Beyond the Speedway: Unique Weekend Plans in Indianapolis

If you haven’t been to the Midwest before, you may not know much about the excitement offered within Indianapolis, Indiana. Indianapolis, also known simply as “Indy” is the capital city of Indiana, one of the great states of America’s midwest region. Whether you’re in Indy for the weekend for a Colts football game or are coming into town for the upcoming Eras Tour at Lucas Oil Stadium in November, the city has much to offer for a visitor. Let’s look at some of the best things to do in Indianapolis to prepare you for your stay in Indiana’s capital.

Learn more at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Indianapolis wouldn't be the same without a trip to the renowned Indianapolis Motor Speedway. This historic track, well-known around the globe as the site of the Indianapolis 500 motorcar race, is a must-see for motor racing fans. But even if you’re not a fan of the sport, it’s still a worthwhile destination because of how vast the track is. While there, take a guided tour to discover everything there is to know about the Speedway's historic meaning to Indianapolis. You can also explore the Hall of Fame Museum and check out iconic race cars and memorabilia from past and present racecar drivers. If you’re truly a fan of the sport, you may even want to schedule your visit around seeing a race at the speedway in action!

Experience the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields

The Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields is the place to go if you want to experience the city’s culture and beauty. Galleries there display a range of historic works that span centuries and continents. These include African antiquities, contemporary artwork, and paintings from Europe. Make sure to not miss the magnificent outdoor gardens and the old Lilly House, which offers a tranquil escape from the bustle of downtown. If you are interested in exploring this further, check out the event calendar at Newfields to stay up to date on these exclusive experiences. 

Experience Family Fun at the Children's Museum of Indianapolis

For many years, the Children's Museum of Indianapolis has been a household name in the city as it is the largest children's museum in the world. The museum makes learning very enjoyable because of the interactive displays located throughout the vast halls. Because of this, the museum is appealing for both adults and children, with learning to be done in all areas of the museum. Some of the more extraordinary exhibits in the museum include ones dedicated to dinosaurs and the planets.

Enjoy a Stroll Along the Indianapolis Canal Walk

The Indianapolis Canal Walk is a must-see if you're looking for a calm, outside dining experience in the city. This charming canal winds through Indianapolis' downtown and offers plenty of activities and breathtaking views of the surrounding area. You can take a relaxing walk along the canal, and unwind by the water, renting pedal boats or kayaks to experience the city from another perspective. It's a great area to spend a relaxing afternoon with its charming cafés and public art displays. It's also a fantastic spot to people-watch and take in the ambiance of the city.

Make an excursion to the Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens

The Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens are great places for animal enthusiasts. Housed inside White River State Park,the hybrid zoo is actually an aquarium and a botanical garden. The zoo showcases animals from countries all around the world, including orangutans, elephants, and dolphins. There is also a Butterfly Kaleidoscope that adds to the beauty of the overall zoo and allows families to learn more about these unique animals.

Groupon states, “Boasting rich cultural history, iconic sports venues, vibrant arts scene, and stunning parklands, Indianapolis presents a vast array of things to do'. Groupon makes it easy for you to delve into the city's charm by providing discounted deals that cater to all kinds of interests and age groups.”

Although Indianapolis may not always be on the bucket list for someone looking to visit a new American city, it is a can’t-miss midwestern gem that offers a lovely mix of fine dining, culture, entertainment, and exercise. If you’re lucky enough to have Eras Tours tickets for Taylor’s November stop or are just in Indy for a few days passing through en route to another destination, check out as much of the city as possible!