30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Indianapolis (Indiana)

Indianapolis is a great tourist destination and undoubtedly one of the best vacation spots in the world, with plenty of places to go and things to see.

If you’re going to be around the city, you’ll want to have an idea of what to do so you can make the most of your time sightseeing and visiting as many tourist attractions as you can.

Here are the top 30 best and fun things to do in Indianapolis, Indiana.

1. Monument Circle

If you’re in Indianapolis, visiting Monument Circle also known as Soldiers and Sailors Monument is a must.

It’s one of the hottest points of interest that you can find in Indy, where it sits in the middle of this Indiana city.

It is a large monument measuring 284 and a half feet, built to honor sailors and soldiers who bravely fought and served the country.

With a neoclassical style, this stunning monument is further encircled by statues, carved specially to show the peril and courage of battle, and a woman stands at the forefront of them all.

She holds a symbolic torch, signifying the glory of the victory that led to thousands of slaves being freed.

A civil war museum can also be found within memorial grounds.

Visiting Monument Circle is definitely one of the top things to do in Indianapolis, and it’s a great spot to kick start a fun Indiana trip with.

Go during the holiday season in winter to see what the monument looks like adorned with 2,400 stunning, blinding lights!

Address: 100 Monument Cir, Indianapolis, IN 46204, USA

2. Indianapolis Museum of Art

The Indianapolis Museum of Art is a large museum that houses over 54,000 pieces of art from all across the world, ranging from within America to Africa and from Europe to Asia.

You’ll be blown away by the huge encyclopedic collection that encompasses a wide range of different genres.

Aside from fine art, you’ll also be privy to ceramics, design, textiles, and the masterpieces of many renowned artists.

A variety of events are also held at the Indianapolis Museum of Art throughout the year, as it aims to promote a love of the arts through performances, lectures, film screenings, and more.

Depending on when you go, you might be just in time to see some informative events or take part in some awesome lectures.

Located in downtown Indianapolis in Indiana, it is undoubtedly one of the top 10 attractions you can find in the state, and among the must-have places to visit for any art-lover.

Address: 4000 Michigan Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46208, USA

3. White River State Park

The White River State Park among the best parks you can find in Indiana today.

Situated in downtown Indianapolis, one of the most beautiful places to visit in the US, it covers 250 acres of ground and is full of trails to walk down, areas to sit down for picnics, and peaceful spots to get some fresh air and relax.

You can walk through the Canal Walk, which loops across the waterfront for 3 miles, or just lounge and enjoy the tranquility.

Apart from being a lush oasis that is perfect for unwinding, the White River State Park is also a great starting point for an Indianapolis adventure.

This is because it is surrounded by countless other famous Indianapolis locations.

Address: 801 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, United States

4. Indianapolis Zoo

Downtown Indianapolis is filled with cool places to stop by, and the Indianapolis Zoo is one of them.

It is home to over 3,800 different animals from over 320 species.

It has a large park, a botanical garden, and an aquarium, all for your viewing enjoyment.

Within the Indianapolis Zoo is also the biggest group of orangutans that you can find in not just Indiana, but throughout all of North America! Housed within the zoo’s International Orangutan Center, these majestic and beautiful mammals clamber on high ropes.

Visitors can even interact with them through the use of touch screens in the exhibit.

There are tons of exhibits to see in the zoo, distributed neatly by biome.

For example, you can take a trip to the Dolphin Pavilion to walk beneath a viewing dome where dolphins play and swim above your head.

Whether you’re going with kids, a partner, or alone, this is, without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Indianapolis!

Address: 1200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46222, United States

5. Lilly House and Gardens

The Lilly House and Gardens is a National Historic Landmark.

Technically speaking, it is a part of the Indianapolis Museum of Art (which we have already mentioned), but it is worthy of a visit all on its own among the places to see in Indiana, even if you’re not planning to stop at the museum.

The Lilly House sits within 26 acres of lush, gorgeous, well-cared-for garden.

In fact, the garden was designed by the same firm that designed Central Park!

The home itself once belonged to J. K. Lilly Jr., who was a well-known collector and philanthropist.

The estate has been impressively restored, allowing it to look just like it did back 1930s Indianapolis.

You’ll learn what it was like to live in this city way back when, and the furniture within is all authentic, so it gives you a true taste of the past.

It’s definitely among the greatest things to do in Indy!

Address: 4000 N Michigan Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46208, United States

6. Bad Axe Throwing

Surprisingly, Indianapolis is moderately known for a rather unusual pastime: ax throwing.

And Bad Axe Throwing is probably – despite its name – the most awesome place to do so in this Indiana city!

Ax throwing is simple – you throw a large, heavy ax at a target in front of you and enjoy the adrenaline rush it gives you.

It’s a great tension reliever, too.

So why not take a break from looking for things to see in the city of Indianapolis and pop down to Bad Axe Throwing to blow off some stress?

Address: 235 S Meridian St #211, Indianapolis, IN 46225, United States

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7. Duckpin Bowling

Another unusual sport played in good old Indy is Duckpin Bowling.

It’s somewhat similar to traditional bowling, but with a unique twist that makes it an Indianapolis specialty.

Essentially, it involves smaller pins, balls, and lanes, and it has a very vintage feel that will make you feel like you’re back in 1930s Indiana.

The game doesn’t follow the same scoring rules as regular bowling, but don’t worry!

It’s a fairly easy sport to pick up the rules of, though some may consider it more difficult than the usual type of bowling they’re used to.

Action & Atomic Duckpin Bowling is a great place to visit if you’re in Indianapolis for a weekend.

It’s among the things to do in downtown Indianapolis that are great for the whole family!

Address: 1105 Prospect St, Indianapolis, IN 46203, United States

8. Tappers Arcade Bar

Tappers Arcade Bar is one of the most exciting of the attractions you’ll see in Indianapolis.

It’s packed with vintage arcade games, many of which are free to play, and there’s a delicious selection of fine Indianapolis craft beers available to order.

Dragon’s Quest, pong, Tron, pinball, and Centipede are all lined up, waiting for eager gamers!

The bar also allows you to bring in outdoor food, so you can purchase some scrumptious options next door or even order something to be delivered there.

It’s one of the finest spots in Indiana for a good, old fashioned game!

Address: 501 Virginia Ave #102, Indianapolis, IN 46203, United States

9. Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum

Indiana is famous for its racing.

That’s why one of the activities you simply must do when you’re near the area is to take a trip to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum.

The speedway itself hosts the Indy 500 while the museum brings you back in time to learn more about the incredible history of racing.

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is actually a National Historic Landmark, which adds to its impressive draw over tourists.

It showcases a huge collection of amazing vehicles that have been used in races, as well as plenty of unique and fascinating memorabilia.

Meanwhile, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway offers guided tours that will take you through the Gasoline Alley hospitality suite, the victory platform, and the garage where cars are kept.

You can even embark on a narrated track tour, which will take you through one whole lap of the track!

It’s definitely one of the most fun things to do Indianapolis.

Address: 4750 W 16th St, Indianapolis, IN 46222, United States

10. Eiteljorg Museum

The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art is named after its founder, Harrison Eiteljorg.

Located in downtown Indianapolis, it showcases a wide range of interesting items from Native American and Western cultures.

Everyday objects, items of cultural significance, and even art can be found in this lovely little Indiana location.

Many exhibitions cater to specific yet diverse subjects, educating visitors on a variety of interesting topics from different groups of people.

Workshops and programs are also available to take part in.

This museum offers a fantastic way to look into the past and even the present, with modern showcases also available.

So if you’re looking for stuff to do and a unique museum is on your list, the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art is one of the best among all in Indianapolis.

Address: 500 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, United States

11. Lucas Oil Stadium

The Lucas Oil Stadium is one of the essential Indianapolis attractions that you just can’t miss if you’re in Indiana today.

A wide range of different events are hosted here, and if you’re there at the right time, you could catch an Indianapolis Colts game, enjoy some Indy Eleven soccer, or perhaps watch a concert.

You can also opt to tour the stadium grounds on certain days of the week.

Buy some food from one of the many eateries within its structure, take a peek into stores, or just go on a walk on your own and marvel at The House That Manning Built.

There’s a reason Indianapolis is famous for its sporting events, after all!

Address: 500 S Capitol Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46225, United States

12. Indiana State Museum

The Indiana State Museum can be found within another one of the points of interest you may visit in Indianapolis: the White River State Park.

It’s a great location that will give you some insight into the state that Indianapolis calls its home.

Made from a mix of glass, brick, and steel, the Indiana State Museum has impressive architecture and is three floors high, with more than 452,000 artifacts collected within.

It is designed to represent all 92 counties within the state.

Core Galleries showcase a variety of artifacts that shed light on the tale of the Hoosier state, from the prehistoric era and all the way up to more contemporary times.

Some exhibits are interactive, making them perfect for kids, and others are seasonal, regularly rotating throughout the year.

Plus, the Indiana State Museum has the biggest IMAX theater in not just Indianapolis, but the whole state!

You can also stop by the Farmers Market Cafe to sample some local goods and produce.

Overall, it’s one of the places to visit you shouldn’t miss!

Address: 650 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, United States

13. Holliday Park

Holliday Park is a well-known location that spans across 94 acres.

It is significantly historical, holding bits and pieces of Indiana history at every turn.

Within its grounds, you can find an arboretum, a nature center that caters to all ages, and a playground that lets your kids have fun while you rest or walk near the area.

There’s lots to do in Holliday Park, Indianapolis, including having a barbeque or a picnic or just to lay out a blanket and chill out.

You can view the fascinating ruins, which were once a skyscraper in New York that was demolished and moved to Indianapolis, where they were turned into fascinating artworks.

If you go at the right time, your weekend at Holliday Park will be accompanied by an exciting summer concert.

Taking a trip to this iconic location is definitely among the greatest things to do in Indianapolis today.

Address: 6363 Spring Mill Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46260, United States

14. Indianapolis Cultural Trail

Looking for an easy way to find all the things to see in Indy?

The Indianapolis Cultural Trail is a great option.

It spans 8 miles and begins in the downtown Indianapolis area, taking you through the most fascinating and interesting locations and attractions in the Indiana city.

On this trail, you’ll go through arts districts and hip neighborhoods and catch glimpses of all sorts of art, from sculptures to murals, as you go by.

Stop to rest in a gorgeous garden or park, or rent a bicycle for an easier ride on your sightseeing adventures.

There are plenty of quaint shops and eateries to drop by, too!

You also have the option of going on a food tour through the trail, which will give you a glimpse into the most delicious dining options in the state and show you marketplaces and eateries of all kinds.

Better yet, food tour proceeds go to the maintenance of the Indianapolis Cultural Trail!

Address: 132 W Walnut St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, United States

15. K1 Speed

We already know how Indianapolis is famous for its racing.

That’s why Indiana’s own K1 Speed is such a great spot to stop by for some cool activities!

Hop into go-karts, regardless of age, and go for a spin, then enjoy their double-leveled race tracks spanning 900 feet and made with superior high quality and for better performance.

When you’re done with that, you can relax at their lounge, play some games, or grab a bite at their snack bar.

You can also view some memorabilia from racing that is 100% authentic and very fascinating.

Of course, K1 speed is just one of many establishments that offers this experience.

Speedway Indoor Karting and Fastimes are other great options, depending on your location.

Address: 9998 E 121st St, Fishers, IN 46037, United States

16. Market Street Catacombs

Beneath the streets of Indianapolis, the Market Street Catacombs loom.

Over a century ago, these tunnels were constructed from brick and limestone, interconnected to each other, adding an ominous layer to the history of this Indiana state.

They span an impressive 20,000 feet.

They are not actually catacombs, though – they were used to transport produce and meat through Indianapolis and keep them cool before the advent of refrigeration.

So why are they called catacombs?

Well, Indianapolis really loves its haunted things, and this is one of the best sites to explore to let your imagination run wild!

A few access points are available, but the fact is that they aren’t exactly public open most times of the year.

You need to know who to talk to, and it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment beforehand.

However, the City Market is slowly opening this fun site to the rest of the world, so tours and even Halloween events take place more often in the fall!

Of course, while you’re here, you might as well check out the City Market itself, which is packed with delicious fresh goods and is a famous, historic location in itself.

If you’re looking for what to do in Indianapolis, stop by here to browse the produce and eat at a quaint deli, then head down to explore the catacombs to kill two birds with one stone!

Address: 222 E Market St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, United States

17. Eagle Creek Park

Eagle Creek Park is the biggest public park in all of Indianapolis.

It is mostly used as a reserve for nature, with its land taking up 3,900 acres and its bodies of water encompassing 1,400 acres.

It’s fairly well-known among tourist attractions in Indiana, and for good reason!

The park has tons of gorgeous trails, landscapes, and waterways – all natural ones! – that make it first choice for what to see in Indy.

You can even indulge in a lot of hobbies while you’re here – play sports, visit the Bark Park with your canine companions, enjoy a game of golf, go to the shooting range, or go skiing, hiking, fishing, or swimming!

Eagle Creek Park is also home to a particularly exciting activity for adrenaline junkies in Indianapolis.

One such example is the Go Ape Treetop Adventures, where you make your way through 40 treetop obstacles, go down 5 zip lines, and swing back and forth!

Nature lovers can also opt to stop by the Ornithology Center, the Woodland Wildlife Preserve, or the bird sanctuary.

Address: 7840 W 56th St, Indianapolis, IN 46254, United States

18. Indianapolis Art Center

The Indianapolis Art Center is a great place to stop by on your weekend (or any other day) in Indiana.

It is one of the biggest community centers of its kind in Indiana, and even in the whole country.

Within, you’ll find three galleries that show off some of the best art that the region has to offer.

But that’s not all that the Indianapolis Art Center is about.

They also have a library packed with approximately 5,000 different titles, 11 studios where classes are held, seasonal exhibitions, workshops, and an auditorium which can seat 224 people for all manner of performances.

There is also ArtsPark right outside, which spans across 9 acres outdoors and is full of sculptures and encourages creativity.

So if you’re an art lover, taking a trip to this center is among the things to do in Indy to add to your list!

Address: 820 E 67th St, Indianapolis, IN 46220, United States

19. Goose The Market

Goose The Market is among the cool things to do in Indiana if you’re a meat-lover.

They offer fresh deli meat and produce, as well as platters that you can bring home to cook for yourself.

Have a bite to eat of the meat with a sandwich or in a tray, accompanied by some of the market’s beer, wine, or iced tea.

If it’s hot outside, you can even order some gelato!

If you’re interested, you can sign up for a special class on making sausages by Smoking Goose, which is the parent producer of meat for the market.

This is one of the finest luxury food places you’ll find in Indianapolis, making it one of the most fun things to do in Indianapolis if you’re a foodie!

Address: 2503 N Delaware St, Indianapolis, IN 46205, United States

20. Indiana Medical History Museum

If you work in the field of medicine and you’re near Indianapolis, the Medical History Museum is a fun spot you simply have to drop by!

It sits in the previous grounds of the Central State Hospital of Indiana as in one of the most fun things to do in Indianapolis, and the most obscure!

Most of the museum is centered in the Old Pathology Building, which is on the National Register of Historic places for being the oldest surviving pathology facility in not just Indy, but the whole country!

It originally opened to investigate the underlying causes behind mental illness.

Most of the interior of the Indianapolis building has not been changed since it closed in 1960, remaining intact for you to tour with ease.

You’ll get to see some of the strangest cases Indianapolis – and the world – has ever seen, as well as look through amphitheaters, laboratories, autopsy bats, and more.

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

21. Lockerbie Square Historic District

For a blast to the past in Indy, one of the finest places to visit is the Lockerbie Square Historic District.

There’s a reason it’s one of the Indiana hotspots on the National Register of Historic Places!

The architecture in this area is gorgeously preserved in Queen Anne and Italianate styles.

You can go on a walking tour through the stunning location, which will bring you to see 25 different residences that were first built between the years 1855 and 1930.

There are also newer ones, such as the North Vermont Street Home, and the famous James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home, the latter of which is designed in a Victorian-style inside and out.

Visiting this district is the perfect way to get a taste of what Indiana was like a century ago!

22. White Rabbit Cabaret

Love the stage?

Then you’ll really enjoy the White Rabbit Cabaret, the top destination for small performances of all kinds around Indianapolis.

Burlesque troupes of all kinds convene at this Indiana venue, which is relatively small but full of life in Fountain Square.

From the Angel Burlesque to Rocket Doll Revue, you can enjoy all sorts of titillating performances.

But it’s not just burlesque at the White Rabbit Cabaret.

Shows in May are themed on racing – as to be expected in Indianapolis! – and other interesting features, like dating shows, comedy specials, drunk spelling bees, and musical gigs are often playing, too.

If you’re looking for things to do in Indianapolis this weekend, taking a trip to this cabaret should be on your list!

Address: 1116 Prospect St, Indianapolis, IN 46203, United State

23. Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library

Indiana has always been very proud of literary great Kurt Vonnegut’s Indianapolis roots.

The Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library first opened in 2011, intending to showcase his work and pay homage to the brilliant author, free-speech advocate, icon of counter culture, war veteran, and critic.

This mini library and museum is full of information on Vonnegut’s many works and his fascinating life, from the moment he was born in 1922, to his time spent as a POW, to his life as an author.

You can also find letters (including rejection letters from publishers!), papers, drawings, and more among the attractions.

In addition to all of that, you can even rest in a reading room, view a recreation of Vonnegut’s own writing room, and see a little gallery of art.

Staff at this fun Indy spot aren’t just Vonnegut experts, either – they genuinely believe in and advocate for her ideas.

This memorial library is one of those places to go in Indiana that you just can’t miss if you love literature!

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

24. Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Traveling with family?

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is among the best spots in Indiana to go if you’re looking for what to do with your children.

It is an interactive museum packed with interesting things, and it’s not just the biggest of its kind in Indiana, but in the whole world!

This museum stacks up over five levels, all of which feature unique and fascinating exhibits sure to keep any child entertained.

There is a Bumblebee movie prop that towers above the ground, 16 feet in height, and a Fireworks of Glass sculpture in bright, vivid colors spanning 43 feet.

A carousel sits on the highest floor of the museum, which is antique but in working condition, and the biggest water clock in the continent also rests within this Indy location.

There’s also a special Sports Legend Experience – a relatively new exhibition that lets kids enjoy a wide range of sports-based activities, from kicking footballs into goals to racing in pedal cars to miniature golf.

They’re all divided by skills and ages, too!

Address: 3000 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46208, United States

25. Museum of Psychphonics

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Indianapolis, Indiana that aren’t the most conventional tourist spots, the Museum of Psychphonics is a fun bet.

It is dedicated to showcasing obscure cultures, such as Afrofuturism and other underground cultures of Indy and the US as a whole.

Wrapped in mystery and telling stories few have heard, the Museum of Psychphonic rests in the Fountain Square area of Indianapolis.

Even entering the museum is a treat thanks to its unconventional design, and you’ll be greeted with unusual music of a genre you’ve likely never heard of.

It’s truly a mind-bending experience!

Address: 1043 Virginia Ave, Studio 209, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA

26. Fort Harrison State Park

Fort Harrison State Park, referred to as Fort Ben by residents of Indianapolis, is a wonderful place to go sightseeing or just get a bit of a breather.

It earned its name from President Benjamin Harrison, the 23rd US president.

This park offers multiple different trails for you to walk around.

Trees of maple and walnut flank the walkways, some of which encircle Delaware Lake.

Go in the autumn to witness amazing fall hues in the trees.

Don’t forget to stop by the Museum of 20th Century Warfare for an extra treat, showing you uniforms, weapons, and all sorts of military memorabilia from around Indiana and the country.

Address: 6000 N Post Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46216, United States

27. GRT Glass Design

GRT Glass Design is one of the most fun Indianapolis attractions you’ll come across!

It is a studio that has won multiple awards and specializes in designing and manufacturing a variety of art glass items worldwide.

They first opened in 1987, and since then, they’ve become the leading name at the top of the market in Indiana, then America, and then worldwide.

Twice a month, the studio offers Indianapolis residents and guests Glass Play Days, which are classes where students get to make glass art to bring home with them.

It’s one of the most unique souvenirs one could ask for!

Address: 6400 S Brookville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46219, United States

28. Crown Hill Cemetery

Indianapolis is pretty well-known for its love of the macabre and haunted.

Crown Hill Cemetery is, therefore, among the things to see that showcases this Indiana city’s love for the paranormal.

Supposedly, this is one of the most haunted places in the country, so ghost-lovers near Indianapolis will definitely want to step in!

Over 200,000 graves populate the cemetery.

Some are the final resting places of famous leaders, playwrights, criminals, authors, generals, and soldiers.

On the very top is the tomb of James Whitcomb Riley, and from beside this spot, you can bask in an amazing view from the peak of Crown Hill.

Call in advance to get a good tour!

Address: 700 38th St, Indianapolis, IN 46208, United States

29. Victory Field

We know that Indianapolis is known for its sports, and that’s why it’s no surprise that Victory Field is one of the most iconic Indiana locations.

According to Baseball America, it’s the best ballpark for minor league baseball in the country.

It seats 14,230 people, and you can spread blankets out to watch games while your kids run in the green.

Watching an Indianapolis Indians game at this famous field is probably on many baseball fans’ bucket lists.

If you’re one of them, go between April and September.

You can also tour the stadium to see the training room, press box, clubhouse, dugout, and grounds in full.

But even if you’re not the biggest sports fan in the world, visiting Victory Field is still one of the fun things to do in Indianapolis, especially with the weekly schedules for activities.

$1 snacks on Mondays, free access for children to run the bases on Sundays, and special discounts to Tuesday games, if you play your cards right!

Address: 501 W Maryland St, Indianapolis, IN 46225, United States

30. Rhythm! Discovery Center

Looking for cool things that you and your family can do in downtown Indianapolis?

The Rhythm! Discovery Center might be right up your alley!

The center is a percussion museum that has won lots of awards and it offers a unique experience for all ages.

Within this Indiana center, you can find exhibits, performance spaces, workshops, and more.

Guided tours will educate you on percussion’s history and cultural role.

You’ll get to do tons of fun things too, like play a gong drum that measures a huge eight feet, or joining the drum circle to make amazing music.

The Indy center also boasts a wide range of instruments that aren’t just from Indiana, but from all around the world.

It’s also in a convenient location, near enough to walk over from plenty of places in the area of Mile Square.

Address: Claypool Court Building, 110 W Washington St A, Indianapolis, IN 46204, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Indianapolis

If you’re planning a trip, there are countless Indianapolis attractions and points of interest, making it an incredibly fun city with lots of places to see.

Hopefully, this list of the best things to do in Indianapolis, Indiana will help you plan your perfect holiday, whether you’ll be in Indy today, tomorrow, or a long time from now!

Happy Travels!