MileHacker Logo
Attractions & Sightseeing

Attractions & Sightseeing

Great Lakes, USA

Iconic Landmarks

Indianapolis’s signature sites offer unique experiences.

Plan to visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Children's Museum, White River State Park, and Soldiers and Sailors Monument.

Essential Tips

  • Online Tickets: Purchase tickets online in advance for major attractions like The Children's Museum to secure your spot and often save time.
  • Timings Vary: Hours and fees vary greatly by attraction. Always check individual websites before your visit.
  • Comfortable Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes, especially if exploring White River State Park or walking the Canal Walk.
  • Race Day Prep: For races at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, arrive early and bring earplugs for hearing comfort.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

State & Regional Focus

  • Indiana State Museum: Explores Indiana's natural and cultural history, from prehistoric times to present. Located in White River State Park.
  • Eiteljorg Museum: Features extensive collections of Native American art and cultural objects, plus art of the American West. Also in White River State Park.
  • NCAA Hall of Champions: Interactive exhibits celebrate collegiate sports across all NCAA divisions. Located in White River State Park.
  • Rhythm! Discovery Center: An interactive museum dedicated to percussion instruments and rhythm from around the world.
  • Indiana History Insight: Learn more about the state's rich past with Indiana History: A New Look at America's Story.

Art & Specialized

  • Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields: A comprehensive art museum with diverse collections on 152 acres, including gardens and an outdoor art and nature park.
  • Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum: Offers track tours, explores racing history, and features the Hall of Fame. Find details at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway website.
  • Victory Field: Home of the Indianapolis Indians baseball team, offering live sporting events.
  • The Children's Museum of Indianapolis: The world's largest children's museum. Highly interactive exhibits across five floors. Secure tickets online.

A GetYourGuide booking helps arrange visits to top attractions and cultural institutions, simplifying your itinerary.

Historical Sites

  • Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site: The preserved Victorian home of the 23rd U.S. President. Guided tours and insights into 19th-century life.
  • Indiana Statehouse: The beautiful seat of Indiana's government. Features impressive architecture and offers free guided tours.
  • James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home: The preserved Victorian home of the famed "Hoosier Poet." A glimpse into his life and times.
  • Madam C.J. Walker Legacy Center: A historic building honoring Madam C.J. Walker, an African American entrepreneur. Features cultural events and a theatre.

Historical Significance

  • Lockefield Gardens:

    A historic district known for its Art Deco architecture. Once a prominent African American community.

  • Soldiers and Sailors Monument:

    The symbolic heart of Indianapolis. A towering structure honoring Indiana's soldiers. Observation deck available.

  • Monument Circle:

    Visit at dusk to see the Circle of Lights during the holiday season for a truly festive display.

Natural Attractions

Indianapolis offers numerous green spaces and natural beauty within and near the city.

White River State Park

A sprawling urban park housing several major attractions. Offers green spaces, walking trails, and the scenic Canal Walk.

Eagle Creek Park

One of the largest municipal parks in the United States. Offers extensive hiking trails, a nature center, a marina for boating, and birdwatching opportunities.

Newfields Gardens

Beyond the museum, its expansive grounds feature the Oldfields-Lilly House & Gardens and the Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres, with contemporary outdoor art installations.

Hidden Gems

  • Central Canal Walk:

    Many visitors stick to the main downtown stretch. Explore its full length for quieter spots, public art, and different views.

  • Fountain Square:

    A historic and revitalized cultural district with unique shops and dining.

  • Mass Ave Arts & Cultural District:

    A lively area with a distinct character, public art, unique boutiques, and a diverse array of dining and nightlife.

Capture Memories

Capture all your adventures, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems, with a versatile camera like the GoPro HERO12 Black.

Navigate Safely

Use digital maps or guidebooks to navigate the city effectively and find points of interest.

Plan Your Day

Review attraction opening times and plan your route to maximize your sightseeing experience.

Visitor Resources

  • Visitor Centers: Visit local visitor centers for maps, brochures, and personalized recommendations from local experts.
  • Event Calendars: Check Indianapolis's official tourism website for a calendar of events during your stay.
  • Public Transportation: Utilize the bus system or ride-share services for transport between attractions, especially outside walking distance.

Practical Advice

Effective planning makes a difference for a smooth visit.

Saving on Admissions

Look for opportunities to reduce costs on attraction entry.

Discount Opportunities

  • Many attractions offer discounts for seniors, students, or military personnel.
  • Check group rates if traveling with a larger party for potential savings.
  • Consider city passes if visiting multiple paid attractions for overall savings.

Navigating the City

Transportation Options

  • Car rental offers flexibility for exploring outside downtown.
  • Ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft) are widely available.
  • Many downtown attractions are walkable, especially near the Canal Walk.

Family Fun

Attractions suited for all ages.

Kid-Friendly Spots

  • The Children's Museum of Indianapolis tops the list for interactive learning.
  • Indianapolis Zoo offers diverse animal exhibits and conservation education.
  • Victory Field provides a fun family outing with minor league baseball.
  • Paddle boating on the Canal Walk is a pleasant outdoor activity.

Accessibility Information

Ensuring access for all visitors.

Inclusive Travel

  • Many major attractions and museums are wheelchair accessible.
  • Some institutions offer sensory-friendly experiences or accommodations for visual/hearing impairments.
  • Service animals are welcome in public spaces and attractions.

Museum & Institution Focus

History & Culture

  • Indiana State Museum immerses visitors in the state's natural and cultural history.
  • Eiteljorg Museum showcases American Indian and Western art and culture.
  • The Indiana Statehouse offers free guided tours of its historic chambers.

Sports & Arts

  • NCAA Hall of Champions celebrates collegiate sports with interactive exhibits.
  • Rhythm! Discovery Center presents an unique exploration of percussion instruments.
  • Newfields (Indianapolis Museum of Art) combines art with extensive gardens and outdoor installations.

Helpful Tips for Sightseeing

Making the most of your sightseeing adventure.

Utilize Maps

Acquire a city map or use a reliable navigation app to orient yourself and find attractions efficiently.

Check Forecast

Review the weather forecast before heading out, especially for outdoor attractions, to dress appropriately.

Photography Etiquette

Be mindful of photography rules in museums and private institutions. Flash photography is often prohibited.

Local Insights

Local Guides

Consider a guided tour for insights into the city's history and culture.

Explore tours on GetYourGuide

Hidden Gems Exploration

Venture beyond major landmarks to discover unique local spots like the City Market Catacombs.

Neighborhood Walks

Stroll through neighborhoods like Fountain Square and Mass Ave for a feel of local life and public art.

Visitor Centers

Start your visit at a local visitor center for maps and personalized advice.

Event Calendars

Check local event calendars for festivals, concerts, or special exhibitions during your stay.

Museum Experiences

Immersive learning and art exploration.

Interactive Exhibits

  • The Children's Museum offers hands-on scientific and historical exhibits.
  • Rhythm! Discovery Center provides interactive musical experiences for all ages.
  • NCAA Hall of Champions presents interactive displays celebrating collegiate sports history.

Architectural Wonders

Admire the city's impressive structures.

Historic Buildings

  • The Indiana Statehouse boasts stunning architecture and historical significance.
  • Soldiers and Sailors Monument offers panoramic city views from its observation deck.
  • The Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site preserves 19th-century presidential history.
  • Explore Lockefield Gardens for unique Art Deco architecture and its historical context.

Helpful Tips for Sightseeing

Many attractions offer discounts for seniors, students, or military personnel.

Check group rates if traveling with a larger party for potential savings.

Beyond the City Center

Explore attractions just outside the immediate downtown area.

Northside Exploration

Discover family-friendly activities and unique shopping.

Carmel & Zionsville

  • Carmel Arts & Design District offers galleries and unique shops.
  • Zionsville's charming Main Street is lined with boutiques and eateries.
  • Koteewi Park (North of Indy) features zip-lining and archery.

Outdoor Retreats

Venture out for extensive natural experiences.

State Parks Near Indy

  • Brown County State Park (approx. 1 hour south) is ideal for hiking and nature.
  • Turkey Run State Park (approx. 1.5 hours west) features gorges and unique rock formations.
  • Chain O'Lakes State Park (approx. 2 hours north) has numerous interconnected lakes for paddling.

Historic Towns

Explore charming, historic communities.

Nearby Gems

  • New Harmony: A historic town known for its utopian communities.
  • Columbus: Recognised for its modern architecture and public art.
  • French Lick: Features historic resorts and a scenic railway.

These destinations offer day trip opportunities from Indianapolis.

Academic Attractions

Visit prominent university campuses.

University Tours

  • Purdue University (West Lafayette): Explore its engineering and agricultural heritage.
  • Indiana University (Bloomington): Known for its beautiful campus and arts programs.

These campuses are within a short drive, offering additional cultural and educational sites.

Motorsports Heritage

Explore Indiana's racing legacy.

Racing Destinations

  • Speedway, IN: Home to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and its museum.
  • Lucas Oil Raceway (Brownsburg): Hosts drag racing and other motorsport events.
  • IndyCar Series: Follow the race calendar for events throughout Indiana and beyond.

Indiana's motorsports tradition extends beyond the Indy 500, with year-round events.

Explore Local Trails

The Monon Trail

A popular multi-use path stretching from downtown Indianapolis north through various suburbs, ideal for cycling, running, or walking.

Indianapolis Cultural Trail

An 8-mile urban bike and pedestrian path connecting Indianapolis's cultural districts and attractions.

White River Trail

A scenic route along the White River, offering natural views and access to parts of White River State Park.

Local Travel Insights

Consider exploring unique local neighborhoods for a more authentic Indianapolis experience beyond the typical tourist spots.