Location: Downtown Indianapolis
Top Things to do in Downtown Indianapolis
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Things to do in Indianapolis, Indiana (IN): The Best Traveler Resources
High-speed, history and good old Hoosier hospitality are a few reasons to put Indianapolis on your list of great getaways. Sports is another. From the legendary Indianapolis 500 to the Pacers and the Colts, the city offers ample opportunities to view professional and amateur sporting events, take part in athletic events and visit sports museums. At the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Hall Of Fame Museum you can tour the famous track (try to reserve tickets if there is a race in town) or visit the museum dedicated to automobiles and auto racing. Other sporty museums include the NCAA Hall of Champions. To get in on some of the action, head to SportZone which features six acres of indoor athletic facilities the whole family will enjoy. Those less interested in sports, or with kids in tow, can still find tons to do in and around the city. History, art and other cultural attractions abound. Visit the Children's Museum or checkout the zoo. Stroll along cobblestone streets past 19th-century buildings in the Lockerbie Square District or visit any number of historic landmarks. Known as the "Crossroads of America," more interstate highways bisect Indianapolis than any other city in the country, making it an exciting and easily accessible destination.
Restaurants in Indianapolis
1. Indiana State Library
2. Indiana Convention Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 499 reviews
The Indiana Convention Center is located in downtown Indianapolis. The venue has completed multiple expansions since its 1972 opening. The most recent major expansion occurred from 2008 to 2011. The venue now contains 71 meeting rooms, 11 exhibit halls and 3 ballrooms.
Reviewed By grandmaTo3 - Plattsmouth, United States
Love traveling to Indy for business. Easy access convention center, loads of restaurants within walking distance. Clean convention center with multi-use rooms available for events. Hotels on every corner, with shopping near by.
3. Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 68 reviews
Renowned author Kurt Vonnegut took an unflinching look at the world, tempered with a satirical eye and sardonic sense of humor. In honor of his wit and wisdom, the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library champions the literary, artistic and cultural contributions of the late writer, artist, teacher and Indianapolis native Kurt Vonnegut. The library and museum serves as a cultural and educational resource unique to the nation.
Reviewed By 866TaylorB - Chicago, United States
I have a library filled with hundreds of books. No fiction. So why did I choose to visit the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library in Indianapolis? Well, I haven't read much of William Faulkner's work but I visited his Rowan Oak estate in Oxford, Mississippi. So why not Kurt Vonnegut? I was curious. Located at 543 Indiana Avenue, it was opened to the public last November. Originally, it opened in 2011 in the Emelie Building at 340 North Senate Avenue. It is dedicated to championing the literary, artistic and cultural contributions of Vonnegut, an Indianapolis native who died in 2007. The building includes a library, museum, art gallery and reading room. I haven't read Slaughterhouse Five or Slapstick or Galapagos. But he was a fascinating character/writer/activist who wrote about many issues that affect our lives. The museum features rare remnants from his life, including the author's Purple Heart medal awarded for his service in Germany in World War II, his Smith-Corona typewriter, an unopened box of his favorite Pall Mall cigarettes discovered by his children behind a bookcase following his death, an unopened letter sent overseas during WW II to the author from his father, a series of rejection letters sent to the author by magazines and a complete replica of his writing studio. On the wall of the reading room that includes a selection of his books is a quote by the author: "We are what we pretend to be so we must be careful what we pretend to be." The visit is well worthwhile.
4. The Crane Bay Event Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 14 reviews
The Crane Bay is a truly unique event facility located steps away from the Lucas Oil Stadium in Downtown, Indianapolis. The Decor features an urban, edgy, and industrial atmosphere that can be transformed to meet the needs of any event! The walls of the facility are painted white; a blank canvas so to speak, that will allow you to adjust the LED lighted columns to any color to match your event. Perhaps the most remarkable feature of Crane Bay is the private outdoor patio that faces the downtown skyline. On a chilly evening, the fireplace and heating elements will keep you warm while you cozy up on the comfortable lounge furniture. Another aspect to note is the wide open indoor space that can be kept or divided using our draping system. This naturally progressive layout allows you to surprise your guests with a “room reveal” and move from cocktail reception, to dining or dancing with ease. The building itself has been in existence since the 1800’s, but was taken over and transformed for the Rolling Stones Magazine Super Bowl XLVI Party. With the investment of time, capital, and the partnership of Crystal Catering, The Crane Bay has become quite the event venue.
5. Indianapolis Public Library - Central Library
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 61 reviews
Central Library claims a distinct architectural history with its historic 1917 limestone Cret Building constructed in classic Greek Doric style. In 2007, the building was merged with a glass and steel-framed tower where traditional materials share a place with electronic resources. Central Library preserves the best of the past and while showcasing 21st century services that benefit all ages.
6. Visitors Center at White River State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 11 reviews
In the Visitors Center at White River State Park, you can find plenty of snacks & drinks, Indy & WRSP merchandise, unique souvenirs, maps & brochures, and clean public restrooms. Our friendly staff is here to help you with all your White River State Park and downtown Indianapolis needs. We can assist you in navigating the many WRSP attractions & green spaces and tell you about upcoming events at the park. The Visitors Center is named after Dr. Frank P. Lloyd Sr.
