Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Indianapolis

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10 Must-See Attractions in Indianapolis

Indianapolis, the capital of Indiana, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, world-class sports, thriving arts scene, and dynamic culinary experiences. If you’re a history buff, a racing enthusiast, or a foodie looking for something delicious, Indianapolis has something for you. Here’s a list of the top 10 things to do in Indianapolis for an unforgettable experience.

Things to Do in Indianapolis

1. Visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway & Hall of Fame Museum

Motor Speedway & Hall of Fame Museum

Indianapolis is synonymous with auto racing, and a visit to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) is a must for any motorsport fan. Home to the famous Indianapolis 500, IMS offers a deep dive into the city’s racing culture.

Highlights:

  • IMS Museum – Showcasing historic race cars and memorabilia.
  • Kiss the Bricks – A famous tradition at the start/finish line.
  • Behind-the-Scenes Tours – Explore the track, Victory Podium, and Gasoline Alley.
  • Indy 500 & Brickyard 400 – If you’re in town during race season, don’t miss these iconic events.

Pro Tip: Book the Kiss the Bricks Tour, which takes you onto the track for a close-up experience.

2. Explore the Indianapolis Zoo & White River Gardens

White River Gardens

Located in White River State Park, the Indianapolis Zoo is one of the best in the country, offering a unique blend of wildlife, botanical gardens, and interactive experiences.

Highlights:

  • Dolphin Pavilion – Watch dolphins from an underwater viewing dome.
  • Elephant Encounters – Up-close interactions with African elephants.
  • Oceans Exhibit – Features sharks, jellyfish, and exotic fish.
  • White River Gardens – A stunning 3-acre botanical garden.
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Pro Tip: Visit during the Christmas at the Zoo event for a magical holiday experience.

3. Walk Along the Indianapolis Cultural Trail

Indianapolis Cultural Trail

This 8-mile scenic trail connects downtown Indianapolis’ best cultural districts and attractions. It’s perfect for walking, jogging, or biking.

Highlights:

  • Mass Ave Arts District – Home to indie shops, art galleries, and theaters.
  • Fountain Square – A vibrant neighborhood with great food and nightlife.
  • Monument Circle – The city’s iconic landmark.
  • Public Art Installations – Unique sculptures and murals along the way.

Pro Tip: Rent a Pacers Bikeshare bike for an easy and fun way to explore.

4. Discover the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Children's Museum of Indianapolis

The largest children’s museum in the world, this attraction is not just for kids – it’s an interactive wonderland for visitors of all ages.

Highlights:

  • Dinosphere – Life-size dinosaur skeletons and immersive prehistoric exhibits.
  • SpaceQuest Planetarium – An incredible journey through space.
  • Sports Legends Experience – Hands-on activities for basketball, football, racing, and more.
  • American Pop Culture Exhibit – Showcasing toys, movies, and music from different eras.

Pro Tip: Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.

5. Experience the Indiana State Museum & Canal Walk

Indiana State Museum

The Indiana State Museum, located along the scenic Central Canal, offers a deep dive into Indiana’s natural and cultural history.

Highlights:

  • Ice Age Fossils Exhibit – Featuring real mastodon bones.
  • IMAX Theater – Watch documentary films on a giant screen.
  • Historical Artifacts – Showcasing Indiana’s past from prehistoric times to today.

Pro Tip: Rent a pedal boat or kayak for a fun ride along the Canal Walk.

6. Tour the Soldiers and Sailors Monument & Monument Circle

Monument Circle

The Soldiers and Sailors Monument is the heart of downtown Indianapolis, standing 284 feet tall as a tribute to Indiana’s veterans.

Highlights:

  • Observation Deck – Climb to the top for incredible city views.
  • Monument Circle – A gathering spot with shops, cafes, and public events.
  • Shining A Light Show – A stunning nightly light and sound display.

Pro Tip: Visit during the holiday season to see the monument transformed into the “Circle of Lights” Christmas tree.

7. Watch a Game at Lucas Oil Stadium or Gainbridge Fieldhouse

Lucas Oil Stadium

Sports fans will love catching a game in Indy, which is home to the Colts (NFL) and Pacers (NBA).

Highlights:

  • Lucas Oil Stadium – Home of the Indianapolis Colts with a retractable roof.
  • Gainbridge Fieldhouse – Where the Indiana Pacers and Indiana Fever play.
  • Indy Eleven Soccer – If you’re a soccer fan, check out a match.
  • Indianapolis Indians – Catch a minor league baseball game at Victory Field.
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Pro Tip: Even if you’re not into sports, stadium tours offer behind-the-scenes access to locker rooms and VIP areas.

8. Explore Newfields: Indianapolis Museum of Art & The LUME

Indianapolis Museum of Art

Newfields is a must-visit for art lovers, featuring a world-class museum, outdoor gardens, and immersive exhibits.

Highlights:

  • Indianapolis Museum of Art (IMA) – Classic and contemporary art collections.
  • The LUME – An interactive digital art experience.
  • 100 Acres Art & Nature Park – Outdoor sculptures and scenic trails.
  • Lilly House – A historic mansion with beautiful gardens.

Pro Tip: Visit during Winterlights, when the gardens transform into a twinkling winter wonderland.

9. Visit the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians & Western Art

Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians

The Eiteljorg Museum showcases an impressive collection of Native American and Western art, offering a unique perspective on American history.

Highlights:

  • Western Art Exhibits – Featuring works by artists like Frederic Remington and Georgia O’Keeffe.
  • Native American Artifacts – A deep dive into Indigenous culture.
  • Jingle Rails Exhibit (Seasonal) – A holiday-themed train display.

Pro Tip: Check out the museum’s Indian Market & Festival in June for authentic Native American crafts.

10. Try Indianapolis’ Best Food & Breweries

 

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Indy’s food scene is thriving, offering everything from classic comfort food to innovative cuisine.

Must-Try Foods:

  • Pork Tenderloin Sandwich – A local favorite, best at The Mug or Dawson’s.
  • St. Elmo’s Shrimp Cocktail – Famous for its spicy cocktail sauce.
  • Sugar Cream Pie – Indiana’s state pie, found at Locally Grown Gardens.

Top Breweries & Distilleries:

 

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  • Sun King Brewery – One of Indy’s best craft breweries.
  • Hotel Tango Distillery – Unique craft cocktails.
  • Taxman Brewing Company – Great Belgian-style beers.

Pro Tip: Visit The Garage Food Hall for a variety of local food vendors in a lively market setting.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Indianapolis

1. What are the must-visit attractions in Indianapolis?

Indianapolis offers a mix of sports, culture, and outdoor activities. Here are some must-see places:

  • Indianapolis Motor Speedway & Museum – Home of the famous Indy 500.
  • Children’s Museum of Indianapolis – The world’s largest children’s museum.
  • White River State Park – A scenic urban park with attractions like the Indianapolis Zoo and Indiana State Museum.
  • Indianapolis Zoo & White River Gardens – Home to dolphins, elephants, and botanical gardens.
  • Monument Circle & Soldiers and Sailors Monument – The heart of downtown Indy.
  • Newfields & Indianapolis Museum of Art – A must-visit for art lovers.
  • Lucas Oil Stadium – Catch an Indianapolis Colts football game.
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2. What is the best time to visit Indianapolis?

Indianapolis is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to do:

  • Spring (March–May) – Pleasant weather and the start of racing season.
  • Summer (June–August) – Perfect for outdoor festivals, sports, and concerts.
  • Fall (September–November) – Great weather for sightseeing and fall foliage.
  • Winter (December–February) – Holiday events, museums, and indoor attractions.

Best time for racing fans: May, when the Indianapolis 500 takes place.

3. What are some free things to do in Indianapolis?

You don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy Indy. Here are some great free attractions:

  • Monument Circle & Soldiers and Sailors Monument – Walk around the city’s iconic landmark.
  • Canal Walk – A scenic area for walking, biking, or paddle boating.
  • Crown Hill Cemetery – Historic cemetery with stunning views of the city.
  • Indiana War Memorial & Museum – A tribute to military history.
  • 100 Acres Art & Nature Park at Newfields – Outdoor sculptures and trails.
  • Garfield Park Conservatory – Beautiful indoor gardens with free admission.

4. What are the best family-friendly activities in Indianapolis?

Indianapolis is perfect for families, offering fun activities for kids of all ages:

  • Children’s Museum of Indianapolis – Hands-on exhibits and a life-sized dinosaur display.
  • Indianapolis Zoo – Dolphin shows, elephants, and a petting area.
  • Conner Prairie – A living history museum with interactive experiences.
  • The Sports Legends Experience – A part of the Children’s Museum with outdoor sports activities.
  • Rhythm! Discovery Center – A hands-on percussion museum.

5. How many days should I spend in Indianapolis?

  • 1-2 days – Focus on the major downtown attractions, like the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Monument Circle, and White River State Park.
  • 3-4 days – Explore neighborhoods like Fountain Square, visit Newfields, and take a day trip to Conner Prairie.
  • 5+ days – Experience more hidden gems, go on a brewery tour, and catch a sporting event.

6. What’s the best way to get around Indianapolis?

  • Walking & Biking – Downtown Indy is pedestrian-friendly, and the Indianapolis Cultural Trail connects key attractions.
  • IndyGo Bus System – Affordable public transportation.
  • Taxis & Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft) – Readily available throughout the city.
  • Car Rentals – Ideal if you’re exploring beyond downtown.
  • Pacers Bikeshare – A fun way to explore the city’s cultural districts.

7. Where can I experience Indianapolis’ nightlife?

Indy has a vibrant nightlife scene with something for everyone:

  • Mass Ave (Massachusetts Avenue) – Bars, live music, and comedy clubs.
  • Broad Ripple – A lively neighborhood with dance clubs and breweries.
  • Fountain Square – Quirky bars, vintage bowling, and live music.
  • The Slippery Noodle Inn – Indiana’s oldest bar, known for live blues music.

8. What are the best places for shopping in Indianapolis?

  • The Fashion Mall at Keystone – High-end brands and boutique shopping.
  • Circle Centre Mall – Downtown shopping with restaurants and entertainment.
  • Mass Ave District – Local boutiques, artisan shops, and galleries.
  • Broad Ripple Village – Unique stores, vintage finds, and art shops.

9. What food is Indianapolis known for?

  • Pork Tenderloin Sandwich – A Hoosier favorite, best at The Mug or Dawson’s.
  • St. Elmo’s Shrimp Cocktail – A spicy local classic from St. Elmo Steak House.
  • Sugar Cream Pie – Indiana’s state pie, found at Locally Grown Gardens.
  • Steak & Hoosier-Style Comfort Food – Indy is home to great steakhouses.
  • Craft Beer & Distilleries – Check out Sun King Brewery and Hotel Tango Distillery.

10. Is Indianapolis safe for tourists?

Yes, Indianapolis is generally safe, especially in tourist-friendly areas like downtown, Broad Ripple, and Mass Ave. However, it’s always best to:

  • Stay in well-lit, populated areas at night.
  • Use public transportation or ride-sharing services when traveling late.
  • Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places.

Final Thoughts

Indianapolis is a city full of surprises, offering world-class sports, history, arts, and food. Whether you’re exploring the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, walking the Cultural Trail, or enjoying a Colts game, there’s always something exciting to do.

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