Things to Do in Indianapolis in 2024

Indianapolis showing modern architecture and a statue or sculpture

Indianapolis Attractions

From elaborate museums paying homage to college basketball to canal-front parks, Indianapolis, Indiana, has plenty to offer the average tourist. In fact, it is one of the largest inland cities in the entire country and has more than its fair share of activities and landmarks. Attractions in Indianapolis embody the city’s love of sports, food, art, and family. Whether you head to the city on a family getaway, couples trip, or vacation with friends, you will find plenty of things to do in Indianapolis.

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Most popular activities in Indianapolis

Tours & day trips

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Indianapolis: 3-Day Indy Attraction Pass

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Classes & workshops

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Japanese Street Food Class in Beech Grove

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Private & custom tours

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Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Indianapolis Sights & Stories

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Recommended things to do in Indianapolis

Number of things to do	29
Things to do from	$9
Cheapest thing to do	Indianapolis Children's Museum Audio Tour (ENG) (NO TICKET)
Top 5 things to do	Indianapolis: 3-Day Indy Attraction Pass Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Indianapolis Sights & Stories Children's Museum of Indianapolis In-App Audio Tour Indianapolis Scavenger Hunt by Zombie Scavengers Japanese Street Food Class in Beech Grove
Under $25	Children's Museum of Indianapolis In-App Audio Tour Indianapolis Scavenger Hunt by Zombie Scavengers Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Indianapolis by 3Quest Challenge Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Indianapolis by Crazy Dash Indianapolis Prowl Scavenger Hunt
With kids	Indianapolis: 3-Day Indy Attraction Pass Japanese Street Food Class in Beech Grove Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Indianapolis by 3Quest Challenge Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Indianapolis by Crazy Dash 45-Minute Walk-In Axe Throwing Experience Indianapolis

What to do in Indianapolis

Free Things to Do in Indianapolis

Leave your wallet in the hotel. It's possible to occupy yourself in Indianapolis without spending a cent.

National Art Museum of Sport - Crammed with intriguing objects and exhibits, this place is a wonderland for minds that thirst for knowledge.

Indiana State Capitol - Wander around this historic attraction and find out a few secrets from the past.

Lockerbie Square Historic District - This is a buzzing location where you can absorb the atmosphere and appreciate local life.

Soldiers and Sailors Monument - Organize a visit and discover the significance of this place to the locals.

Christ Church Cathedral - Whether you're spiritual or not, this place will invoke a sense of reverence in you.

White River Gardens - Grab your picnic blanket, pack some food and find a cozy area to appreciate Mother Nature.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Indianapolis

Indianapolis is quite a lively city, and the array of neighborhoods you find here reflect just how much character it really has. It doesn’t matter if you are a die-hard basketball fan, seasoned foodie, or someone looking to explore a brand new city—Indy is a good place to visit.

Downtown — Indianapolis is teeming with restaurants, art galleries, museums, and more. If you’re looking for the heart of the city, this is definitely a good place to start. Attractions in this part of Indy include: the Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War Museum, New World Youth Orchestras, and Kuaba Gallery.

Wholesale District — Many fun things to do in Indianapolis have set up residence in the Wholesale District downtown, which is quite the shopper’s dream. This downtown area also has attractions like the Indiana Roof Ballroom and other arts venues.

Fountain Square — Head to Fountain Square if you want to learn to swing dance, check out a bohemian vibe, and taste test cuisines from around the world. Known as a cultural district, this neighborhood is often referred to as funky and original.

Massachusetts Avenue — Don’t forget to make a stop on Massachusetts Avenue and soak in public art murals and nightlife while you’re in Indianapolis. Known around town as simply Mass Ave, this part of Indianapolis is also rich with independent boutiques.

Things to See in Indianapolis

Fans of college sports should make a point to see the NCAA® Hall of Champions during their time in this Indiana city. In fact, anyone who has ever played basketball is sure to get a kick out of the exhibits. Other things to see in Indianapolis include shows at the Old National Centre, White River State Park, and the Dallara IndyCar Factory. You can also pay tribute at the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument while you’re in Indianapolis.

Sightseeing in Indianapolis

Even though the entire state of Indianapolis is known for its love of basketball, there are plenty of Indianapolis activities that have nothing to do with athletic endeavors. Stop in at the Indiana State Capitol for a look into regional government, spend an afternoon at the Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens, and top off your day by noshing on a delicious meal in a trendy downtown restaurant. Things to do in Indianapolis, Indiana, leave you spoiled for choice, which is never a bad thing!

Things to Do in Indianapolis with Kids

Going away with the young ones? You'll find plenty of tours and activities in Indianapolis that'll put wide smiles on little faces. Take a peek at these family friendly experiences:

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Indianapolis? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Indianapolis on a sunny day?

If you’re after a bit of fun under the sun, check out these outdoor experiences:

What is Indianapolis famous for?

Indianapolis Motor Speedway is an icon of Indianapolis, so make sure you allow time to visit.

What should I not miss in Indianapolis?

You’ll want to put these attractions toward the top of your must-see list to make the most of your trip:

Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
Lucas Oil Stadium
Bankers Life Fieldhouse
Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art

Are there cheap things to do in Indianapolis?

If you’re traveling on a budget, be sure to add these inexpensive experiences to your schedule:

What can you do in Indianapolis for free?

Your vacation in Indianapolis doesn’t have to cost a fortune with free attractions like these on offer:

Circle Center Mall
Butler University
Fashion Mall at Keystone
Monument Circle

Discover the most popular places to visit in Indianapolis

Indianapolis Motor Speedway

4.5/5(515 reviews)

Buckle up at the world’s most famous speedway and experience G-force thrills usually reserved for race car drivers.

Lucas Oil Stadium

4.5/5(891 reviews)

Admire the innovative redbrick design of this large arena and watch a game of professional football in the downtown district of Indianapolis.

Indiana Convention Center

4.5/5(555 reviews)

During your trip, find out what's happening at Indiana Convention Center, a top convention center in Indianapolis. Experience the area's fascinating museums and acclaimed art scene.

Gainbridge Fieldhouse

4.5/5(457 reviews)

For men’s and women’s basketball, WWE wrestling and concerts, this eclectic and modern arena is at the apex of Indiana sports and entertainment.

Children's Museum of Indianapolis

4.5/5(481 reviews)

Dinosaurs and pirate ships, interactive exhibits, games and toys from a bygone age — it’s all at this children’s wonderland.

Indianapolis Zoo

4.5/5(337 reviews)

Much more than an animal park, this downtown attraction also features an aquarium and botanic garden.

Ruoff Home Mortgage Music Center

4.5/5(116 reviews)

Ruoff Home Mortgage Music Center is just one of the places to see in Noblesville, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Experience the area's great live music or attend a sporting event.

Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park

4.5/5(168 reviews)

From your grandstand seat, watch and listen to high-speed drag race cars and motorbikes zipping by at this prestigious auto racing circuit complex.

White River State Park

4.5/5(136 reviews)

Museums, galleries, a world-class zoo and an award-winning sports stadium are all packed into Indianapolis’ favorite park.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Indianapolis

Downtown Indianapolis

4.5/5(2,481 area reviews)

Attend professional sports events, tour parks filled with museums and historical landmarks and enjoy both traditional and contemporary theater scenes.