Things to do in Indianapolis for children, adults and couples

Explore the Indy 500 house.


There is a lot to do in Indianapolis, and even more to discover. For example, did you know thatKurt VonnegutCalled the city at home? Or that the winners of the Indy 500Celebrate with milk Instead of champagne? With just under 30 million visitors per year, it is logical that Indianapolis is filled with places where to eat, explore and appreciate. Below, we have described some of our favorite things to do in town.

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26 Best things to do in Indianapolis

From tentacular green spaces to the arts and cultural institutions, Indianapolis is certainly a city that deserves to be visited. Here are some of his most famous attractions.

Eagle Creek park

things to do in indianapolis - eagle creek park
Shutterstock / Saeng M

Eagle Creek Park is one of the largest city parks in the country. There is a small entry price, but once inside, you can enjoy 3,900 acres of wooded land and 1,400 acres of water.

On the ground, you will find picnic areas, playgrounds and hiking trails. There is also a zip line and a golf course at 36 holes. Animal owners can even stop at the dog park without leash to spend more time with their four -legged companions.

Nature lovers should be sure to stop at the park's ornithology center to observe birds like white -headed pygargues, large blue herons, double crest corloders, grubs, humans and others wild animals.

While you venture below in the park, you will find Eagle Creek, where you can swim, drop or try in a variety of water sports. Canoes, kayaks, pontoons and row boats, boat paddles and even paddle boards are available for rental. There are also cross -country ski opportunities in winter.

Address: 7840 W 56th ST, Indianapolis, in 46254, United States

Salon 1933

things to do in indianapolis - 1933 lounge
Twitter / @ 1933lounge

It's time for a cocktail! If you are looking for a way to break the route, stop for a drink in the 1933 show by St. Elmo. The Speakeasy style show is a favorite among the inhabitants of Indianapolis.

The bar, which includes a restored bar from the late 1800s, offers a full menu of food and drink. We recommend that you start with their "world -renowned" shrimp cocktail or their net cursors. You can also try some of their signature drinks, made with St. Elmo whiskey locally distilled.

Everything will be served by a member of their staff, dressed in theme with black vests and joint papers.

Address: 127 S. Illinois Street, Indianapolis, in, 46225, United States

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum

indianapolis speedway museum - things to do in indianapolis
Shutterstock / Bruce Alan Bennett

As one of the oldest and most venerated motor sports facilities in the world, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway museum is an essential absolute place in town.

The place was built in 1909 and went to the national register of historic places in 1975. Twelve years later, it was officially made a national historic monument.

Today, the museum offers 37,500 square feet of trophies, photographs, racing records, memories and fine arts. Each exhibition is designed to highlight the cultural meaning that the motor racing has had on the community.

You can also locate racing cars from different series while there, including Indycar, Nascar, one formula, USAC sprints and midgets, motorcycles and dragster races.

Address: 4750 W 16th ST, Indianapolis, in 46222, United States

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Indiana State Museum

indiana state museum - things to do in indianapolis
Shutterstock / 11photo

The Indiana State Museum is about as "Indiana" as possible - from its content to its construction. The central building was made using materials only from Indiana, such as limestone, sandstone, steel, brick and glass.

The museum also includes notable historical sites, with 12 locations dispersed in the state, although the central building is based in Indianapolis. Inside, you will find a mixture of exhibitions and practical experiences that have stories, events and people who have helped shape the history of Indiana.

The original collection started in 1869, with hundreds of cultural articles related to the recent civil war. Today, he swallowed to include specimens from the ice age, modern and contemporary art created by local artists and influential pieces of machines introduced throughout the 20th century.

Address: 650 W Washington ST, Indianapolis, in 46204, United States

Monument

monument circle in indianapolis
Shutterstock / Sunstopper1st

Located in downtown Indianapolis, Monument Circle contains the monument of world-renowned soldiers and sailors. Conceived byBruno Schmitz and built between 1887 and 1902, the limestone memorial also includes elements created by architectural sculptorsRudolf Schwartz,,George Brewster, andNicolaus Geiger.

The structure was built to honor soldiers and sailors who fell in America and measures 284 feet high, just 15 feet shorter than the statue of freedom.

Visitors can either climb the 330 steps to reach the observation tower, or climb into the elevator for a modest sum for an unpaid view of the roofs of downtown Indianapolis.

Address: 100 CIR monument, Indianapolis, in 46204, United States

Indianapolis art museum

indianapolis museum of art at newfields
Twitter / @NewfieldSTODAY

In 1883, an exhibition of 453 works by 137 artists was exhibited at the English hotel in downtown Indianapolis. The event was organized by Art Association of Indianapolis. Its overwhelming success inspired the launch of additional exhibitions.

Finally, the association became an important contributor to the local cultural scene of the city, and in 1895, it received the funds necessary to build a permanent gallery. In 1969, the association officially became the Indianapolis art museum.

Located on the Newfields campus of 152 acres, the museum now contains more than 5,000 years of art history and active exhibition and education programs.

There are also woods, landscapes, gardens and external sculptures. Visitors should also make a duty to explore the performance center and the art and nature park during their stay!

Address: 4000 Michigan RD, Indianapolis, in 46208, United States

Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library

kurt vonnegut museum
Shutterstock / Rachael Martin

The Kurt Vonnegut museum and library commemorates literary, artistic and cultural contributions made by one of the most famous natives in the city. Although Vonnegut left Indianapolis shortly after his graduation graduate, he has often credited the city to have helped to define who he was and how he saw the world.

The writer has even said: "All my jokes are Indianapolis.All my attitudes are Indianapolis. My adenoids are Indianapolis. If I separated from Indianapolis, I would be fine. What people like about me is Indianapolis. ""

You can expect to find artefacts, art, a museum store and books related to Vonnegut at the museum. Some of the most famous articles in the collection include the Vonnegut typewriter, Heart Violet and Reading Glasses.

The organization is also dedicated to education, organizing a variety of courses and workshops throughout the year. The "Teaching Vonnegut" series offers annual workshops exploring the life of Vonnegut and the most famous works. He also underlines the causes he defends, in particular environmentalism and freedom of expression.

Address: 543 Indiana Ave, Indianapolis, in 46202, United States

Explore the city center of Indianapolis

downtown indianapolis, indiana
Shutterstock / Sean Pavone

Spend a few hours walk in the city center of Indianapolis to get a more authentic idea for the city. There are tons of activities to choose, so you are sure to satisfy even the most difficult members of your group.

The types of outdoor sport will want to hit theIndianapolis cultural trail first. The eight-mile path connects the six cultural districts in downtown Indianapolis and can be explored on foot or by bicycle. Extended parks and outdoor places are also available for even more time outside.

If you want to change speed, you can always head to some of the most famous restaurants in the neighborhood, such as St. Elmos Steak House, Osteria Prontto or Cerulean, for a good meal. More than 80% of restoration options in the city center in the region are locally owned and exploited.

To shop, you can head to Circle Center Mall. You can also stop in one of the city center museums for a little art and culture.

BottleWorks garage

the garage food hall at bottleworks
Twitter / @ clancys65

The Food Hall garage is located in the BottleWorks district of Indianapolis. Local food sellers line the 30,000 square feet building, selling different types of kitchens, cocktails and goods.

Once you have had your filling, it is worth exploring the surrounding neighborhood. In addition to its expanding food and wine scene, the region is a popular destination for budding artists.

Decorated with industrial buildings and studios spaces, the BottleWorks District offers cinemas, live music and old -fashioned entertainment experiences such as bowling and flipper.

Address: 906 Carrollton avenue, Indianapolis, in, 46202, United States

Indiana medical history museum

indiana medical history museum
Twitter / @imhm

The Indiana medical history museum is located on the field of the old central state hospital. The institution, also known as the "Indiana Hospital for the Insane", opened its doors in 1848. But after a series of scandals surrounding the way patients were treated, the hospital closed its doors For good in 1994. At the highest in the 1950s, almost 2,500 patients were hosted there.

The majority of the museum collection is housed in the old pathology building, the oldest surviving pathology establishment in the country. There, visitors can explore the institution's original teaching amphitheater, bacteriology, clinical chemistry, histology and photography.

There is also a library, a reception room and a record room to check. Those who want to brave it can even visit the autopsy room and the anatomical museum containing preserved specimens ... mainly brains.

In addition to these guided tours, the museum offers special events, exhibitions and programs concerning the history and science of medicine, mental health, judicial sciences and health careers.

Address: 3045 W Vermont St, Indianapolis, in 46222, United States

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Benjamin Harrison's presidential site

benjamin harrison historic site in indianapolis
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Explore the former residence of President Benjamin Harrison. The national historical benchmark, built in 1874, was the place where Harrison lived until his death in 1901 (excluding his years in the White House).

The Harrison family continued to live at the residence in the years that followed until they finally decided to use the house as rental property. Quick advance until 1966, and a foundation was created to manage the house as a historic site, opening it to the public.

The house itself is full of art collections formerly belonging to the Harrison family, as well as furniture on order, 20th century clothes, and more.

Today, individuals can embark on guided tours of property, learning more about the elected president of Indiana country alone. Visitors will appreciate rotating exhibitions of everything, from historic fashion to presidential pets in addition to a variety of events organized on property. There is even a theater group that regularly uses the house as a performance scene!

Address: 6000 n post RD, Indianapolis, in 46216, United States

White river state park

white river state park - things to do in indianapolis
Shutterstock / Rachael Martin

White River's state park covers more than 250 acres of green space, trails, trees and sailors. It also contains some world -class attinations and destinations, including an IMAX theater, a music place and a state museum.

It even houses Victory Field, the official place of the Indian Baseball Team of Indianapolis.

While thestate park is easy to navigate on foot, it is also crossed by the central channel, opening tons of water visits possibilities. Visitors can enjoy a picturesque view of the roofs from a skate pedal, a kayak or a gondolier.

Address: 801 W Washington ST, Indianapolis, in 46204, United States

Indianapolis zoo

indianapolis zoo
Shutterstock / Photo.ua

We have already listed this destination as one of ourFavorite summer activities. The Indianapolis zoo opened its doors in 1964 under the name of "children's children of Washington Park". After moving to White River State Park, the zoo was able to grow up infive times its old size. Under its new name, the zoo was able to house more than 500 animals from the oceans, deserts, plains and forests of the world.

It also maintains a long -standing commitment to conservation. The zoo has even developed a program to reward animal environmentalists who succeed worldwide. The “Indiana price” of $ 250,000 goes to the one that has done the most to combat existing challenges with an impact on the biodiversity of the world. Of course, it is always an advantage of being considered as a finalist. Each finalist receives a generous $ 50,000 for his efforts.

The Indianapolis Zoo also houses the White River Gardens, which houses more than 16,000 native and exotic species. The garden includes a glass closed conservatory, outdoor design gardens, a water garden, 1.5 mile of winding trails and a handful of fountains and characteristics.AE0FCC31AE342FD3A1346EBB1F342FCB

Address: 1200 W Washington ST, Indianapolis, in 46222, United States

Eiteljorg museum

Eiteljorg Museum
Shutterstock / Rachael Martin

Also located in White River State Park, the Eiteljorg museum is committed to celebrating the art, history and culture of the American West and the Aboriginal peoples of North America.

The institution contains the works of famous artists, in particularT.C. Canon,,N. C. Wyeth,,Andy warhol,,Georgie O'Keeffe,,Allan Houser,,Frédéric Remington,,Charles Russell, andKay Walkingstick.

The museum was founded by the Indianapolis businessman and philanthropistHarrison Eiteljorg, officially opening its doors in 1989. Not only is the museum the only one in the Midwest, but it represents one of the two museums east of the Mississippi which present indigenous and Western art.

Address: 500 W Washington ST, Indianapolis, in 46204, United States

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Lucas Oil Stadium

lucas oil stadium in indianapolis indiana
Shutterstock / Themann00

The Lucas Oil Stadium is the home field of the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League. The advanced installation contains more than 70,000 seats for sporting events and concerts.

Extending over 167,225 square meters, the place cost just over $ 720 million to build. Its exterior facade is made up of 980,000 impressive bricks. If they were aligned, they extended over 185 miles - over the same distance from Indianapolis to Chicago. It also contains a unique roof, with two retractable panels.

Even if there is no event planned during your visit, you can always visit the land, its exhibition rooms and the convention space.

Address: 500 s Capitol Ave, Indianapolis, in 46225, United States

Hotel tango

whiskey drinks at Hotel Tango in Indianapolis, IN
Twitter / @Hoteltangoink

The Tango hotel is the only establishment owned and operated by a disabled veteran in the city's combat. FounderTravis Barnes Apply the same precision used during his training to make spirits. His philosophy remains that everything on the menu should be "able to serve and share".

Today you can find everything, vodka and wild rum bourbon, all distilled there. The company even offers a list of recipes for people who wish to recreate some of their staples. Taproom is also open for private events, Trivia nights, samples, festivals, etc.

Address: 702 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis, in 46203, United States

Holliday Park

Holliday Park
Shutterstock / Nicholas J Klein

Holliday Park offers more than 94 acres of green space, playgrounds, hiking trails and wetlands. It also contains a long section of the white river, which serves as a refuge for different forms of wild animals, including bass, crapes arlequin and macroinvertebrates, as well as large blue herons, owls, beaver and red fox . Amateur ornithologists claim to have spotted more than 200 species during hiking in the area.

The other strengths include "The Ruins", remains of the St. Paul Building origin in New York. The revitalized structure now includes a groundwater for children, a shimmering fountain, benches, a rose of trees and a lot of garden space for families.

Concerts, festivals and weddings also often take place in the region.

Address: 6363 Spring Mill RD, Indianapolis, in 46260, United States

The market in the city of Indianapolis

indianapolis city market catacombs
Twitter / @indycm

The market of the city of Indianapolis is another historic site of the city, after having opened its doors in 1886. Today, the market has more than 30 stands of local craftsmen. It is also a popular destination for restaurants, fresh products and retailers.

The market is at the top of one of the best kept secrets in Indianapolis - the Catacombs, a Roman extent of brick arches under the Whistler square in the city market. Visits are available to find out more about the structure and its history.

Address: 222 th Market St, Indianapolis, in 46204, United States

Indianapolis children's museum

Children's Museum of Indianapolis
Shutterstock / Dance light

Recognized as theThe largest children's museum in the world, this is an attraction that you certainly do not want to miss, especially if you visit children.

The Indianapolis children's museum covers over 500,000 square feet and measures five floors. Its 120,000 artefacts are displayed in 15 separate exhibition zones. Visitors will benefit from practical and interactive museum experiences, real replicas at size of dinosaurs with theatrical performance and 3D spaces.

ThisIncredible tourist attraction Also contains an outdoor 7.5 -acre sports park where the whole family can participate in 12 outdoor sports experiences.

Address: 3000 n Meridian St, Indianapolis, in 46208, United States

Indiana repertoire theater

Indiana Repertory Theatre
Shutterstock / F11photo

The Indiana Repertory Theater (IRT) organizes performance for the public of all ages and all horizons. This family activity is an excellent way to digest the best of what the city has to offer in terms of culture and diversity.

The company was founded in 1972 and remains one of the greatest theaters in the state, after providing 110,000 live professional experiences last season. In addition to annual performance, the IRT regularly hosts writing workshops, post-spectacle discussions, behind the scenes and seminars.

Address: 140 W. Washington Street Indianapolis, in 46204, United States

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Indiana War Memorial Plaza

indiana world war memorial plaza
Shutterstock / Roberto Galan

The Indiana War Memorial Plaza works as an urban characteristic constructed originally to honor veterans of the First World War. The region extends over five blocks of the city, with Meridian Street to the west, the main North-South route crossing the center of the city.

The region also contains Indiana War Memorial Museum. The building itself was inspired by the Greek architecture of the 5th century, with a pyramidal dome and ionic columns.

Inside, you will find three main floors. The upper level contains the famous sanctuary room, which has been manufactured using materials from around the world as a means of symbolizing peace and unity. Standing 110 feet high and extending to 60 square feet, the room also contains 24 blood red pillars in marble from Vermont which support the vast ceiling. In the center, you will find the star of Destiny, which is entirely in Swedish crystal.

The ground floor contains exhibition space, administrative offices, two meeting rooms and the Pershing auditorium.

Visitors will also find a free military museum dedicated to Indiana veterans. The elements exposed include USSIndianapolis (CA-35) Gallery, many military weapons and uniforms, an AH-1 Cobra attack helicopter and hundreds of other artefacts, photos and documents.

Address: 55 Michigan ST, Indianapolis, in 46204, United States

Tibbs Drive-In Theater

drive in movie theater
Shutterstock / Baza Production

This family theater and exploited is at the service of the Indianapolis community since 1967 and remains the only cinema behind the wheel of the city. Open from Thursday to Monday, the theater offers the possibility of spending time together with family, couple or even by yourself.

The projections range from current Hollywood versions to the classics of Silver Screen. The theater, which has a total of four screens, is also available for private or business events.

When you arrive, be sure to take some snacks on the concession stand. You can even bring your four -legged friends! Dogs are allowed, although they have to stay on a leash.

Address: 480 s Tibbs Ave, Indianapolis, in 46241, United States

The benchmark for peace

landmark for peace in indianapolis, IN
Twitter / @ Kennedyking1968

The benchmark for peace is located in Dr. Martin Lurther King Jr. Park. He is adjacent to the site whereRobert Kennedy delivered his speech on the night of King's assassination.

Indianapolis writerGreg R. Perry submitted a concept of design that was chosen in a pool of 50 submissions. The monument, which was dedicated in 1995 by the presidentBill Clinton, is built from two large cor-ten steel slabs, cut with the contours of Kennedy and King heading towards the other. SculptureDaniel Edwards helped give life to the vision.

Address: 601 East 17th Street Indianapolis, in 46202, United States

Historic district of Lockerbie Square

lockerbie historic district in indianapolis
Shutterstock / Sergey Novikov

The historic Lockerbie Square district of Indiana arrived on the map in 1847. Its name comes fromGeorge M. Lockerbie, a rich resident of Indianapolis who arrived for the first time in the city in 1831.

Between 1855 and 1930, significant industrialization began in the region. Many residential, commercial, religious and educational structures built during this period remain standing today.

In 1960, the revitalization of the district began, which led to the first preservation zone of the historic district in Indianapolis. In 1973, the district was registered in the national register of historic places.

There was also a considerable German presence in the region, supported by what was originally called Das Deutsche Haus-Atheneum, one of the oldest clubs in Indianapolis, and two surviving churches.

Lilly house and gardens

Lilly House and Gardens in Indianapolis
Twitter / @NewfieldSTODAY

Located on the Newfields campus, the Lilly house and the gardens extend over 26 acres. The 20th century campaign area was initially founded by the Landon family in 1907 and bought by the Lilly family in 1932. The French -inspired house also contains greenhouses and other support buildings.

The majority of furniture and decorative art objects found in the house belonged to the Lilly family and were regularly used during their stay at the residence. Today, the building is often used to organize a variety of public events and programs.

Visitors can enjoy an impressive view of the landscape and the upper level gardens. The land was initially designed by the landscape architectural firm renowned Olmsted Brothers.

The lower level contains a garage, which has a car from the beginning of the 20th century on loan to Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum

Address: 4000 N Michigan RD, Indianapolis, in 46208, United States

Beef & Boards Dinner Theater

beef & boards theater in indianapolis
Twitter / @Beefandboards

The Beef & Boards Theater Dinner offers pleasure, food and entertainment to the inhabitants of Indianapolis since 1973. The name has been inspired by the roast of hand carved, traditionally served before the performances, as well as the boards Or the scene of a theater.

The location of Indianapolis marks the only surviving theater of what was part of a chain developed by the entrepreneur of LouisvilleJ. Scott Talbott. The public can enjoy Broadway shows, plays and theater productions for children acclaimed throughout the year. Last season, the company attracted more than 155,000 guests.

Address: 9301 Michigan Rd. Indianapolis, in 46268, United States

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Wrap

This is almost everything for our list of things to do in Indianapolis, but be sure to come back with us soon!Travel, supported byBetter life, is committed to helping you find your next adventure. SignFor our newsletter For advice supported by experts to navigate our favorite American destinations!

Faq

For what is Indianapolis famous?

Indianapolis is best known for welcoming the largest sporting event of a day in the world, the Indy 500. The 500 -mile motor racing has completely become the show, with speeds exceeding 220 miles per hour. People travel from all over the world to live the tradition, which started in 1911.

What are the best things to do in Indianapolis for children?

Indianapolis is an incredibly family city, with tons of activities for children. Here are some of our favorites:

  • Make a picnic in Eagle Creek Park
  • Explore the Indiana State Museum
  • See a race for Indianapolis Motor Speedway
  • Visit the Indiana children's museum (the largest in the world!)
  • Take a show at the Beef & Boards Dinner Theater
  • Take a course at the Indianapolis Art Center
  • Buy around the city center of Indy

What are the best things to do in Indianapolis for couples?

While Indianapolis is an ideal place to visit with the family, it also has many opportunities for couples. Some of the most romantic activities that the city has to offer include:

  • Enjoy a Down Eagle Creek gondolier stroll
  • Visit love sculpture at the Indianapolis art museum in Newfields
  • Register for an art course in the Indianapolis Art Center
  • Organize a romantic dinner at the 1933 show
  • Finish the Tyrolean's route to Eagle Creek Park
  • Stop at the Indianapolis city market to explore the catacombs
  • Take a walk in the magnificent Holliday park

What are the best things to do in Indianapolis for adults?

There are a lot to do in Indianapolis for adults, distilleries at world class museums. Consult the list below for more ideas:

  • Take advantage of a tasting at the Tango Distillery hotel
  • Discover Western and Amerindian cultures at the Eiteljorg Museum
  • Bike The Indianapolis Cultural Trail
  • Wander in the historic district of Northside
  • Rent a kayak in the eagle creek tank
  • Take some pictures at Monument Circle
  • See a game at Lucas Oil Stadium

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