Must Visit Attractions in Indianapolis

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.

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.

If you are a fan of auto racing, be sure to visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum. For a couple bucks, they will give you a bus ride around the most hallowed racetrack in the world; home of the Indy 500. The museum itself is stocked with generation after generation of retired Indy cars. Lots of other memorabilia is on display, and the gift shop is full of exciting checkered-flag-emblazoned gear for the whole family.

The magnificent history of Indiana is animated and brought to life at the Conner Prairie Interactive History Park. Visiting this interactive park is all about a hands on approach through various programs events and daily activities for those big and small. Families will appreciate the kid friendly atmosphere from the Animals Encounter Barn to the nature walks on preserved prairie land.

The globe trotting and knowledge seeking tourist will not want to miss this splendid museum. One of the few museums that strives to preserve all of the arts of the American West, it houses a large collection of both Western and Native American art. This makes it a great place to learn about indigenous people in the context of American history. The museum arranges events and programs to encourage community in the city. Private parties like weddings and business conferences can also be held within its beautiful environs.

After a visit to the Indianapolis Museum of Art, explore the Oldfields – Lilly House & Gardens. Nestled on the grounds of the museum, this 26-acre (10.5 hectare) verdant landscape features manicured lawns, exotic flora, sculptures, fountains and garden ornaments. The mansion, former home of late business luminary and philanthropist J.K. Lilly Jr., boasts 22 rooms and illustrates American Country Place Era architecture. Take an audio tour of the house museum for a glimpse of 1930s culture.

Located in the heart of the city, White River State Park beckons you to visit and explore its premises. It houses the Indianapolis Zoo, which is home to a variety of species of animals that children and adults alike will love to see. The museums within the park ensure that you're well versed with local history, culture and traditions. The park features the scenic Central Canal, which is lined with walking and biking paths. It's an ideal place to take a leisurely stroll, jog, or rent a paddleboat. The park is also home to a bevy of event spaces. The visitor center is an ideal place to stop and get your bearings before you wind your way through the park.

Located in the White River State Park, exhibiting a collection of around 50,000 plants and nearly 230 animal species, the Indianapolis Zoo makes for a fantastic day out. Renowned for having the largest aquarium in Indianapolis, it is a favorite of people of all ages. Hence, be prepared to look closely at snakes, iguanas, and other reptiles. Or go to the plains area to see lions and giraffes wandering about like it was the savanna. After the exciting trip, you can find something to eat in the on-site restaurant or just enjoy an ice cream from one of the snack bars.

Established in 1821, The Indianapolis City Market, is the one stop destination for all your food cravings and needs. The 19th century market house is not only a bustling tourist attraction but also an Indianapolis institution. The architecture is quite magnificent to behold too. It provides the locals with fresh products at affordable prices, and hence it is well sought after by all. The market also plays host to farmer's markets, movie screenings and pet supply drives among other events. One can also lease out the space for private events and functions. Whatever your food shopping and dining requirements, the Indianapolis City Market can cater to your needs.

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.