What to do in Indianapolis, IN

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit 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.

Areas & Neighborhoods

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.

Things to Do & Attractions 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!

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Recommended things to do in Indianapolis

Number of things to do	24
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia	Smartphone Guided Indianapolis City centre Sites Audio Walking Tour: £8
Top 5 things to do	Indiana Pacers Basketball Game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse Children's Museum of Indianapolis In-App Audio Tour Axe Throwing in Indianapolis Wicked Wraiths of White River: Indianapolis Ghost Tour Fluid Art Experience
Half-day tours	Indiana Pacers Basketball Game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse Children's Museum of Indianapolis In-App Audio Tour Axe Throwing in Indianapolis Wicked Wraiths of White River: Indianapolis Ghost Tour Fluid Art Experience
With kids	Wicked Wraiths of White River: Indianapolis Ghost Tour Resin Tumbler Experience Smartphone Guided Indianapolis City centre Sites Audio Walking Tour An Epic Art Walk in Indianapolis : Mile Square Madcap Adventure Japanese Street Food Class in Beech Grove

What to do in Indianapolis

Popular places to visit

Lucas Oil Stadium

Catch an event at Lucas Oil Stadium during your trip to Indianapolis. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene or attend a sporting event.

Bankers Life Fieldhouse which includes signage

Gainbridge Fieldhouse

Catch an event at Gainbridge Fieldhouse during your trip to Indianapolis. Experience the area's fascinating museums or attend a sporting event.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway

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

Indiana Convention Center

During your trip, find out what's happening in Indiana Convention Center, a top convention centre in Indianapolis. Experience the area's fascinating museums and acclaimed art galleries.

Children's Museum of Indianapolis

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

Indianapolis Zoo

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

Indiana State Fairgrounds

Enjoy a stop at Indiana State Fairgrounds, an entertaining place to visit in Indianapolis. Experience the area's great live music or attend a sporting event.

Old National Centre

Learn about the local history of Indianapolis with a stop at Old National Centre. Discover the area's entertainment choices and notable monuments.

Lucas Oil Raceway as well as a small group of people

Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park

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

Explore areas of Indianapolis

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

Downtown Indianapolis

4.5/5(3 area reviews)

Attend professional sports events, tour parks filled with museums and historical landmarks and enjoy both traditional and contemporary theater scenes.

Mile Square

The fascinating museums and prominent monuments are top of the list for many visitors to Mile Square. A stop by Monument Circle or Circle Center Mall might round out your trip.

Indiana Repertory Theatre which includes signage and interior views

Wholesale District

While visiting Wholesale District, you might make a stop by sights like Circle Center Mall and Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

Lucas Oil Stadium which includes a statue or sculpture

Babe Denny

While Babe Denny may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Lucas Oil Stadium and Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

Fountain Square

If you're spending some time in Fountain Square, Fountain Square Theatre and Indianapolis Museum of Contemporary Art are top sights worth seeing.

Old Southside

While Old Southside may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Lucas Oil Stadium and Victory Field.

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.

Day trip destinations from Indianapolis

Fishers

Shelbyville

Bloomington

Avon

Eagle creek runs through a park in Indiana with an old, usused, arched bridge visible in the background

Zionsville

Unionville

Frequently asked questions

Is Indianapolis worth visiting?

From retail therapy to outdoor pursuits and history, there are plenty of great things to do in Indianapolis. Remember to enjoy the area's mix of awesome sights, local charm and culture.

How do I spend a day in Indianapolis?

Children's Museum of Indianapolis and Indianapolis Zoo are two good places to kick-start your sightseeing adventures. Be sure to explore the dining and shopping options in Indianapolis while you're in town too.

What is the top tourist attraction in Indianapolis?

Don't leave without visiting Children's Museum of Indianapolis, rated the top tourist attraction in Indianapolis.

Is three days enough to stay in Indianapolis?

Three days will be enough time to check out the leading city sights, including Children's Museum of Indianapolis, Indianapolis Zoo and White River State Park. The average stay in Indianapolis is two days. If you have the time to extend your adventure, Plainfield isn't far away.

Is Indianapolis a walkable city?

That depends on what you plan to see and do in Indianapolis. Several attractions, including Children's Museum of Indianapolis and Indianapolis Zoo, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Indianapolis's neighbourhoods, Downtown Indianapolis is 0.64 kms (0.40 miles) away from downtown, while Mile Square is 0.16 kms (0.10 miles) away from the city centre and also within walking distance.

What are some activities to do in Indianapolis with kids?

Deciding what to do in Indianapolis with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're travelling with teenagers or little ones, there are many family-friendly tours and attractions to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in Indianapolis for adults?

Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food lover or outdoor adventurer, there's no shortage of things to do in Indianapolis for adults including Gainbridge Fieldhouse and Indiana State Fairgrounds.

Are there free things to do in Indianapolis?

In Indianapolis, White River Gardens is an unmissable spot for anyone wishing to experience the city without taking their wallet out. Also, check out the local parks and neighbourhoods, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's a simple way to discover the best free things to do in Indianapolis.