Indianapolis is well-known for its auto racing and is home to the famous Indianapolis 500. Auto racing aside, there are several other reasons to visit Indianapolis. The state capital has museums, historical sites, and kid-friendly attractions galore. Plus, the food scene is evolving to have a offerings that range from food trucks to fine dining. Continue scrolling to see all of the best things to do in Indianapolis.
The city’s top attractions include more than just racing. The eclectic Indianapolis is a sports city through-and-through — the city loves its NFL football team, and features a Hall of Champions dedicated to basketball.
Some of the best things to do in Indianapolis include:
See an Indianapolis Colts game live at Lucas Oil Stadium
Basketball fans simply must stop by NCAA Hall of Champions
Zipline through Eagle Creek Park
Visit Newfields, previously known Indianapolis Museum of Arts
When you hear the word “Indianapolis,” the Indianapolis 500 comes to mind. After you see The Greatest Spectacle in Racing, explore everything there is to see in Indianapolis.
Popular attractions near Indianapolis include:
See a racing event at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the world’s largest auto racetrack
See the Funky Bones art installation
Explore the exhibits and tours of the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site
Tour the Indiana Landmarks Center’s well-preserved 19th-century church
Go on a guided tour through Lucas Oil Stadium during the off-season
Second only to Washington D.C., Indianapolis has the largest number of war memorials. That includes Indiana World War Memorial, Soldiers and Sailors Monument, War Memorial Plaza, and more. After visiting one, try one of the following fun things to do in Indianapolis.
Exciting activities near Indianapolis include:
See if the historic Hannah House is truly as haunted as the rumors say
See the monster trucks at Speedrome
Visit the world’s first spinning jail cell at Rotary Jail Museum
Visit the Indiana State Capitol
See the art at Indianapolis Museum of Contemporary Art
There’s plenty of things to do in Indianapolis at night, like visiting sports bars and cocktail bars. If you’re looking for something new to do at night, branch out and try local theatre, arcade bars, and even piano bars.
Nighttime activities near Indianapolis include:
Go bowling at Action & Atomic Duckpin Bowling
Play Galaga, Frogger, and other classic arcade games at Tappers Arcade Bar
Visit The Libertine Liquor Bar for award-winning cocktails
Head to Howl at the Moon Indianapolis, a dueling piano bar
Support local theatre and acting troupes like Indiana Repertory Theatre (IRT), Phoenix Theatre, Theatre on the Square, and more
Fun fact about Indianapolis: it’s home to one of the largest children’s museums in the world. Start with the Children’s Museum and explore the city’s zoos, museums, farms, and more. It’ll be difficult to run out of things to do with kids in Indianapolis.
Family-friendly things to do near Indianapolis include:
See the kid-friendly magic at Veal’s Ice Tree
Bang on bongos at Rhythm! Discovery Center
See the wildlife at Indianapolis Zoo
Visit Conner Prairie, a living history farm and museum
Visit the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, known for exhibits that feature pop culture, dance, space, and more
If it’s a green space you’re craving, you’re in luck. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy White River State Park, as well as the canals, sculptures, gardens, and other outdoor activities found in Indianapolis.
Outdoor activities and things to see in Indianapolis include:
Bike through the city with Pacers Bikeshare Program
Explore the ruins at Holliday Park
See the green only found at the Garfield Park Conservatory & Gardens
Go on a horseback nature tour with Natural Valley Ranch