Indianapolis unofficially known as Indy is not only the state capital but also the most populous city of Indiana. This is a typical mid-west city that lies southeast of Lake Michigan on the white river. The climate here is typically that of the east-central Midwest, with hot to warm summers and cold winters, with moderate precipitation which is spread fairly evenly throughout the year. It is the largest city in the state and lies in the heart of a nine-country metropolitan area. Whether you are looking for fun things to do in Indianapolis (Indy) with kids or unique things to do in Indianapolis tonight, you will discover everything here.

Indianapolis is a prominent tourist destination and without a doubt, it is one of the best vacation spots in the world. The city hosts a thrilling range of sporting events, including ‘Indianapolis 500’ a car race held annually. Apart from this world-renowned race, Indy has lush green space, sparkling waterways, extraordinary memorials, and a delightful picturesque view of the city. After having dinner at the waterside, you can even go in for an evening promenade and have splendid sightseeing of the downtown. If you are planning to visit Indianapolis then check out these top things to do in Indianapolis to make the most of your vacation:

• Pay a visit to the monument circle-

On your tour to Indianapolis, visiting Monument Circle or Soldiers and Sailors Monument is a must. This 284 ½ feet monument was built in honor of the soldiers and sailors who fought bravely and fiercely in the Civil War and lost their lives for the sake of their country. This neo-classical monument is encircled by statues, depicting the peril and courage in the battle and a woman holding a torch in front of them symbolizing the glory of the victory and the ultimate freedom for thousands of slaves. You can also visit the civil war museum found within the memorial grounds. A visit to this monument is definitely one of the top things to do in Indianapolis (Indy) this weekend.

• Explore the most famous Indianapolis motor speedway museum-

This place is internationally famous as the motor speedway capital of the world. The most popular car race of the country ‘Indianapolis 500’ is hosted by this motor speedway museum along with two other races. This place is a natural historic landmark that attracts millions of tourists every year. If you visit the city at the right time and if you are lucky enough you can witness the most famous car race itself, otherwise you can go in for guided tours of the museum.

• Enjoy the children’s museum of Indianapolis-

This is the perfect place to visit with your family, and especially when you have kids along with you on your vacation. The museum is full of innovative, interactive, and interesting displays catering to young visitors. Exhibits here are related to topics like science, culture, transportation, and archaeology giving an afternoon full of educational fun to children. One of the biggest hits of this museum is the exhibit of the dinosphere, the world in which dinosaurs used to live millions of years ago. Some other attractions of the museum are music, toys, space travel, and pop culture. Spend a day here full of wonder and exploration.

• Spend your day in the White River State Park-

White River State Park is one of the best and the finest parks to visit in Indiana. Situated in downtown Indianapolis, this beautiful place is a must to visit on your trip to the U.S. The palace is spread across 250 acres of land and boasts lavish green spaces, trails for walking, and peaceful picnic spots. The place is also home to the city’s top tourist attractions like Indianapolis zoo, Baseball Park, Canal walk, Eiteljorg Museum, Indiana state museum, NCAA Hall of Champions, an Imax theatre, and the Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial. No wonder, the park is listed amongst one of the cool things to do in downtown Indianapolis all around the year.

• Visit the terrific Indianapolis zoo-

This 64-acre space is home to about 250 species of 2,000 animals and plant varieties. It plays a major role worldwide in the field of conservation and research. It has a botanical garden, a large park, and an aquarium for visitor’s enjoyment. You will be amused to see the biggest group of orangutans within the zoo; visitors are allowed to interact with them through touch screens at the exhibit.  You can also take a tour to the dolphin pavilion, there you can walk beneath a dome where you can see them playing and swimming. Whether you are on a solo trip or going on a family vacation, the Indianapolis zoo tour is one of the best things to do in Indianapolis (Indy) today.

• See incredible artwork in Eiteljorg Museum of American Indian and Western art-

Named after the founder Harrison Eiteljorg, this museum is located at the entrance of White River State Park, downtown Indianapolis. It exhibits a wide range of interesting items from western cultures and Native Americans from the early 19^th century onwards. Items, objects, and art showcased here are of cultural significance used to educate people on different topics. Kids can also enjoy here by dressing up in authentic costume and you can also purchase a variety of stuff from fabulous gift shop selling within the museum itself. While visiting Indy this place should be there on your to-do list.

• Visit the Indiana state museum-

Indiana state museum is located in downtown Indianapolis’ White river state park. It showcases a variety of exhibits and experiences that tells about the rich natural and cultural history of the state. There are three floors in the museum with impressive architecture and more than 4,52,000 artifacts. You will also find artifacts that tell about the recent Hoosier history and civil wars and also hosts puppet shows for the amusement of children. At the end of the tour, you can also enjoy a delicious meal at the Farmers Market Café, which serves some local Indiana produce to its customers.

• Have a splendid evening at the Beef and Boards dinner theatre-

The best way to make your evening fabulous on your vacation to Indy is to have a delicious dinner with live entertainment at the Beef and Boards dinner theatre. This is a great place where the whole family can enjoy Broadway plays and shows, along with children’s theatre production while having lip-smacking hand-carved roasted beef and delectable desserts.

• Catch a game at the Lucas Oil Stadium-

This is yet another essential attraction in the state of Indiana. a wide range of events is being hosted here if you visit here at the right time, you will be lucky enough to view some. You can watch here Pacers and Colts and the most exciting and entertaining Indy eleven soccer game or watch a concert.  This spectacular stadium can hold up to 67,000 thousand people and has a retractable roof to protect people from sunlight during summers. The stadium boasts a spectacular view of the lit-up skyline during the night. You can also go on a guided tour of the stadium and enjoy the stores and eateries within the structure.

• Get relaxed at the central canal-

This is indeed the best place to relax and enjoy away from the hustle and bustle of downtown. This 250 acres of attractive area boasts a splendid view of the downtown skyline, with plenty of lively cafes, public art, and comfy places where one can sit and enjoy ducks. You can also ride along the 3-mile loop of the waterway on a pedal or can rent a pedal boat or bike for an unforgettable experience. If you are visiting Central Canal with your partner and looking for free things to do in Indianapolis then we would suggest you to book a private gondola ride for a romantic experience. 

• Hit the shops in Fountain Square-

Keep some extra space in your suitcase, as when you will head towards the southeast of downtown Indy you will be able to explore unique and funky Fountain Square. The palace has independent stores from where you can purchase clothes, collectibles, comics, musical instruments, and a brightly colored bouquet. The place also offers a variety of entertainment; you will come across artists at work and can hear the sound of live music playing while browsing through the shops.

What’s next waiting for you?

Whether you are looking for romantic things to do in Indianapolis (Indy) for couples or cheap things to do in Indianapolis, the above travel guide covers everything. The list of best places to visit in Indianapolis mentioned above is well enough to convince you why the city of Indianapolis is worth visiting on your next holiday tour. Now you know what to do in Indianapolis (Indy), you can plan your journey with utmost comfort.

Apart from visiting Indy go ahead and plan your trip to the neighboring cities in the state of Indiana with full enthusiasm. You can also check out our USA travel guide for more traveling tips and guides.

About Author: Ayushi Malhotra