What to Do in Indianapolis: 9 Things To Do

You’ll find Indianapolis packed with diverse attractions that won’t break the bank. Start at the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, then explore the world’s largest children’s museum spanning 500,000 square feet. Stroll through White River State Park, admire art at the Newfields campus, and walk Monument Circle’s historic architecture. Paddle the Central Canal, browse Broad Ripple Village’s local scene, discover Indiana’s history at state museums, and enjoy the revitalized Bottleworks District‘s unique atmosphere for deeper insights.

Experience the Indy 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway

The race weekend offers more than just 200 laps of high-speed action. You’ll enjoy pre-race traditions like “Back Home Again in Indiana” and the iconic “Drivers, start your engines” command.

The massive infield hosts concerts, fan zones, and activities that create a festival atmosphere.

If you can’t attend race day, you can still tour the track year-round and see the famous Yard of Bricks at the start/finish line where winners traditionally celebrate their victories. This 110-year-old track holds the distinction of being the oldest continually operating racetrack in the United States.

Explore the World’s Largest Children’s Museum

After experiencing the high-octane thrills of motorsports, you’ll find a completely different but equally exciting adventure at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. This world’s largest children’s museum spans nearly 500,000 square feet across five floors, housing over 130,000 artifacts that’ll captivate kids and adults alike.

You can’t miss the Dinosphere exhibit, where you’ll touch a real T. rex leg bone and watch paleontologists work in the visible Prep Lab. Dale Chihuly’s stunning 43-foot glass tower creates Instagram-worthy moments as you climb the spiral ramp.

Outside, kids can burn energy at the 7.5-acre sports park. The museum operates with approximately 400 staff members who ensure high-quality programming and visitor experiences throughout the facility.

With annual passes available and free parking, it’s budget-friendly family entertainment. The museum’s located at 3000 North Meridian Street with convenient public transit access.

Walk Through White River State Park and Visit the Indianapolis Zoo

When you’re ready to trade indoor exhibits for fresh air and open spaces, White River State Park offers America’s only urban cultural state park right in downtown Indianapolis. This 250-acre destination combines nature with culture, hosting the Indianapolis Zoo, Indiana State Museum, Victory Field, and six other major attractions.

You’ll find miles of interconnected walking paths linking the riverfront, Central Canal, and all attractions. The zoo anchors the park’s west side, where you can easily combine animal exhibits with White River Gardens‘ botanical displays.

Between attractions, you’ll cross the Historic Washington Street Pedestrian Bridge for river views and pass public art installations. The park also features the restored Indiana Central Canal corridor, originally built in the 1830s but never fully utilized until its restoration became a key focus of the park’s development.

With 3.5 million annual visitors, the park operates 5 a.m.–11 p.m. daily, though individual attraction hours vary.

Discover Art and Gardens at the Newfields Campus

Where else can you explore 54,000+ works of art alongside 52 acres of stunning gardens, all on a single admission ticket? The 152-acre Newfields campus combines the Indianapolis Museum of Art with breathtaking outdoor spaces that’ll keep you busy for hours.

Inside, you’ll find masterpieces by Rembrandt, Picasso, and O’Keeffe, plus North America’s top Neo-Impressionist collection. Don’t miss THE LUME’s immersive digital exhibitions that bring classic artists to life through floor-to-ceiling projections.

Outside, The Garden at Newfields offers year-round beauty with seasonal displays, a multisensory “Garden for Everyone” area, and the spectacular Glick Fountain. You can also tour the historic 22-room Lilly House mansion. For evening entertainment, catch a show at The Randall L. and Marianne W. Tobias Theater, which seats 544 and hosts films, performances, and cultural talks.

Plan at least three hours—there’s enough here for a full day adventure.

Stroll Monument Circle and Downtown’s Historic Architecture

Standing 284 feet tall at the heart of downtown, the Soldiers and Sailors Monument anchors Monument Circle—Indianapolis’s original civic centerpiece that’s been drawing visitors since 1902. You’ll find this neoclassical limestone tribute to Indiana veterans rivals the Statue of Liberty in height while offering free exploration of its detailed bronze sculptures depicting Infantry, Cavalry, Artillery, and Navy units.

Walk the 4.5-acre circular plaza to appreciate architect Bruno Schmitz’s design and the surrounding eight-story buildings that frame clear views of Lady Victory’s torch crowning the monument. From here, you can easily stroll north to discover the Indiana War Memorial complex and nearby Statehouse, both within walking distance.

Evening visits offer spectacular light shows projected onto surrounding facades, creating an unforgettable downtown experience. For panoramic views of the city, take the elevator or stairs to reach the monument’s observation deck after climbing 330 steps or riding the convenient elevator to the top.

Paddle or Walk the Central Canal Through the City

Winding through downtown Indianapolis like a peaceful ribbon of water, the Central Canal offers you a completely free way to explore the city from a unique perspective. You’ll find a 3-mile loop connecting White River State Park to 11th Street, with promenades on both sides linked by pedestrian bridges.

The crushed limestone towpath extends north for another 5-6 miles, perfect for walking, running, or casual cycling. Multiple access points with ramps and elevators make navigation easy, while Pacers Bikeshare stations let you explore on two wheels.

Want to get on the water? Rent pedal boats or kayaks seasonally for a beginner-friendly paddling experience. The calm, no-current canal passes under distinctive bridges, giving you unique photo angles of the skyline and public art installations. This American Water Landmark was originally part of an ambitious 296-mile canal system planned to connect Peru to Evansville.

Browse Local Culture in Broad Ripple Village

Just six miles north of downtown, Broad Ripple Village beckons as Indianapolis’ most vibrant cultural district, where bohemian charm meets urban convenience without breaking your budget. You’ll discover street art covering building walls and bridges, plus galleries showcasing local artisans during monthly First Fridays when shops stay open late with free exhibits.

Browse vintage clothing and collectibles in independent boutiques, then grab coffee at Monon Coffee Company where locals work remotely. The Indianapolis Art Center nearby offers sculpture gardens and studios along White River. The neighborhood’s walkable charm traces back to its origins as an independent town that was incorporated into Indianapolis in 1922.

End your day at Broad Ripple Brewpub, the city’s original microbrewery, or catch live music at various venues. The walkable grid makes it easy to hop between art spaces, cafés, and bars within this creative neighborhood.

Learn Indiana History at the State Museum and Eiteljorg

Two world-class museums within White River State Park offer you an immersive journey through Indiana’s rich heritage without requiring separate trips across the city. The Indiana State Museum‘s 40,000 square feet of galleries walk you through the state’s complete story, from Ice Age mastodons to modern Hoosier identity.

You’ll explore Native American cultures in the First Nations gallery, discover pioneer life experiences, and see works by renowned Indiana artist T.C. Steele. The museum’s Lincoln collection ranks among America’s finest. The museum manages six specialized Centers of Excellence covering topics from Ice Age paleontology to Indiana quilts and textiles.

Next door, the Eiteljorg Museum specializes in Native American and Western art, providing essential context for understanding the region’s indigenous history. Both museums use authentic artifacts and interactive exhibits to bring Indiana’s past to life affordably.

Enjoy the Revitalized Bottleworks District

Where history meets modern innovation, Indianapolis’s Bottleworks District transforms a former Coca-Cola bottling plant into the city’s most exciting mixed-use destination. You’ll discover stunning Art Deco architecture with original terra cotta façades and bronze details preserved throughout the $300+ million redevelopment.

Explore the central food hall housed in converted historic garages, offering diverse dining options without breaking the bank.

The 139-room Bottleworks Hotel provides boutique accommodations within the restored bottling works if you’re staying overnight.

Wander the walkable streets where Carrollton Avenue and 9th Street reconnect the neighborhood. You’ll find boutique retail, creative office spaces, and regular special events throughout the year.

This award-winning restoration project creates an all-day entertainment hub that seamlessly blends Indianapolis’s industrial heritage with contemporary urban living. The facility once served as the largest Coca-Cola bottling plant globally when its main addition was completed in 1949.

The Sum Up

You’ll find Indianapolis offers plenty of budget-friendly adventures, from free walks through downtown’s historic streets to affordable museum visits. Don’t miss the canal towpath for a quick escape without spending a dime. Pack snacks for zoo trips and check for discounted museum days. Whether you’re catching a race at the Speedway or browsing Broad Ripple’s local shops, you can experience Indy’s charm without breaking the bank. Plan ahead and you’ll discover this city’s unexpected treasures.