Things to do in Indianapolis

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Indianapolis Travel Guide

Fishers featuring a garden and a small town or village

Indianapolis Attractions

From elaborate museums paying homage to college basketball to canal-front parks, Indianapolis, Indiana, has plenty to offer the average tourist. In fact, it is one of the largest inland cities in the entire country and has more than its fair share of activities and landmarks. Attractions in Indianapolis embody the city’s love of sports, food, art, and family. Whether you head to the city on a family getaway, couples trip, or vacation with friends, you will find plenty of things to do in Indianapolis.

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Recommended things to do in Indianapolis

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What to do in Indianapolis

Free Things to Do in Indianapolis

Leave your wallet in the hotel. It's possible to occupy yourself in Indianapolis without spending a cent.

National Art Museum of Sport - Crammed with intriguing objects and exhibits, this place is a wonderland for minds that thirst for knowledge.

Indiana State Capitol - Wander around this historic attraction and find out a few secrets from the past.

Lockerbie Square Historic District - This is a buzzing location where you can absorb the atmosphere and appreciate local life.

Soldiers and Sailors Monument - Organize a visit and discover the significance of this place to the locals.

Christ Church Cathedral - Whether you're spiritual or not, this place will invoke a sense of reverence in you.

White River Gardens - Grab your picnic blanket, pack some food and find a cozy area to appreciate Mother Nature.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Indianapolis

Indianapolis is quite a lively city, and the array of neighborhoods you find here reflect just how much character it really has. It doesn’t matter if you are a die-hard basketball fan, seasoned foodie, or someone looking to explore a brand new city—Indy is a good place to visit.

Downtown — Indianapolis is teeming with restaurants, art galleries, museums, and more. If you’re looking for the heart of the city, this is definitely a good place to start. Attractions in this part of Indy include: the Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War Museum, New World Youth Orchestras, and Kuaba Gallery.

Wholesale District — Many fun things to do in Indianapolis have set up residence in the Wholesale District downtown, which is quite the shopper’s dream. This downtown area also has attractions like the Indiana Roof Ballroom and other arts venues.

Fountain Square — Head to Fountain Square if you want to learn to swing dance, check out a bohemian vibe, and taste test cuisines from around the world. Known as a cultural district, this neighborhood is often referred to as funky and original.

Massachusetts Avenue — Don’t forget to make a stop on Massachusetts Avenue and soak in public art murals and nightlife while you’re in Indianapolis. Known around town as simply Mass Ave, this part of Indianapolis is also rich with independent boutiques.

Things to See in Indianapolis

Fans of college sports should make a point to see the NCAA® Hall of Champions during their time in this Indiana city. In fact, anyone who has ever played basketball is sure to get a kick out of the exhibits. Other things to see in Indianapolis include shows at the Old National Centre, White River State Park, and the Dallara IndyCar Factory. You can also pay tribute at the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument while you’re in Indianapolis.

Sightseeing in Indianapolis

Even though the entire state of Indianapolis is known for its love of basketball, there are plenty of Indianapolis activities that have nothing to do with athletic endeavors. Stop in at the Indiana State Capitol for a look into regional government, spend an afternoon at the Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens, and top off your day by noshing on a delicious meal in a trendy downtown restaurant. Things to do in Indianapolis, Indiana, leave you spoiled for choice, which is never a bad thing!

Things to Do in Indianapolis with Kids

Going away with the young ones? You'll find plenty of tours and activities in Indianapolis that'll put wide smiles on little faces. Take a peek at these family friendly experiences:

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Indianapolis? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

Discover the most popular places to visit in Indianapolis

Lucas Oil Stadium

4.5/5(891 reviews)

Admire the innovative redbrick design of this large arena and watch a game of professional football in the downtown district of Indianapolis.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway

4.5/5(515 reviews)

Buckle up at the world’s most famous speedway and experience G-force thrills usually reserved for race car drivers.

Indiana Convention Center

4.5/5(555 reviews)

A multipart venue welcomes visitors to downtown Indianapolis for conference and trade events, exciting sports competitions and performing artist concerts.

Bankers Life Fieldhouse which includes signage

Gainbridge Fieldhouse

4.5/5(457 reviews)

For men’s and women’s basketball, WWE wrestling and concerts, this eclectic and modern arena is at the apex of Indiana sports and entertainment.

Children's Museum of Indianapolis

4.5/5(481 reviews)

Dinosaurs and pirate ships, interactive exhibits, games and toys from a bygone age — it’s all at this children’s wonderland.

Indianapolis Zoo

4.5/5(337 reviews)

Much more than an animal park, this downtown attraction also features an aquarium and botanic garden.

Lucas Oil Raceway as well as a small group of people

Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park

4.5/5(168 reviews)

From your grandstand seat, watch and listen to high-speed drag race cars and motorbikes zipping by at this prestigious auto racing circuit complex.

Ruoff Home Mortgage Music Center

4.5/5(116 reviews)

Ruoff Home Mortgage Music Center is just one of the places to see in Noblesville, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene or attend a sporting event.

White River State Park

4.5/5(136 reviews)

Museums, galleries, a world-class zoo and an award-winning sports stadium are all packed into Indianapolis’ favorite park.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Indianapolis

Central Canal which includes landscape views, a river or creek and a city

Downtown Indianapolis

4.5/5(2,481 area reviews)

As the city's cultural, political, and economic hub, this neighborhood boasts historic districts, performing arts venues, and museums. Enjoy nightlife on Meridian Street and Massachusetts Avenue, or stroll along the Indianapolis Canal Walk.

Mile Square

It is just one of the 370 square miles that make up Indianapolis, but this founding district is the city’s heart.

Castleton

4/5(524 area reviews)

Castleton is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Castleton Square and Dave & Buster's while you're in town.

Speedway

Home to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, this enclave of Indianapolis boasts a historic district listed on the National Register of Historic Places and a public library for leisurely exploration.

Near Eastside

4/5(4 area reviews)

Travelers enjoy Near Eastside for its breweries and churches. Consider checking out Mass Ave Cultural Arts District while you're in the area.

Bankers Life Fieldhouse showing interior views and signage

Wholesale District

If you're spending some time in Wholesale District, Circle Center Mall and Gainbridge Fieldhouse are top sights worth seeing.

See our Where To Stay guide

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

Popular day trips from Indianapolis

Anderson

Fishers

Carmel

Greenwood

Lebanon

Plainfield

Greenfield

Martinsville

Frequently asked questions

Is Indianapolis worth visiting?

Whether you're here to experience the cultural hotspots and local charm or try unique foods and go on outdoor adventures, there are many things to do in Indianapolis.

How do I spend a day in Indianapolis?

Children's Museum of Indianapolis and Indianapolis Zoo are two awesome places to kick-start your sightseeing adventures. Remember to explore the retail and dining options in Indianapolis while you're there too.

What is the top tourist attraction in Indianapolis?

Children's Museum of Indianapolis is one of the top tourist attractions in Indianapolis and should be high on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.

Is three days enough to stay in Indianapolis?

You can easily tour leading attractions like Children's Museum of Indianapolis, Indianapolis Zoo and White River State Park with a three-day trip to Indianapolis. On average, most travelers book two days here. There's plenty to discover nearby too, so stay a little longer and venture to Plainfield.

Is Indianapolis a walkable city?

With vibrant neighborhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city center, Indianapolis is a good place to tour on foot. Enjoy wandering between Children's Museum of Indianapolis and Indianapolis Zoo. Then take a stroll around Downtown Indianapolis, located 0.4 miles from the center, and Mile Square, which is roughly 0.1 miles away.

What are some activities to do in Indianapolis with kids?

Deciding what to do in Indianapolis with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're traveling with little ones or teenagers, there are plenty of family-friendly attractions to keep them happy here.

What to do in Indianapolis for adults?

There are lots of things to do in Indianapolis, with activities for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Gainbridge Fieldhouse or Indiana State Fairgrounds.

Are there free things to do in Indianapolis?

One of the best ways to learn about free things to do in Indianapolis is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on cool neighborhoods, parks and other highlights you can experience without reaching into your pocket. White River Gardens is one spot that doesn't charge an admission fee.

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