Things To Do in Indy
Newfields (Indianapolis Museum of Art)
Explore Newfield's museum, the beer garden, the Lume, or explore the Lilly house and property. We love this museum because it is an immersive experience that is constantly changing. Newfields is the home to the original "LOVE" statue, and is based on the same property as the house owned by the Lilly family (as in Eli Lilly and Company), which is a unique national historic landmark that you can tour.
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Since becoming Hoosiers, Matt and I have attended the Indy 500 annually. The IMS is a cool landmark to visit, even if you aren't a racing fan. Home to the largest sporting event in history the IMS is massive, and to all Hoosiers a way of life. The speedway has a museum and also a golf course that you can visit.
Soldiers & Sailors Monument
Sight see Downtown Indianapolis from the observation deck at the top of the monument. The monument sits in the center of Indianapolis, and at one point was the tallest building in the city. Take the steps for free, or donate $5 to take the elevator to the top!
Sun King Brewery
Sun King is our favorite local brewery. We recommend trying their Cream Ale, any of their seasonal brews, or their Java-Mac coffee-infused ale.
Blue Ribbon Carriage Rides
Enjoy a carriage tour ride around downtown Indy. The horse-drawn carriages are such a special experience, and is a fun way to relax and enjoy the tour of the city.
Canal Walk
Originally intended to connect the Wabash and Erie Canal to the Ohio River, the Indianapolis Canal is now a beautiful part of the city with parks, music, food, and more. Some fun things that we like to do on the canal are enjoying a paddleboat ride, or taking a nice walk or bike ride down the 3 mile loop.
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is the world's largest children's museum, and is often voted as the best children museum in the Nation. The museum focuses on family learning, and most exhibits are designed to be interactive, allowing children and families to actively participate.
Penn & Beech Candle Co.
Penn and Beech can help offer a fun activity, and a personalized memento from the weekend! You can mix your own fragrances to create a candle or room scent at Penn and Beech. We have come on multiple occasions to make candles as a fun activity or date night.
The Garage Food Hall
The garage food hall is a new complex built from the old Coca-Cola factory in Indy. At the end of Massachusetts Avenue ("Mass Ave"), the food hall has a wide range food choices, stores, desserts, and more. It is directly next to the Living Room Movie Theatre, bars such as "Pins Mechanical Company," where you can enjoy a drink, and a round of duckpin bowling! Most activities are kid friendly until 7 pm each night.
St. Elmo Steak House
St. Elmo is the oldest restaurant in Indianapolis, located in the same spot since 1902. Home to hosting many famous individuals, St. Elmo is the "go-to" spot for the Colts after they win (which does happen, sometimes). Known not only for its fantastic steaks but also a shrimp cocktail that is so spicy it will knock your socks off. It truly is like nothing you have ever had before. We highly you make reservations at least 8 weeks out if you are planning to visit.
Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site
Benjamin Harrison, the "Hoosier President", is the only President ever elected from Indiana. The Presidential Site is located in downtown Indianapolis and includes his home and gardens from his time prior to and after his election. If you visit, make sure to take a picture on the front steps. Back in 1888, Harrison first found out he won the Presidency when he walked outside to gather his mail, but instead was greeted by hundreds of supporters and locals.
Indiana War Memorial and Museum
Indianapolis has per capita the second most monuments (behind only Washington DC). The War Memorial is the largest of its kind in the country, with a full walk through museum below it. The War Memorial has one of the most historic auditoriums in the State, often used by Governors and Indy Mayors to take the oath of office before their term. Entry is free of charge for both the memorial and the museum.