50 Things to Do in Indianapolis Indiana

Your Gateway to the Heartland

Nestled in America's heartland, Indianapolis is a city that seamlessly blends tradition and innovation, creating a vibrant cultural tapestry that is hard to resist. With its renowned motor speedway roaring with adrenaline, the echo of history resonating in its museums, and the tantalizing aroma wafting from its bustling eateries, Indianapolis is a city of fascinating contrasts.

It's not just the bustling life of its 882,039 residents that fuels the city, but also the pulsating energy that permeates Indy streets and neighborhoods.

There’s more than corn in Indiana, and a lot of fabulous stuff to do for every Hoosier around Indianapolis.

Indianapolis Itinerary: Your Roadmap to Adventure

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    Revving Up: A Starter's Guide to Indianapolis

    Just a couple decades ago, you might have heard Hoosiers say, "There's nothing to do in Indy. Why do I live in this boring city?"

    Over recent years, however, Indy has been recognized as the sports capital of the planet and the Indianapolis local magicians are excellent. As you can see, the city has grown into more than just a boring place you pass over in order to get to some other place.

    The population of Indianapolis is 882,039 (as of 2021), and there’s plenty to do in Indy for all its residents. Indianapolis is a fantastic place to shop, to eat, to play, to work, and to live. It's also the 13th largest city in the United States, and one of the five fattest states in the country.

    Whether you're new to the Circle City or you've resided here your entire life like basketball Hall of Famer Reggie Miller, you may not have heard what everyone says about Indianapolis Indiana.

    Few residents of Indy know much about the city. After all, how could they? Indiana ranks 43 out of 50 for percentage of residents holding a bachelors degree. Read more to find out interesting gems about the great city of Indianapolis Indiana so you can impress your friends.

    Indiana Gems

    The Indianapolis Cultural Trail

    Indianapolis Cultural Trail

    A state-of-the-art bike and pedestrian path completed in 2012 is the Indianapolis Cultural Trail. All the major amenities, cultural branches, and suburbs are webbed together by this Cultural Trail, which is for the entire central Indiana Greenway system the central hub.

    The Indianapolis Cultural Trail is a 8-mile pedestrian and bicycle path that connects the city’s cultural districts. The trail features public art, as well as a variety of shops and restaurants. The Indianapolis Cultural Trail is located throughout the city.

    Users of it can pass by along the eight-mile path, viewing many landmarks of interest. This is just one reason that, in the arts community, Indianapolis IN is a recognized pioneer.

     

    The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

    When you're driving around Indy, you'll be surprised to drive by a building out from which a huge dinosaur is escaping. That's The Children's Museum of Indianapolis. The world’s largest children’s museum features 11 major galleries and attracts more than one million visitors each year. Exhibits focus on the arts, sciences, and humanities and are designed for children ages birth to 12. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is located at 3000 N. Meridian St.

    childrens_museum_indianapolis.jpg
     

    The Madam Walker Theatre Center

    USA's first self-made female millionaire was Madam Walker. The Madam Walker Theatre Center is in — you guessed it — Indianapolis. To get to the Theatre, hop in a BlueIndy, the Indianapolis electric car-sharing program.

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    Newfields

    Newfields is an arts destination that features the Indianapolis Museum of Art, a gallery of contemporary art, a historic house museum, and 100 acres of gardens. The Indianapolis Museum of Art is one of the oldest and largest museums in the United States. It features a diverse collection of artwork from around the world. Newfields is located at 4000 Michigan.

    Newfields Indianapolis
     

    The Indianapolis Zoo

    The Indianapolis Zoo is home to more than 1,100 animals representing 300 species from around the globe. The zoo’s 64-acre campus includes White River Gardens, an indoor butterfly display, and a 3-D theater. The Indianapolis Zoo is located at 1200 W. Washington St.

    indianapolis zoo
     

    The Eiteljorg Museum

    The Eiteljorg Museum

    The Eiteljorg Museum is dedicated to the art, history, and cultures of the American West and Native Americans. The museum’s collection includes more than 2,000 paintings, sculptures, and artifacts. The Eiteljorg Museum is located at 500 W. Washington St.

    • Indianapolis homes called the Eiteljorg Museum display containing replicas Jingle Rails, of prizes, published November 2010.

    • The Running of the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon occurs Saturday, May 7, 2011. The Mini has sold-out using an participants at the Finish Line 500 Festival 5K, along with 35,000 registrants for the previous nine years. The Mini-Marathon is the most significant half-marathon from the U.S., and general, the sixth biggest running event in the USA.

     

    Indiana State Museum

    The Indiana State Museum is located in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. The museum’s exhibits focus on the history and culture of Indiana. The museum also features a planetarium, IMAX theater, and a hands-on activity center. The Indiana State Museum is located at 650 W. Washington St.

    Indiana State Museum

    Conner Prairie

    Conner Prairie is a living history museum that features interactive exhibits and demonstrations. Visitors can explore a replica of an 1830s Indiana town, tour a 19th-century farmhouse, or try their hand at pioneer skills. Conner Prairie is located at 13400 Allisonville Rd.

    Conner Prairie is a living history museum in south-central Hamilton County, Indiana, that recreates the William Conner home. The house is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the museum reconstructs 19th-century life along the White River. The facility also offers various activities and programs, including as outdoor concerts by the Conner Prairie Symphony Orchestra. Conner Prairie covers approximately 850 acres (3.4 km2) of land, two-thirds of which are prairie and the rest forest.

    The Conner Prairie Museum was founded in 1934 by Eli Lilly, CEO of the pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly and Company. In 1966, Conner Prairie became one of the first living history museums in the United States.

    The Conner Prairie Interactive History Park is located on the site of the Conner House, which was built in 1823 by William Conner, an Indiana pioneer. The Conner House is a National Historic Landmark. The Conner Prairie Museum recreates life in Indiana during the 19th century. The Conner Prairie Interactive History Park has several interactive exhibits, including a balloon launch, Conner Homestead, and a pioneer village.

    Conner Prairie also offers a variety of educational programs for children and adults. The Conner Prairie Museum is open year-round, and the Conner Prairie Symphony Orchestra performs at Conner Prairie during the summer months.


    White River State Park

    White River State Park is a 250-acre urban park that features museums, green space, and walking and biking trails. The park is home to the Indianapolis Zoo, the Eiteljorg Museum, the Indiana State Museum, and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. White River State Park is located at 801 W Washington St.

    White River State Park, Fountain Square, Indiana Avenue, Mass Ave, and Broad Ripple Village. Whereas Fountain Square is a mile southeast and Broad Ripple Village, four of those six districts have houses in Downtown Indianapolis.

    White River State Park

    The districts showcase pockets of possibility. You'll find quaint stores galleries, museums that are inspiring, public artwork and diversion that is engaging. Satisfy your desire in cafes eateries and restaurants. Laugh out or dancing the night away at one of dozens of theaters and night clubs. The districts have your ticket to performances and sports.


    Fort Harrison State Park

    Fort Harrison State Park is a state park located in Indianapolis. The park features hiking trails, a golf course, and a historic fort. Fort Harrison State Park is located at 5930 N Post Rd.

    Fort Harrison State Park

    Eagle Creak Park

    eagle creek park

    Eagle Creek Park is a city park located in Indianapolis. The park features hiking trails, a beach, and a marina. Eagle Creek Park is located at 7840 W 56th St, just northwest of Indianapolis is Eagle Creek Park.


    The Soldiers & Sailors Monument

    The Soldiers & Sailors Monument is a monument located in Indianapolis. The monument commemorates the soldiers and sailors who served in the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, and the Mexican-American War. The Soldiers & Sailors Monument is located at 4 E Market St.

    The Soldiers & Sailors Monument

    Indiana World War Memorial

    The Indiana World War Memorial is a monument located in Indianapolis. The monument commemorates the soldiers who served in World War I. The Indiana World War Memorial is located at 431 N Meridian St.

    Indiana World War Memorial

    NCAA Hall of Champions

    The NCAA Hall of Champions is a museum dedicated to college athletics. The museum features exhibits on the history of college sports, as well as a library and research center. The NCAA Hall of Champions is located at 700 W Washington St.


    NCAA Hall of Champions

    Holliday Park

    Holliday Park is a city park located in Indianapolis. The park features a playground, a swimming pool, and a picnic area. Holliday Park is located at 6363 N Sherman Dr.

    holliday park

    Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site

    The Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site is a museum dedicated to the life and career of President Benjamin Harrison. The museum features exhibits on Harrison’s life, as well as a library and research center. The Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site is located at 1230 N Delaware St.

    Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site

    Monument Circle

    Monument Circle commemorates the soldiers who served in the Civil War. Monument Circle is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Indianapolis, and for good reason. The Monument is the centerpiece of the city, and has been since its completion in 1902. The Monument is a beautiful work of art, and is a popular spot for photography. It is also a popular spot for weddings and other special events. Monument Circle is a must-see for anyone visiting Indianapolis. Monument Circle is located at 1 Monument Cir.

    Monument Circle

    Indiana Medical History Museum

    The Indiana Medical History Museum is located in a former hospital. The museum features exhibits on the history of medicine, as well as a library and research center. The Indiana Medical History Museum is located at 3045 W 16th St.

    Indiana Medical History Museum

    Garfield Park

    Garfield Park is a city park located in Indianapolis. The park features a playground, a swimming pool, and a picnic area. Garfield Park is located at 2450 S Shelby St. Garfield Park is also home to the Indianapolis Museum of Art.

    Garfield Park

    Garfield Park Conservatory

    The Garfield Park Conservatory is a public conservatory located in Indianapolis. The conservatory features a variety of plants, as well as a library and research center. The Garfield Park Conservatory is located at 2505 Conservatory Dr.


    Indiana Historical Society

    The Indiana Historical Society is a museum and research center dedicated to the history of Indiana. The museum features exhibits on the history of the state, as well as a library and archives. The Indiana Historical Society is located at 450 W Ohio St.

    The Indiana World War Memorial is a monument located in Indianapolis. The monument commemorates the soldiers who served in World War I. The Indiana World War Memorial is located at 431 N Meridian St.

    Indiana Historical Society

    Monon Trail

    The Monon Trail is a rail trail that runs through Indianapolis. The trail features a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as public art. The Monon Trail is located throughout the city.


    Rhythm! Discovery Center

    The Rhythm! Discovery Center is a museum dedicated to the history of percussion. The museum features exhibits on the history of percussion, as well as a library and research center. The Rhythm! Discovery Center is located at 110 W Washington St.

    rhythm! discovery center

    Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park

    Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park

    The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park is a city park located in Indianapolis. The park features hiking trails, a playground, and a picnic area. The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park is located at 100 S Capitol Ave.


    Indianapolis City Market

    The Indianapolis City Market is a public market located in Indianapolis. The market features a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as public art. The Indianapolis City Market is located at 222 E Market St.

    Indianapolis City Market

    Crown Hill Funeral Home and Cemetery

    The Crown Hill Funeral Home and Cemetery is a funeral home and cemetery located in Indianapolis. The funeral home features a chapel, as well as a library and research center. The Crown Hill Funeral Home and Cemetery is located at 700 W 38th St.


    Museum of Miniature Houses and Other Collections

    The Museum of Miniature Houses and Other Collections is a museum located in Indianapolis. The museum features a variety of miniature houses, as well as a library and research center. The Museum of Miniature Houses and Other Collections is located at 111 E 6th St.

    Museum of Miniature Houses and Other Collections

    Oldfields—Lilly House & Gardens

    Oldfields—Lilly House & Gardens is a historic house and garden located in Indianapolis. The house and garden feature a variety of exhibits, as well as a library and research center. Oldfields—Lilly House & Gardens is located at 4000 Michigan Rd.

    Oldfields—Lilly House & Gardens

    Massachusetts Avenue

    Massachusetts Avenue is a street located in Indianapolis. The street features a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as public art. Massachusetts Avenue is located throughout the city.

    Massachusetts Avenue

    White River Gardens

    The White River Gardens are located in Indianapolis. The gardens feature a variety of plant life, as well as a playground and picnic area. The White River Gardens are located at 1510 W Washington St.

    White River Gardens

    CityWay Gallery

    The CityWay Gallery is a public art gallery located in Indianapolis. The gallery features a variety of art, as well as a library and research center. The CityWay Gallery is located at 2 E South St.

    CityWay Gallery

    Canal Walk

    canal walk in Indianapolis

    The Canal Walk is a pedestrian path located in Indianapolis. The Canal Walk features a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as public art. The Canal Walk is located throughout the city.


    Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve

    The Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve is a nature preserve located in Indianapolis. The preserve features hiking trails, as well as a playground and picnic area. The Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve is located at 7345 W 10th St.

    ritchey woods

    The Lume

    The Lume is an art installation located in Indianapolis. The Lume features a variety of lights, as well as a library and research center. The Lume is located at 1501 N Delaware St.

    The Lume

    Broad Ripple Park

    Broad Ripple Park is located in Indianapolis. The park features a variety of recreational activities, as well as a playground and picnic area. Broad Ripple Park is located at 1550 Broad Ripple Ave.

    Broad Ripple Park

    Scottish Rite Cathedral

    Scottish Rite Cathedral

    The Scottish Rite Cathedral is a historic building located in Indianapolis. The cathedral features a variety of exhibits, as well as a library and research center. The Scottish Rite Cathedral is located at 650 N Meridian St.


    James Whitcomb Riley Museum and Historical Marker

    The James Whitcomb Riley Museum and Historical Marker is located in Indianapolis. The museum features a variety of exhibits, as well as a library and research center. The James Whitcomb Riley Museum and Historical Marker is located at 650 N Meridian St.

    James Whitcomb Riley Museum and Historical Marker

    Easley Winery

    The Easley Winery is a winery located in Indianapolis. The winery features a variety of wines, as well as a tasting room and gift shop. The Easley Winery is located at 205 N Delaware St.


    Geist Reservoir

    Geist Reservoir

    The Geist Reservoir is a reservoir located in Indianapolis. The reservoir features a variety of recreational activities, as well as a playground and picnic area. The Geist Reservoir is located at 11611 Fall Creek Rd.


    Indiana Statehouse

    Indiana Statehouse

    The Indiana Statehouse is the state capitol building of Indiana. The Statehouse features a variety of exhibits, as well as a library and research center. The Indiana Statehouse is located at 200 W Washington St.


    Flat Fork Creek Park

    Flat Fork Creek Park

    The Flat Fork Creek Park is located in Indianapolis. The park features a variety of recreational activities, as well as a playground and picnic area. The Flat Fork Creek Park is located at 7602 E 91st St.


    Indoor Splash Island

    The Indoor Splash Island is an indoor water park located in Indianapolis. The park features a variety of water slides, as well as a playground and picnic area. The Indoor Splash Island is located at 7050 E 86th St.


    Washington Township Park

    Washington Township Park

    The Washington Township Park is located in Indianapolis. The park features a variety of recreational activities, as well as a playground and picnic area. The Washington Township Park is located at 8600 W 10th St.


    Indianapolis Artsgarden

    Indianapolis Artsgarden

    The Indianapolis Artsgarden is a public art gallery located in Indianapolis. The gallery features a variety of art, as well as a library and research center. The Indianapolis Artsgarden is located at 110 W Washington St.


    The Waterpark

    The Waterpark at the Monon Community Center is an indoor water park located in Indianapolis. The park features a variety of water slides, as well as a playground and picnic area. The Waterpark at the Monon Community Center is located at 1195 Central Park Dr W.


    Peace Water Winery

    Peace Water Winery

    The Peace Water Winery is a winery located in Indianapolis. The winery features a variety of wines, as well as a tasting room and gift shop. The Peace Water Winery is located at 3028 W 86th St.


    Southwestway Park

    The Southwestway Park is located in Indianapolis. The park features a variety of recreational activities, as well as a playground and picnic area. The Southwestway Park is located at 8575 S Drexel Ave.


    Castleton Square Mall

    Just northeast is the nationally famous shopping mall Castleton Square

    castleton square mall

    With over 210 stores Downtown, visitors and residents can enjoy everything in the fashionable, one-of-a-kind stores like Windsor Jewelry Business or At Home in the City/Silver at the City, into the favorite national chains such as Nordstrom, Carson Pirie Scott, T.J. Maxx and Border's.

    Its doors will open. This is going to be the JW Marriot in feet of event and meeting space along with the world with 1,005 rooms. It'll combine over 30 quality resorts and bed Downtown.

    • TripAdvisor called Conrad Indianapolis a Best 25 U.S. Resort in the 2010 Traveler's Choice awards.

    • Indianapolis IN is the only town to boast four professional sports clubs, playing all from the center of Downtown, in a radius.

    At 2012, Indianapolis will host Super Bowl XLVI in Lucas Oil Stadium. The new place opened in 2008.

    Street and Smith's SportsBusiness Journal called • Lucas Oil Stadium the Sports Facility of the Year May 2009.

    The Orange County Register rated • Conseco Fieldhouse the finest stadium.


    Indianapolis Colts

    Indianapolis Indiana is home to some soccer team of world champion caliber. Into Super Bowl XLIV the Indianapolis Colts returned in 2010.

    Downtown hosted in 2010 and 2006 and can be set for 2015. In 2011, the town hosted the NCAA Women's Final Four for the first time and will again Back in 2005. (The Sporting News called Indianapolis since the"Best Final Four Host" saying"there is no greater basketball city compared to Indy.")

    The Tourney of the Women seen in 2007. Indianapolis IN hosted the World Basketball Championship, which will be held in 2002. This was the very first time at case the 52-year history which it had taken place in the USA.


    The Indianapolis Motor Speedway

    The Indianapolis Motor Speedway

    Home of the Indy 500 and the Brickyard 400, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is one of the most famous racing venues in the world. Visitors can take a tour of the track, visit the on-site museum, or catch a race. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is located at 4790 W 16th St.

    As the sports capital of the planet, Indianapolis made its bragging rights. The notable Indianapolis Motor Speedway has been noted since the icon of the city. The Accession of Victory Field, "that the Finest Minor League Ballpark in America" according to Sports Illustrated, in Addition to the advanced Conseco Fieldhouse and Lucas Oil Stadium, have furthered the town's athletic image. The USHL Indiana Ice is.

    Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum

    The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is located on the grounds of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The museum features a collection of race cars, memorabilia, and artifacts related to the history of auto racing. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is located at 4790 W 16th St.

    The Indy 500 - Indianapolis 500

    The exciting Indy 500 race is the biggest. The next biggest after the Indianapolis 500 is the Brickyard 400. Circle of Stars Gymnastics Invitational is going to maintain Indy January 2011.

    Indianapolis welcomed the USA Diving Olympic Team Trials.

    • Indianapolis IN rated as the 2nd greatest sports host town in the U.S. in May 2009 at The 100 Sporting Occasions You Have To Watch Live by Robert Tuchman

    Checkered Flag: Wrapping Up Your Indy Excursion

    Indianapolis is a place where every turn of the corner reveals a new chapter of history, every roar of the Speedway stirs excitement, and every taste of its culinary delights leaves an indelible imprint.

    As you navigate the heart of the Hoosier state, Indy's residents, majestic monuments, and vibrant events are constant reminders of the city's vibrant pulse. Each day in Indianapolis is not merely a visit, but a parade of unforgettable moments.

    By the time you leave, you carry with you not just souvenirs, but a piece of Indy's spirit.

    As the checkered flag drops on your whirlwind tour of Indianapolis, a city where history and innovation intersect, one thing is clear - there's no shortage of ways to make your visit memorable. But why not add a splash of magic to the mix? Enter Jon Finch, a local magician known for his captivating performances, ready to make your Indianapolis event truly stand out.

    Whether it's a corporate event, a casual get-together, or a special celebration, Jon Finch's performance is sure to leave a lasting impression. Ready to infuse your Indy experience with a little magic? Start the journey right here. Simply fill out the form below with your name and let the magic unfold.

    In Indianapolis, every journey is a victory lap.