Want to see your child blossom into the Einstein of the future? Bring them to The Children's Museum of Indianapolis and see their talents grow. Visit rare exhibits, educational displays, and child-centric festivities and events at this unique museum. With an aim to foster better cognitive abilities and out-of-the-box thinking among young ones, this museum has laid out an elaborate array of exhibits for children to explore. Children will love the variety of exhibits held here: Barbie displays, ghost hotels, space planetariums, Egyptian lifestyle, exhibits on health, science and technology among other things. When hunger pangs strike, rush to the Food Court and grab a quick bite to eat. Visit the museum store and buy exotic memorabilia to take home with you. You can also host birthday parties and kids' events at this venue.
Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the NFL's Indianapolis Colts, is one of the finest facilities in the league. The stadium's distinctive look and feel recall an Indianapolis of old, though its interior boasts every modern amenity a spectator or player could require. Additionally, its central location makes it easy to take in a game and then saunter over to any number of downtown hot spots for even more fun.
The Indiana World War Memorial Plaza is a solemn structure built to immortalize the soldiers who fought in World War I. The memorial was originally conceived in 1919, with the hopes of luring the American Legion to make their headquarters there. Despite the cornerstone having been laid, some parts of the memorial plaza were not completed until 1960. The centerpiece of the plaza is the memorial building itself, standing at a height of 210 feet (64 meters). This building draws inspiration from the ancient Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, residing in present-day Turkey. Ornamented on all sides by pleasant bushes, rolling lawns, stunning statues, and a fountain, the memorial is home to a museum, auditorium and the Shrine Room. Proclaimed a National Historic Landmark, the Indiana World War Memorial is a stirring locus of American history and a deep sense of architectural excellence.
Newfields, home to the Indianapolis Museum of Art that was established in the year 1883 and has since grown to accommodate a staggering 50,000 pieces of art also boasts of sprawling grounds, a sprawling park, gardens and is one of the most iconic attractions. The museum, which is the highlight, has a collection on par with those of some of the world's most renowned art institutions. The museum itself underwent renovations that increased its gallery space and improved both access and amenities.
Indianapolis Motor Speedway was the world's first ever racing track to earn the epithet of a 'Speedway'. Boasting a capacity of 400,000 spectators, this track can be aptly described as the holy grail for motorsports aficionados across the globe. Since its construction in 1909, Indianapolis Motor Speedway has hosted several prestigious racing events but the revered Indianapolis 500 and Brickyard 400 have always been its major crowd pullers. The on-site Hall of Fame Museum houses NASCAR and racing memorabilia and artifacts. At any given time at least 75 vehicles are on display for the public.
The Eagle Creek Park is a delightful and spacious stretch of green. With the countless entertainment opportunities available, you won't know what to do first. The beautiful park serves as home to the beautiful lily lake, hiking trails, a waterfowl sanctuary, nature and retreat centers. It even offers space for picnics and areas to go fishing. Eagle Creek Park is a place where you can see a variety of flora and fauna. The site is also the beginning point for many beautiful hiking trails. Designated as a nature reserve, it is the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon for any nature lover.
Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War Museum is located beneath the State Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument. The museum documents the local history of Indiana, particularly the effects of the American civil war on the people of the city. Though the museum seems to be small at first glance, it houses an extensive collection of artifacts from that time period. The museum also allows visitors to participate in video re-enactments leading to immersive civil war experiences. There is also a gift shop on-site and donations are accepted.
A visit to downtown Indianapolis is incomplete without a stroll down the Monument Circle. This historic landmark encloses the famous Indiana Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument, which pays homage to the heroes of the American Revolution. This site is also home to a wide range of cultural and local events held by the city. Attend the Marsh Cookout on the Circle, where you can expect good food for a good cause. Call the Visitors Bureau for more details on current and upcoming events.
The Hilbert Circle Theatre opened in 1916 and is one of America's earliest movie palaces. Following renovations in 1984, it became the home of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. It hosts the best of concerts, plays and other cultural events, and it can be rented for meetings, seminars and other private functions. There are also tours available for those interested in the historic architecture.
Experience one of the finest cabaret performances in Indianapolis at The Cabaret. The Broadway performers and musical performances by established artists will simply take your breathe away with their sheer talent. Mandy Gonzales, Nellie McKay and Chestor Gregory are just some of the artists who have performed here in the past. The performances can be enjoyed with an array of handcrafted cocktails and light snacks. The sophisticated venue, brilliant shows and great food also make The Cabaret a superb place to bring along a date.
Boasting of an important location, Downtown Indianapolis is the city's central zone of all activity. The area is populated by a plethora of awe-inspiring edifices, popular eateries, frequently visited clubs and bars and famous malls that are visited by crazy shoppers. Downtown Indianapolis is visited by several tourists to peek into the busy life of the city as well as by business travelers who come here to attend conferences and delegate meetings at the Indiana Convention Center. The Monument Circle is another hub of activity where local events, community gatherings and processions take place regularly. Call the tourist information center to know more.
The Rhythm! Discovery Center is one of the world's best percussion museums. A series of exhibits explore the history and evolution of the drum into the modern drum kit we know today. You can eve look at the drum kits played by famous drummers like John Bonham and Neil Peart. There are also interactive displays, where you can make music and rhythms with the drums available.