20 Best Places and Things To Do in Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis, the capital city of Indiana, offers a vibrant blend of culture, history, and entertainment. Known as the “Crossroads of America,” Indianapolis boasts a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all interests. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, art lover, history buff, or nature admirer, here are some of the best places and things to do in Indianapolis:

1. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g37209-d103671-Reviews-Children_s_Museum_of_Indianapolis-Indianapolis_Indiana.html

Perfect for families, this expansive museum offers interactive exhibits covering science, history, and culture. It features the largest collection of dinosaur fossils in the world, a planetarium, and engaging hands-on activities for kids of all ages.

2. Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields

File:IndianapolisMuseumofArt.jpg

Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indianapolis_Museum_of_Art

Stroll through the beautiful gardens and visit the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields. The museum showcases an extensive collection of artworks from various periods and cultures, including pieces by renowned artists such as Monet, Picasso, and Hopper.

3. White River State Park

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g37209-d278809-Reviews-White_River_State_Park-Indianapolis_Indiana.html

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the natural beauty of White River State Park. Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the canal, rent a paddleboat, or visit the Indianapolis Zoo and the Indiana State Museum, both located within the park.

4. Eiteljorg Museum

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g37209-d110141-Reviews-The_Eiteljorg_Museum-Indianapolis_Indiana.html

Discover the rich heritage and art of Native Americans and the American West at the Eiteljorg Museum. The museum exhibits a diverse collection of Native American artifacts, Western art, and contemporary Native American artwork.

5. Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g37209-d103672-Reviews-Indianapolis_Motor_Speedway_Museum-Indianapolis_Indiana.html

Located within the famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the museum showcases the rich heritage and excitement of one of the world’s most iconic racing venues. Here’s what you can expect when you visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum:

6. Indianapolis Zoo

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g37209-d103676-Reviews-Indianapolis_Zoo-Indianapolis_Indiana.html

The Indianapolis Zoo is a beloved attraction that offers a unique combination of wildlife exhibits, conservation efforts, and interactive experiences. Located in White River State Park, the zoo provides a memorable day of exploration and education for visitors of all ages. Here’s what you can expect when you visit the Indianapolis Zoo:

7. Central Canal

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g37209-d1682106-Reviews-Central_Canal-Indianapolis_Indiana.html

The Canal Walk is a three-mile pedestrian and bike path that runs alongside the Central Canal. It provides a pleasant and scenic route for leisurely walks, jogs, or bike rides. As you stroll along the canal, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery, beautiful landscapes, and charming bridges.

8. Indiana War Memorial

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g37209-d103677-Reviews-Indiana_War_Memorial-Indianapolis_Indiana.html

The centerpiece of the complex is the towering Indiana War Memorial, an imposing structure that rises 210 feet above the city. The memorial pays homage to the soldiers and sailors of Indiana who fought in various conflicts throughout history. Visitors can ascend to the top of the memorial for a panoramic view of downtown Indianapolis.

9. Indiana State Museum

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g37209-d274288-Reviews-Indiana_State_Museum-Indianapolis_Indiana.html

Located in White River State Park, the museum offers a diverse range of exhibits, interactive displays, and educational programs for visitors of all ages. Here’s what you can expect when you visit the Indiana State Museum:

10. Eagle Creek Park

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g37209-d274124-Reviews-Eagle_Creek_Park-Indianapolis_Indiana.html

located in Indianapolis, Indiana. Known for its scenic beauty, diverse ecosystems, and abundance of recreational activities, Eagle Creek Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Here’s what you can expect when you visit Eagle Creek Park:

11. Fort Harrison State Park

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g37209-d274341-Reviews-Fort_Harrison_State_Park-Indianapolis_Indiana.html

White River State Park is a beautiful urban park situated in downtown Indianapolis, Indiana. Known for its scenic beauty, cultural attractions, and recreational opportunities, White River State Park offers a diverse array of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here’s what you can expect when you visit White River State Park:

12. Garfield Park Conservatory & Sunken Garden

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g37209-d2516904-Reviews-Garfield_Park_Conservatory_Sunken_Garden-Indianapolis_Indiana.html

ocated in Indianapolis, Indiana. Nestled within Garfield Park, this enchanting botanical oasis offers a serene escape from the bustling city. Here’s what you can expect when you visit the Garfield Park Conservatory & Sunken Garden:

13. White River Gardens

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g37209-d274422-Reviews-White_River_Gardens-Indianapolis_Indiana.html

located in Indianapolis, Indiana. Adjacent to the Indianapolis Zoo and part of the larger White River State Park, White River Gardens offers a beautiful and immersive experience for plant enthusiasts and nature lovers. Here’s what you can expect when you visit White River Gardens:

14. Garfield Park Arts Center

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g37209-d3418147-Reviews-Garfield_Park_Arts_Center-Indianapolis_Indiana.html

located in Garfield Park, Indianapolis. Housed in a historic building, the center offers a diverse range of arts and cultural programs, exhibitions, and events for people of all ages and skill levels. Here’s what you can expect when you visit the Garfield Park Arts Center:

15. Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g37209-d314932-Reviews-Sacred_Heart_of_Jesus_Catholic_Church-Indianapolis_Indiana.html

Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church provides regular religious services for worshipers. These services include daily and Sunday Masses, sacraments such as baptism, confirmation, and marriage, as well as opportunities for confession and reconciliation. The church offers a sacred and peaceful environment for prayer, reflection, and communion with God.

16. Hindu Temple of Central Indiana

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g37209-d10535707-Reviews-Hindu_Temple_of_Central_Indiana-Indianapolis_Indiana.html

The temple provides a sacred space for Hindu worshipers to connect with the divine. It houses multiple shrines dedicated to various deities, including Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiva, Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Vishnu, and many others. Devotees can offer prayers, participate in religious ceremonies, and seek blessings from the deities.

17. Landmark for Peace Memorial

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g37209-d6416370-Reviews-Landmark_for_Peace_Memorial-Indianapolis_Indiana.html

The centerpiece of the memorial is a striking sculpture created by artist Greg Perry. It depicts the larger-than-life figures of Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy reaching out to each other. The bronze statues are frozen in a moment of connection and solidarity, symbolizing their shared vision for civil rights and social change.

18. Holcomb Gardens

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g37209-d10558880-Reviews-Holcomb_Gardens-Indianapolis_Indiana.html

Holcomb Gardens offers breathtaking views of meticulously landscaped gardens, serene ponds, and winding pathways. The well-manicured lawns, vibrant flowers, and lush foliage create a visually stunning environment that is perfect for strolling, photography, or simply taking in the natural beauty.

19. Benton House Historic Garden

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g37209-d9594105-Reviews-Benton_House_Historic_Garden-Indianapolis_Indiana.html

There are, however, several other notable historic gardens and landmarks in Indianapolis that you might be interested in exploring. Some of them include the Garfield Park Conservatory & Sunken Garden, White River Gardens, and Holliday Park. These locations offer beautiful gardens and natural landscapes, as well as historical significance. If you have any other questions or need information on a different topic, feel free to ask!

20. Kile Oak Habitat Garden

Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g37209-d9856767-Reviews-Kile_Oak_Habitat_Garden-Indianapolis_Indiana.html

the garden you mentioned may not be widely recognized or documented. However, there are several other beautiful gardens and natural areas in Indianapolis that you might be interested in visiting. Some notable ones include the Garfield Park Conservatory & Sunken Garden, White River Gardens, and Holliday Park. These locations offer a variety of plant species, walking trails, and opportunities to appreciate nature. If you have any other questions or need information on a different topic, feel free to ask!

Indianapolis offers a diverse range of attractions and activities, blending history, art, sports, and nature. With its welcoming atmosphere and a wide array of cultural experiences, the city guarantees an unforgettable visit for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the vibrant spirit of Indianapolis.