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Home > Things To Do in Indianapolis
Things to do in Indianapolis
The capital of the state of Indiana, Indianapolis is the largest city in the state and the 14th largest in the country with a population of around 800,000 (and over 1.7 million in the metropolitan area). Like other major American centers, there is no shortage of things to do, sites to see or tales to hear. The history in Indianapolis goes back a long long way. The city itself was founded in 1821, and a number of early buildings still stand as historic sites, some still serving their original functions.
While Indianapolis has plenty of claims to fame, perhaps the best known is the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, which has hosted motor sports events for more than 100 years now. Other things that draw visitors to town, though, include their impressive sports teams like the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts and the NBA’s Indiana Pacers, or the long history of performing arts and cultural districts.
Overall, Indianapolis is one of a kind – a city that can’t be visited just once.
Attractions and Sights
Indianapolis Motor Speedway is home to the Indy 500 and the Brickyard 400 races.
Indianapolis Zoo is home to more than 360 species and sees around 1.4 million visitors a year.
Parks and Outdoor Activities
Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Gardens offer a welcome break from city life.
Eagle Creek Park in Indianapolis covers 5300 acres and is home to many organizations and activities.
Landmarks
Indiana Statehouse dates back to 1878 and is one of the most recognizable sights in Indianapolis.
Indiana Central Canal is an easily recognizable part of Indianapolis.
Shopping
Broad Ripple Village in Indianapolis is home to over 500 boutiques, restaurants, bars and more.
Indianapolis City Market is the place to find all kinds of fresh food, wares, restaurants, cafés and more.
Festivals and Events
IndyFringe is Indianapolis' Fringe alternative theatre festival.
Indianapolis 500-Mile Race (Indy 500) is the largest one-day sports event in the world.
Arts and Entertainment
Hilbert Circle Theatre is home to the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and host many events.
Carmel Arts & Design District in Indianapolis is home to many art galleries and arts-oriented businesses.
Indianapolis Museum of Art is one of the largest art museums in the US.
Nightlife
Slippery Noodle Inn is the oldest continuously-operating bar in Indiana, opened in 1850.
Chatterbox Jazz Club hosts live jazz five days a week and serves a menu of barbecued foods.
Convention Centers
Indiana Convention Center hosts dozens of events each year, offering 400,000 square feet of exhibit space and more.
Arenas and Stadiums
Lucas Oil Stadium is home to the Indianapolis Colts of the NFL.
Conseco Fieldhouse is home to the NBA's Indiana Pacers.
Victory Field is home to the Indianapolis Indians of the International League.
Food and Drink
Shapiro’s Delicatessen is as much a great place to eat as an Indianapolis landmark, offering great food for over 100 years.
St Elmo Steak House in Indianapolis has been serving great food and drinks since1902.