WanderAlyssa PonticelloUSAComment

A Guide to Indianapolis, Indiana

WanderAlyssa PonticelloUSAComment
A Guide to Indianapolis, Indiana

A Guide to Indianapolis, Indiana

 

Indianapolis, Indiana, is more than just the capital city of the Hoosier State. Often referred to as the "Crossroads of America," it’s a vibrant city with a rich blend of history, culture, and exciting attractions. Whether you’re a sports fan, art lover, foodie, or nature enthusiast, the city offers something for everyone. From iconic landmarks and Indianapolis attractions like the Indianapolis Motor Speedway to charming neighborhoods like Broad Ripple, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. And personally, I think it’s one of the most underrated gems in the heart of the Midwest.

Now, something you may or may not know about me is that I grew up in the Indianapolis area. Yes, I consider the Berkshires to be home-home, but Indy comes in at a close second and will always have a special place in my heart. After all, it is where Dave and I met.

My family moved to the Indianapolis area when I was 10 so I lived there until I went away for college, along with a brief stint post-college before meeting Dave and moving back to the east coast. To this day, my immediate family is still in the area, along with friends I grew up with and keep in touch with, so I still go back to visit (not as often as my mom would like, sorry Mom), and keep a pulse of what’s going on in the area thanks to them.

All that to say, making note of all my favorite places in the area and creating a guide to Indianapolis was long overdue. Of course, when I go home, I’m going to be home, so this isn’t the most comprehensive guide by any means. More a list of spots I and my family love and we’ve enjoyed over the years or that I’ve discovered when going back to visit (Shout out to my brother for always knowing what’s up and introducing us to so many new gems).

It’s sometimes hard for me to comprehend the dynamic and diverse city that Indianapolis has grown into. Believe it or not, when we first moved there, way back when, the town we lived in just north of the city (Hi Zionsville!) was really only a little Main Street area and a handful of homes and developments, still largely farmland. But these days, when I go back, I’m always overwhelmed by all the new things and happenings, all the makers and creators opening little shops and hip coffee spots, farm-to-table restaurants and local breweries. I truly can’t believe how much it has changed and grown and been built up and I always love going back to visit and explore and see what the area has blossomed into.

And, of course, now I’m excited to pass along all my recommendations to you. Whether you’re going to visit family or friends, like me, going for work, planning for a longer visit or just going for a weekend getaway, Indy has something to offer every type of traveler. In this Indianapolis travel guide, I’ll take you through my personal local favorites as well as must-see cultural attractions, top landmarks, outdoor activities, the best dining spots, and hidden gems to make the most of your visit. I hope you find this guide to be helpful for your time in the heart of the Hoosier State.

 
 

INDIANAPOLIS TRAVEL GUIDE

 
 

Why Visit Indianapolis?

Known as the "Crossroads of America," Indianapolis sits at the intersection of major highways, making it an accessible destination for road trips. But what really makes Indy shine is its blend of urban energy and Midwest charm. From its world-class museums to its dynamic food scene, Indianapolis is a city that invites exploration. It's also a hub for sports, particularly motor racing, thanks to the famous Indianapolis 500 race held annually at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. But the city is more than just a motorsports mecca; it offers a variety of activities ranging from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, making it a fantastic destination for all types of travelers.

 

WHERE TO EAT + DRINK

 

WHERE TO EAT + DRINK IN INDIANAPOLIS

Indianapolis has a burgeoning food scene that is sure to impress even the most discerning foodies. From farm-to-table restaurants to ethnic cuisine, here are some popular dining options:

COFFEE SHOPS

 

AMBERSON

My brother insisted on taking us here on our most recent trip back to Indy and wow am I glad he did! Obsessed with this coffee shop! Get the date latte, and if you want food, don’t skip the breakfast sandwich. High quality ingredients, everything done in-house and incredible sustainability efforts (they don’t have, nor have ever had, single use plastic cups). They also have a little market where they sell provisions and local goods.

PARLOR PUBLIC HOUSE

A coffee shop by day, bar by night. Fun vibe, lots of space, an expansive beverage menu, great place to work. But heads up, parking can sometimes be a bit challenging as their lot is small. However, there is usually plenty of metered parking on the street.

COAT CHECK

Located in the historic Athenaeum on Mass Ave, everything is done in-house and freshly roasted and made. Their pistachio and butterscotch lattes are especially incredible! If you’ve read this post then you’ve already seen me mention this coffee shop and how much we love them.

BOVACONTI COFFEE

Great little locally owned shop in the Fountain Square area.

BARISTA PARLOUR

My favorite Nashville coffee shop now has a location in Indy, in The Stutz

 

BAKERIES + BREADS

  • AMELIA’S

    Sourdough and European-style bakery; probably one of my family’s favorites and most frequented places and a spot that is considered to have some of the best pastries in the city; they have a few locations around the city

  • LEVIATHAN

    A great bakery spot for grabbing breakfast or a light lunch (The MEG is really yummy!) and they have phenomenal breads, especially their milk bread (which often sells out quickly because that’s how good it is)

  • CITY CIRCLE SWEETS

    For pastries and sweet treats; considered to have some of the best croissants in the city; they also offer baking classes

  • SIDEDOOR BAGELS

    Admittedly I haven’t yet tried these bagels, but they look and sound amazing and it’s on my list to try next time I’m back

 
 

MEALS

  • BLUEBEARD (DINNER)

    For a refined yet approachable dining experience, head to Bluebeard, a popular farm-to-table restaurant in the heart of Indy, and what I personally think is one of the best restaurants in Indianapolis. With a rotating menu focused on seasonal, local and fresh ingredients from local farmers and makers, plus fun cocktails and a great wine list and a hip, rustic ambiance, this cozy little spot is perfect for a dinner date or a night out with friends.

  • Milktooth (BRUNCH, LUNCH)

    Located in the Fletcher Place neighborhood, Milktooth is an innovative brunch spot that serves up creative dishes made with local ingredients. Try their signature Bloody Mary or a plate of their famous biscuits and gravy.

  • TRADERS POINT CREAMERY (CASUAL BRUNCH AND PROVISIONS, UPSCALE DINNER)

    There are a lot of ways to enjoy this beautiful farm and creamery. Have brunch or dinner at their restaurant, get ice cream at the dairy bar, shop the farm store, explore the gardens and so much more.

  • KINGDOUGH (CASUAL DINNER)

    Chill spot with yummy handmade pizzas (we loved the Fungi Ricky and the Gabba Ghoul); they have a few locations around the greater Indianapolis area

  • ST. ELMO’S (APPROACHABLE UPSCALE DINNER)

    An Indianapolis institution, St. Elmo Steak House is famous for its signature shrimp cocktail and mouth-watering steaks. Located downtown, this upscale restaurant has been serving patrons since 1902 and remains a local favorite. Definitely a classic Indianapolis dining experience that should not be missed.. Obviously the shrimp cocktail is a must, I love that they do their dirty martinis with bleu cheese stuffed olives and don’t forget to ask for a bread breakfast. The steaks are huge so you can definitely share one between two people along with a few sides.

  • RH (UPSCALE BRUNCH, LUNCH, DINNER)

    A stunning spot to enjoy brunch, lunch or dinner. Go early and grab a glass of wine, a coffee or tea beverage from the wine bar and enjoy it around the property (or outside on the veranda overlooking the water). You can also go just for drinks.

  • NOAH GRANT’S (UPSCALE DINNER)

    For oysters and a more upscale dinner

  • EL ARADO (CASUAL DINNER)

    Our friends took us here last time we were in town and it was delicious! Great authentic Mexican cuisine, family run, huge menu. We split the Super Donkey Burrito (lol @ the name) and it was indeed super (and definitely more than enough for two people to share).

  • PATACHOU (CASUAL BREAKFAST, LUNCH)

    A popular fast casual spot founded in 1989 by six-time James Beard Foundation semifinalist Martha Hoover that now has several locations around the city; great for breakfast, brunch or lunch and also great for groups

  • ROSIE’S PLACE (CASUAL BREAKFAST, BRUNCH, LUNCH, GRAB AND GO, PASTRIES)

    Great for grabbing a coffee and a small bite or baked good for breakfast or lunch; they have locations in Zionsville, Carmel and Noblesville

  • SMOKING GOOSE (CASUAL LUNCH, PROVISIONS)

    A local spot known for their cured meats, salami and sausages that partners with small, family farms in Indiana and neighboring states raising animals as nature intended. You’ll see their items on a lot of local menus, including Kingdough’s, who has a location across from their smokehouse; stop at their shop for a sandwich, salad, charcuterie spread or tinned fished board and leave with meat, cheese and other local provisions; fyi, they also ship nationwide.

 
 

BREWERIES + BARS

  • GUGGMAN HAUS

    Family-owned and family-friendly very chill microbrewery with several locations around the city; I really like their Into the Wild sour beers

  • CHILLY WATER

    Another local brewery with a couple of locations; they also serve food

  • HOTEL TANGO DISTILLERY

    Veteran owned distillery specializing in bourbons, whiskeys and spirits; you can visit their tasting room to try their spirits, or get a drink and some food

  • THE VAULT

    A fun little speakeasy serving up old school cocktails

  • SOLELY WINE

    A natural wine bar serving low intervention and small producer wines; they just opened recently so I haven’t been yet but this is another recommendation coming via my brother

  • THE INFERNO ROOM

    Tiki vibes, tropical drinks and island-inspired cuisine

  • THE CANNONBALL LOUNGE

    Rooftop lounge located downtown at HOTEL INDY that’s serving up small bites and beverages with a view

  • CHATTERBOX

    A Mass Ave. jazz bar that’s been around since 1896!! Cocktails, bites and live music every night.

  • The Slippery Noodle Inn

    Known as Indiana’s oldest bar, this historic location hosts local bands and serves up delicious food and drinks in a laid-back atmosphere. If you're looking for a lively spot with great live music, The Slippery Noodle Inn is the place to be.

 

THINGS TO DO

 

THINGS TO DO IN INDIANAPOLIS

Top Attractions

  • INDIANAPOLIS ZOO

    Located in White River State Park, the Indianapolis Zoo is one of the top-rated zoos in the country. It features over 1,400 animals and offers a range of exhibits from marine life to African lions. Don’t miss the Dolphin Presentation or the Wild Sea exhibit, and, if you’re visiting during the holidays, the Christmas at the Zoo special is not to be missed!

  • STUCKEY FARMS

    A you-pick farm that’s great from summer through apple picking in the fall; they also host events and farm-to-table dinners

  • BOTTLEWORKS DISTRICT

    A one stop shop if you will with a food hall, restaurants, a bowling alley, a movie theater and more; there’s even a hotel right there if you want to stay in the area

  • BUTLER UNIVERSITY

    A lovely campus to walk around

  • HOLCOMB OBSERVATORY

    The observatory and planetarium located at Butler; they offer public viewings and tours on select weekends, which can be quite fascinating and I highly recommend.

  • Monument Circle & Soldiers and Sailors Monument

    Indianapolis is home to the iconic Soldiers and Sailors Monument, located in the heart of downtown. Standing 284 feet tall, the monument commemorates Indiana’s veterans and offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.

  • Indianapolis Motor Speedway

    No trip to Indianapolis is complete without a visit to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, says the girl who has never been to the speedway. Ha! However, I know it’s one of the main reasons that people visit the city and for good reason. Home of the iconic Indianapolis 500, this historic racetrack is a must-see for motorsport fans. You can tour the speedway, visit the museum, and even try out the track for yourself if you time your visit right.

  • The Children's Museum of Indianapolis

    If you’re visiting with kids…this is one of the largest and most exciting children’s museums in the world and is perfect for families. From space exploration exhibits to dinosaur displays, the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis has it all. Interactive exhibits ensure that kids of all ages stay entertained while learning. This was one of my favorite places to go as a kid!

MUSEUMS + Cultural Hotspots

  • RH INDIANAPOLIS

    The property is just unreal. Absolutely stunning! Of course you can grab a drink or go to eat, but you can also go and simply walk around and take in the the art, architecture and the stunning grounds.

  • NEWFIELDS ART MUSEUM

    A cultural treasure, the Indianapolis Museum of Art (IMA) is known for its diverse collection, which includes works of European, American, and contemporary art. But there’s so much more than just art on the campus. They have stunning grounds and gardens, with ample spots for picnics and exploring, they have a lovely greenhouse, you can enjoy a meal in the cafe, tour the beautiful Lilly House as well as enjou performances, film screenings, photos walks and so much more. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in town!

  • Eiteljorg Museum

    Another museum that I love is the Eiteljorg, which is a beautiful museum where you can explore the diverse arts, cultures, and history of the American West and the Indigenous peoples of North America. Its collection includes more than 40,000 objects, including contemporary and historic artworks. Highly recommend!

  • The Old National Centre

    This historic venue hosts concerts, Broadway shows, and live events. With its ornate design and intimate atmosphere, The Old National Centre is a must-see for music and theater lovers.

  • The Indiana Statehouse

    If you’re a history buff or just enjoy learning about state politics, the Indiana Statehouse is worth a visit. Located in the heart of downtown, this historic building offers free tours that explore Indiana’s political history and architecture.

  • Indiana State Museum

    Immerse yourself in Indiana’s rich history and culture at the Indiana State Museum. From prehistoric fossils to contemporary art, this museum offers diverse exhibits that showcase the state's past, present, and future.

  • Indianapolis Art Center

    Nestled along the White River, the Indianapolis Art Center offers a wide range of art exhibits and classes. It’s an excellent place to explore local talent and immerse yourself in Indianapolis’s thriving art scene.

  • CONNOR PRAIRIE

    Indiana's first Smithsonian affiliated museum, considered a living museum as its kind of like a reenactment of an 1800 somethings village where you can go explore as people go about daily tasks (like making butter, gardening and cooking). You can also explore the grounds, check out one of their many workshops and classes, and in the summer they host Symphony on the Prairie, which is always fun. I also love their Christmas program, when you can visit at night and the homes are all decorated for the holidays. It’s really magical! Side note- I used to volunteer here when I was a kid and it was so much fun!

outdoor activities

  • The Indianapolis Cultural Trail

    The Indianapolis Cultural Trail is an 8-mile path that connects many of the city’s best neighborhoods, parks, and cultural attractions. It’s a perfect way to explore Indy on foot or by bike, with stops at public art displays, art galleries, cafes, and local landmarks along the way.

  • White River State Park

    One of the city’s largest green spaces, White River State Park is perfect for outdoor lovers. With walking trails, picnic areas, and various attractions like the Indianapolis Zoo and the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, it’s a great spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

  • Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Garden

    Garfield Park is one of Indianapolis’ oldest public parks, and its conservatory is a highlight for nature lovers. The Sunken Garden is a tranquil space with beautifully landscaped areas, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet afternoon picnic.

  • EAGLE CREEK

    Great for nature trails and hiking, and they also have picnic areas, soccer fields and a nature center

  • CANAL WALK

    One of the most beautiful spots in Indianapolis is the Canal Walk, a three-mile loop around the scenic Central Canal. It’s perfect for walking, biking, or even renting a paddleboat in the summer months, which is a lot of fun. Along the canal, you'll find fountains, gardens, and monuments that make for a relaxing and enjoyable walk.

  • MONON TRAIL

    A paved 20+ mile trail that goes throughout the city and beyond to surrounding communities; great for walking and biking, there are various entry points so it’s easy to do as much or as little of the trail as you want. You can also make a day of it and stop at points along the way as it does go through/by towns, restaurants and more.

Sports and Events

Indianapolis is known for its sports culture, and there's no shortage of live events to enjoy throughout the year. From the Indianapolis Colts (NFL) to the Indiana Pacers (NBA), you can catch exciting professional games at Lucas Oil Stadium and Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

And, of course, if you visit in May, don't miss the Indianapolis 500, a major annual event that draws visitors from all over the world. It's an incredible experience, full of high-speed action, and an essential part of the city's identity.

 

NEIGHBORHOODS TO EXPLORE

 

MY FAVORITE NEIGHBORHOODS TO EXPLORE AROUND THE CITY

  • ZIONSVILLE

    The town I grew up in; while there aren’t a ton of exciting things happening, the town center is really cute (it gives Stars Hallow vibes) and I always love walking down Main Street when I’m back. Stop at Rosie’s for a coffee or light bite, pop into Wildwood Home to shop, grab a drink at The Friendly Tavern and finish with oysters and dinner at Noah Grant’s.

  • CARMEL

    Next to, and similar to Zionsville, but on a bigger scale; more restaurants and shopping and a great place to pick up the Monon trail (or to stop along the trail to grab a bite to eat)

  • MERIDIEN-KESSLER

    Beautiful old homes, it’s always fun to drive or walk around and get inspired by the houses, especially around the holidays when so many of them are so beautifully decorated

  • BROAD RIPPLE

    For more laid-back, artsy, hip vibes, Broad Ripple is the neighborhood to explore. This trendy area has a mix of indie shops, art galleries, local bars and eclectic restaurants and cafes and is also known for its lively nightlife scene. Whether you're into craft beer, cocktails, or casual dining, Broad Ripple offers something for everyone and it’s a great spot to enjoy live music and take in a more artsy atmosphere.

  • FOUNTAIN SQUARE

    Fountain Square is a fun little historic area near downtown that’s lively and eclectic. Known for its vibrant arts scene, vintage shops, and lively bars. Grab a local brew at the Fountain Square Brewing Co., or take a stroll through the area's unique galleries and shops.

  • Mass Ave (Massachusetts Avenue)

    Mass Ave is a trendy street filled with eclectic boutiques, theaters, and dining spots. From cozy coffee shops to upscale restaurants, Mass Ave offers an urban experience with a touch of charm. Be sure to visit the historic Rathskeller, one of the oldest beer gardens in Indiana.

 

WHERE TO STAY

 

Where to Stay in Indianapolis

Indianapolis offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every type of traveler, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options. Popular areas to stay include the downtown district, which is close to major attractions and restaurants, and Broad Ripple, which offers a more laid-back, artsy vibe.

In full transparency, I’ve never stayed in a hotel in Indianapolis as we always stay with family when we go back but here are a few options around the city that I’ve heard good things about-

  • HOTEL INDY

    Located downtown, has an on-site restaurant and a roof top bar (open weather permitting), modern chic aesthetics; FYI this hotel is part of the Marriot Bonvoy family

  • BOTTLEWORKS HOTEL

    Another downtown option, great location in the Bottleworks District and also with walkability to nearby Mass Ave, which has restaurants and bars

  • IRONWORKS

    If you’re looking for something more on the northside of the city, this modern industrial hotel has a rooftop bar, on site restaurant and is close to Keystone Mall

  • HOTEL CARMICHAEL

    Another northside option, this Autograph Collection hotel is located in Carmel

 
 

How to Get Around Indianapolis

Indianapolis is a relatively easy city to navigate, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. If you’re strictly staying in the downtown area, you can easily get away with walking, biking and public transportation. If you prefer public transportation, the IndyGo bus system operates throughout the city. Additionally, there are taxis, ride-sharing services, and, for a fun and eco-friendly option, you can always consider renting a bike or using one of the city’s scooter-share services.

However, if you’re planning to get out and explore beyond the city limits, you will need a car to get around.

Best Time to Visit Indianapolis

The best time to visit Indianapolis depends on the type of activities you're interested in. Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) offer more mild, pleasant weather that’s perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and exploring all that the city has to offer. Summer can be quite hot and muggy, and often involves severe thunderstorms and tornados, but if you're a motorsports enthusiast, you’ll definitely want to plan your visit during May for the Indianapolis 500. Winter (December to February) is quieter and can be quite chilly, but the holiday lights and festive atmosphere around the city make it a charming time to explore.

 
 

DID YOU FIND THIS GUIDE HELPFUL?

Follow along on INSTAGRAM and PINTEREST for more tasteful travel inspo, and if you happen to visit any of these places, please snap a photo and share it, tagging me on INSTAGRAM or PINTEREST so that I can see. Truly nothing makes me happier than when I see others enjoying my travel recommendations!