36 Fun Things To Do in Indianapolis, Indiana That Will Leave You Wanting More!

Hello adventurers! It’s Nasiba.

Have you ever been to Indianapolis? What stood out for you? For me, it has to be the city’s beauty! Indy is so picturesque. If you take an ugly picture in Indianapolis, you are the problem!

When I planned to travel here, I had very minimal expectations. I had heard that it’s a populous city. Being someone who doesn’t like highly populated places, I was mentally prepared for chaos. But the city surprised me. 

I specifically came to attend the famous Indy 500 Motor race, which was so much fun. I had the time of my life getting my adrenaline up, connecting with friends, and making new friends.

After the race, I extended my stay for two more weeks to explore the city’s beauty. I made a local friend during the race. He was gracious enough to show me all the fun things to do in Indy.

Joe, my new friend, got us bicycles which made the experience of exploring the city’s beauty more enjoyable.

I hope you’ll find these activities fun as much as I did.

Indianapolis is a city in Indiana, It is famous for many things, one of them being the Indy 500, an annual racing event dubbed The Greatest Spectacle in Racing, which happens at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Furthermore, it is home to the largest children’s museum in the world, making it one of the best destinations for families with children.

Apart from the two, Indianapolis has many fun attractions that put it at the forefront of premier travel destinations.

Here is a list of the top 36 things to do in Indianapolis for solo travelers, group travelers, or those traveling with children.

Things To Do In Indianapolis:

1. Indianapolis Museum of Art (Newfields)

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $18, Children (6-17): $10, Children under 6: Free

Address: 4000 N Michigan Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46208

• It was founded in 1883
• It is 152 acres big

Why you should go: Described as an encyclopedic museum, the Indianapolis Museum of Art houses over 54,000 pieces of art belonging to different genres.

The art pieces have been collected from various parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, America, and Africa.

In showcasing the art pieces, the museum aims to promote art and encourage more people to appreciate and understand the role of art in society.

Things to do: Make your way to the Indianapolis Museum of Art to explore the beautiful and wide range of art pieces like photographs, paintings, ceramics, textiles, and modern design.

Additionally, you will find pieces by artists like JMW Turner and Paul Gauguin.

There are different events at the museum throughout the year.

Be sure to check out what’s happening when you are in the city.

• It is 21 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

2. Indianapolis Canal Walk

Rating: 4.8★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: Canal Walk, Indianapolis, IN 46202

• It is 3 miles long
• It is part of the Indiana Central Canal

Why you should go: Originally dug in the 1800s as part of the Indiana Central Canal, the Indianapolis Canal Walk is a recreational attraction that serves the city’s downtown community.

It serves as a promenade for pedestrians, bikers, and joggers, and a sightseeing site.

Furthermore, the canal itself is also a popular spot for boat riding.

Visitors can rent pedal boats nearby and get into the water.

Things to do: If you have a dog, this is the perfect place to take it for a walk.

You will enjoy the loop walk surrounded by the beautiful scenery of trees, the canal, and the surrounding city.

If you have time, rent a pedal boat and have fun in the water!

• It is 16 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

3. White River State Park

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 801 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204

• It is located in downtown Indianapolis
• It is 250 acres big

Why you should go: Exploring a new city can sometimes get overwhelming.

If you would like to take a break from everything to just relax and unwind while in Indianapolis, you can check out White River State Park.

It is one of the most beautiful attractions in the city.

The park boasts a water pond, well-manicured green lawns, picnic areas, lovely trees, and an overall tranquil ambiance. 

Things to do: The White River State Park is an ideal attraction to spend time alone, with friends, or with children.

You can take a walk around the park or sit under one of the trees and soak up the park’s beauty.

Children can play around the park and interact with other kids.

One of the park’s biggest draws is the amphitheater, which allows visitors to watch different events and shows happening throughout the year.

• It is 17 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

4. Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum

Rating: 4.8★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $10, Children (6-15): $5, Children (5 and below): $2

Address: 4750 W 16th St, Indianapolis, IN 46222

• It is a National Historic Landmark
• It was established in 1956

Why you should go: Visiting the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is one of the coolest things to do in Indianapolis.

It is located inside the grounds of the Indiana Motor Speedway, where the Indianapolis 500-Mile Race takes place every year.

The museum was established to educate and inform the public about the history of racing and to document all the races that have taken place since its inception.

Things to do: Check out the museum for guided and self-guided tours, during which you will see racing vehicles and memorabilia from past races.

Apart from the museum tour, you will explore the racetrack to see where the magic happens and the garage where active racing cars are stored.

• It is 17 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

5. Indianapolis Zoo

Rating: 4.5★ 

Entry tickets: Low demand days: Adults: $15.70, Children: $11.95

High demand days: Adults: $28.20, Children: $21.20

Address: 1200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46222

• It is located in downtown Indianapolis
• It was opened in 1964

Why you should go: If you are looking for family-friendly attractions near Indianapolis where you can take your children to have a memorable and exciting experience, you should check out the Indianapolis Zoo.

The lovely zoo is home to about 320 animal species, a scenic park, a botanical garden, and an aquarium.

Notably, the zoo hosts the biggest number of orangutans in the whole of North America.

Things to do: Explore the exhibits, displays, and habitats, which are categorized based on the different climatic conditions of the world.

You will find over 3,800 animals spread across the establishment.

Furthermore, at the aquarium, you will find the dolphin pavilion where you will enjoy a close human-dolphin encounter.

• It is 17 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

6. Indianapolis Art Center

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $18, Children (6-17): $10

Address: 820 E 67th St, Indianapolis, IN 46220

• It was founded in 1934
• It is a family-friendly attraction

Why you should go: The Indianapolis Art Center is a community art center that was established for the purpose of promoting interactive art education.

Specifically, it offers art classes, educational programs, workshops, and community-based events that revolve around art with the aim of promoting awareness of the topic.

It is one of the country’s largest art centers of its kind, with three public art galleries.

Things to do: Whether you’re traveling alone or with family and friends, the Indianapolis Art Center will welcome you into a world of art through its exhibits, art studios, auditorium, and library.

There are many things to learn and see in each section of the center, for example, the auditorium hosts entertaining performances and shows with a foundation in art.

Apart from this, ArtsPark, located here, features sculptures and public art meant to encourage visitors to embrace creativity.

• It is 31 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

7. Lilly House and Gardens (Oldfields)

Rating: 4.8★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $18, Children: $10

Address: 4000 N Michigan Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46208

• It was built in 1913
• It is a National Historic Landmark

Why you should go: Once the home of Josiah Kirby “Joe” Lilly Jr., a businessman and philanthropist, Lily House and Gardens is a historical home that is part of the Indiana Art Museum.

However, it deserves to be an attraction in its own right since you can have a great experience exploring it without visiting the museum.

The beautiful home is located on a lush green piece of land surrounded by tall trees, right next to a small lake.

Things to do: Visit the attraction to enjoy the beautiful setting and learn more about its original owner and his contribution to the development of Indianapolis.

The establishment will also give you a glimpse into life in Indianapolis back in the early 20th century.

Lilly House and Gardens was designed by the same people behind Central Park and remains one of the coolest things to do in Indianapolis.

• It is 25 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

8. Lockerbie Square Historic District

Rating: 4.3★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 342-332 N Park Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202

• It is a National Historic Place
• It is home to great architecture

Why you should go: If you only have a day or two to spend in Indianapolis, spend that time at the Lockerbie Square Historic District.

This area gives you a dive into Indy’s past through its architecture and residences, which dates back to 1855.

Most buildings feature Queen Anne and Italianate styles of architecture, with a few boasting modern designs.

It is a famous historic region.

Things to do: Take a walking tour of the Lockerbie Square Historic District to get an idea of how life was in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

There are 25 historic residences and a few newer ones for you to explore.

Some of the most notable residences include North Vermont Street Home and the James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home, which was the home of poet James Riley.

• It is 18 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

9. Bad Axe Throwing

Rating: 4.9★ 

Entry tickets: Classic Show (1.5 hours): $37 per person, Open Show (60 minutes): $27 per person

Address: 235 S Meridian St #211, Indianapolis, IN 46225

• It is located in downtown Indianapolis
• It has an age limit of 12 and above

Why you should go: Axe throwing is one of the activities that Indianapolis is popularly known for.

If you want to engage in a thrilling activity that will give you an adrenaline rush, you should check out Bad Axe Throwing, which offers ax throwing as a sport.

It is a good way to pass time and interact with locals and other visitors.

Things to do: For days when you feel bored and don’t feel like exploring the city, Bad Axe Throwing could be what you need to get motivated.

It entails creating a target in front of you and throwing an ax at it.

There are only two outcomes: you either hit your target or miss it.

Either way, you will find thrill and excitement in the whole process.

Furthermore, you can make the experience more exciting by turning it into a competition to see who hits their target more times. 

• It is 16 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

10. The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art

Rating: 4.6★ 

Entry tickets: Members: $15, Non-members: $25

Address: 500 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204

• It is located in downtown Indianapolis
• It was founded by Harrison Eiteljorg

Why you should go: The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art is a world-class museum that features exhibits showcasing pieces from Native American and Western Cultures.

The historic museum ranked one of the best in the world, features work from famous artists like Frederick Remington, Andy Warhol, and Charles Russel.

Things to do: If you love history, visit the museum to educate yourself on different historical subjects like how the Jews lived in the West and the history of motorcycles and pistols.

Apart from this, the museum offers workshops and educational programs that target the surrounding community and visitors.

The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art is indeed one of the top things to do in Indianapolis.

• It is 16 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

11. Atomic Bowl Duckpin

Rating: 4.4★ 

Entry tickets: Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday: $30 per hour, Friday/Saturday/Sunday: $40 per hour

Address: 1105 Prospect St, Indianapolis, IN 46203

• It features vintage equipment
• It has a cafe and bar

Why you should go: You will never run out of fun things to do in Indianapolis.

One of these things is the Atomic Bowl Duckpin located in the Fountain Square Center.

Duckpin bowling is slightly different from common bowling in that it uses smaller pins, alleys, and balls.

In addition, it has different rules from those of common bowling and uses vintage 19502 machines.

The unique sport was named duckpin bowling by Bill Clarke, a sportswriter, as he wrote about the game for the Baltimore Morning Sun.

Things to do: You don’t have to know or understand the game to pay Atomic Bowl Duckpin a visit.

Visit the attraction and challenge yourself to learn it and start playing it.

It is a fun and exciting game that will become part of your Indianapolis memories.

Plus, you will leave the city with a newly learned sport under your sleeve.

• It is 18 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

12. Indiana State Museum

Rating: 4.6★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $17, Seniors: $16, Children: $12, College Students: $15, Children under 4: Free

Address: 650 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204

• It is located in the White River State Park
• It is home to the largest Imax theater in Indiana

Why you should go: This is, hands down, one of the most beautiful museums in Indianapolis, located in a beautiful garden and featuring a breathtaking architectural design.

The Indiana State Museum has different exhibits that welcome visitors into the world of Indiana’s culture, science, and art.

Things to do: Explore over 452,000 artifacts hosted across three floors, telling the history of all the state’s 92 counties.

The museum’s location and architectural beauty come as a bonus.

You can take a break by walking around the park to soak up its beauty and relax.

Apart from the artifacts collection, visitors are invited to participate in the community-based projects and educational programs that take place here all year round.

Lastly, the Farmers Market Café located here serves refreshments and meals all day long.

• It is 17 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

13. Tappers Arcade Bar

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: $1 per entry, $1 per game

Address: 501 Virginia Ave #102, Indianapolis, IN 46203

• It features arcade video games
• It allows outside food

Why you should go: If you are looking for an evening plan in Indianapolis, this is it.

Tappers Arcade Bar is one of the best entertainment places in the city, where you can enjoy some craft beer and a game.

Most of the vintage arcade games here are free to play, and those that are not only cost a dollar, so you have no excuse not to visit the attraction.

Things to do: Meet and interact with locals and other visitors at the Tappers Arcade Bar as you enjoy the night away.

You can choose to have your dinner here by bringing some food with you or ordering from a nearby eatery.

For night activities, this is one of the best things to do near Indianapolis.

• It is 17 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

14. Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Between $19.50-$38, $6 every first Thursday of the month

Address: 3000 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46208

• It is the world’s largest museum of its kind
• It was established in 1925

Why you should go: If you are traveling with children to Indianapolis, you don’t want to miss an opportunity to take them to the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.

The museum was established for the purpose of educating children in the areas of art, humanities, and sciences.

It boasts a collection of over 130,000 artifacts available for children to explore in an interactive manner.

Things to do: Bring your children here for a fun and educative hands-on experience.

They will be entertained and introduced to historical subjects that they will not forget for the rest of their lives.

Even the games your children will be exposed to are through vintage machines and equipment to help strengthen their history knowledge.

Equally important to note is that the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is not just for kids, adults too will benefit from this experience.

• It is 23 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

15. Lucas Oil Stadium

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Advance Tickets: Adults: $10, Seniors/Military: $7, Children (4-12): $7

On the day-of tickets: Adults: $15, Seniors/Military: $12, Children (4-12): $12

Address: 500 S Capitol Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46225

• It was opened in 2008
• It is located in downtown Indianapolis

Why you should go: The Lucas Oil Stadium is one of the coolest attractions in the city and thus one of the most exciting things to do in Indianapolis.

• Here is a list of best hotels near Lucas Oil Stadium!

The stadium has a reputation for hosting a wide range of events, from music shows to soccer.

In the past, it has hosted football championships, the Super Bowl, live music shows by One Direction and Taylor Swift, among other notable events.

Things to do: Since the stadium hosts varied events throughout the year, be sure to check out what event is taking place at your time of visit so that you can attend.

And even if there is no event taking place, you can still explore the museum to admire its architectural beauty and see all the notable events it has hosted since its inception.

• It is 15 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

16. GRT Glass Design

Rating: 4.9★ 

Entry tickets: $5 per person

Address: 6400 S Brookville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46219

• It was founded in 1987
• It is owned by Gregory Thompson

Why you should go: GRT Glass Design prides itself in the production of high-end and unique commercial art glass.

If you are looking for unique attractions, this place should definitely be on your list of things to do in Indianapolis.

The glass studio offers visitors a personalized and fun experience.

Things to do: The award-winning glass production studio will give you a behind-the-scenes tour to take you through the process of how their breathtaking pieces are manufactured.

You can ask any questions during the tour.

Every month, GRT Glass Design offers classes twice on two Saturdays to teach interested people how to make art glass like them.

It is fun and fascinating, you don’t want to miss out!

• It is 24 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

17. Holliday Park

Rating: 4.8★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 6363 Spring Mill Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46260

• It is 94 acres big
• Leashed dogs are allowed

Why you should go: When you want to take a break from the city to relax and unwind, make your way to Holliday Park.

The beautiful park, dotted with greenery and woodlands, is situated along the banks of the breathtaking White River.

It is a place to enjoy a picnic, connect with nature, and let your children free to play games in an open space.

Things to do: Apart from enjoying a picnic, you can take a walk around the park to admire the botanical garden or visit the nature center where you will learn more about environmental conservation.

Notably, you will see eye-catching ruins which are the remains of a New York skyscraper that were brought to the park after its demolition.

They are a work of art.

• It is 29 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

18. Indiana Repertory Theatre (IRT)

Rating: 4.7★ 

Address: 140 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204

• It was opened in 1972
• It moved to its current location in 1980

Why you should go: The Indiana Repertory Theatre is a theater that aims to engage, inspire, and excite its audiences with high-quality productions.

Every season, it puts together nine to ten productions which are showcased on its two stages.

Some of its most notable shows are A Christmas Carol, The Great Gatsby, and How To Kill a Mockingbird.

Things to do: Before making your way to Indianapolis, check out the theater’s season calendar to see what plays are being staged during the time of your visit, and book a ticket in advance.

Watching a play at the Indiana Repertory Theatre is one of the most exciting things to do in Indianapolis.

• It is 17 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

19. Indianapolis Cultural Trail

Rating: 4.8★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 132 W Walnut St, Indianapolis, IN 46204

• It is 8.1 miles long
• It will take you through downtown Indianapolis

Why you should go: To enjoy the best of Indianapolis’ attractions and make the most out of your tour, consider following the Indianapolis Cultural Trail.

The tour will introduce you to the social, cultural, and historical scene in Indianapolis.

You will meet locals, visit shops, restaurants, museums, art galleries, neighborhoods, entertainment venues, and see historic buildings, among other things.

Things to do: Take a walk or hire a bike to ride through the trail and see the best of Indianapolis.

The trail starts in downtown Indianapolis taking you on an exciting and educative tour of the beautiful city.

Additionally, you can also take this opportunity to do a food tour, if you are a foodie, to see how the Indy culinary scene looks likes.

• It is 19 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

20. Indiana Historical Society

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $13, Seniors (60+): $12, Children (5-17): $5, Children under 5: Free, Military: Free

Address: 450 W Ohio St, Indianapolis, IN 46202

• It is located at the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center
• It was founded in 1830

Why you should go: This is the best place to learn the history of the Northwest and Indiana.

Describing itself as Indiana’s Storyteller, the Indiana Historical Society hosts the leading research library and archives in the country.

Visitors get what is known as the Indiana Experience as they dive into the region’s past that has led it to what it is today.

Things to do: Indiana has a fascinating history.

Visit the establishment and take a trip through Indiana’s history by exploring its three-dimensional exhibitions and interactive displays.

Afterward, you can visit the W. Brooks and Wanda Y. Fortune History Lab to see the research process and learn how much work goes into research.

• It is 17 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

21. K1 Speed

Rating: 4.4★ 

Entry tickets: $24.95 for one race, $44.95 for two races, $59.95 for three races

Address: 9998 E 121st St, Fishers, IN 46037

• It is located in Fishers
• It is the top place for go-karting

Why you should go: K1 Speed is undoubtedly one of the most thrilling things to do near Indianapolis.

Located in Fishers, 28 minutes from Indy, the facility offers visitors a high-speed indoor karting experience that will make for a memorable vacation.

The racetracks, which span 900 feet, are designed in a way that enhances better performance.

Things to do: Drive out of the city to K1 Speed to have an action-filled afternoon or morning.

Besides go-karting, the facility also offers a lounge where you can take a break and interact with other visitors or enjoy a snack from the on-site snack bar.

You can also see some racing memorabilia here.

• It is 42 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

22. Historic Indiana Ghost Walks & Tours

Rating: 4.6★ 

• They are organized by Unseenpress.com, Inc.
• They conducted the first ghost tour in 2001

Why you should go: If you enjoy spooky experiences or are fascinated by ghost stories and the possibility of seeing ghosts in haunted places, then you should most definitely check out Historic Indiana Ghost Walks & Tours.

The tours are designed to take visitors to historical places and explore ghosts of their past.

It is believed that these places are haunted by people who lived there years ago.

Things to do: Take a walking tour or a bus tour to explore all the haunted places in Indianapolis.

Some of the most popular tours include the Underground Railroad Tour, the Chilling Chatham Arch-Lockerbie Tour, and the most fascinating of all, the Nefarious Noblesville Ghost Walks, where you can have an encounter with the dead in bars.

If this is not one of the most bizarre things to do in Indianapolis, then we don’t know what is!

23. Eagle Creek Park

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Biker/Hiker: $1.50, Vehicle (non-resident): $6, Vehicle (resident): $5

Address: 7840 W 56th St, Indianapolis, IN 46254

• It is the biggest park in Indianapolis
• It was established in 1962

Why you should go: Looking for a place where you can spend some time outdoors?

Look no further than Eagle Creek Park, one of the country’s largest municipal parks, where you can enjoy a wide range of activities like dog walking, ziplining, birdwatching, hiking, golfing, fishing, and shooting, among other fun activities.

It comprises 1,400 acres of water and 3,900 acres of dry land.

Things to do: Dedicate a whole day to enjoying all the adventures that await you in the park; you will never run out of things to do here.

Whether you like individual or group activities, you will find something that suits your needs.

The park’s beauty also makes it an ideal spot for a romantic picnic in Indianapolis.

• It is 21 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

24. Soldiers and Sailors Monument

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $2, Children (6-17): $1, Children under 6: Free, Veteran/Military: Free

Address: 1 Monument Cir, Indianapolis, IN 46204

• It was opened in 1902
• It is located on Monument Circle

Why you should go: The Soldiers and Sailors Monument in Indianapolis, which took 13 years to build, is dedicated to the sailors and soldiers involved in the American Civil War, the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, the Spanish-American War, and the Mexican-American War.

It stands at 284 feet above the ground and features symbolic sculptures of various soldiers at war.

Things to do: Visit the monument to pay your tribute to the men and women who lost their lives in war, fighting for the peace that our country enjoys today.

There is an on-site civil war museum where you can learn more about the story behind the monument.

It is indeed one of the best things to do in Indianapolis.

• It is 18 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

25. Goose The Market

Rating: 4.8★ 

Address: 2503 N Delaware St, Indianapolis, IN 46205

• It opens every day
• Serves the best meat in town

Why you should go: Goose The Market is a gourmet market and butcher shop frequented by meat lovers.

It serves fresh deli meat that you can carry to cook yourself and meat platters and sandwiches that you can enjoy on location.

Apart from meat flavors, it also serves gelato, iced tea, wine, and beer that you can down as you enjoy your meat dish.

Things to do: If you are a foodie, this should be your number one stop so you can experiment with different meat dishes served here.

You should also pay the premise a visit if you are staying in a self-catering apartment while in Indianapolis.

• It is 22 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

26. Indy Racing Experience

Rating: 4.7★ 

Address: 2A Gasoline Alley, Indianapolis, IN 46222

• It was founded in 2001
• You must be 18 years and above to participate

Why you should go: If you love the thrill of speed, then you will enjoy the Indy Racing Experience.

Visitors are offered an exciting opportunity to drive around the racetrack in a 2-seater IndyCar with an Indy Racing League driver.

Alternatively, you can drive one of the IndyCars that has in the past participated in the Indianapolis 500.

Things to do: Take this exciting opportunity to enjoy the Indy Racing Experience and have a taste of the lives of Indy Racing League Champions when they are on the racetrack.

It is unarguably one of the most amazing things to do near Indianapolis.

• It is 13 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

27. Indiana Medical History Museum

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $10, Children (under 18): $5, Students: $7, Seniors (65+): $9

Address: 3270 Kirkbride Way, Indianapolis, IN 46222

• It was built in 1895
• It is a National Historic Site.

Why you should go: Located on the grounds of what once was the Central State Hospital for the Insane, the Indiana Medical History Museum was established as a monument to mark the start of psychiatric medical research.

It is home to over 15,000 relics that showcase the medical history and pathological items.

The museum also features a rotating gallery.

Things to do: If you are into medicine or generally enjoy history, the Indiana Medical History Museum is an attraction worth checking out.

Apart from learning medical history, you will also learn the interesting history of the Central State Hospital and why it closed down in 1994.

Notably, it is inside the Old Pathology Building which is the oldest surviving pathology facility in the country.

• It is 14 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

28. Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $14, Veterans/Seniors: $13, Students: $9, Children (5-17): $9, Members: free

Address: 1230 N Delaware St, Indianapolis, IN 46202

• Formerly known as the Benjamin Harrison Home
• It was opened in 1875

Why you should go: A National Historic Landmark, the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site was founded to honor the life and achievements of America’s 23rd President, Benjamin Harrison.

Besides that, it also aims to educate visitors all about the system of governance in America.

Through understanding his life and contributions as an American politician and President, visitors will understand how governance worked during the 19th century.

Things to do: Visit the historical site, which also served as President Harrison’s home, and explore the exhibitions that showcase bits and pieces of his life.

There are photographic displays and art collections from back in his time.

Visitors are given a virtual tour of the house and guided tours where they get to see and experience presidential life in the 19th century.

Anyone looking for things to do near Indianapolis, take a drive to the Benjamin Harrison Historical Site.

• It is 21 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

29. White Rabbit Cabaret

Rating: 4.5★ 

Entry tickets: Tickets vary depending on the type of show

Address: 1116 Prospect St, Indianapolis, IN 46203

• It is located in Fountain Square
• Renowned for burlesque performances

Why you should go: The White Rabbit Cabaret is a small theater in Indianapolis that hosts different genres of shows and plays throughout the year.

Some of the performances and shows staged here are dating shows, musicals, drunk spelling bees, comedy acts, and live bands.

The theater has in-house burlesque troupes, Angel Burlesque and Rocket Doll Revue, that put up fantastic performances.

Things to do: Looking for an intimate evening plan?

The White Rabbit Cabaret is worth checking out since it will keep you entertained for the rest of the evening with worthy performances.

Just imagine a drunk spelling bee, wouldn’t that be fun to watch?

Be sure to check out their schedule to see which shows are running when you are around.

• It is 17 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

30. Bluebeard

Rating: 4.7★ 

Address: 653 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46203

• It is an award-winning restaurant
• It is located in the Holy Rosary neighborhood

Why you should go: You need to get a taste of Indianapolis cuisine when in the city.

The best place to get this experience is the Bluebeard eatery, a farm-to-table restaurant that serves mouth-watering lunches and dinners.

It has indoor and outdoor dining areas and a bar area where you can get all your favorite drinks to go with the meal.

Things to do: Pay the lovely restaurant a visit to not only enjoy its food but also marvel at the 1924 building that houses it.

The menu has a mix of everything; dishes from Indianapolis and other parts of the country.

Also loved by the locals, Bluebeard is the ideal spot to meet and interact with new people.

• It is 18 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

31. Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $12, Seniors/Educators/Military: $10, Students: $8

Address: 543 Indiana Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202

• It was founded in 2011
• It is named after Kurt Vonnegut, Jr.

Why you should go: Kurt Vonnegut, Jr. was an American author from Indianapolis who had one of the most successful literary careers.

After his death in 2007, the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library was founded in 2011 to honor his life and preserve his work as a writer and war veteran.

The library and museum feature his work which includes 14 novels, non-fiction works, plays, and short collections.

Things to do: If you are an aspiring author or are interested in literary works, this would be a suitable attraction to stop by when in Indianapolis.

Apart from his published work, you will also explore handwritten manuscripts that show his writing process and rejection letters from publishers.

There is a reading room where you can get lost in one of his writings.

• It is 18 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

32. Rhythm! Discovery Center

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: Adults: $12, Students (17-25): $9, Seniors: $8, Children (6-16): $6, Children under 6: Free

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

• It is an award-winning percussion museum
• It was founded in 2009

Why you should go: The Rhythm! Discovery Center was established to offer educational workshops, interactive exhibits, innovative programs, and performances as a way of promoting percussion.

It is located in downtown Indianapolis and is the only interactive drum and percussion museum in the world.

Things to do: Educate yourself about percussion by exploring the exhibits and taking guided tours during which you will see different percussion instruments and learn about them.

Furthermore, you can play some of the instruments with guidance from the center’s staff.

You will see all types of drums and percussion instruments from Indiana and other parts of the world.

• It is 16 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

33. Museum of Psychphonics

Rating: 4.2★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 1043 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46203

• It is located in the G.C. Murphy Building
• It was established in 2014

Why you should go: At the Museum of Psychphonics, visitors leave with more questions than answers, but that’s the whole dynamic around which the little museum operates.

It is a quirky museum filled with antiques and exhibits without descriptions.

The aim of the museum is to provoke you and get you to ask questions for which no answers will be given.

Things to do: Although it might sound like a weird place, it is one of the most interesting free things to do near Indianapolis.

Apart from seeing its antique collection, you will also get the opportunity to explore its Afrofuturism art collection.

As you enter the Museum of Psychphonics, you will be greeted by weird music that you have most definitely never heard of.

If you love weird, then this is your ideal spot to check out.

• It is 17 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

34. The Southport Antique Mall

Rating: 4.5★ 

Entry tickets: Free

Address: 2028 E Southport Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46227

• It offers an antique shopping experience
• It is located on Southport Road

Why you should go: If you love shopping for vintage and antique items, then you should check out the Southport Antique Mall.

It is packed with over 200 boutiques that sell unique and rich finds with historical significance.

The items include collectibles, decor, electronics, fashion items, jewelry, cutlery, and more.

Things to do: Get yourself s few antique and vintage signature pieces to take back with you when you leave Indianapolis.

The sellers are knowledgeable enough to explain to you the historical significance of each item and the time during which it existed.

Get yourself a souvenir or gifts for friends and family.

• It is 24 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

35. Fort Harrison State Park

Rating: 4.7★ 

Entry tickets: $2 per person, Vehicles (in-state plates): $7, Vehicles (out-of-state plates): $9

Address: 6000 N Post Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46216

• It is named after President Benjamin Harrison
• It was founded in 1996

Why you should go: Located in Lawrence, the Fort Harrison State Park features a World War II prisoner of war camp, a Civilian Conservation Corps camp, and a former Citizen’s Military Training Camp.

In addition, the park has beautiful trails, a picnic site, a lake, and beautiful trees that give it a tranquil ambiance.

Things to do: Take a stroll around the park to soak up the beauty around you and just enjoy the tranquility of it all.

The park is a lovely place to visit for families with children.

Apart from this, you can explore the historical sites located here and learn their history.

• It is 34 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

36. Victory Field

Rating: 4.8★ 

Entry tickets: $5 per person

Address: 501 W Maryland St, Indianapolis, IN 46225

• It was opened in 1996
• It is the home of the Indianapolis Indians

Why you should go: Indianapolis is a renowned sports destination.

It would be a huge mistake if you left without watching at least one game in one of its stadiums.

Victory Field is a ballpark that hosts minor league baseball and is considered the best in the country.

It has a seating capacity of 14,230 and hosts games by the home team, the Indianapolis Indians, between April and September.

Things to do: Book a ticket and watch a game!

Bring your children too if you are traveling with them.

• It is 16 minutes from Indianapolis International Airport

Have I convinced you to visit Indianapolis? Let me know below. Otherwise, see you on the next adventure!