Indianapolis

Indiana

United States

North America

Whether you're in town for the weekend or passing through on a road trip, there are several fascinating things to do in Indianapolis.

Downtown Indianapolis is home to culture, history and a rapidly developing tourism industry. The vibrant and diverse city honors its past while celebrating the changing faces of its community. Whether you're in town for the weekend or passing through on a road trip, there are several fascinating things to do in Indianapolis.
<h2>1. Take the Indianapolis Culture Trail</h2>
When downtown, don't miss out on the chance to bike the most scenic and inspiring route in town. The Indianapolis Culture Trail is an 8-mile walking and cycling path that connects cultural districts, venues and attractions. While the trail makes traveling through downtown a lot more convenient, it's true appeal is the way it has brought the surrounding communities together. Millions of dollars in public art and lush greenery line the road, as well as restaurants and cafés, providing miles of social spaces and beautiful urban landscapes.

[caption id="attachment_36778" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/509255787.jpg" alt="The Indianapolis Cultural Trail Winds along the Central Canal." width="1200" height="800" /> alexeys / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Admire Downtown's Murals</h2>
Art is an integral part of Indianapolis culture, and the city has invested tremendously in local projects to bring the community together. Indianapolis artist Pamela Bliss paints murals celebrating locally-grown heroes and legends. On Michigan Street, her depiction of Indiana Pacers superstar Reggie Miller is a stunning tribute to the former Guard. Artist ALKEMI worked with the community to complete a stunning, photorealistic mural of Indianapolis-based poet and artist, Mari Evans, on Massachusetts Avenue. Be sure to pack your walking shoes and hit the pavement to admire these impressive works of art.

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<h2>3. Celebrate Diversity in Lafayette Square</h2>
When major chain retailers pulled out of the Lafayette Square shopping complex in the 1990s, they left behind dozens of empty buildings and desolate parking lots. Ethnic restaurants and grocers began filling the vacuum, forever changing the face of the neighborhood while growing the economy. Today, the area known as the International Marketplace in Lafayette Square covers 2 square miles, with numerous international grocery stores and shops, and over 80 restaurants providing a taste of the world. To get there, take the bus from downtown near Monument Circle, or ride a bike the seven miles along the Indianapolis Culture Trail.

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<h2>4. Experience a Piece of American History</h2>
The Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site celebrates one of Indiana's most prestigious and accomplished citizens: Benjamin Harrison. His elegant, 10,000 square foot Victorian-style home remains decorated with original furniture, paintings, political memorabilia and other artifacts. There are also rotating exhibits throughout the year, focusing on stories from American history. If you're in town on the first Friday of the month, try making reservations for Coffee with the Curator. This monthly event is an opportunity to learn more about the history of the U.S. presidency and gain exclusive access to unexpected artifacts.

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<h2>5. Get a 360-Degree View of the City</h2>
The true heart of Downtown Indianapolis resides at the center of Monument Circle. The plaza is usually crowded with locals enjoying lunch on the weekdays, or tourists paying their respects to the 285-foot tall Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument. The neoclassical obelisk, dedicated in 1902, commemorates the bravery of Hoosier veterans that served in all wars before World War II. Climb the stairs to the observation deck for 360-degree views of the city free of charge, then stick around for the light show. Shining a Light, a seasonally-themed production, begins at dusk 365 days a year.

[caption id="attachment_36782" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/1062949994.jpg" alt="Monument Circle is home to an observation deck with 360-degree views of Indianapolis." width="1200" height="801" /> Sean Pavone / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. See the Greatest Racecourse in the World</h2>
Every Memorial Day Weekend, fans from all over the globe gather in Indianapolis for the largest single-day sporting event in the world. Located just five miles from downtown, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is home to the world-famous Indy 500 as well as NASCAR and similar racing events. During the offseason, you'll find concerts and music festivals on the calendar, as well as the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum for diehard fans of auto racing. Travelers hoping for a bucket list adventure may wish to save up for the Indy Racing Experience. This ticket buys you a shotgun seat in a real race car with a professional driver. Travel at speeds up to 180 mph an inch above the ground, and walk away with some of the best vacation photos ever.

[caption id="attachment_36783" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/173015172.jpg" alt="The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is one of the most famous racecourses in the world." width="1200" height="800" /> Onfokus / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Take a Romantic Stroll Along the Central Canal</h2>
Stretching from Washington to 11th Street, the Central Canal Walk is a scenic waterside promenade serving locals and tourists alike. The three-mile loop through the Canal and White River State Park District is perfect for burning off those extra vacation calories or taking a break between visiting tourist destinations. From sports venues to museums and architectural surprises, White River State Park has something for everyone in the Circle City. Go for a morning jog past the museums and gardens downtown, or take a sunset ride in a gondola. Be sure to charge your smartphone or camera, as you'll find plenty of Instagrammable spots along the way.

[caption id="attachment_36784" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/173037518.jpg" alt="The Central Canal is a peaceful respite from the activity of Downtown Indianapolis." width="1200" height="800" /> tomograf / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Take the White River Trail to Newfields</h2>
While Indianapolis is famous for its sports teams, the Indiana Pacers and the Indianapolis Colts, the city also values its developing arts culture and appreciation of nature. Newfields is a 152-acre campus just north of central downtown, and home to the Indianapolis Museum of Art, beer gardens, a 100-acre art and nature park, and historic sites. Spend the afternoon picnicking on the green, or enjoy a free tour of the IMA's gardens on summer weekends. The most scenic route to Newfields from downtown is by way of the White River Trail. The path leads from Monument Circle and follows the river for seven miles past public artwork and green spaces.

[caption id="attachment_36785" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/137860898.jpg" alt="The Lilly Mansion is a gorgeous 26-acre estate at Newfields in Indianapolis." width="1200" height="797" /> efairhurst / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Visit the Site of a Historic Moment</h2>
On April 4, 1968, Democratic Party candidate Robert F. Kennedy arrived in Indianapolis to address voters at a campaign rally. Instead, he broke the news of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination to a shocked crowd, improvising a speech calling for compassion and wisdom in difficult times. Many have recognized Kennedy for bringing peace to Indianapolis on that fateful night. The Landmark for Peace memorial at Martin Luther King Jr. Park beautifully commemorates that moment at the very site of Kennedy's speech.

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<h2>10. Indulge in an Indiana Delicacy</h2>
The pork tenderloin sandwich was not invented in Indiana, but locals enjoy this dish so much it's considered the unofficial state sandwich. An updated take on traditional German schnitzel, tenderized pork loin is breaded in cracker crumbs, deep-fried to a golden brown and served with condiments on a small-but-mighty bun. There's no wrong way to eat this sandwich, either. Locals will often eat around the edges, cut the sandwich in half, or trim the excess meat to assemble a thicker sandwich. Nick's Kitchen in Huntington popularized the original Indiana recipe, but you can find this delicious Indy staple throughout downtown.

[caption id="attachment_36787" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/515432528.jpg" alt="The pork tenderloin sandwich is considered the unofficial sandwich of Indiana" width="1200" height="675" /> DarcyMaulsby / Getty Images[/caption]

Get Your Heart Racing in Downtown Indianapolis

When most people think of Indianapolis, the first thing that comes to mind is usually the Indy 500 annual car racing event. And not much beyond that. But with its perfect amalgamation of towering skyscrapers and natural beauty, Indianapolis is full of surprises and definitely worth visiting in your lifetime.

When most people think of Indianapolis, the first thing that comes to mind is usually the Indy 500 annual car racing event. And not much beyond that. But Indiana’s largest city is so much more than just a racetrack. Indy, as its residents affectionately call it, might not have the sweeping skylines or the bustling population of flashier metropolises; but it is arguably one of the most beautiful cities in America, in its own understated way. With its perfect amalgamation of towering skyscrapers and natural beauty, Indianapolis is full of surprises and definitely worth visiting in your lifetime.
<h2>1. Spare some time for duckpin bowling</h2>
First popularized on the east coast in the early 1900s, duckpin bowling has all but fizzled out. Yet the game still survives and thrives in all its old school glory in Indianapolis’ Fountain Square Theater Building, which devotes two of its floors to it. Duckpin bowling balls are slightly smaller than softballs and have no finger holes, and the pins are short and squat, making this vintage version of bowling slightly more challenging than traditional ten-pin. For this reason, bowlers are generously allowed three frames instead of the usual two.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1028752" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_137977682.jpg" alt="Red bowling ball is making a strike on wooden lane" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>2. Race over to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway</h2>
Famous for hosting the Indy 500, the biggest all-day sporting event in the world, this speedway in America’s heartland draws hundreds of thousands of spectators annually. The big race might only happen once a year, but opportunities to explore the raceway from behind the wheel abound. And the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, located onsite, is a must-see.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1028753" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_1104350462.jpg" alt="pit road service during the Indianapolis 500 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis, Indiana." width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>3. Marvel at the Allison Mansion</h2>
Built in the early 20th century by James Allison, co-founder of the Indy 500, this elaborate estate features a sunken conservatory, a music room with a two-story pipe organ, and an aviary with Tiffany stained glass windows that formerly housed exotic birds. Outside the majestic manor, you can enjoy tranquil ponds, manicured landscapes, greenhouses, and orchards, all of which rest on a cliff which overlooks wetlands. Allison clearly spared no expense on his home turf, and it shows.

[caption id="attachment_1028754" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1028754" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/deb-metz-333072-unsplash-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="683" /> Photo by deb metz on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>4. Taste a tenderloin sandwich</h2>
Pork tenderloin sandwiches are made with a thinly pounded seasoned pork cutlet that has been breaded and then deep fried, very similar to Wiener Schnitzel. These addictive sandwiches are an Indiana staple and are hugely popular all across the Midwest. You can find them in eateries all over Indianapolis, so make sure to try one when you’re in town.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1028755" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_719968276.jpg" alt="Fried pork tenderloin sandwich with fries" width="1000" height="826" />


<h2>5. Comb through the catacombs</h2>
Indianapolis has quite the underground scene, but not in the way you might think. Beneath City Market lies a network of mysteriously interconnected catacombs which were constructed in the 1880s, and are easily some of the best preserved in the world. This 20,000 square foot network of subterranean tunnels were originally used to transport meat and produce in the days before refrigeration. You can experience the city’s dark side from May through October, the first and third Saturdays of each month. Make sure you book tickets a day in advance online.

<img class="alignnone wp-image-1028740 size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/157196015-1024x683.jpg" alt="Catacombs" width="1024" height="683" />


<h2>6. Reflect on the reclaimed ruins of a New York skyscraper</h2>
Holliday Park would be magical even if it <i>wasn’t</i> dotted with the remains of a demolished New York City skyscraper, but it is. These remains also make it one of Indianapolis’s most compelling attractions. The park’s acres of natural beauty and reflecting pools will make you feel like you’ve stepped straight into a fairytale. Especially when you come across rows of Greek columns, limestone statues, and ornate stone pedestals that have been repurposed as park benches. These striking architectural features once adorned the St. Paul skyscraper in NYC, built in 1898 and torn down in the 1950s.

[caption id="attachment_1028756" align="alignnone" width="768"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1028756" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/kara-eads-1594958-unsplash-1-768x1024.jpg" alt="" width="768" height="1024" /> Photo by Kara Eads on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>7. Check out the largest children’s museum in the world</h2>
You’re never too old to fall in love with Indianapolis’ larger than life children’s museum. From the moment you see the enormous dinosaur out front, standing up against the museum to peer through the windows. Covering 472,000 square feet and 29 acres of land, this massive museum is the biggest in the world. It features year-round and rotating exhibits, world-class shows and events that will reawaken childlike wonder in even the most cynical soul.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1028757" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_1287405676.jpg" alt="Children's Museum Dinosphere T-Rex and Triceratops dinosaur fossil skeleton bones fighting in epic battle" width="1000" height="585" />


<h2>8. Escape to Eagle Creek Park</h2>
One of the largest municipal parks in the country, this breathtaking natural landmark spans across 3,900 acres of land and 1,400 acres of water in northern Indianapolis. With unbelievably beautiful hikes through lush woodlands and incredible water attractions, like canoeing and kayaking, this sublime oasis will make you forget you’re in the middle of the city.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1028758" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_1330646807.jpg" alt="Fall Foliage" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>9. Eat in Indianapolis’ oldest restaurant</h2>
Located on Mass Ave, The Rathskeller, which opened its doors in 1894, is the city’s oldest restaurant still in operation today. Built to resemble a Bavarian inn as well as a Munich beer hall, the storied German restaurant is part of the historic Athenaeum, Indianapolis’ enormous and ornate German-American clubhouse. But don’t let its age fool you. With a fantastic variety of craft and German beers, a huge menu, and many themed dining rooms, The Rathskeller is as thriving as ever. Don’t forget to check out the Biergarten out back.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1028759" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_1237110622.jpg" alt="Pretzel and beer at night" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>10. Savor a slice of sugar cream pie</h2>
Going by the name alone, it’s no secret that Indiana’s unofficial state dessert is a sweet tooth’s dream come true. Sugar cream pie was originally dubbed “desperation pie” when it was invented in the 19th century.  Its lack of seasonal ingredients meant it could be made year round and could feed large crowds without spoiling too quickly; the original recipe doesn’t even call for eggs. There’s no shortage of sugar cream pie in Indiana. Sadly, it’s fairly rare elsewhere -- so make sure to savor a slice while you’re there.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1028760" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_1040682082.jpg" alt="Indianapolis, Indiana, USA skyline over Soliders' and Sailors' Monument at dusk" width="1000" height="667" />

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