Things To Do
in Indianapolis
Indianapolis, the capital of Indiana, sits along the White River and blends Midwestern charm with modern culture. Its skyline surrounds the historic Monument Circle, while neighborhoods like Broad Ripple and Mass Ave pulse with arts, restaurants, and music. The city is known for the Indianapolis 500 and a growing museum and dining scene that invites exploration beyond sports.
In recent years, it has embraced walkable downtown cores, green spaces, and family-friendly attractions that appeal to visitors year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the iconic Café Patachou, known for its fresh local ingredients. After satisfying your appetite, stroll over to the Indiana Statehouse to marvel at its stunning architecture and learn about the state's history through a guided tour. Don't forget to take some photos of the intricate murals and the grand dome that crowns this historic building.
For lunch, make your way to the bustling Massachusetts Avenue, where you can choose from a variety of eateries offering everything from gourmet sandwiches to artisan pizza. Afterward, explore the local boutiques and galleries that line the street, showcasing the vibrant art scene of Indianapolis. Wrap up your afternoon with a visit to the Indiana Museum of Art, where you can enjoy both the exhibits and the beautiful grounds.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at the St. Elmo Steak House, famous for its shrimp cocktail and classic steakhouse fare. After dining, take a leisurely walk along the Canal Walk, where you can admire the city lights reflecting on the water. Finish your day by catching a performance at the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra or a live show at one of the local theaters.
Kick off your day with a visit to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the famous Indy 500. Start with a guided tour that takes you through the history of the track and its legendary races, including a visit to the Hall of Fame Museum. Take in the legendary track and feel the thrill of racing history as you stand on the famed bricks.
After your tour, enjoy lunch at the Speedway’s own Dallara IndyCar Factory, where you can also learn about the technology and engineering behind race cars. Post-lunch, immerse yourself in the interactive exhibits that showcase the speedway's impact on motorsports. If time permits, consider taking a ride on a two-seater IndyCar for an exhilarating experience.
In the evening, head to nearby Broad Ripple Village, where you can explore its eclectic mix of shops and restaurants. Choose from a variety of dining options, from trendy gastropubs to cozy bistros, all serving up delicious fare. After dinner, enjoy the vibrant nightlife with live music at one of the local venues or a relaxing drink at a riverside bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-60 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-7 |
| 🚗Rideshare or taxi (short trip in-city) | $5-15 |
| 🏨One-night mid-range hotel | $120-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong sports culture and events (Indy 500)
- Walkable downtown with museums, dining, and entertainment
- Hot summers with humidity; occasional severe weather
- Traffic in peak hours can be heavy downtown and on I-65/I-70
Places to Visit in Indianapolis
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic centerpiece of Monument Circle with Beaux-Arts architecture and cityscape views from the top.
Scenic waterway through downtown featuring bridges, murals, and reflective water surfaces.
Modern buildings, green spaces, and skyline silhouettes ideal for architectural and landscape shots.
Vibrant street art and colorful backdrops perfect for urban photography.
Striking contemporary lines and cultural exhibits—great for architectural and interior photography.
Food in Indianapolis
Indianapolis Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Hoosier staple featuring a large, breaded pork cutlet fried to golden perfection, usually served on a sizable bun with simple toppings.
Must-Try!
Indiana’s state pie—a creamy, custard-like dessert that appears on many bakery menus and family recipes.
Indiana-style chili often ladled over hot dogs or fries, a comforting local favorite found in diners and casual spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market in the heart of downtown offering fresh produce, prepared foods, and local treats from multiple vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly, relaxed Midwest hospitality; greet staff with a smile and maintain polite conversation in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Indianapolis
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard is 15-20% at restaurants; some establishments add 18-20% for large groups or special service.
Credit/debit cards and mobile payments are widely accepted; cash is still handy for small vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming trees; layer clothing and enjoy early outdoor events and markets.
Warm to hot and often humid; afternoon thunderstorms are common—stay hydrated and plan indoor alternatives.
Pleasant temperatures with colorful fall foliage; ideal for walking the Cultural Trail and park trails.
Cold with occasional snow; many indoor attractions shine—bundle up for outdoor segments.
Indianapolis at Night
Hiking in Indianapolis
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive system of wooded trails near the river with varying levels of difficulty.
Hiking and natural areas to explore northeast of downtown.
A scenic drive to Indiana’s hill country; popular for hiking, fall colors, and wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Indianapolis by plane.
Main gateway to the city, about 15-20 minutes from downtown by car; domestic and international flights.
In Louisville, about 110 miles south; accessible for longer trips and connections.
In Cincinnati, about 110 miles east; alternative for cross-country travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest racial group in the city, with a broad mix of urban and suburban residents.
A significant and growing community with a strong cultural presence in the city.
A growing demographic contributing to the city’s diverse culture and food scene.
A smaller but vibrant community represented in business, education, and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is a staple of Indiana culture; local communities support high school, college, and pro events.
The Indy 500 and other races shape the sporting calendar and local identity.
American football at high school, college, and pro levels is widely followed.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Indianapolis.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Indianapolis restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for Mediterranean, Indian, and plant-forward spots, and ask for meatless specials.