Located in the heart of the state, this energetic city combines rich history with a strong passion for sports and outdoor recreation. Scenic waterways, expansive parks, and a lively cultural scene give it a well-rounded appeal for visitors.
Indianapolis was specifically planned to serve as the capital of Indiana, often referred to as the Hoosier State. The city features a wide range of museums and art galleries, while the White River winds through downtown, creating opportunities for paddleboarding, walking, and enjoying its riverside parks.
Sports, however, are at the heart of Indianapolis’s identity. The city hosts the legendary Indianapolis 500, considered one of the world’s premier motorsport events, while football and baseball also draw enthusiastic crowds throughout the year.
Central Canal
Since those busy days in the early 1800s, Central Canal has transformed into a gorgeous attraction in the downtown area. Once a pivotal waterway that transported goods in and out of Indianapolis, the Central Canal has taken on a new life in recent decades.
Today, you can rent kayaks and paddleboards to make your way down the picturesque canal with the city skyline rising in each direction. The canal cuts through the White River State Park, a central oasis far-removed from the bustle of local traffic.
It’s a beautiful and calming experience, offering a unique perspective of the city. Later, jump back onto dry land and explore the miles of walking and cycling trails that lead to scenic picnic spots.
Indy 500
Each year, the eyes of motor sports fans from around the world turn in unison, focusing on the 2.5-mile track in Indianapolis. The city is home to the Indy 500, a race that’s been held for over a century and is considered the most revered race in the United States.
The Indy 500 is traditionally held on Memorial Day Weekend at the end of May. Each year, 250,000 screaming fans cram into the bleachers while over 100,000 more find themselves on the ground level. They combine to make the Indy 500 the biggest motorsport event on earth.
The racetrack has the nickname, “The Brickyard” after once having a completely brick surface. Today, the cars complete 200 laps in the race with only 36 inches of brick remaining.
Monument Circle
Appropriately placed in the center of Indianapolis, the Monument Circle honors those who have served in the United States’ military. The striking monument has an incredible presence and beauty thanks to its neoclassical design and 284-foot tower.
At the top of the gray limestone structure is a woman holding a torch of victory, providing an equally somber and inspiring sight. You can walk up the tower (and 330 stairs) to an observation platform for city views along with the opportunity for a guided tour.
Around the tower are spacious grounds with several prominent statues that continue to show victory and defeat of battle. It’s in the Monument Circle that you’ll also find the Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War Museum.
Indiana State Museum
Exploring Indiana’s art, history, culture, and science, the Indiana State Museum is a complete look into the Hoosier State. There are over 450,000 artifacts on display covering three floors within the striking building.<.p>
The major exhibits include an exploration of Indiana’s ancient history when dinosaurs roamed the state. The mastodon, an elephant-like mammal, is a major feature and can been seen after first walking through an ice tunnel.
Afterwards, head up a floor to learn about the history and culture of Indiana’s native communities and recent history in the state. You can find the museum within the beautiful White River State Park.
Indiana State Capitol
In 1825, after being a state for almost a decade, Indianapolis became Indiana’s capital city. However, after moving from Corydon, plans for the current statehouse weren’t developed for another four decades, with construction on the historic building completed in 1888.
Made from white oak and Indiana limestone, the capitol building is a significant piece of architecture. Today, it’s one of only a handful of statehouses that are home to all branches of government.
You can take a guided tour of the Indiana State Capitol every day of the week aside from Sundays. If you prefer to embark on the journey alone, begin on Washington Street where you can appreciate the limestone facade and Corinthian porticoes.
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum
Whether you’re an avid racing fan or barely know your stick shift from your indicator, you would have heard of the Indianapolis 500. The race was first held in 1911 and has grown to become of the most famous motorsports event on earth.
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is found on this hallowed ground and showcases a historic collection of race cars and artifacts associated with the iconic event. Learn about past winners of the event and see their victorious cars on display.
Now a National Historic Landmark, as a part of your museum experience, you can tour the track on a bus, later stopping at the victory platform and exploring pit lane. Along the way, try to imagine the stands packed to the rafters with 250,000 people!