Indianapolis offers true Midwestern Americana injected with its own culture. The city is home to world-famous sports venues as well as historically charming sights. You can indulge in sporting fun or soak up the arts and culture. But no matter which attractions you are here to enjoy, a SIXT rental car will get you where you want to be in style.
Indianapolis offers so many delightful attractions that you won’t want to have to depend on public transportation schedules. And isn’t renting a car the very best way to see this auto racing city? Your family can get comfortable in an SUV, or you and that special someone can glide through the city in a sports car. If you’re looking to save money, choose a compact car.
Must-see attractions in Indianapolis
1. Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Downtown Union Station
As you drive into Indianapolis, you will want to see this charming hotel built in an old train station. The Grand Hall Ballroom is exquisite, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a more unique and charming place to stay. The hotel’s Pullman-style hotel rooms will make staying here one of the most delightful parts of your trip to Indianapolis.
Address: 123 W. Louisiana St., Indianapolis, IN, 46225
2. Lucas Oil Stadium Tour
Indianapolis is the home of the NFL team the Indianapolis Colts, winner of two Super Bowls and once led by quarterback Peyton Manning. The Colts play at Lucas Oil Stadium, and the stadium also hosts concerts and events like motocross. By taking a 75-minute guided tour, you will get the chance to see the field, the press box, the locker room and other behind-the-scenes sights most people never get to see.
Address: 500 S. Capitol Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46225
Entry fees: More information
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: 1-2 hours
3. Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum
The very name of the city brings to mind the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the world-famous racetrack that’s been operating since 1926. If you are in town when there are no races scheduled, you can see the iconic race track up close by visiting the museum, which is located inside the racing oval. See priceless automotive vehicles and artifacts and choose from several tours designed to give you in-depth knowledge of “The Racing Capital of the World”.
Address: 4750 W. 16th St., Indianapolis, IN 46222
Entry fees: More information
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: 1-2 hours
4. Newfields
Newfields is a vast campus where gardens, woodlands and water features surround the Indianapolis Museum of Art. Its goal is to harmoniously blend nature and the arts. You can also see a 1930’s mansion on the campus. Whether you are going there to see specific art or simply to while away the hours enjoying the grounds, Newfields will leave you with idyllic memories.
Address: 100 Monument Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Entry fees: More information
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: 2-4 hours
5. Monument Circle
Located in the heart of Indianapolis, this memorial honors the sailors and soldiers who fought for the US. A tower that’s 284 feet tall with a woman holding a sword on top rises in the very center of the circular memorial. The monument is surrounded by statues depicting the courage of the soldiers and the ferocity of battle. A Civil War monument is also located at the memorial.
Address: 1 Monument Circle, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Entry fees: Free
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: Less than 1 hour
6. White River State Park
This 250-acre park runs through downtown Indianapolis. If you want to take time out from urban life, the park offers trails, picnic spots, nature and the Canal Walk. This three-mile walkway runs along the river, past quaint and historic waterfront buildings. The park also offers cultural enrichment and entertainment, with attractions including an IMAX theater, an amphitheater, two museums, The Indianapolis Zoo and the NCAA Hall of Champions.
Address: 801 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46204
Entry fees: Free
Hours: When to visit
7. Market Street Catacombs Tour
There are 20,000 feet of underground tunnels beneath the open-air Whistler Plaza, part of Indianapolis’s historical and thriving City Market. The brick and limestone passageways that were used to transport produce and meat to the market in the days before refrigeration have an ancient Roman look and feel to them. Today, a tour of the catacombs that are still intact offers a unique pleasure.
Address: 222 E. Market St., Indianapolis, IN 46204
Entry fees: More information
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: 1 hour
8. Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library
Open since 2008, the Kurt Vonnegut Museum aims to preserve the legacy of the world-famous author of Slaughterhouse Five and Breakfast of Champions. Vonnegut was not only an author, but also a teacher, an artist, cultural commentator and Indianapolis native. The museum displays Vonnegut’s personal belongings such as his glasses and his Purple Heart. It also offers culturally rich educational opportunities.
Address: 543 Indiana Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46202
Entry fees: More information
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: 1-3 hours
9. Action Duckpin Bowl
Try your hand at the classic Indianapolis game of duckpin bowling, a version of the game from the 1930’s with a smaller ball, smaller pins and slightly different scoring rules. Action Duckpin Bowl has eight lanes as well as a vintage billiards table and a large café area. Feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you have fun playing this old-fashioned game.
Address: 1105 Prospect St., Indianapolis, IN 46203
Entry fees: More information
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: 1-3 hours
10. Bad Axe Throwing
What started as a Canadian backyard pastime has given rise to Bad Axe Throwing, the world’s largest urban axe throwing club. You can join a league, celebrate a special event or host team-building exercises. An expert coach will guide you as you throw axes, making sure you have a good time.
Address: 235 S. Meridian St. #211, Indianapolis, IN 46225
Entry fees: More information
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: 1-2 hours
Best Places to Eat & Drink in Indianapolis
After spending your day getting to know Indianapolis, relax in this bustling city and enjoy the city’s cuisine.
St. Elmo’s Steakhouse: This restaurant’s early 1900’s décor will charm you as much as its classic menu will delight you. Surrounded by brick walls and wood paneling, you can enjoy St. Elmo’s shrimp cocktail and steak dinners, as well as its wine or classic martinis.
Shapiro’s Deli: Shapiro’s has been serving delicatessen classics since 1905. You can look out at the busy downtown through large windows as you enjoy signature dishes such as pastrami on rye, Dr. Brown’s Soda, and Matzo Ball Soup. At the restaurant, you’ll find a cafeteria-style line, a grocery store and a bakery. Shapiro’s offers everything you could want in a deli.
Bazbeaux Pizza: Since 1986, this restaurant has been serving Indianapolis both unique and classic pizzas on hand-crafted crusts. Alongside the canal, this pizza place offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Bazbeaux is known for its four-cheese pizza and its creamy house-made basil dressing.
