Zip Code Map For Indianapolis Travel Guide
Introduction
Indianapolis is a vibrant city located in the heart of the Midwest. It is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and thriving arts and culture scene. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s always something new to discover in Indianapolis. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve created a comprehensive travel guide that covers all the top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences in the city.
Top Attractions
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is one of the most iconic racing venues in the world. It is home to the famous Indy 500 race, which takes place every Memorial Day weekend. Visitors can take a tour of the speedway and the Hall of Fame Museum, or even take a ride around the track in a pace car.
Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is the largest children’s museum in the world. It features interactive exhibits on science, technology, engineering, and math, as well as a planetarium, a dinosaur gallery, and a carousel.
White River State Park
White River State Park is a beautiful urban park located in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. It features several museums, including the Indiana State Museum and the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, as well as a zoo and an outdoor concert venue.
Hidden Gems
The City Market
The City Market is a historic marketplace that has been in operation since 1886. It features a variety of food vendors, including local and international cuisine, as well as a farmers’ market on weekends.
The Indianapolis Artsgarden
The Indianapolis Artsgarden is an iconic glass structure located in the center of downtown Indianapolis. It serves as a venue for concerts, art exhibits, and other cultural events throughout the year.
The Canal Walk
The Canal Walk is a scenic walking path that runs along the downtown canal. It features beautiful views of the city skyline and several public art installations along the way.
Food Scene
St. Elmo Steak House
St. Elmo Steak House is a legendary Indianapolis restaurant that has been serving up classic American cuisine since 1902. It is famous for its world-renowned shrimp cocktail and its hand-cut steaks.
Milktooth
Milktooth is a trendy brunch spot that has gained national recognition for its innovative menu and emphasis on locally-sourced ingredients. Be sure to try their famous Dutch baby pancake or their avocado toast.
Bluebeard
Bluebeard is a farm-to-table restaurant located in the trendy Fountain Square neighborhood. It features a rotating menu of seasonal dishes, as well as an extensive wine list and craft cocktail menu.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Free Museums
Several museums in Indianapolis offer free admission on certain days of the week, including the Indianapolis Museum of Art and the Indiana State Museum.
The Cultural Trail
The Indianapolis Cultural Trail is a pedestrian and bike path that runs through the city’s cultural districts. It is a great way to explore the city and see some of its top attractions for free.
Food Trucks
Indianapolis has a thriving food truck scene, with several trucks offering affordable and delicious meals throughout the city. Check out the Indy Food Truck Alliance for a list of some of the best food trucks in town.
Outdoor Adventures
Eagle Creek Park
Eagle Creek Park is one of the largest municipal parks in the country, with over 3,900 acres of land and waterways. It features hiking and biking trails, a beach, a nature center, and even a zipline course.
Monon Trail
The Monon Trail is a 27-mile paved trail that runs from downtown Indianapolis to the suburb of Carmel. It is a popular spot for biking, walking, and jogging, and offers beautiful views of the city and surrounding areas.
Canoeing/Kayaking
There are several rivers and lakes in the Indianapolis area that are great for canoeing and kayaking, including the White River, Eagle Creek Reservoir, and Geist Reservoir.
Historical Landmarks
Indiana State Capitol
The Indiana State Capitol is a beautiful Beaux-Arts building located in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building, which includes a visit to the governor’s office and the Indiana Supreme Court.
The Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site
The Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site is a historic home that was once the residence of the 23rd President of the United States. Visitors can take a guided tour of the home and learn about Harrison’s life and presidency.
Crown Hill Cemetery
Crown Hill Cemetery is one of the largest cemeteries in the country and is the final resting place of many famous Hoosiers, including President Benjamin Harrison, poet James Whitcomb Riley, and gangster John Dillinger.
Family-Friendly Activities
Indianapolis Zoo
The Indianapolis Zoo is home to over 1,400 animals from around the world. It features several exhibits, including a dolphin show, a petting zoo, and a butterfly garden.
Conner Prairie
Conner Prairie is a living history museum that allows visitors to step back in time and experience life in the 19th century. It features several historic buildings, such as a log cabin and a barn, as well as interactive exhibits and demonstrations.
Indianapolis Children’s Museum
The Indianapolis Children’s Museum is a great spot for kids of all ages. It features several interactive exhibits on science, history, and culture, as well as a planetarium, a dinosaur gallery, and a carousel.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Mass Ave
Mass Ave is a trendy neighborhood located just east of downtown Indianapolis. It features several art galleries, independent boutiques, and restaurants, as well as a vibrant nightlife scene.
City Market Catacombs
The City Market Catacombs are a series of underground tunnels and rooms located beneath the historic City Market. Visitors can take a guided tour of the catacombs and learn about their history and significance.
The Indiana Medical History Museum
The Indiana Medical History Museum is located on the grounds of the former Central State Hospital, a mental institution that was in operation from 1848 to 1994. Visitors can take a tour of the museum and learn about the history of medicine in Indiana.
Natural Wonders
Brown County State Park
Brown County State Park is a beautiful park located just south of Indianapolis. It features hiking trails, a lake for fishing and swimming, and several scenic overlooks.
Indiana Dunes National Park
Indiana Dunes National Park is located on the shores of Lake Michigan and features over 15 miles of beaches, sand dunes, and hiking trails. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
Clifty Falls State Park
Clifty Falls State Park is located in southern Indiana and features several waterfalls, hiking trails, and camping facilities. It is a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Vibrant Nightlife
Broad Ripple Village
Broad Ripple Village is a trendy neighborhood located just north of downtown Indianapolis. It features several bars, restaurants, and live music venues, as well as a popular art fair in the summer.
Fountain Square
Fountain Square is another trendy neighborhood located just southeast of downtown Indianapolis. It features several bars, restaurants, and art galleries, as well as a historic theater that hosts live performances and screenings.
Mass Ave
Mass Ave is a popular spot for nightlife in Indianapolis, with several bars, restaurants, and live music venues. It is especially lively on weekends and during special events.
Local Markets
The City Market
The City Market is a historic marketplace that has been in operation since 1886. It features a variety of food vendors, including local and international cuisine, as well as a farmers’ market on weekends.
Broad Ripple Farmers’ Market
The Broad Ripple Farmers’ Market is a seasonal market that takes place on Saturdays in the Broad Ripple Village neighborhood. It features local produce, meats, cheeses, and other artisanal goods.
Farmers’ Market at the Indianapolis City Market
The Farmers’ Market at the Indianapolis City Market takes place on Wednesdays from May through October. It features over 40 vendors offering local produce, meats, cheeses, and other artisan