If you are looking for the best and fun things to do in Indianapolis while in the city, then this article is for you.
Indianapolis is a fantastic tourist destination and unquestionably one of the top holiday sites globally, with several exciting things to do and see. Trust me, you will love the city!
If you’re going to be in town, you’ll want to plan ahead of time so you can maximize your touring and visit as many tourist attractions as your strength could carry.
Now, let’s quickly look at the various things and activities you can partake in whenever you visit Indianapolis!
32 Fun Things To Do In Indianapolis, IN
1. Visit The Rhythm Discovery Center
The Rhythm Discovery Center might be exactly what you’re looking for!
The center is a multi-award-winning percussion museum that provides a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors.
This Indiana center has exhibits, performance areas, workshops, and more.
Guided excursions will teach you about the history and cultural significance of percussion.
You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in various entertaining activities, such as playing an eight-foot gong drum or joining a drum circle to make incredible music.
The Indianapolis facility also houses a diverse collection of instruments from all across the world, not only from Indiana.
See Also: Fun Things to Do in Mishawaka (Indiana)
2. The Indianapolis Art Center
On your weekend (or any other day) in Indiana, the Indianapolis Art Center is a terrific spot to visit.
It is one of Indiana’s, if not the entire country’s, largest community centers of its sort.
Three galleries within the building showcase some of the region’s best art.
The Indianapolis Art Center, however, is much more than that.
They also feature a library with over 5,000 titles, 11 studios where classes are given, seasonal exhibitions, workshops, and an auditorium with seating for 224 people.
Outside, there’s also ArtsPark, a 9-acre park with sculptures and creative outlets.
If you’re looking for a unique thing to do, this is the place to go.
3. Experience Nature at the Lilly House and Gardens
The Lilly House and Gardens are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Although it is technically a part of the Indianapolis Museum of Art (which we have already discussed), it is well worth a visit on its own among Indiana’s attractions, even if you don’t plan to visit the museum.
The Lilly House is surrounded by 26 acres of lush, beautiful, well-kept gardens.
The garden was planned by the same group who created Central Park!
4. Be a Viking at Bad Axe Throwing
Surprisingly, ax throwing is a popular activity in Indianapolis.
And, despite its moniker, Bad Axe Throwing is possibly the best spot in Indiana to do so!
Ax throwing is a basic sport in which you throw a large, heavy ax at a target in front of you and enjoy the surge of adrenaline.
It also works as a stress reliever.
So, instead of seeking things to do in Indianapolis, why not visit Bad Axe Throwing to relieve stress?
5. Visit the Monument Circle
Monument Circle, commonly known as the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, is a must-see in Indianapolis.
It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Indy, located in the city’s heart.
It is a massive monument that stands 284 and a half feet tall and is erected to honor sailors and soldiers who heroically fought and served their country.
This magnificent monument, designed in a neoclassical style, is surrounded by statues depicting the peril and bravery of war, with a woman in the center of it all.
She wields a symbolic torch, symbolizing the glory of the triumph that resulted in the liberation of thousands of enslaved people.
Monument Circle is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Indianapolis, and it’s an excellent place to begin a fun Indiana vacation.
Visit during the winter holiday season to witness the monument lit up with 2,400 magnificent, blinding lights.
6. Check Out Duckpin bowling
Duckpin bowling is another strange sport popular in Indianapolis.
It’s comparable to regular bowling but with a twist that distinguishes it as a local favorite.
It consists primarily of smaller pins, balls, and lanes, and it has a vintage feel to it that will transport you to 1930s Indiana.
Don’t worry; the game doesn’t have the same scoring rules as conventional bowling.
It’s a relatively simple sport to learn the rules, though some people may find it more difficult than their typical bowling form.
7. Visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum
The state of Indiana is well-known for its racing, and that’s why visiting the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is one of the things you must do if you’re in the region.
The Indy 500 is held at the speedway, while the museum takes you back in time to discover more about racing’s remarkable history.
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is a National Historic Landmark, adding its allure.
It houses a vast collection of incredible race automobiles and rare and fascinating artifacts.
Meanwhile, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway offers guided tours of the Gasoline Alley hospitality suite, the victory platform, and the car garage.
You may also take a narrated track tour that will take you around the entire circuit!
It’s undoubtedly one of Indianapolis’ most enjoyable activities.
8. Enjoy Gaming at the Tappers Arcade Bar
One of the most intriguing attractions in Indianapolis is Tappers Arcade Bar.
It’s jam-packed with old arcade games, many free to play, and a delectable array of amazing Indianapolis specialty brews.
Pong, Tron, pinball, and Centipede are ready for enthusiastic gamers!
The pub also lets you bring in outside food to get some delicious selections from the restaurant next door or have something delivered there.
It’s one of Indiana’s best venues for a classic game!
9. Play with Animals at the Indianapolis Zoo
The Indianapolis Zoo is one of the many interesting sites in downtown Indianapolis.
It is home to around 3,800 animals representing 320 species.
It features a big park, a botanical garden, and an aquarium, open to the public for viewing.
The Indianapolis Zoo also has the largest group of orangutans in Indiana and all of North America! These powerful and gorgeous mammals clamber on high ropes in the zoo’s International Orangutan Center.
Through the use of touch displays throughout the exhibit, visitors can engage with them.
In the zoo, there are a plethora of exhibits organized by biome.
Take a walk beneath a viewing dome at the Dolphin Pavilion, where dolphins play and swim above your head.
This is, without question, one of the top things to do in Indianapolis, whether you’re with kids, a partner, or by yourself!
See Also: Fun Things to Do in Elkhart (Indiana)
10. Spend a Weekend at the Holliday Park
Holliday Park, which covers 94 acres, is a well-known location.
It is historically significant, with tidbits of Indiana history tucked away at every turn.
There’s a nursery on the grounds, a nature center for kids of all ages, and a playground where your kids may play while you relax or roam about.
There’s plenty to do in Holliday Park, Indianapolis, including barbecuing, picnicking, or simply laying out a blanket and relaxing.
You may see the amazing ruins, formerly a New York skyscraper dismantled and relocated to Indianapolis, where they were transformed into beautiful artworks.
Your weekend at Holliday Park will be fantastic if you go at the proper time.
Visiting this historic site is undoubtedly one of the best things in Indianapolis today.
11. Hike the Indianapolis Cultural Trail
Are you looking for a quick way to explore everything there is to see in Indianapolis?
A fantastic choice is the Indianapolis Cultural Trail.
It starts in downtown Indianapolis and runs for 8 miles, taking you past some of the city’s most unique and noteworthy sights and attractions.
As you walk along this trail, you’ll pass through art districts and hip neighborhoods, catching vistas of various art, from sculptures to murals.
Stop for a break in a beautiful garden or park, or hire a bicycle for a more leisurely tour of the sites.
There are also plenty of charming stores and cafés to visit!
You may also take a food tour along the route, offering you an inside look at some of the state’s most delectable dining establishments, marketplaces, and cafes.
Even better, earnings from the food tours benefit the Indianapolis Cultural Trail’s upkeep!
12. The Market Street Catacombs
The Market Street Catacombs loom beneath Indianapolis’ streets.
These tunnels were built from brick and limestone over a century ago and interconnected, adding a dark layer to Indiana’s past.
They stretch for a total of 20,000 feet.
They aren’t tunnels, but they were formerly used to convey fruit and meat through Indianapolis and keep them cool before refrigeration.
Indianapolis is known for its haunted attractions, and this is one of the best places to visit to let your imagination run wild!
There are a few access sites, although they aren’t precisely public and aren’t open most of the year.
You’ll need to know who to contact, and it’s a good idea to make an appointment ahead of time.
The City Market, on the contrast, is slowly opening up to the rest of the globe, so excursions and even Halloween festivities are more common in the fall!
Of course, while you’re here, you should visit the City Market, which is full of delectable fresh foods and is a famous, historic place in and of itself.
If you’re seeking for something to do in Indianapolis, come here to browse the fruit and eat at a charming deli before heading down to see the city.
13. Eagle Creek Park
Eagle Creek Park is Indianapolis’s largest public park.
It is mostly used as a wildlife preserve with a land area of 3,900 acres and 1,400 acres of water.
It’s one of Indiana’s most well-known tourist destinations with a good cause!
The park has many beautiful trails, landscapes, and waterways, all-natural! – that makes it a must-see in Indianapolis.
Play sports, visit the Bark Park with your canine pals, play golf, go to the shooting range, or go skiing, hiking, fishing, or swimming while here!
Eagle Creek Park also hosts a thrilling activity for Indianapolis adrenaline addicts.
Go Ape Treetop Adventures is one such example, where you can navigate 40 treetop challenges, ride five zip lines, and swing back and forth!
The Ornithology Center, the Woodland Wildlife Preserve, and the bird sanctuary are great places to visit for nature lovers.
14. Visit the Harrison Eiteljorg Museum
The Harrison Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art is named after the museum’s founder.
It is located in downtown Indianapolis and features a diverse collection of interesting Native American and Western artifacts.
You can find everyday stuff, culturally significant artifacts, and even art in this wonderful tiny Indiana locale.
Many exhibitions focus on distinct yet broad topics, teaching viewers about some fascinating issues from various perspectives.
There are also workshops and activities to participate in.
This museum provides a terrific opportunity to explore the history and even the present, with modern exhibits available.
If you’re looking for things to do and want to visit a unique museum, the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians is the place to go.
15. Goose the Market
If you like meat, Goose the Market is one of Indiana’s best things to do.
Fresh deli meat and veggies are available and platters to take home and prepare yourself.
Take a bite of the meat in a sandwich or on a tray with a glass of beer, wine, or iced tea from the market.
You can even get gelato if it’s hot outside!
If you’re interested, Smoking Goose, the market’s main meat producer, offers special instruction on making sausages.
This is one of Indianapolis’ greatest luxury dining establishments, making it one of the most enjoyable things to do in the city.
16. Pay a visit to the Medical History Museum
If you work in medicine and live near Indianapolis, you must visit the Medical History Museum!
It is one of the most fun and obscure things to do in Indianapolis, and it is located on the former grounds of the Central State Hospital of Indiana.
The Old Pathology Building is home to most of the museum and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the country’s oldest surviving pathology facility!
It was founded to learn more about the causes of mental disease.
The Indianapolis building’s interior has remained unchanged since it closed in 1960, allowing you to tour it without difficulty.
17. The Lockerbie Square Historic District
The Lockerbie Square Historic District in Indianapolis is one of the best places to go for a taste of the past.
It’s one of the National Register of Historic Places’ Indiana highlights for a reason!
Queen Anne and Italianate architectural styles are beautifully preserved in this neighborhood.
You can take a walking tour of the beautiful area, seeing 25 different mansions built between 1855 and 1930.
There are also newer ones, such as the North Vermont Street Home and the famed James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home, designed with a Victorian-style interior and exterior.
Taking a tour of this neighborhood is a great way to get a sense of the city.
18. Perform at the White Rabbit Cabaret
Do you enjoy being on stage? Then the White Rabbit Cabaret, Indianapolis’ top venue for small performances of all kinds, is for you.
Burlesque troupes of many kinds congregate at this Fountain Square, Indiana location, modest yet bustling.
You can enjoy titillating performances ranging from Angel Burlesque to Rocket Doll Revue.
But the White Rabbit Cabaret isn’t just about burlesque.
In May, shows generally focus on racing (as one would expect in Indianapolis! ). Still, there are also other interesting elements such as dating shows, comedy specials, drunk spelling bees, and musical performances.
If you’re searching for something to do in Indianapolis this weekend, this cabaret should be at the top of your list!
19. Take Your Kids to The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
Are you traveling with your family? If you’re looking for something to do with your kids in Indiana, the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is one of the best places.
It’s an interactive museum chock-full of fascinating exhibits that’s not only the largest of its sort in Indiana but the entire world!
This museum has five levels, each with its own unique and fascinating exhibits that will keep any child entertained. There’s a 16-foot-tall Bumblebee movie prop and a 43-foot-long Fireworks of Glass sculpture with dazzling, vivid hues.
There’s an old but functional carousel on the museum’s top floor and the world’s largest water clock.
20. The Museum of Psychphonics
The Museum of Psychphonics is a fantastic bet if you seek the top things to do in Indianapolis, Indiana, which isn’t the most traditional tourist trap.
It is devoted to presenting obscure cultures such as Afro-futurism and other underground cultures in Indianapolis and the United States.
The Museum of Psychphonic is located in Indianapolis’ Fountain Square neighborhood and is shrouded in mystery, revealing stories that few have heard.
The museum’s odd design makes even entering a delight, and you’ll be met with unusual music from a genre you’ve probably never heard of.
21. Fort Harrison State Park
Fort Harrison State Park is located in the state of Indiana.
Fort Harrison State Park, sometimes known as Fort Ben by Indianapolis natives, is a great area to go sightseeing or take a break.
It was named after President Benjamin Harrison, the 23rd president of the United States.
This park has a variety of walking pathways to choose from.
Some of which encircle Delaware Lake; the paths are flanked by maple and walnut trees.
Autumn is the best time to visit to see the beautiful fall colors in the trees.
Don’t forget to visit the Museum of 20th Century Warfare, which features uniforms, weapons, and other military memorabilia from across Indiana and the United States.
22. Relax at the White River State Park
White River State Park is one of Indiana’s top parks today.
It covers 250 acres of land and is full of trails to walk down, areas to sit for picnics, and peaceful spots to get some fresh air and relax.
It is located in downtown Indianapolis, one of the most beautiful places to visit in the United States.
You can walk along the Canal Walk, which runs for three miles along the shoreline, or relaxes and take in the scenery.
The White River State Park is not only a green paradise excellent for unwinding, but it is also a terrific starting place for an Indianapolis adventure.
It is flanked by a slew of other well-known Indianapolis landmarks.
23. See Artifacts at the Indianapolis Museum of Art
The Indianapolis Museum of Art is a big museum with about 54,000 pieces of art from all over the world, spanning America to Africa and Europe to Asia.
The massive encyclopedic collection, which spans various genres, will astound you.
You’ll be able to see pottery, design, textiles, and the works of many famous artists in addition to fine art.
The Indianapolis Museum of Art hosts several events to develop an appreciation for the arts through performances, talks, film screenings, and other activities.
Depending on when you go, you may be able to attend some interesting events or listen to some fascinating lectures.
It is undoubtedly one of the top ten attractions in the state and one of the must-see destinations for any art lover.
It is located in downtown Indianapolis, Indiana. If you are an art lover, jump on this and add it to your list of things to do in Indianapolis.
24. Crown Hill Cemetery
Indianapolis is known for its fascination with the macabre and the supernatural.
As a result, Crown Hill Cemetery is one of the places to visit in this Indiana city that exemplifies its fascination with the supernatural.
This is said to be one of the country’s most haunted locations. Therefore, ghost hunters in the Indianapolis area should go!
The cemetery has well over 200,000 burials.
Famous leaders, criminals. playwrights, authors, generals, and soldiers have all had their final resting places here.
The tomb of James Whitcomb Riley lies at the very top, and the view from Crown Hill’s apex is breathtaking.
25. Visit Victory Field
Victory Field is one of the most iconic Indiana locations; as we all know, Indianapolis is famed for its sports.
It is the greatest ballpark in the country for minor league baseball, according to Baseball America.
It has a seating capacity of 14,230 people, and you can lay blankets out on the grass to watch games while your kids run around.
Many baseball enthusiasts’ bucket lists include seeing an Indianapolis Indians game at this historic venue.
If you’re one of them, plan your trip for April to September.
You can also take a comprehensive tour of the stadium, including the training room, press box, clubhouse, dugout, and grounds.
Are you searching for fun activities in downtown Indianapolis with your family? Then Victory fields is your best bet.
26. K1 Speed
There is no doubt Indianapolis is known for its motorsports.
That’s why K1 Speed in Indiana is such a fun place to visit for some fun activities!
Regardless of age, hop into a go-kart, spin, and then enjoy their 900-foot double-leveled race circuits created with superior high quality and for more excellent performance.
After that, you can unwind in their lounge, play some games, or grab a bite to eat at their snack bar.
You can also see some racing memorabilia that is 100 percent genuine and fascinating.
Of course, K1 Speed is only one of several businesses that provide this service.
Speedway Indoor Karting and Fastimes are other excellent possibilities depending on your area.
See Also: Fun Things to Do in Gatlinburg (TN)
27. The Lucas Oil Stadium
If you’re in Indiana today, you must visit the Lucas Oil Stadium, one of the essential Indianapolis attractions.
There are various events held here, and if you go at the appropriate time, you might be able to catch an Indianapolis Colts game, some Indy Eleven soccer, or a concert.
On select days of the week, you can also explore the stadium grounds.
Purchase meals from one of the numerous cafés located within the structure, browse the shops, or stroll and see The House That Manning Built on your own.
28. Crown Hill Cemetery
Crown Hill Cemetery is thus one of the places to visit that exemplifies this Indiana city’s fascination with the supernatural.
This is said to be one of the most haunted spots in the country, so ghost hunters in the Indianapolis area should visit!
The cemetery has around 200,000 burials.
Famous leaders, playwrights, criminals, authors, generals, and warriors are all buried there.
The tomb of James Whitcomb Riley sits at the very top, and you may enjoy a spectacular view from Crown Hill’s peak just near it.
29. GRT Glass Design
It’s a multi-award-winning firm specializing in creating and manufacturing a wide range of art glass goods for clients worldwide.
They first opened their doors in 1987, and since then, they’ve risen to the top of the market in Indiana, then America, and finally the world.
Glass Play Days, which are sessions where students get to manufacture glass art to take home, are held twice a month at the studio for Indianapolis residents and visitors.
It’s one of the unique keepsakes imaginable!
30. Rhythm! Discovery Center
Looking for fun activities to do in downtown Indianapolis with your family? The Rhythm! Discovery Center might be precisely what you’re looking for!
The center is a multi-award-winning percussion museum that provides a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors.
This Indiana center has exhibits, performance areas, workshops, and more.
Guided excursions will teach you about the history and cultural significance of percussion.
You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in various entertaining activities, such as playing an eight-foot gong drum or joining a drum circle to make incredible music.
The Indianapolis facility also houses a diverse collection of instruments from all across the world, not only from Indiana.
31. Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library
The Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library opened in 2011 to showcase his work and pay tribute to the great author, free-speech advocate, counter-culture figure, war veteran, and critic.
From his birth in 1922 to his time as a POW to his life as a novelist, this little library and museum are packed with information on Vonnegut’s various works and intriguing life.
The attractions are letters (including rejection letters from publishers! ), papers, sketches, etc.
In addition to all of this, there is a reading area, a reproduction of Vonnegut’s personal writing space, and a small exhibition of art.
The staff at this lively Indy hangout aren’t all Vonnegut fans.
32. Fort Harrison State Park
Fort Harrison State Park, sometimes known as Fort Ben by Indianapolis natives, is a great area to go sightseeing or take a break.
It was named after President Benjamin Harrison, the 23rd president of the United States.
This park has a variety of walking pathways to choose from.
Some of which encircle Delaware Lake; the paths are flanked with maple and walnut trees.
Autumn is the best time to visit to see the beautiful fall colors in the trees.
Don’t forget to visit the Museum of 20th Century Warfare, which features uniforms, guns, and other military relics from across Indiana and the United States.
Conclusion
Many hidden jewels abound in Indianapolis, waiting for you to discover them. There are many great activities and sites to see in the city.
You’ll come across amazing art galleries, delectable delicacies, wines, beers, theaters, parks, outdoor and indoor games for all ages, architectural buildings, jewelry, furniture, presents, museums, mansions, etc.
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