indy travel guide for your weekend in Indianapolis.

Not staying in Indianapolis for the weekend? No problem! Visitors taking a day trip to Indianapolis – or just limited to just 24 hours in Indianapolis – can easily create a trip plan by simply following either Day 1 or Day 2 of our outline.

Friday Night Arrival

Arrive and get situated in your hotel (recommendations below). Start your time in the city with one of the best things to do in Indy at night: Bottleworks District. Eat at The Garage Food Hall and pop into Pins for bowling.

Day 1 of Your Weekend Indianapolis Itinerary

Get an early start at Coat Check Coffee (get a ginger latte and sausage bialy). Once caffeinated, start a self-guided tour of downtown.

Saturday Morning: Downtown Indianapolis Attractions Walking Tour

Get a lay of the land by exploring the city on foot. Use this link to Google Maps to find your way to the downtown Indianapolis sites.

• Indiana War Memorial
• American Legion Mall
• Indianapolis Public Library
• Indianapolis Culture Trail
• Indy Canal Walk
• White River State Park
• Indiana State Museum
• Eiteljorg Museum
• Indiana Statehouse
• Soldiers and Sailors Monument
• Indianapolis City Market

Saturday Afternoon Activities: District Discovery

After eating lunch at the City Market (and taking a catacombs tour), set off to explore one (or more) of the city’s cool districts.

Stroll through Lockerbie to see the historic homes, then catch an Uber ride or rent a bike and pedal to Broad Ripple for vintage shopping. Consider staying for a beer at one of the village’s craft breweries, but then head back to the city for dinner.

Saturday Night: Dinner and Drinks

Eat dinner at one of the iconic restaurants (listed above) or head for Mass Ave and pick one of the restaurants that suits your style.

After dinner, bar hop your way up Mass Ave or spend the evening at a theater performance.

Day 2 of your Indianapolis Weekend Itinerary

Ease into the day with a filling brunch at one of the city’s best restaurants – then, set off for more adventures in Indianapolis.

Sunday Mid-Day Museums

Spend the rest of the morning and afternoon at one (or more) of the museums in Indianapolis.

You could go to Newfields and, after seeing the art, explore the grounds…then go next door to the Crown Hill Cemetery.

Or, if you would rather stay in downtown, visit the Indiana State Museum. Alternatively, for a free museum, spend time discovering the Indian War Memorial Museum in depth.

If you are planning a family trip to Indy, a good option would be to go to the Children’s Museum or Indianapolis Zoo.

Sunday Afternoon

Wind down your stay in Indianapolis in Fountain Square. Aim for the heart of the district, where you can shop, go duckpin bowling, seek out street art and grab a bite to eat as you close out your weekend.

INDIANAPOLIS TRAVEL TIPS

Now that you know the best Indianapolis things to see and how to plan a superb weekend itinerary, we have a few final tips for your trip!

Indianapolis Tours and Attractions Pass

Whether you are planning one day in Indianapolis or one week in the city, you will likely want to enter a few sights or join a tour during your trip. 

We highlighted a few of the best tour options in our weekend trip plan. However, you can find more of the best tours in Indianapolis on Viator . 

Additionally, travelers planning on entering ticketed sights when they visit Indianapolis might be able to save money on entry fees with a City Attractions Pass. The all-in-one Attractions Pass covers admission into 8 of the top sights. 

How To Get To Indianapolis

Indianapolis, IN can be reached by car or plane. We took a road trip to Indy from Columbus , but we typically prefer to fly.

Indianapolis Airport

The Indianapolis Airport (IND) is serviced by all major US carriers with directs flights from Phoenix , Denver , Seattle , Philly , DC and Boston (to name just a few!). Before you buy plane tickets, read our tips on Getting Cheap Flights   – then hop on Skyscanner  to find the best routes at the best prices.

Getting from the Airport to the City

The Indianapolis International Airport is just 13 miles southwest of the city center. Visitors can rent a car to get from the IND airport to the city. Other options are taking a bus, hiring a cab (or limo), using Uber/Lyft or booking private transportation in advance . 

Best Places to Stay in Indianapolis

There are a multitude of hotels in Indianapolis where weekend visitors can stay. For a quick 2-day visit, we recommend staying in a downtown Indy hotel. Use our tips for Finding the Best Hotel before you start your search for accommodations.

Book a Hotel in Indianapolis

Because there are ample options for Indy hotels, we have a few recommendations for your weekend trip.

Bottleworks Hotel

A boutique luxury hotel in the city’s trendiest district, Bottleworks Hotel is a stylish mix of the past and present. Utilizing the former Coca Cola bottling factory space, the hotel features unique architecture and attention to detail. Check rates and availability!

On our weekend trip to Indianapolis, we were looking for an affordable and charming place to stay with heaps of character – and we found it at Nestle Inn. A modernized B&B style accommodation, Nestle Inn offers 6 spacious guest rooms in a historic house located off Mass Ave. Check for availability for your stay!

Sheraton Indianapolis City Centre

Travelers looking for a centrally located place to stay have quite a few hotels in downtown Indy to choose from. The Sheraton, however, is a top pick for its location right on Monument Circle. In addition to the prime location, guests love the spacious rooms and rooftop pool. Check rates!

What To Pack when you Visit Indianapolis

Now that you are well on your way to planning your weekend trip in Indianapolis, it’s time to start packing your suitcase . We have a few recommendations of things you will need – and you should also use our Packing Hacks and check out our complete Packing List .

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Our itinerary for a weekend in Indy covers some ground. While it is a very walkable city, you will want to make sure you pack the right shoes! I like to explore cities in my lightweight sneakers and Kris wears Merrell trail shoes – but use our tips for the Best Travel Shoes to find the perfect pair of shoes for your trip.

A Real Travel Camera

We were surprised by how photogenic Indy is – and we were glad that we brought our favorite travel camera (the DSLR Canon Rebel ) for our quick weekend trip. The budget travel camera takes high quality photos, is easy to use and comes with tons of useful accessories!

Day Pack for Sightseeing

In our Indianapolis trip plan, we recommend long days of sightseeing adventures. Wearing a travel day pack for your exploration will ensure that you can carry everything that you need with you. We use our day packs to stow our camera, keys, phones and everyday travel items – as well as extra layers (like a zip up hoodie ).

Indianapolis Fun Facts

As you start planning an Indy trip, you might want to know these fun facts.

• Indianapolis is the largest US city not located on a navigable river.
• A Hoosier is what you call someone who lives in (or hails from) Indiana.
• Indianapolis is known as the Crossroads of America because it has the highest number of interstate legs in the city.
• Naptown is another nickname for Indy – but there is some debate about its origins. Regardless of whether it dates to the 1920s jazz era, the first FM radio station (WNAP) or the fact that it was a sleepy town for a period of time, you will likely see the moniker during your Indy trip.

We Want To Know: What are your favorite things to do in Indianapolis, IN? Is there anything you would add to our Weekend in Indianapolis Itinerary? Tell us in the comments!

Looking for more fun Weekend Getaway Ideas ?

Start planning your trip to Indy ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page !

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22 Best Things To Do In Indianapolis, Indiana

best things to do in Indianapolis, Indiana

On Monday, Indianapolis is quiet. The sun is warm; the air is cold. Shadows of shutterless homes loom past trees. Under the covers of porticos are soft lights and empty egg chairs. For some reason, I expected Indianapolis to be busier (I blame the Indy 500 for this). This lack of cars zooming, cycles hurtling, and people dashing is unexpected – when really, it shouldn’t be.

Although Indianapolis is home to the Racing Capital Of The World, there are a dozen other reasons to visit: award-winning restaurants , cozy cafes, exhibit reimaginings, giant murals. The former home of Benjamin Harris , the 23rd President of the United States, is here. So is the largest children’s museum in North America.

Indianapolis is a place of surprises, of maze-like galleries and literary landmarks. It is a circle of dense buildings and local businesses. And the sharp blue waters of White River cut through it all.

So if you’re planning a Midwestern getaway (or simply seeking out more local places to visit), here’s a list of things to do in Indianapolis, Indiana. Pack comfortable shoes. You’ll be walking a lot.

Disclosure: Thanks to VisitIndy for helping cover the costs associated with creating this article. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Table of Contents

Things To Do In Indianapolis

Start your Indy trip at Newfields on Michigan Road. Newfields feels endless, like you can walk and walk and walk and never quite reach the end of it. And perhaps, that’s true.

Indianapolis’ art museum is beast-like in its sizing. It is unabashedly big – floors and floors tall, multiple galleries deep. There’s a hip cafe and an ultra-hip beer garden . The campus extends beyond that too, to gentle meadows and a lake.

It’s here you’ll find Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park , home of Bench Around The Lake and Free Basket (described in John Green’s bestseller, The Fault In Our Stars , as a “basketball court filled with huge blue and red steel arcs that imagined the path of a bouncing ball”).

Unsurprisingly, Newfields can not be seen in one day. If you try, you’ll be overwhelmed. You need to segment this museum, take it in slowly, visit and re-visit. Start in the Asian and African art galleries (third floor) and work your way down. Don’t be afraid to get lost, to wind your way through the rooms and freely explore. Just be sure to give your feet a break at Clowes Pavilion , an airy nook with an immersive LED-ceiling.

Tech-driven displays have made their mark in Newfields (evidence: the entire fourth floor, better known as LUME, is made up of synchronized screens projecting Monet, Manet, and Renoir). And it’s this willingness to modernize a museum setting that makes Newfields one of the best things to do in Indianapolis.

Travel Tip: If you’re visiting Newfields on a weekend, stop by Black Wordschoolers, Natalie Pipkin’s cool, converted book bus parked right outside every Sunday!

General Info

ADDRESS: 4000 N Michigan Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46208 COST: $20 Per Adult NOTE: Tickets For LUME Are Separate But Include General Admission

Eiteljorg Museum

Another top place to see in Indianapolis? Eiteljorg (for Expressions Of Life: Native Art In North America). Through Expressions Of Life, Western-focused Eiteljorg moves away from colonialist thinking . This series of galleries begins and ends with a land acknowledgment . Expressions celebrates the richness and diversity of Native cultures. It highlights shared experiences, but it also takes great care to present Native art as non-monolithic .

You’ll see Hannah Claus’ shimmering cascade of river images (water song: peemitanaahkwahki sakaahkweelo), Harry Fonseca’s storybook-like acrylic (Coyote and Snow), and unrecorded Ojibwe artists’ expert basket weavings. Expressions Of Life is unafraid of hard truths and challenging stereotypes .

ADDRESS: 500 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204 COST: $18 Per Adult

Crispus Attucks Museum

It’s no secret Crispus Attucks is one of the best museums in Indianapolis. It’s grown a lot since its early days. Tabletop displays have blossomed into winding clusters of exhibits , exhibits about the Tuskegee Airmen, the life and legacies of former students, and local Jazz legends.

The museum is a celebration of Black culture. It is a place that highlights Black joy and Black achievements . You’ll see yearbook photos expanded into then-and-nows: the students of Crispus Attucks High School went on (and continue to go on) to become doctors, nurses, teachers, and athletes. On display is a DVD copy of Attucks: The School That Opened A City (Ted Green’s Emmy-award-winning documentary centered around Crispus Attucks High School); a long, detailed list of Black Miracles (patents by Black inventors and scientists that affect our everyday lives); the symbolic meanings of Ghana’s Kente cloth and Côte D’Ivoire’s Adinkra cloth. You’ll see a photo of the Boston Massacre Monument (where Crispus Attucks’ name is etched), a copy of Oscar Robertson’s memoir The Big O: My Life, My Times, My Game (Robertson graduated from Crispus Attucks High School), and a Crispus Attucks bust.

Canvassing the wall leading into Crispus Attucks Museum is Michael Alkemi Jordan’s vibrant mural honoring Crispus Attucks, the Revolutionary War hero.

Travel Tip: This museum is open to the public by appointment only. To make an appointment, call 317-409-5281 (or 317-226-2432).

ADDRESS: 1140 Doctor M.L.K. Jr St, Indianapolis, IN 46202 COST: $10 Per Adult

Giant Murals Tour

Jordan’s also the artist behind the Mari Evans mural in Indianapolis. Evans penned the powerful poem, I Am A Black Woman . She was one with the Black Arts Movement. She wrote children’s books and piercing, critical nonfiction. She adapted Zora Neal Hurston’s Their Eyes Were Watching God into a play in 1979. Evans was a woman who did it all, who was larger than life. And she still stands tall, immortalized through a thirty-plus foot high mural , part of a quad of giant figures coloring Indianapolis’ buildings.

The rest of the murals were painted by Pamela Bliss, and depict Reggie Miller, Eva Mozes Kor, and Kurt Vonnegut. Here’s how to see them all .

Kurt Vonnegut Museum

Kurt Vonnegut is a name that’s impossible to avoid in Indianapolis. Restaurants reference him (I mean, who can resist a Breakfast Of Champions insert?). Shops tack on and sell Vonnegutian phrases. The bones of Indiana, some of its older buildings, are tied to Vonnegut’s father, Kurt Vonnegut Sr.

Vonnegut is a writer best known for his dark comedies and satirical works . He’s published over a dozen novels: Cat’s Cradle , Player Piano , Jailbird . He’s famous for his short, quippy sentences. He’s most regarded for his anti-war ideologies. And he was born in Indianapolis, Indiana.

So if you’re a fan of Vonnegut, run, don’t walk to the Vonnegut Museum on Indiana Avenue. Slaughter House Five has its own exhibit, complete with Billy Pilgrim’s War Chest . On display too are snippets of Vonnegut’s writing: a copy of his 1966 review of The Random House Dictionary , book forwards, and paragraph-long letters. Plan to laugh and read (and repeat).

Travel Tip: The Kurt Vonnegut Museum offers free admission the first Monday of every month!

ADDRESS: 543 Indiana Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202 COST: $12 Per Adult

James Whitcomb Riley Museum

For literary lovers in Indianapolis, there’s a lot to choose from – Pogue’s Run from John Green’s Turtles All The Way Down , downtown’s Arts Garden and Mass Ave’s Sub Zero from Leah Johnson’s You Should See Me In A Crown , to name a few spots. Those who grew up hearing Little Orphant Annie and The Raggedy Man should also head to the James Whitcomb Riley Museum , a charming brick Italianate building and former residence of the famed Hoosier poet . Elements of Riley’s time here are preserved (his writing desk!), and you can catch a glimpse of the space through a guided tour ( reservations required ).

ADDRESS: 528 Lockerbie St, Indianapolis, IN 46202 COST: $10 Per Adult

Center For Black Literature And Culture

The R.B. Annis West Reading Room is a long, grand hall with an arched ceiling, wood-toned walls, and dark brown shelves. Big window shades drawn down (boasting larger-than-life figures) are spaced along one wall. Books fill up the shelves below. There are so many books here (this is a library, after all).

Indianapolis Public Library’s Center For Black Literature And Culture is an encyclopedic space containing over 20,000 resources (print titles, digital works, audiobooks). You’ll amble past kiosks where you can tap photographs and hear interviews . You’ll walk through a Talking Drum and hear rhythmic beats. You’ll see names of incredible writers : Ta-Nehisi Coates (read The Water Dancer ), Zora Neale Hurston ( Barracoon , Their Eyes Were Watching God ), August Wilson ( side note: Gem Of The Ocean is one of my favorite plays. If it is ever performed at your local theatre, I urge you to watch it). The Center For Black Literature feels like hallowed ground celebrating the literature and heritage of African diaspora artists and activists.

ADDRESS: 40 E St Clair St, Indianapolis, IN 46204 COST: FREE

Indiana State Capitol

As you’d expect from a capitol building, the Indiana Statehouse is palatial , opulent, and ambitiously designed. You’ll learn about the building’s history as well as Indiana’s ( fun fact: Indianapolis was not Indiana’s first state capital. Corydon was). You’ll sit in the seats of state representatives and senators as you wind through General Assembly rooms. You’ll hear stories about Indiana’s justices. You’ll see how neatly Indiana’s state government structure falls in line with the federal government’s. A lot of information is packed into this forty-minute-long tour ( here’s a list of the official timings ), making a visit to the Indiana Statehouse one of the most popular things to do in Indianapolis.

Travel Tip: Visit on a Saturday at 12 PM for a guided tour that’s less rushed! Parking is also easier to find around this time.

ADDRESS: 200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204 COST: FREE

Step down onto a flat sidewalk for this three mile loop . Situated just below street level, the Indiana Canal Walk is secluded, a private(ish) place to walk and jog . Buildings and trees are reflected on the creases of water, their edges and canopies blurring into streaks of blue. It’s a low-intensity trail , a peaceful place for a morning stroll. For the best experience, I’d recommend visiting the part of the canal that cuts close to the Eiteljorg Museum , NCAA Hall Of Champions , and White River State Park.

ADDRESS: 650 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204 COST: FREE

White River State Park

One of the most beautiful and scenic places to see in Indianapolis is White River State Park . Even though the name White River State Park conjures up visuals of day-long hikes and paddling rough, frothy waters, the park is more akin to Forest Park in St. Louis , Balboa Park in San Diego, and Central Park in New York . It’s a tame, landscaped urban getaway along the banks of White River, better known for its cultural institutions: Indianapolis Zoo , Indiana State Museum , Eiteljorg , TCU Amphitheatre . Sure, you can walk and bike (and plenty of people do), but that’s not the focus. The focus is fun: taking in the views as you stroll along pedestrian-only Old Washington Street Bridge , poring through the carvings on the River Promenade, watching a movie at the IMAX theatre (inside the Indiana State Museum), catching a baseball game at Victory Field .

ADDRESS: 801 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204 COST: FREE

Soldiers And Sailors

About a mile away from White River State Park is Soldiers And Sailors , a quintessential sight to see in Indianapolis. Soldiers And Sailors juts out of the center of downtown Indianapolis. Victory crowns a gray limestone obelisk. Just past the base, water cascades into two clear pools of water. You can climb 330 steps to the observation area at the top (or take the elevator). You’ll see sprawling, exhaustive views of Circle City.

“I’ve always thought downtown Indianapolis was sort of magical, which I know is a ridiculously Midwestern thing of me to say. But it’s true.” Leah Johnson (From You Should See Me In A Crown)

You’ll spot the statehouse’s teal dome and the Indiana War Memorial & Museum’s staggered steps. You’ll see how claustrophobically tight some of the buildings are, how the grids of windows close you in. From here, you’ll realize how big Indianapolis is , how impossible it is to see it all in just a few days.

Travel Tip: If you get a chance, be sure to stop by the Indiana War Memorial & Museum. The museum honors veterans and covers local military history!

ADDRESS: 1 Monument Cir, Indianapolis, IN 46204 COST: FREE

Ruins At Holliday Park

Holliday Park is one of Indianapolis’ best-kept secrets. It’s a place of playgrounds and trails , babbling brooks and tangles of roots. The ruins are the entry to it all. They look ancient – time worn and sun bruised (spoiler alert: they’re not). Cobwebs net corners. Greek columns circle a decrepit facade like lights around an altar. Three stone bodies , hunched over and kneeling, seem to hold it all up; they are remnants of a Manhattan art installation known as the Races Of Man . Holliday Park’s Ruins have a dark academia edge: creepers cling to bricks, headless busts emerge from weeds, a fountain is cuffed by shrubs.

ADDRESS: 6363 Spring Mill Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46260 COST: FREE

Holcomb Gardens

Tucked away in Butler University’s campus, Holcomb Gardens is oft-missed. But it shouldn’t be. With tall trees, a small pond, and a fountain , Holcomb Gardens is a pretty little place for a springtime stroll. You’ll hear bells chime on the hour, every hour. You’ll pass through a scenic woodland. Go here for a quick escape.

ADDRESS: Garden Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46208 COST: FREE

Indianapolis Food Halls

If you’re feeling hungry, head to one of Indianapolis’ trio of food halls. You could easily make a day of it. Grab a coffee and light bite from the stalls of City Market , a beautiful, old, 19th century brick building revamped into a bustling lunchtime destination. Green wrought iron staircases lead up to a floor lined with bistro tables and Parisian-style chairs. From here, you can see the flags of City Market dangle down; the tops of kitchens are exposed and the scents of bread and meat waft upwards. Along the walls are Justin Brown’s cubist maps of Indianapolis .

Another food hall to check out? AMP . From a barber shop to an arepa bar, AMP is a place of hustling businesses . You’ll find everything from burgers to boba here. Go for the events . AMP’s spaciousness and stage make it unique.

Finally, wind down your food hall hop at The Garage , the beating heart of vendors in Indianapolis. There’s a big lineup here, featuring bowls of ramen, cuban sandwiches, gyros to-go, Pakistani-Indian fusion finds , poke, fish and chips, flower-finished cocktails , beer on tap, canned kombucha. Whatever food you desire, you’ll find it here.

Bottleworks District

The Garage is located in Indianapolis’ Bottleworks District. On the thermometer of trendy, the Bottleworks District is feverishly hot. It’s the kind of entertainment hub you’ll find yourself coming back to weekend after weekend. Living Room Theater offers matinee and evening shows. Woodhouse Day Spa has a salt cave [ source ]. Chic and classy Bottleworks Hotel is one of the best boutique accommodations in Indy (this is where I stayed during my trip and oh my goodness , I can’t recommend it enough. Treat yourself. It’s worth the splurge).

ADDRESS: 850 Massachusetts Ave Suite 100, Indianapolis, IN 46204

Indianapolis Cultural Trail

On of my favorite aspects of Indianapolis is its walkability (and cyclability). As a tourist, I love the idea of a trail that connects districts (that way you don’t have to constantly repark your car). Through Indianapolis’ Cultural Trail, you can go from Mass Ave to Fountain Square . You can catch a glimpse of cool art installations like Sean Derry’s Chatham Passage and Jamie Pawlus’ snarky Care/Don’t Care pedestrian signal . If you’re looking for a pedal-intensive break, know that riding along the Cultural Trail is one of the best things to do in Indianapolis!

Travel Tip: If you didn’t bring a cycle, don’t worry! You can rent one from a Pacer’s Bikeshare kiosk. Indianapolis’ Cultural Trail website includes all the kiosk locations on their online map (along with nearby attractions).

Landmark For Peace Memorial

Indianapolis’ Landmark For Peace Memorial is haunting. In a small park along a smaller brick stretch, on two curved steel slabs, are the bronze sculptures of Kennedy and King , their hands reaching out towards each other, their fingers never quite touching.

In 1968, Robert Kennedy went to Indianapolis for campaigning. It was supposed to be a day of promotion and politicking. But when he learned that Martin Luther King had been assassinated in Memphis, Kennedy ditched his plans. Kennedy wasn’t supposed to address MLK’s death. He was told not to. But he made an impromptu speech anyway, and it become one of the most powerful American speeches of the 20th century .

Pain and rage over King’s death erupted in many other cities around the United States, but Indianapolis remained quiet. There seemed to be a sort of healing, which is frequently attributed to Robert Kennedy’s speech. The Landmark For Peace Memorial is set where Kennedy made that speech . Visit to remember King.

ADDRESS: 1702 N Broadway St, Indianapolis, IN 46202

Garfield Park Conservatory

In the deep throes of winter, when the cold casts a harsh spell over Indianapolis, head to Garfield Park Conservatory . Garfield Park Conservatory is permanently summery . It is a warm oasis, a jungle-like greenhouse with thick, leafy tropicals curling over the rims of pathways. The interior is a labyrinth of ponds and plants . You’ll wind past small statues and delicate flowers. You’ll see koi swim quietly, and hear the soft rush of a waterfall. You’ll feel your body move into calm, meditative, zen state. Garfield Park Conservatory soothes stress.

ADDRESS: 2505 Conservatory Dr, Indianapolis, IN 46203 COST: $3 Per Adult

The Children’s Museum Of Indianapolis

There’s a building in Indianapolis that will immediately catch your attention. It will startle you as you drive. You’ll see a dinosaur peering into a glass building and another breaking out from a curved edifice like a scene from Jurassic Park. The dinosaurs have a sense of movement to them; they seem alive. And they make the perfect introduction to the Children’s Museum Of Indianapolis . This is one of the best children’s museums in the world . Each exhibit is immersive and as detailed as an escape room. Kids will have a chance to stroll through Greece , step into the International Space Station, and stand by terra cotta warriors. They’ll learn history and science , watch live performances and ride a carousel.

Travel Tip: On the first Thursday of every month, between 4-8 PM, admission drops to $6 per person.

ADDRESS: 3000 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46208 COST: $30 Per Adult

Indiana State Museum

If you’re looking for more things to do in Indianapolis with kids, head straight to the Indiana State Museum . Go for the events , from chemistry of slime experiments to basics of beekeeping lectures ( see a full calendar here ). Many of the exhibits are temporary and are in constant rotation. There’s also a huge IMAX theater (the screen is whopping six stories high, making it the largest movie screen in all of Indiana).

ADDRESS: 650 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204 COST: $16 Per Adult

Indiana Medical History Museum

The Indiana Medical History Museum is not for the squeamish. Your gathering point for the tour is a closed room filled with jars and jars of sliced brains (brined in graying and yellowing liquids). When my mind registered what was in the jars ( it took a bit ), my body stiffened. My hands felt cold and clammy. My eyes darted away. My tour group stared at the flasks with morbid interest. I heard the words “cool” and “interesting” and “hey, look at this!” thrown around. These were doctors and nurses, aspiring medical students or parents of ones. I felt very much out of place.

If you’re interested in medical history (and not easily creeped out), the Indiana Medical History Museum is one of the best places to visit in Indianapolis. You’ll be taken upstairs to an old library and chem lab. You’ll learn about the building’s role as Indiana’s Hospital For The Insane. You’ll see a structure that’s preserved history like a time capsule and come out grateful for the advancements we’ve made in medicine. Feel free to ask questions while on the tour, the guides are happy to answer them.

ADDRESS: 3270 Kirkbride Way, Indianapolis, IN 46222 COST: $10 Per Adult

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum

No list of things to do in Indianapolis is complete without mention of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum . Situated within the bounds of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway oval , the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is a gallery of winning cars , all glossy, clean, and pristine. There are more exhibits too, like Traditions (I feel like a lot of the ones mentioned, from moshing at Snake Pit Music Festival to kneeling and kissing bricks, belong in Atlas Obscura).

Speaking of kissing bricks, go for the Kiss The Bricks tour , a bus excursion that does one lap around the track (and yes, at the end, you get to kiss the bricks).

ADDRESS: 4750 W 16th St, Indianapolis, IN 46222 COST: $15 Per Adult

Shopping In Indianapolis

To me, shopping in Indianapolis looks like a bookstore crawl. But since I’ve mentioned my favorite bookstores in Indianapolis on Passport To Eden before, I want to highlight a few non-bookish places to see.

Here’s where to shop in Indianapolis:

• Homespun: chic lifestyle boutique filled with well-designed home goods and cute art prints
• Yellow Door Ceramics: Felissa King and Amanda Pennington’s studio offering private pottery lessons and date night classes
• Be The Boutique: if you’re a hostess looking to throw a garden party, run towards this shop
• Runaway Diva: trendy, unique fashion store with impeccable personalized service

Where To Eat In Indianapolis

Our Top Pick – Bosphorus

If you arrive at Bosphorus past sunset, be prepared to wait to sample the dishes. Bosphorous’ line is usually long and identifiable; it stretches past the front door, spilling onto the porch and stairs. The interior is a firework of colors . Bosphorus is a place of warm lights and bright, sizzling dishes . Lean into the vegetarian portion of the menu. Allow yourself to gravitate towards the words eggplant and zucchini. Bosphorus knows how to transform these veggies into soft, savory, and succulent meals.

Other Indianapolis Favorites:

• Livery: go for the rooftop experience. stay for the paella and empanadas.
• Bluebeard: the menu changes just a bit everyday (so no two dining experiences will ever be the same). many of the cocktails are named after Vonnegut books (my literary-loving heart is full). pair one with a salad.
• Goose The Market: best sandwiches in Indianapolis. enough said.

Did you find this post about Indianapolis attractions helpful? What are your favorite things to do in Indianapolis? I’m constantly looking for new places to visit (and this post is by no means comprehensive). As always, I love hearing your thoughts and recommendations!

Editor-In-Chief

Anshula grew up with a love of stories and places. Thirty-five states and 100 bookstores later, she's made her hobbit home in Middle Tennessee. Her Tookish side still takes over and leaves her chasing window seats, literary destinations, adventure books, sunrise coffee, and indie bookshops. She's appeared as a travel source on HuffPost, Reader's Digest, and MSN.

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Travelers flying in to Indianapolis for the total solar eclipse

With just a few days until the  total solar eclipse , people are making their way to Indianapolis to watch.

This weekend,  Indianapolis International Airport officials tell 13News there will be an increase in people coming in.

13News spoke with a family who call themselves "eclipse chasers." They have tried to visit every city where an eclipse passes. 

They said their grandparents live in Indianapolis, so it was the perfect opportunity to spend a long weekend with them.

"I am really excited. My wife and I went down to Charleston back in 2017, so hopefully we have a little more luck, don't know how much the kids will appreciate it, but it is a neat experience, so we are excited," Keegan Morrison said.

Other travelers say they wanted to get in early to make sure they have enough time to find a good place to watch the eclipse.

"I'm excited to see the eclipse, because I saw one in 2017 and it was really cool so I'm excited to see it again," Riker Strinka said.

Airport authorities said Tuesday will be one of the busiest travel days so far. They expect the biggest crowds to be between 5-8 a.m. and 2-5 p.m.

They encourage all travelers to show up a few hours before their flight, as well as be patient through large crowds.

On the ground, traffic is expected to be heavy across Indianapolis, as well, as hundreds of thousands of visitors are expected to flock to central Indiana Monday.

“We are expecting Indy 500s all over the place when it comes to not only traffic, but also pedestrians and visitors alike," Indiana State Police Capt. Ron Galaviz said Thursday.

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Indianapolis Travel Guide 2023: A handbook designed for those embracing modern exploration (Wanderlust Travel Guides) Kindle Edition

• Part of series Wanderlust Travel Guides
• Print length 50 pages
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• Publication date September 11, 2023
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• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CHVKVRMX
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ September 11, 2023
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• File size ‏ : ‎ 709 KB
• Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
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• Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
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• Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 50 pages
• #38 in Indiana Travel Guides (Kindle Store)
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Introducing Atlas Wanderer: Your World Compass

One name stands out among experienced globetrotters as the pinnacle of worldwide exploration: Asher Anderson, better known as the famed Atlas Wanderer. His life has been an adventure-filled tapestry woven with the threads of wanderlust and cultural exploration.

From the vibrant markets of Marrakech to the unspoiled coasts of Fiji, Atlas Wanderer has traveled the world, exploring every continent and vista. His passport displays a rainbow of stamps from places that the majority of people can only hope to visit.

However, it's not just his numerous journeys that truly distinguish Atlas Wanderer; it's also his unwavering dedication to helping others solve the world's riddles. In his childhood years, this desire was sparked, garnering him the cherished nickname "Atlas Wanderer." Explorations with his family during his boyhood helped to light the spark of interest that would later become his life's work.

Asher traveled the world under his father's guidance, learning about the various peoples, places, and foods that make our planet so fascinating. He was motivated to turn his passion for travel into a fulfilling job as a travel writer by these formative experiences.

The unmatched skill of Atlas Wanderer is in the ability to link travelers with the pulse of cities and the spirit of nations. His study is evidence of his commitment and provides priceless advice on when and when to enter uncharted territory. He reveals hidden treasures, insider information, and cultural nuances that enhance the traveler's experience as he unravels the tapestry of world places.

But Atlas Wanderer is more than just a travel writer; he is your reliable travel buddy. In his opinion, traveling should be used to build relationships, advance understanding, and appreciate the beauty of the world's diversity. He's on a mission to enable visitors to seize the world, one location at a time, with a mind steeped in wisdom and a heart full with adventure.

Through his blog, Atlas Wanderer invites readers to travel with him on his voyage through words, images, and experiences. Allow him to be your compass in the constellation of travel, ensuring that your journeys are full of wonder, happiness, and priceless memories. The world is your oyster and each adventure is a pearl waiting to be discovered when Atlas Wanderer is your guide.

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Check out Indiana traffic conditions the day of the total solar eclipse

Months of preparation around the state have led to a day when thousands are expected to flock to Indiana . Several cities are in the path of today's total solar eclipse.

Traffic backed up on I-65 near Lafayette

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Traffic at a standstill along Hamilton County interstates

Crash slows traffic on i-70 in hancock county.

There is a crash on I-70 westbound near Mt. Comfort Road in Hancock County. The Indiana Department of Transportation is asking motorists to avoid the area.

Officials suggest waiting to travel

INDOT suggested after the eclipse, travelers wait a bit before hitting the road again.

Rest stop parks at capacity

Indiana State Police Public information officer Sgt. John Perrine posted on X/Twitter that rest parks on state interstates on the path of totality are reaching capacity. "INDOT Will be closing off the rest parts once they are full and will not allow any more traffic in for the duration of the eclipse," his post said.

UPDATE: Traffic picking up on Indiana highways

According to INDOT, traffic started picking up along the path of totality on Indiana highways in the late morning.

Light traffic across Indiana on morning before eclipse

With schools and other locations closed, things started off slow. In Indianapolis, traffic was light downtown, with more traffic near the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. In Bloomington, streets were clearer than usual during the morning commute hours, with plenty of parking open on the downtown square. No traffic issues were reported on state highways near Evansville as of 7:50 a.m., according to the Courier & Press live coverage blog .

Eclipse day is here: Read updates from IndyStar reporters in the field

On X/Twitter, the Indiana State Police's feed this morning urged caution. "Please be prepared, patient and save while traveling to and from your viewing destination," one post reads.

Safe driving tips for the total solar eclipse

The Indiana Department of Transportation's feed reiterated that drivers should arrive early, stay put and leave late today.

INDOT also offered the following tips for driving this afternoon:

• Keep your headlights on.
• Do not wear your eclipse glasses while driving.
• Find a designated place to watch safely.

Get Indiana traffic information live

INDOT's TrafficWise app , available on desktop or mobile, offers information about delays, accidents, construction and other road hazards. You can also see stills from highway cameras around the state.

You can also call 511 to check travel conditions on Indiana highways.

IndyStar executive editor Eric Larsen contributed to this report.

Traffic delays and other issues mark total solar eclipse day

Authorities on Monday reported traffic crashes and significant road delays across the country as thousands of people flocked to prime locations to gaze up at the rare solar eclipse – and then made their way home again.

Local roads and highways in states including Texas, Ohio, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, Vermont and New Hampshire were impacted by the flood of drivers, many of whom were from out of state. The most intense bottlenecks appeared to be in the path of totality , a vast swath of the country – approximately 115 miles wide, crossing through 13 states – where people were able to view the total eclipse.

Traffic slowed on major highways in Indiana as the eclipse progressed Monday afternoon. State transportation officials posted video showing backups forming on Interstate 65 headed toward Indianapolis, the Indianapolis Star reported. The Courier & Press in Evansville reported delays after the eclipse ended.

Indiana State Police Sgt. John Perrine posted on X that traffic on state highways was flowing but rest stops along interstates in the path of totality are at or near capacity. 

Perrine said transportation officials planned to shut them down "once they are full and will not allow any more traffic in for the duration of the eclipse." One rest stop along I-74 near Veedersburg, northwest of Indianapolis, closed because it had reached maximum capacity from "eclipse viewing traffic." 

In Oklahoma, a crash around 7:30 a.m. local time narrowed eastbound lanes on I-40, a major transcontinental highway that runs from California to North Carolina. The crash occurred not far from several state parks that were hosting eclipse events, and was within driving distance of the full eclipse path, which included parts of southeastern Oklahoma and Arkansas.

"Crews estimate cleanup will take the majority of the day. Expect delays in the area and use extra caution. #trucking #eclipse," said a post on X by the Oklahoma Department of Transportation .

Multiple crashes were reported in Waco, Texas, a city in the path of totality, which hosted several festivities and eclipse viewing events. The crashes all occurred on I-35, which runs from southern Texas to Minnesota. The wrecks shut down multiple lanes.

"Expect major traffic delays in this area," the Texas Department of Transportation said in a statement around 9 a.m. local time.

Officials warn drivers of delays, dangers ahead of solar eclipse

In the weeks leading up to the celestial event, officials issued warnings about heavy traffic congestion and the danger of driving during the eclipse , including distracted pedestrians and the sudden change in light conditions. Eclipses have previously been tied with surges in traffic crashes, including fatal collisions.

In New York, extra troopers were staged throughout the entire state, especially in northern counties and cities, such as Buffalo, from which spectators can see a full eclipse, according to the New York State Police .

In Ohio, the state's Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission heavily staffed its toll booths, service plazas and maintenance buildings in anticipation of the eclipse, which it has designated as "a high-volume traffic event" like, for example, Thanksgiving.  The Ohio Emergency Management Agency estimates, for the solar eclipse, between 150,000 and 575,000 travelers will visit the state, which encompasses areas in the path of totality.

During the 2017 eclipse, congestion in some areas lasted for up to 13 hours after totality,  according to Transportation Research News , a National Research Council publication. An analysis of traffic patterns from that year suggests the worst of the traffic – on interstates and rural back roads alike – will kick off after the eclipse ends and everyone tries to leave all at once.

Contributing: Kayla Jimenez and Phaedra Trethan, USA TODAY ; The Indianapolis Star

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Travel tips for passengers departing Indianapolis International Airport after total solar eclipse

INDIANAPOLIS – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) doesn’t want passengers departing Indianapolis International Airport (IND) to be caught in the dark: Tuesday, April 9 is expected to be a busy day with high throughput volumes.

Currently, travel volumes at IND for next Tuesday are projected to be about 40 percent higher than the volume seen on a typical Tuesday. The busiest times of day will be 5-8 a.m. and 2-5 p.m.

“Planning is critical when traveling on busy days like this,” TSA Indiana Federal Security Director Aaron Batt said. “Arriving at the airport with extra time and knowing what can and can’t be packed in carry-on and checked bags will save you time and keeps things moving quickly at checkpoints.”

Here are a few tips that will, beyond a shadow of a doubt, help passengers navigate the screening process efficiently and safely.

• Arrive to the airport at least two hours before your scheduled flight, and give yourself plenty of time for every step of your travel journey – including parking or being dropped off, checking bags, and making your way to your gate.
• Be ready at the checkpoint. Before you approach, take a few moments to find your ID and secure any loose items in your carry-on bag. All screening lanes at IND are equipped with state-of-the-art Computed Tomography (CT) technology, which allows passengers to leave liquids, laptops, and other electronic devices inside their carry-on bags. If you have any questions, ask an officer, who can help shed light on the best way to move through the process.
• Remember the 3-1-1 rule when packing liquids for carry-on bags. Liquids are limited to 3.4 ounces or less, packed in a quart-sized bag and limited to one bag per passenger. Solid foods (like sunflower seeds and moon pies) can be carried on, but if you can spill it, spray it, spread it, pump it, or pour it, it needs to go in checked baggage.
• Unsure if an item should be packed in a carry-on bag, checked bag, either or neither?  Download the free MyTSA app , which has a handy  “What can I bring?” feature  that allows you to type in the item to find out if it can fly. Or ask on X or Facebook Messenger at  @AskTSA . Travelers may send a question by texting “Travel” to AskTSA (275-872).
• Travelers or families of passengers who need assistance may call the TSA Cares helpline toll-free at 855-787-2227 at least 72 hours prior to travel with any questions about screening procedures and to find out what to expect at the security checkpoint. TSA Cares also arranges assistance at the checkpoint for travelers with specific needs.

Rubin: Traverse City liquor store manager meets literary hero after chance encounter

I loved this little story, and I hope you do, too. Worst case, you get a couple of packing tips.

It's a tale of a chance encounter and fortuitous timing, and it starts with the former Anne Gertiser and her husband deciding it was time to downsize in Traverse City . Or maybe it starts with her father-in-law's demise at age 82 in 2019, which led to her mother-in-law moving into a condo, which led to buying her three-bedroom house and slowly leaving a four-bedroom home of 25 years with a cavernous finished basement.

Or maybe it starts with Anne and her husband learning to read, because between them, they had a lot of books.

"You know how a shelf on a bookcase has one row of books?" she says. On theirs, "we had three rows."

Anne has been a newspaper reporter, freelance writer and magazine editor, and these days she's the executive director of the National Writers Series . The NWS conducts writing programs for kids and brings renowned writers to the historic City Opera House , where hundreds of people pay to hear them talk about what they do.

Among the things she has learned, either on her own or from the likes of Margaret Atwood, David Sedaris and Alice Walker, is that if you need to transport enough books to fill 20 boxes, go to the liquor store.

Beer and wine cartons, Anne says, "are just perfect" for the task: sturdy, yet small enough that you'll still be able to lift them, and with convenient cut-in handles. So a few days ago she made yet another trip to a friendly nearby shop called Kap N Keg , where manager Jon Butler hopes to become the owner before too long.

They started chatting, and he commiserated over the arduous tasks of moving in general and moving books in particular. When he last relocated 12 years ago, he said, he had 200 of 'em.

"Books? she asked.

"Cartons," he said.

Jon explained that he is fond of history, Anne says, that he holds on to any book he likes, and that one of his absolute favorites is "In Harm's Way," about the sinking of the heavy cruiser USS Indianapolis during World War II and the subsequent calamity that befell its crew. He said he particularly admires its author, local literary hero Doug Stanton.

"That's a coincidence," Anne Gertiser Stanton said, "because Doug is my husband."

A career and a calamity

Doug Stanton grew up in Traverse City, entranced by books but mystified at how they all made the journey from basic idea to the shelves of the library.

Eventually, he figured it out. After writing for multiple prestigious magazines, he landed "In Harm's Way" on the bestseller list, followed by "Horse Soldiers," about a small band of Special Forces soldiers who helped Afghanistani warlords push back the Taliban in the early days after Sept. 11, and "The Odyssey of Echo Company," about a fresh U.S. Army reconnaissance platoon in Vietnam that found itself awash in the Tet Offensive.

"Horse Soldiers" was the basis for the 2018 Chris Hemsworth movie "12 Strong," which was a nice distinction.

"In Harm's Way" is said to have helped in the exoneration of the USS Indianapolis ' court-martialed captain, Charles B. McVay III, which was even nicer.

In July 1945, the Indianapolis arrived at Tinian on a secret mission to deliver about half of the world's supply of uranium-235 along with parts for the atomic bomb known as Little Boy, which would explode several weeks later above Hiroshima.

Days later, the ship was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine in the Philippine Sea. Some 300 men died in the sinking, leaving 890 adrift to stave off dehydration, starvation, exposure and sharks across 3½ days in which no help came because naval bungling prevented the Indianapolis from being logged as overdue.

Of the 890, only 316 survived.

Among them, in fiction, was Quint, the obsessed charter captain in "Jaws."

In the real world, while the Stantons were deciding about their books, Doug also had to ponder what to do with old drafts of his works, research, notes, oral histories and ― still in its box ― a 20-inch-long plastic model of the USS Indianapolis.

It was a gift from one of the soldiers in Echo Company, a valued friend, but trying times make for painful decisions. He was standing in front of the house, holding the model, when Anne pulled in from the Kap N Keg with her load of cartons.

"I'm going to take this to Goodwill," he said.

No, she thought, you are not.

Available space vs. sentiment

Anne's litmus tests for what to keep and what to donate marries sentimentality with availability.

Even if she loves a book, she asks herself, is she likely to read it again? And if so, is it available at the library?

Many of Doug's references are out of print. They make for thornier decisions. Anne is equally attached to some of her best work for Northern Express magazine, but technology and brevity helped.

"I put my best stuff on a website," she says. "Things I want to remember, I take a picture of. We're in the digital sentimental mood."

The basement door they marked their three mostly-grown kids' heights on will be installed at the new house. That's Doug's baby, he says, and he'll do the work.

The box of adorable baby blankets friends crocheted for them will go to to Goodwill.

"Is it better in a box," she asks, "or better put to use? Almost everything falls under 'put to use.' "

It's kinder to make hard decisions now, they've decided, than to force their heirs to make them someday, or force them to rent a Dumpster while they mutter unkind things about their parents.

As for the scale-model warship, Anne knew just the right recipient. Let’s go meet a fan of yours, she said.

Doug, not one to blow his own foghorn, protested. “That’s embarrassing,” he said.

She insisted, and five minutes later, they were at Kap N Keg ― where Jon was thrilled to meet a writer he admires, and staggered at the gift.

“It’s going to go in my library,” he says, next to his copy of “In Harm’s Way,” amid all those boxes of books he and his partner, Justine Hock, couldn’t imagine leaving behind.

The two of them have a 3-year-old son, Alden, who’s already reading.

The Indianapolis, Jon says, should have safe harbor in his family for quite awhile.  

As honorary chair of Bookstock , Michigan's largest charity used book and media sale, Neal Rubin reminds one and all that bargains will abound April 7-14 at Laurel Park Place in Livonia. Reach Neal at [email protected].

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White House says Kamala Harris will travel to Arizona after state Supreme Court abortion ban ruling

Vice President Kamala Harris will travel to Arizona on Friday, the White House announced Tuesday, shortly after the state Supreme Court upheld a near-total abortion ban .

Harris will travel to Tucson, the White House said in an advisory, "to continue her leadership in the fight for reproductive freedoms." It noted that it will be the vice president's second trip to Arizona this year and her fifth time since being sworn in.

"Last month, the Vice President visited Phoenix, AZ to highlight how extremists in states across the country have proposed and enacted abortion bans that threaten women’s health, force them to travel out of state to receive care, and criminalize doctors," the White House said.

The White House said that the trip was part of Harris' nationwide "Fight for Reproductive Freedoms" tour "that included stops in Wisconsin, California, Georgia, Michigan, Arizona, and Minnesota."

Since the Supreme Court's ruling overturning Roe v. Wade, Harris has held more than 80 events on reproductive rights in 20 states, the White House added.

The announcement about her upcoming trip came just about an hour after the Arizona Supreme Court ruled that a 160-year-old near-total abortion ban still on the books in the state could be enforced. Under the law from 1864, anyone who performs the procedure or helps a woman access that care could face felony charges and up to two to five years in prison. The  law  — which was codified in 1901, and again in 1913 — includes an exception to save the woman’s life.

President Joe Biden, Harris and Democrats in general are hoping that existing abortion bans and threats to expand them nationwide will help them win their races in this November's general election.

Rebecca Shabad is a politics reporter for NBC News based in Washington.