From Speedway To State Park: 15 Best Things To Do In Indianapolis

1. Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Begin your visit to the best of the Midwest the right way with a visit to the world-famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway! It is one of the top Indianapolis tourist attractions and home to the world-recognized pinnacle of racing, the Indianapolis 500, featuring the talents of racing legends like Tony Kanaan, Danica Patrick and Dan Wheldon. This venue also offers an unbeatable variety of on-track experience packages and while you’re in the area, feel free to stop by and visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, a testament to the various high-profile accomplished registered by those whose names are forever etched in the Borg-Warner Indianapolis 500 Trophy. Come check out this establishment like none other, because whether you’re planning on taking advantage of a VIP Grounds Tour, or you’re just in the habit of existing among history, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway has something for anyone seeking to experience the thrill of speed-induced adrenaline!

Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Address: 4790 W 16th St, Indianapolis, IN 46222

Website: Indianapolis Motor Speedway

2. The Children's Museum

Traveling with children and wondering what to do in Indianapolis? How about visiting the Indianapolis Children’s Museum? This award-winning attraction is as affordable as it is entirely unforgettable with a diversified variety of youth-centered attractions intended to foster child development and promote growth with regard to motor skills. The Children’s Museum is also the tried and tested Indianapolis location where children can let their creative side loose! Home to a host of constantly changing, professional exhibits, the Indianapolis Children’s Museum allows families to learn together. The wonders of the dinosaur age, the intricacies of the IndyCar series, the mystery of space beyond the limits of the atmosphere and more are all virtual staples of this venue, a setting that does well to introduce youth to the majesty of the beautiful world around them! Foster in your youth a feeling of positivity and discovery when you frequent the Indianapolis Children’s Museum, home to the state’s best learning experience that the entire family can enjoy!

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis

Address: 3000 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46208

Website: The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

3. Indianapolis Zoo

The Indianapolis Zoo is where nature comes alive. This family-friendly location is now easier than ever before to enjoy, with affordable ticket options available for the entire family, both online and at all entrance gates! Recognized as one of the top zoos worldwide, this award-winning venue displays its innate capacity to wow locals and visitors to the area alike, as their animals and exhibits prove nothing short of spectacular. With seasonal events including Christmas at the Zoo, the Indianapolis Zoo provides event and group discounts, specialized experiences for young visitors, educational and conservatory opportunities, and a lighthearted, privileged ambiance throughout. It isn’t difficult to find a good time at the Indianapolis Zoo; prepare to discover a smile on your face that proves as wide as this venue’s diversity of attractions!

Indianapolis Zoo

Address: 1200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46222

Website: Indianapolis Zoo

4. NCAA Hall of Champions

This is one of the top places to visit in Indianapolis for all college sports fans. At the NCAA Hall of Champions, history is immortalized. This living, growing testament to the athletics accomplishments of NCAA teams past, the NCAA Hall of Champions always has some ceremony transpiring that’s well worthy of your attention. Even when they’re not inducting new members to their halls, this establishment has much to offer to even the common visitor. Part museum, part event and conference center, this crown jewel of downtown Indianapolis hangs championship banners, exhibits game-used memorabilia and offers complete statistical records within their archives. It’s a visit to authentic NCAA historicity at the NCAA Hall of Champions, where the past and athletic prowess collide!

NCAA Hall of Champions

Address: 700 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204

Website: NCAA Hall of Champions

5. White River State Park

Home to pristine natural sights just outside of the downtown portion of Indianapolis, White River State Park offers you the shade of tall trees, recreational opportunities, and a chance to appreciate the sunshine which frequently typifies the beautiful Indiana outdoors. Boasting 250 acres of green, open park life, the White River State Park can easily turn your visit to Indianapolis into an unforgettable one, with dynamic options like their 1.5 mile canal, IMAX Theater, Celebration Plaza, Eiteljorg Museum Lawn and the outdoor Children’s Maze! With expansive grounds, forgiving shadows, and ample opportunities to rest your legs beneath the shades of leafy trees, the White River State Park truly has something to offer to everyone who frequents its grounds. Make the next easy decision and come visit the White River State Park, because whether it’s the freshly manicured Governor’s Lawn or the art of Bison Plaza, you’re sure to redefine your expectations of the Indianapolis outdoors!

White River State Park

Address: 801 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204

Website: White River State Park

6. Indianapolis Museum of Art

Those wondering what to see in Indianapolis can make their way to this museum. Marvel at the greatest artistic works available for display in the entire state, at the Indianapolis Museum of Art! With seasonal events and constantly changing exhibits, this affordable downtown Indianapolis attraction promises to deliver on its guarantee of authentic artistic masterpieces, all presented in a contemporary setting, the likes of which foster learning and excitement alike! The museum’s friendly art experts are available to answer any and all of your inquiries, and with offered films, classes and onsite talks, this venue is more than a simple series of exhibits! Visit the Indianapolis Museum of Art, for the perfect manifestation of art delivered right to your backyard! Their unique collections of modern, ancient, and dated pieces of various mediums will deservingly tug on your mind and heart alike. Check out the best artistic venue in the state of Indiana, where art and experience collide!

Indianapolis Museum of Art

Address: 4000 Michigan Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46208

Website: Indianapolis Museum of Art

7. Indiana War Memorial

Conceptualized in 1919, the Indiana War Memorial, located in the heart of Indianapolis, exists today as a memorial to veterans who call both Indiana and the United States their home. The Indiana War Memorial is a testament to their character and perseverance and to the fruits of their labor which we call our freedom. Five blocks long and home to the American legion, a U.S. organization for veterans, this venue also includes a memorial fountain and museum and is characterized by statues and greenery. The outdoor establishment promotes an atmosphere of respect but also allows those passerby to enjoy the the beautifully manicured landscapes which decorate the scene, as well as the events which are regularly hosted on its dignified grounds. Whether you’re there to take in the Veterans Memorial Plaza, University Park or Depew Memorial Fountain or simply to pay your respects for those who continuously pave the way for our own liberty on the front lines, the Indiana War Memorial makes Indianapolis a city not only of excitement but of virtue.

Indiana War Memorial

Address: 431 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46204

Website: Indiana War Memorial

8. The Eiteljorg Museum

Though its full name, the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, provides more than adequate backstory for the myriad contents inside the museum itself which prove worthy of your viewing and attention, locals know the the reputable establishment as the Eiteljorg Museum, an authentic indoor witness to American Indian life and heritage. Take in genuine culture, expertly preserved for a beautiful educational experience for all who frequent the site. With the Eiteljorg Museum’s extensive collection of untouched, lasting Native American artistry, side by side with other renowned works of Western American art, there’s truly something at this popular destination for everyone to enjoy. Come enjoy what proves to be both a historical enlightenment and an educational experience and cross the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art off of your Indianapolis essentials bucket list!

The Eiteljorg Museum

Address: 500 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204

Website: The Eiteljorg Museum

9. Indiana Repertory Theatre

The Indiana Repertory Theatre makes theatrical presentations come fully alive, courtesy of professional acting troupes and dynamic stage sets! A modern repertory cast, meaning the cast is capable of performing multiple shows simultaneously, the Indiana Repertory Theatre in Indianapolis exists today as a valued member of the local League of Resident Theatres. Capable of putting on nine to ten plays within the course of a calendar season, much of the work that this Indianapolis theatrical staple hosts is Shakespearian in nature, though obviously they do not limit themselves to the Elizabethan era. With seasonal events and available discounts, come see The Three Musketeers, Agatha Sale, A Christmas Carol or any of the other works of professional, top-notch artistry that the Indiana Repertory Theatre hosts for your viewing pleasure!

Indiana Repertory Theatre

Address: 140 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204

Website: Indiana Repertory Theatre

10. The Keystone Fashion Mall

Your search for the ideal retail getaway has found its end at the Keystone Fashion Mall. Located in Indianapolis and home to many of your favorite retail outlets, this viable shopping getaway aims to prove itself a luxury outlet. With a diversified variety of boutique, clothing, specialty, and cuisine stops, all of which provide the perfect blend of affordability and uniqueness, you’re sure to find the perfect gift, wardrobe item or retail discovery to make a great day into an unforgettable one! Open since 1973, the Keystone Fashion Mall currently hosts 95 independent vendors, and its newly renovated expansive spaces easily bridge the gap between high expectations and higher realities. Keep a good time going when you make the Keystone Fashion Mall in Indianapolis your next shopping destination!

The Keystone Fashion Mall

Address: 8702 Keystone Crossing, Indianapolis, IN 46240

Website: The Keystone Fashion Mall

11. White River Gardens

Located on the grounds of Indianapolis Zoo, White River Gardens are a set of beautiful botanical gardens that provide a respite from the hectic pace of the city. Spread out over 3.3 acres (1.3 hectares), this attraction consists of the massive glass Hilbert Conservatory, DeHaan Tiergarten, Heritage Garden and Butterfly Kaleidoscope. Experience tropical heaven of plants, trees, shrubs and blooms in the conservatory, take in the views and admire the floral art of the lovely outdoor gardens, learn about Indiana’s native plants and flowers, and marvel at the seasonal butterfly attraction. This is certainly a great family-friendly attraction!

White River Gardens

Address: 1200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46222, United States

Website: White River Gardens

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 9am - 5pm; Fri - Sun: 9am - 7pm

Price: 25.5 USD

12. Indiana Medical History Museum

Formerly a medical research facility and a hospital for the insane, Indiana Medical History Museum is an interesting place to visit during your trip to Indianapolis. The museum houses several unique artifacts, specimens, and medical paraphernalia that will give you a peek into psychiatric research that was carried out here in the past. Visitors can take guided tours and see various buildings and research rooms filled with human skeletons, organs, medicine bottles, instruments, and more. This is certainly a learning experience that will give you a deeper insight into mental health issues.

Indiana Medical History Museum

Address: 3045 W Vermont St, Indianapolis, IN 46222, United States

Website: Indiana Medical History Museum

Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sun, Mon & Tue)

Price: 10 USD

13. Rhythm! Discovery Center

Music lovers will surely delight in visiting Rhythm! Discovery Center in Indianapolis. As the name suggests, the museum mainly focuses on percussion and rhythm instruments like drums, keyboard, and more. Browse through a variety of exhibits showcasing drums and drumsets, cymbals, wind chimes, djembe, keyboards, and more from different eras. Learn about the evolution of percussion instruments and get a chance to play the drums too.

Rhythm! Discovery Center

Address: Claypool Court Building, 110 W Washington St A, Indianapolis, IN 46204, United States

Website: Rhythm! Discovery Center

Opening hours: Mon: 10am - 5pm; Wed: 12pm - 7pm; Thu - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Tue)

Price: 12 USD

14. Greatimes Family Fun Park

For some fun time with your family, make your way to Greatimes Family Fun Park. Spread out over a large area, this indoor-outdoor gaming and entertainment facility offers a range of activities that everyone in your family can enjoy. A multi-level arcade, go-karts, miniature golf, bumper boats and a huge indoor playground for kids are available here. Greatimes Family Fun Park is certainly a great way to have an awesome time with your family.

Greatimes Family Fun Park

Address: 5341 Elmwood Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46203, United States

Website: Greatimes Family Fun Park

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 12pm - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 10pm; Sun: 12pm - 9pm

15. Easley Winery

Operational since 1974, the owners of Easley Winery are one of the pioneers of the winery business in Indiana. During your trip to Indianapolis, pay a visit to this winery and learn about its history, wine-making process and sample some fine wine. Winery tours are also available on certain days and you can combine it with a wine-tasting session. Take home a bottle or two of a fine red, white or rose wine or splurge on a bottle of a bubbly to celebrate a special occasion.

Easley Winery

Address: 205 N College Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202, United States

Website: Easley Winery

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Sun)

Price: 5 USD

An endeavor worth remembering

You’re sure to find the perfect combination of thrill and lasting satisfaction when you choose to enjoy the best attractions and amenities that the great city of Indianapolis has to offer you. Whether it’s the history of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway or the NCAA Hall of Champions, the natural beauty of White River State Park or mankind’s capacity for artistry at the Indianapolis Museum of Art that you find most fascinating, we guarantee that Indianapolis brims with exclusively premium options with regard to venues for your immediate enjoyment. Take advantage of everything that Indianapolis has to offer, and make sure you check out our recommended list of the absolute best of the best Indianapolis attractions in existence, to transform your visit into an endeavor worth remembering!