Indianapolis, IN

Travel Guide

A cityscape with a river, modern buildings, and a clock tower.
A forested area with a gravel path leading to a rustic wooden structure.
A cityscape with tall buildings, including OneAmerica and ARLINGTONS, and a body of water with people walking along the promenade.
The Indiana State Museum building with a glass facade and a water feature in front.
A red race car in a modern building with large windows.

Between watching cars zoom around the famous speedway of “The Racing Capital of the World,” explore its many museums, parks and zoo.

Indianapolis, the capital city of Indiana, sits at the center of the state. To many, it’s also at the center of the racing world. Discover why it earns its nickname, “The Racing Capital of the World,” and investigate its many cultural and natural attractions.

Thrills aren’t just reserved for race car drivers at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The 2.5-mile (4-kilometer) track hosts three of the country’s biggest races, including the Indy 500. Watch a motorcar race or learn more about the sport in the adjoining Hall of Fame Museum.

Spend an afternoon exploring White River State Park’s museums, galleries, zoo and sports stadium. Learn about local and natural history in the Indiana State Museum, which has thousands of artifacts and a massive IMAX theater. See a baseball game in Victory Field, home of the Indianapolis Indians. View some 1,400 animals from land, sea and sky in the Indianapolis Zoo. Admission to the nearby White River Gardens is included in your entry to the zoo.

Visit the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. Filled with dinosaurs, pirate ships, vintage toys and interactive exhibits, this museum makes learning fun for an audience of all ages.

Although it is adjacent to downtown Indianapolis, Eagle Creek Park feels a world away. Explore its backcountry trails or go swimming in its glassy lake. If you’re lucky, you might even see an eagle soaring overhead. A bit northeast of Downtown, Fort Harrison State Park offers horseback riding, fishing in Fall Creek and an 18-hole golf course.

Enjoy panoramic views of the downtown skyline from atop the steps of Crown Hill Cemetery. Take a guided or self-guided tour and learn about events from the Civil War to the Flu Epidemic of 1918. Find the gravestones of U.S. President Benjamin Harrison and infamous gangster John Dillinger.

Indianapolis has a charming historic Downtown district, presided over by the Indiana War Memorial. The memorial, which bears striking resemblance to the National Mall in Washington D.C., honors America’s veterans. Explore the downtown museums, parks, monuments and more.

Where to stay in Indianapolis

Find the best Indianapolis areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Indianapolis
Learn more about Indianapolis
A river with people walking along the banks, a modern building labeled 'Indiana State Museum', and a city skyline in the background.

Downtown Indianapolis

Downtown Indianapolis is popular for its popular shops. Explore top sights like Gainbridge Fieldhouse and Lucas Oil Stadium, and you can get around town on the metro at Methodist Station.

A tree-lined path with autumn foliage.

Broad Ripple

Though Broad Ripple might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Glendale Town Center and Indianapolis Art Center.

A statue of a woman holding a lyre, set on a pedestal with floral designs, in front of a building with colorful windows and a mural.

Fountain Square

While visiting Fountain Square, you might make a stop by sights like Fountain Square Theatre and Indianapolis Museum of Contemporary Art.

A spacious indoor area with a high ceiling, large windows, and a prominent sign reading "BANKERS LIFE HALL OF INDIANA FIELD".

Wholesale District

If you're spending some time in Wholesale District, Gainbridge Fieldhouse and Indiana Repertory Theatre are top sights worth seeing.

A city street with modern and historic buildings, a statue, and a clear blue sky.

Mile Square

The fascinating museums and prominent monuments are top of the list for many visitors to Mile Square. A stop by Gainbridge Fieldhouse or Monument Circle might round out your trip.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Indianapolis North

Embassy Suites by Hilton Indianapolis North

3.5 out of 5
3912 Vincennes Rd Indianapolis IN
$119 nightly
The price is $139 total per night from Oct 25 to Oct 26
$139 total
Oct 25 - Oct 26
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Indianapolis. Enjoy free breakfast, free parking, and a free area shuttle. Our guests praise the breakfast and ...
Embassy Suites by Hilton Indianapolis North
Ironworks Hotel Indy

Ironworks Hotel Indy

4 out of 5
2721 E 86th Street Indianapolis IN
$167 nightly
The price is $196 total per night from Oct 18 to Oct 19
$196 total
Oct 18 - Oct 19
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Indianapolis. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 4 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
Ironworks Hotel Indy
Omni Severin Hotel

Omni Severin Hotel

4 out of 5
40 West Jackson Place Indianapolis IN
$155 nightly
The price is $183 total per night from Oct 25 to Oct 26
$183 total
Oct 25 - Oct 26
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Indianapolis. Enjoy breakfast (surcharge), room service, and a 24-hour health club. Our guests praise the helpful ...
Omni Severin Hotel
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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
CozySuites at Block20

CozySuites at Block20

4 out of 5
423 E Michigan St Indianapolis IN
Stay at this aparthotel in Indianapolis. Enjoy free WiFi, parking (surcharge), and in-room washers/dryers. Popular attractions Gainbridge Fieldhouse and Lucas ...
CozySuites at Block20
The Residences at CityWay

The Residences at CityWay

4 out of 5
302 S Alabama St Indianapolis IN
Book a stay at this business-friendly apartment in Indianapolis. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Gainbridge Fieldhouse ...
The Residences at CityWay
The Argyle on Mass Ave

The Argyle on Mass Ave

4 out of 5
615 N East St. Indianapolis IN
Stay at this apartment in Indianapolis. Enjoy free WiFi, parking (surcharge), and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Gainbridge Fieldhouse and Lucas Oil ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (218 reviews)
"The property was great, good location & as described. It’s small but definitely met my needs in a very walkable area. Requesting parking was far more of a hassle than it needed to be. Many messages back & forth….likely with an AI bot is inefficient & a poor customer experience."

Reviewed on Sep 28, 2026

The Argyle on Mass Ave
See all properties in Indianapolis
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Getting around Indianapolis

Getting around Indianapolis without a car is tough. Rent one at the airport or at one of the car rental companies in the city center. The city is famously flat and cycle friendly. Consider renting a bike by the hour or day at one of the Pacers Bikeshare stands found in the busiest areas. For journeys outside Indianapolis, you can use the Amtrak intercity railway, Greyhound buses or the Megabus. Visit the Indiana Department of TransportationOpens in a new window website.Browse Indianapolis rental cars.

Stay near popular Indianapolis attractions

A paved area with a commemorative plaque marking the 500th anniversary of the Indianapolis 500 race in 2011.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway

8.8/10 (2,153 reviews)
Buckle up at the world’s most famous speedway and experience G-force thrills usually reserved for race car drivers.
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Things to do

Indianapolis: Crossroads Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour

Wicked Wraiths of White River: Indianapolis Ghost Tour

$24
per adult
Wicked Wraiths of White River: Indianapolis Ghost Tour
We do private group tours too!

Indy Walking Tours

$55
per adult
Indy Walking Tours
Step into the shadows and discover the haunting tales of our city's past.

Wicked Wraiths of White River: Indianapolis Ghost Tour

$26
per adult
Wicked Wraiths of White River: Indianapolis Ghost Tour
See all activities in Indianapolis

Frequently asked questions

Is Indianapolis worth visiting?
Indianapolis is worth visiting for its major venues, such as Gainbridge Fieldhouse and the Indiana Convention Center. Travelers can also enjoy a diverse food scene, with North American and Latin American cuisine options, and explore distinct areas like Downtown Indianapolis and Downtown Carmel, offering unique experiences for every traveler.
When is the best time to visit Indianapolis?
The best time to visit Indianapolis is from May through September, when the weather is generally warm and pleasant for exploring. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of November through February are a good option, offering a different experience with cooler, sometimes snowy, weather.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Indianapolis?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Indianapolis depend on what you want to see:

  • Downtown Indianapolis offers major attractions and entertainment venues.
  • Downtown Carmel features cultural experiences and performing arts.
  • Speedway is centered around the famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
  • Garfield Park provides green spaces and a community arts center.

What is Indianapolis known for?
Indianapolis is known for its iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, a major draw for travelers. The city also features prominent venues like Gainbridge Fieldhouse and the Indiana Convention Center. Travelers can experience a strong North American food culture, especially in areas like Downtown Indianapolis, offering a variety of dining options.
What is a good itinerary length for Indianapolis?
A good itinerary length for Indianapolis is two to three days to see key highlights like the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and explore Downtown Indianapolis. An extended stay of four to five days gives travelers time for activities such as an art walk or axe throwing, and to visit nearby areas like Speedway or Downtown Carmel. See Indianapolis Activities.
How do you get around Indianapolis?
In Indianapolis, travelers can use metro and train services to get around, with stops including Indianapolis Station, Methodist Station, and Canal Station. For more flexibility, rental cars are available in neighborhoods like Downtown Indianapolis, Castleton, and Near Westside. Rideshare services also offer a convenient way to travel throughout the city.
What are the top things to do in and around Indianapolis?
Indianapolis offers a mix of family fun, iconic sports venues, and unique local experiences:

  • Visit the Children's Museum of Indianapolis for family-friendly exhibits.
  • Tour the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, a famous racing venue.
  • Explore an art walk in Indianapolis for a unique adventure.
  • Enjoy a shopping and foodie walking tour in Noblesville.
  • Try an axe throwing experience for some competitive fun.

How do I plan a trip to Indianapolis?
Plan your trip to Indianapolis by searching for hotels and flights on Expedia. Book activities like an Axe Throwing Experience or An Epic Art Walk in Indianapolis in advance. Explore Downtown Indianapolis, Downtown Carmel, and Speedway. Public transit is available, or consider a rental car. Remember to pair outdoor plans with indoor options for weather flexibility.
What cuisines can you find in Indianapolis?
In Indianapolis you can find Mexican cuisine, with options like tacos and burritos. Travelers can also enjoy North American dishes, including Southern soul food and New American fare. Italian cuisine is available, as are various Asian options such as Chinese and Japanese, and diverse European choices.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Indianapolis?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Indianapolis by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Indianapolis with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Indianapolis trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Indianapolis?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Indianapolis can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Indianapolis trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Indianapolis trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Indianapolis trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Indianapolis trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Indianapolis?
If it's your first trip to Indianapolis, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Indianapolis hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Indianapolis hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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