Indianapolis welcomes millions of tourists every year. As the nation’s 12th largest city, the city offers endless options for fun attractions, unique restaurants, and affordable lodging. While most people know Indianapolis for its famous motor speedway, the city is home to so much more. From cheap lodging to the best places to drink and eat, here are five tips for touring the great city of Indianapolis.
Stay in Affordable Accommodations
Indianapolis is home to many reasonably priced big-name hotels. The Hilton Indianapolis Hotel and Suites is in the heart of the city and is right next to the Soldiers and Sailors Monument. Another affordable hotel is The Westin, which is close to thriving nightlife and the Indianapolis Convention Center.
Visit the City’s Great Museums
There are tons of diverse and award-winning museums in Indianapolis. If you appreciate art, then visit the Indianapolis Museum of Art, which sits on a beautiful park and is completely free to visitors. Another notable museum is the Children’s Museum. It has won awards and boasts one of the largest real dinosaur fossil displays in the world. Finally, don’t forget to visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum.
Use Inexpensive Transportation
Don’t waste your money renting a car or taking taxi cabs everywhere. Indy is no stranger to cheap transportation for tourists. Buy a ticket for a hop on hop off tour bus with Circle City Tours and get around town for only $25. Uber is pretty big in Indianapolis, too; Instead of wasting time waiting for a cab, you can use your smart phone to request Uber service and you’ll get reliable transportation in no time.
Check Out the Great Eateries
Indianapolis has an amazing restaurant and bar scene. If you’re into farmer’s markets, show up hungry to Locally Grown Gardens, a chef owned and operated café that features an array of delicious seasonal items. If you love craft beer, visit one of the many breweries in Indy, like Sun King Brewing or Flat 12 Bierworks. For a swanky lounge that serves top-notch drinks and food, visit The Ball & The Biscuit. They’re known for their excellent craft cocktails, but their food offerings are also awesome. If you’re on a budget, consider staying at The Indy Hostel, which boasts a quaint bed and breakfast vibe in the quiet neighborhood of Broad Ripple. The clean and cozy guest rooms come with amenities like free wi-fi, bicycle rentals, and a full kitchen.
Get a Free History Lesson
There are interesting historic sites everywhere in Indy. Be sure to make time for the stunning Indiana War Memorial, the Benjamin Harrison Presidential site, and the Crown Hill Cemetery, which is the nation’s third largest cemetery. Another site not to miss is the impressive state capitol, where you can take a free guided tour. September and April are the best months to find cheap flights into Indianapolis. Yet whether you’ve come to Indy on a budget or with no spending limit at all, you’re going to enjoy your time. With a booming culinary and bar scene as well as a long list of museums, historic sites, and outdoor adventures, there is always something fun to do in The Circle City.
Partnered post provided: Leslie is a world traveler and freelance writer for the Hipmunk City Love Project. She enjoys traveling to Indianapolis for its awesome museums and restaurants.
Leave a Reply