Indianapolis, Indiana-5-day-itinerary

Indianapolis: A 5-Day Itinerary

Welcome to Indy! This vibrant city offers a blend of history, culture, sports, and culinary delights. Here’s your guide for an unforgettable five-day adventure:

Where to Stay:

  • Budget:

    • The Alexander (boutique hotel with modern amenities)
    • Hampton Inn & Suites Indianapolis Downtown

  • Mid-Range:

    • Hyatt Place Indianapolis Downtown
    • Le Méridien Indianapolis

  • Luxury:

    • JW Marriott Indianapolis
    • Conrad Indianapolis

Transportation:

  • IndyGo: The city’s bus system is efficient and affordable. Download the My IndyGo app for real-time tracking and route planning.
  • Bike Share: Pacers Bikeshare offers rentals throughout the city center, making it a fun way to explore.
  • Ride-sharing: Uber and Lyft are readily available.

Things to Know:

  • Indianapolis is generally safe, but exercise caution in unfamiliar areas at night.
  • The city experiences four distinct seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures, while summers can be hot and humid. Winters are cold with occasional snowfall.
  • Tipping is customary in restaurants (15-20%) and for service workers.

Day 1: Downtown Delights & History

  • Morning: Start your day at the Indiana State Museum, exploring exhibits on the state’s history, art, and science.
  • Afternoon: Stroll through White River State Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city. Visit the Indianapolis Zoo or rent a paddleboat on the canal.
  • Evening: Indulge in a delicious meal at St. Elmo Steak House (famous for their spicy shrimp cocktail) followed by a show at the Hilbert Circle Theatre, home to the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.

Day 2: Sports & Automotive History

  • Morning: Immerse yourself in racing history at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, home to legendary cars and memorabilia.
  • Afternoon: Take a guided tour of the iconic IMS track and experience the thrill of being on the oval.
  • Evening: Catch a Pacers game (NBA basketball) or an Indiana Fever game (WNBA basketball) for a taste of Indy’s lively sports scene.

Day 3: Arts & Culture Exploration

  • Morning: Discover world-class art at the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, featuring stunning collections from across centuries.
  • Afternoon: Explore Mass Ave, a vibrant district known for its eclectic shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farm-to-table dinner experience at Bluebeard followed by live music at The Vogue, a historic music venue.

Day 4: Canal Walk & Fountain Square Fun

  • Morning: Take a leisurely walk along the scenic Indianapolis Canal Walk, enjoying public art and picturesque views. Rent a gondola for a romantic ride.
  • Afternoon: Explore Fountain Square, a quirky neighborhood with vintage shops, independent bookstores, and eclectic restaurants.
  • Evening: Savor authentic Mexican cuisine at La Margarita followed by craft cocktails at Thunderbird.

Day 5: History & Local Flavor

  • Morning: Visit the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site, the former home of the 23rd president.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Indiana Medical History Museum, a unique museum showcasing the history of medicine and surgery.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Milktooth, known for its innovative brunch-inspired dishes, followed by drinks at one of the many rooftop bars in the city.

Additional Tips:

  • Purchase an IndyCity Pass for discounted admission to popular attractions.

  • Check local event listings for festivals, concerts, and other happenings during your visit.

  • Enjoy a craft beer tasting at one of Indy’s many breweries like Sun King Brewing or Fountain Square Brewery.

Have a wonderful time exploring Indianapolis!