We Rank The 15 Best Tours & Things To Do In Indianapolis

Indianapolis isn’t just a place to pass through; it’s a city that offers a surprising variety of activities that go beyond the usual tourist spots. Whether you’re into interactive pub tours, historic walks, or thrilling sports events, Indianapolis has something that will make your visit memorable.

For example, the Indianapolis Mobile Pub Tour and Experience combines sightseeing with local drinks and fun games, making it a perfect choice for groups looking to combine exploration with socializing.

Or if you prefer discovering the city on your own, the Smartphone Guided Indianapolis Downtown Sites Audio Walking Tour allows flexibility for a self-paced, informative adventure.

From ghostly tales on the Indianapolis Ghosts Walking Tour to a Bike and Brews ride along scenic paths, Indianapolis offers a diverse array of experiences. Whether you’re a history lover, thrill-seeker, or food enthusiast, we’ve rounded up the top 15 tours and things to do to help you make the most of your trip.

1. Indianapolis Mobile Pub Tour and Experience

At number one, the Indianapolis Mobile Pub Tour and Experience stands out for its lively, social atmosphere. This pedal-powered pub takes you around the city, combining sightseeing with local drinks and lighthearted games.

The tour visits iconic spots like the Soldiers & Sailors Monument and the Indiana War Memorial, with plenty of photo opportunities. The guide shares insider info about Indy’s neighborhoods, making this both educational and fun.

What makes it unique is the sense of camaraderie; many reviews praise the energetic guides and the lively vibe. It’s perfect for bachelor or bachelorette parties, birthdays, or anyone wanting to see downtown differently.

The tour lasts around 2 hours and costs $54.99 per person, offering great value for its interactive nature and the chance to enjoy some of the best local brews. Bottom line: a fantastic way to mix sightseeing with social drinking.

2. Indy Walking Tours

For those who prefer to explore on foot, the Indy Walking Tours offers a comprehensive 90-minute guided stroll through Indianapolis’ historic and lively neighborhoods. This tour covers notable sights like the Indiana War Memorial Historic District, Mass Ave, and the City Market. The guide shares stories about local crime, folklore, and funny anecdotes that bring the city’s streets to life.

One standout feature is the open container policy, allowing you to sip on a beer at Tomlinson Taproom during the break. The tour is highly praised for its personable guide and engaging storytelling.

It’s priced at $55, making it a good value for those wanting a deep dive into Indianapolis’ past and present. Bottom line: an excellent choice for visitors wanting an authentic, relaxed introduction to downtown Indy.

3. Axe Throwing in Indianapolis

If you’re looking for something different, the Axe Throwing experience at Bad Axe Throwing offers a fun, hands-on activity. Perfect for all skill levels, this 30-minute session begins with safety instructions and coaching, then lets you try your hand at hitting the target. It’s a surprisingly satisfying way to blow off steam, compete with friends, and learn a new skill.

The activity is straightforward and well-organized, with reviews highlighting its friendly staff and fun atmosphere. It’s priced at just $22, making it an affordable way to add some adrenaline to your day. Great for groups of friends, families with older kids, or anyone curious about axe throwing. Bottom line: a light-hearted, active experience that guarantees laughs and a sense of accomplishment.

4. Massachusetts Avenue Food Tour

Food lovers will enjoy the Massachusetts Avenue Food Tour, which takes around 3.5 hours to sample the best of Indy’s culinary scene. Led through the historic neighborhoods of Chatham Arch and Lockerbie, this tour visits local, independently owned eateries offering traditional and modern dishes. You’ll also learn about Indiana’s history along the way.

Food tastings are included, so there are no surprises. Highlights include stops at iconic spots like the James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home, and the tour’s small group setting ensures a personal experience. The tour costs $77, which is quite reasonable considering the quality and quantity of food served.

It’s perfect for foodies eager to explore Indy’s culinary revival with a bit of history thrown in. Bottom line: a delicious way to experience the city’s food and culture.

5. Smartphone Guided Indianapolis Downtown Sites Audio Walking Tour

For travelers wanting flexibility, the Smartphone Guided Downtown Tour offers a self-paced exploration of Indianapolis’ key landmarks. For as little as $9.75, you can wander at your own speed, visiting sites like Monument Circle, the Indiana Statehouse, and the Soldiers & Sailors Monument, while listening to stories and fun facts.

This tour is highly rated for its affordability and ease of use. It’s ideal for visitors who prefer to avoid rigid schedules or want to explore specific spots based on their interests. The audio guide covers over an hour of content, making it a cost-effective, personalized way to learn about Indy’s skyline and historic sites. Bottom line: a practical, budget-friendly option for independent explorers.

6. Top Shelf 14-Passenger Brewery Tour

If craft beer is your thing, the Top Shelf Brewery Tour is a premium choice. Limited reviews praise its flexibility and the size of the group, which can be up to 14 people.

The tour lasts from 4 to 12 hours, giving plenty of time to visit multiple breweries and sample local brews, with a private, personalized experience. Pricing is $599 per group, making it ideal for beer enthusiasts seeking a custom, private outing.

While the details are less specific, the emphasis on quality treatment and flexible scheduling makes this tour worth considering for serious beer lovers. Bottom line: a tailored and relaxed brewery experience perfect for groups wanting exclusivity and a day dedicated to Indy’s craft beer scene.

7. Indianapolis Ghosts: Haunts, Spirits, and Phantoms Walking Tour

Indianapolis’ darker side comes alive on the Ghosts Walking Tour. Led by local experts, the 1-hour walk explores haunted sites like the Indiana State Capitol and Monument Circle, sharing chilling stories of spirits and apparitions.

The tour balances history and spooky tales, creating a fun, atmospheric experience. Priced at $24, it’s a popular choice for night-time fun, especially for fans of paranormal stories. It’s perfect for a quick, thrilling overview of Indy’s eerie history. Bottom line: fun, spooky, and informative—ideal for a night of ghostly tales.

8. Indianapolis: Indiana Pacers Basketball Game Ticket

Sports fans will find the Pacers game tickets hard to resist. Attending a game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse offers an electric atmosphere, with the crowd energizing every play. Tickets are around $20, making it an affordable way to experience top-tier basketball in a lively setting.

Travelers who enjoy sports or want a true local experience will love the chance to cheer on the home team. Reviews note the exciting environment and easy online access. The game lasts about 2.5 hours. Bottom line: a fun, energetic activity, especially during the NBA season.

9. Indianapolis: Open-Air Pedal Pub Tour

For those craving social fun, the Open-Air Pedal Pub Tour offers a lively, 100-minute ride through downtown. Pedal, sip local beers, listen to music, and chat with your companions — all on a mobile bar that’s part party, part sightseeing.

With an average rating of 4.6, this tour is ideal for groups looking to combine physical activity with a festive vibe. It’s great for birthdays, bachelor parties, or just a fun day out. The tour includes drinks and music for $64 a person. Bottom line: a memorable, energetic way to explore Indy with friends.

10. Bike and Brews Seeing Indy on an E-Bike

The Bike and Brews tour offers a relaxed, scenic ride along Indianapolis’ Cultural Trail and White River Parkway. Using an electric bike, you’ll pass notable sites like the NCAA Headquarters, war memorials, and the Indiana State House. The guide will also offer high-resolution photos of the ride.

This 2 hour 45-minute tour is perfect for those wanting an easy, eco-friendly way to see the city’s highlights. The inclusion of a visit to Upland FSQ Brewery with a drink and appetizers adds a social touch. At $140, it’s a good value for a guided, active experience. Bottom line: a comfortable, scenic ride for history and outdoor lovers.

11. Outdoor Escape Room in Indianapolis – Mile Square in Downtown

For something interactive, the Outdoor Escape Room combines scavenger hunt and puzzle-solving in downtown Indy. This urban adventure takes you around Mile Square, cracking clues in murals, statues, and landmarks. It’s a 2-hour, team-based activity designed to challenge your wits and explore the neighborhood.

Rated 4.5, the experience is a fun way to see the city while testing your problem-solving skills. Ideal for families, groups, or couples who love a challenge. The group size is limited to 6 for $75. Bottom line: a lively, puzzle-filled way to discover Indianapolis.

12. Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Indianapolis Sights & Stories

Another flexible option, the Smartphone-Guided Tour offers a private exploration of Indy’s major landmarks. Starting at Monument Circle, you’ll visit the catacombs, the State Library, and the Statehouse, with stories accessible via your phone.

Rated 4.0, this tour costs just $27.50 and is suitable for those who want a custom pace. It’s perfect for travelers on a budget or those who prefer a quiet, self-guided experience with insider stories. Bottom line: a great mix of affordability and flexibility for city explorers.

13. Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Indianapolis by Wacky Walks

For a quirky, fun way to see Indy, the Wacky Walks Scavenger Hunt turns the city into a game board. Compete in royal tournaments, find items, and complete challenges all via an app, earning points and keeping your “King or Queen” title.

Rated 4.5 with a low price point of $10 per person, it’s a lively, family-friendly activity. It’s especially good for those who enjoy games and puzzles during their sightseeing. Bottom line: inexpensive, playful, and perfect for a casual afternoon.

14. Indianapolis: 3-Day Indy Attraction Pass

For a broader experience, the 3-Day Indy Attraction Pass unlocks access to major sites like Conner Prairie, the Indianapolis Zoo, and White River State Park. This pass is ideal for travelers wanting to see multiple attractions without buying individual tickets.

Priced at $75, it offers good value considering the number and quality of included attractions. The pass also provides discounts on retailers and restaurants, making your visit more affordable overall. Bottom line: a practical choice for a multi-day sightseeing spree.

15. Private Arrival Transfer from Indianapolis Airport IND

Finally, ease your arrival with the Private Airport Transfer. For around $72, this service ensures a smooth start or end to your trip, with a chauffeur waiting to help with luggage and get you directly to your accommodation or the Speedway area.

Rated 3.0, it’s a reliable, stress-free way to begin your visit—particularly useful if you have early or late arrivals. Bottom line: a hassle-free option that guarantees comfort and convenience.

How to Choose the Best Tour in Indianapolis

When selecting your activities, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend. For example, if you love exploring on foot, the Indy Walking Tours and the Self-Guided Smartphone Tour provide flexible options. If your group wants to combine sightseeing with a social vibe, the Mobile Pub Tour or the Pedal Pub will be perfect.

For those interested in sports, the Pacers game offers an authentic local experience. And if you’re after a thrill or a spooky story, the Ghost Tour delivers fun scares.

Booking early can help secure seats for popular tours like the brewery or pub rides, especially during peak season.

Final Thoughts

Indianapolis offers a variety of tours and activities that cater to many interests and styles. Whether you prefer to explore history on foot, sip local brews on a mobile pub tour, or chase spirits on a ghost walk, the city won’t disappoint. For a mix of fun, learning, and authentic experiences, the Indianapolis Mobile Pub Tour and the Massachusetts Avenue Food Tour shine as top picks.

For sports enthusiasts, catching a Pacers game is a no-brainer, while history buffs will love the self-guided Downtown Tour.

Remember, planning ahead and booking early can help you enjoy these experiences at their best. Whatever your interests, Indianapolis’s diverse scene promises memorable adventures—so don’t wait too long to secure your spots.