Curator’s statement
Welcome to Indianapolis, the vibrant heart of the Crossroads of America. Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, Indianapolis offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and modern innovation. From its iconic motor racing heritage embodied by the Indianapolis Motor Speedway to its thriving arts scene showcased at the Indianapolis Museum of Art, there's no shortage of experiences to delight every traveler. Whether exploring the charming cobblestone streets of the historic Wholesale District, sampling delectable farm-to-table cuisine at the bustling City Market or immersing oneself in the rich cultural tapestry of neighborhoods like Fountain Square, Indianapolis invites visitors to uncover its unique charm and endless possibilities. Join us as we delve into the essence of Indianapolis and embark on a journey filled with discovery and delight.
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Things to do in Indianapolis
Visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway: Known as the "Racing Capital of the World," the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is home to the iconic Indianapolis 500 and Brickyard 400 races. Visitors can tour the track, visit the museum and learn about the history of auto racing.
Visit Newfields: A Place for Nature & the Arts: Newfields is a cultural campus encompassing the Indianapolis Museum of Art, the Fairbanks Park Gardens and acres of scenic grounds. It serves as a hub for art, nature and cultural experiences, attracting visitors with its diverse exhibitions, outdoor sculptures and picturesque landscapes.
Discover the Children's Museum of Indianapolis: Perfect for families, the Children's Museum of Indianapolis is the largest children's museum in the world. It offers hands-on exhibits and interactive experiences covering topics such as science, history and culture.
Walk or bike along the Indianapolis Cultural Trail: This eight-mile urban trail connects many of Indianapolis's cultural districts, including downtown, Fountain Square and Mass Ave. It's perfect for walking, biking or exploring the city's vibrant neighborhoods.
Visit the Indianapolis Zoo: Located in White River State Park, the Indianapolis Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals from around the world. Visitors can see elephants, tigers, dolphins and more, as well as explore the zoo's gardens and exhibits.
Catch a game at Lucas Oil Stadium or Gainbridge Fieldhouse: Indianapolis is home to several professional sports teams, including the NFL's Indianapolis Colts and the NBA's Indiana Pacers. Watching a game at one of these state-of-the-art stadiums is a must-do for sports fans.
Explore the Indianapolis Canal Walk: This scenic waterway runs through downtown Indianapolis and features walking paths, green spaces and public art installations. Visitors can rent paddleboats or take a gondola ride along the canal.
Visit the Indianapolis City Market: Located in the historic Wholesale District, the Indianapolis City Market is a lively marketplace featuring vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal foods and unique gifts. It's a great place to grab a bite to eat or pick up souvenirs.
Tour the Indiana State Capitol Building: Take a guided tour of the Indiana State Capitol Building, located in downtown Indianapolis. Visitors can learn about the state's history and government while admiring the building's beautiful architecture and artwork.
Experience the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra or Indiana Repertory Theatre: Enjoy a night out on the town with a performance by the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra or a play at the Indiana Repertory Theatre. Both venues offer world-class entertainment in the heart of downtown Indianapolis.
Places to eat & drink in Indianapolis
St. Elmo Steak House: A legendary Indianapolis institution, St. Elmo Steak House has been serving up world-class steaks and seafood since 1902. Known for its famous shrimp cocktail and aged USDA prime beef, it's a must-visit for steak enthusiasts.
Milktooth: This trendy brunch spot is known for its creative, farm-to-table dishes and inventive breakfast cocktails. Located in the historic Fletcher Place neighborhood, Milktooth offers a unique dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
Bluebeard: Named after the Kurt Vonnegut novel, Bluebeard is a popular restaurant located in a renovated warehouse in the Holy Cross neighborhood. The menu features seasonal, globally inspired dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
Vida: Offering contemporary Latin cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Vida is a stylish restaurant located in the historic Lockerbie Square neighborhood. The menu includes ceviche, tacos and wood-fired meats and seafood.
Mesh on Mass: Located on Massachusetts Avenue, Mesh on Mass offers contemporary American cuisine in a stylish, upscale setting. The menu features a variety of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including steaks, seafood and pasta.
The Eagle: Known for its Southern-inspired comfort food and hip atmosphere, The Eagle serves up fried chicken, biscuits and other Southern classics in a casual setting. The restaurant is located in the historic Fountain Square neighborhood.
Union 50: This trendy restaurant and bar offers a diverse menu of New American cuisine, including wood-fired pizzas, small plates and creative cocktails. Located in the historic St. Joseph neighborhood, Union 50 features live music and a lively atmosphere.
Livery: Housed in a historic livery stable in the downtown Wholesale District, Livery offers Latin-inspired cuisine with a modern twist. The menu features a variety of small plates, tacos and entrees made with locally sourced ingredients.
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Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Exploring Philadelphia: A City of History, Culture, and Culinary Delights.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Indianapolis.