Things to do in Central Indiana

In the heart of Indianapolis, the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium offers world-renowned venues. Attend one of more than 200 events held each year at the convention center, ranging from trade shows and conferences to pop culture conventions and a festival with giant LEGO® set constructions. Local schools take advantage of the large space for graduations and proms.

Visit Lucas Oil Stadium, a magnificent multi-purpose arena that serves as the home of the Indianapolis Colts NFL football team. With its retractable roof and a large window that can be opened for stunning views, its state-of-the-art features take it to the pinnacle of modern stadiums around the world. Marvel at the reddish-brown mock-industrial design of this pioneering arena in the heart of the downtown area of Indianapolis.

With its arched glass façade, Bankers Life Fieldhouse is an iconic arena at the core of Indianapolis. Having opened in 1999, it is a basketball haven that is home to the Indiana Pacers men’s organization as well as the Indiana Fever women’s team. Visit Bankers Life Fieldhouse to watch a game and enjoy the fervent atmosphere under the lights in this modern sports palace.

All roads lead to Indy. At least that’s what the motor racing fanatics say when they flock by the thousands each year to one of the world’s best-known speedways. The 2.5-mile (four-kilometer) track has seen some of the most spectacular races in history since its construction in 1909. The speedway and the Hall of Fame Museum are both American treasures and National Historic Landmarks.

The five floors of the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis hold over 120,000 exhibit items. A visit here provides an unforgettable day of education and inspiration for children of all ages.

At first glance, Brown County State Park resembles the Great Smoky Mountains in miniature. Nearly 16,000 acres (6,500 hectares) of narrow ridges, misty ravines, lush gullies and rugged mountaintops make up Indiana’s largest parkland. Walk amid southern Indiana’s wild landscapes and see a remarkable range of tree species, which make this region popular for viewing colorful autumn foliage. Go hiking, biking and horseback riding on the park’s trails or drop a fishing line into one of the park’s two lakes.

The Indianapolis Zoo is loaded with activities for the entire family, with an aquarium and botanic garden as well as a wide variety of animal exhibits. It’s home to 300 species housed within five biomes, large areas designed to mirror the habitats of the animals.