Indianapolis Travel Guide – Dining, Resorts, Golf, and Sightseeing

Welcome to our Indianapolis Travel Guide. Travel Review Experts recommendations for your go-to guide for all things Indianapolis. The city welcomes over 28 million visitors yearly. They come for the shopping, dining, resorts, golf, and sightseeing.

From the city’s historic heart to its modern wonders, we’ve got you covered. This guide will show you why Indy is a top destination.

Let’s explore the best spots for shopping, dining, and golf. The Brickyard Crossing Golf Course is special. It has four holes inside the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. It’s one of the few places hosting PGA, LPGA, and Champions Tour events¹.

We’ll also share must-see attractions. They highlight the city’s culture and history. Your visit will be unforgettable.

Key Takeaways

• Indianapolis offers diverse shopping and dining experiences.
• Golf courses in the area, such as The Fort Golf Course, are highly rated for their unique layouts.
• Visitors can enjoy luxurious resorts that provide comfort and relaxation.
• Sightseeing in Indianapolis reveals a mix of historic and modern attractions.
• Annual events add a vibrant touch to the city’s culture and social scene.

Welcome to Indianapolis: An Overview

Indianapolis is in the heart of Indiana, full of exciting things to do. It has a mix of old and new attractions. The city is a big sports and culture center, easy to get to by the Indianapolis International Airport.

The city’s downtown is lively, with great hotels and a fun vibe. Walking around, you’ll find places like the Indianapolis Children’s Museum. It’s the biggest in the world, with five floors of fun and the Anne Frank Peace Garden².

Monument Circle is another must-see. It has the Soldiers and Sailors Monument. You can take an elevator to see the city from above². The Cultural Trail also connects six cultural districts, showing off the city’s arts and history.

For thrill-seekers, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway offers tours. You can even drive fast on the track². White River State Park has the Indianapolis Zoo and Eiteljorg Museum, all in one big park².

Indianapolis is also great for food lovers. You can try local coffee or craft beers. The city has a lot to offer for foodies².

To learn more about what to do in Indianapolis, check out our guide. It has lots of info on things to do in Indianapolis and across the state³.

Indianapolis is full of surprises. We invite you to explore all it has to offer.

Indianapolis Travel Guide – Shopping, Dining, Resorts, Golf, and Sightseeing

Discover Indianapolis with our top travel tips. We’ll show you the best Indianapolis hotels for every budget. Whether you’re here for a short trip or a long stay, we care about your comfort.

Indianapolis offers a wide range of Indianapolis activities for unforgettable moments. Golf lovers will enjoy courses like Brickyard Crossing and The Fort Golf Course. These places have a PAR 72 layout and offer club rentals¹. You’ll find a challenge for every skill level, with yardages from 5,038 to 7,148 yards.

After golf, don’t miss the city’s famous landmarks. Our guide helps you navigate Indianapolis easily. You can use public transport or walk around. Don’t miss the Indianapolis 500, a racing event like no other.

Indiana’s golf scene is special, with the Pete Dye Golf Trail featuring more of his courses than anywhere else⁴. We’ve put together a list of top spots to make your Indianapolis trip fun and fulfilling.

Shopping in Indianapolis: Where to Find the Best Deals

When we think of Indianapolis shopping, we imagine a lively scene for all. The city mixes big names with cozy local spots, showing off the best of each area. For a fun shopping day, let’s check out the best shopping districts and find special items at local boutiques.

Top Shopping Districts

In Indianapolis, some areas really stand out for shopping. Massachusetts Avenue is known for its unique shops and art galleries. Broad Ripple has a cool vibe with stylish stores for those who love fashion. These places offer great shopping and a taste of local culture.

Unique Local Boutiques

For something truly special, local boutiques are the place to go. These shops are all over the city, filled with handmade items, unique clothes, and art. Shopping here lets us enjoy a special experience and support local talent.

Shopping in Indianapolis has something for everyone, making it a great part of our trip. Whether we’re looking for the latest styles or something unique, this city has it all⁵.

Dining Delights: Best Indianapolis Restaurants

Food lovers will find joy in Indianapolis. The city’s culinary scene is vibrant, with local and international flavors. Discover the top restaurants that showcase our rich food heritage. The lively atmosphere makes every meal special.

Must-Try Local Dishes

Indianapolis is known for its signature dishes. Don’t miss the famous shrimp cocktail at St. Elmo Steak House. Shapiro’s offers a legendary reuben sandwich that highlights the city’s culinary history.

For something new, try Milktooth’s brunch menu. It features creative dishes made with local ingredients.

Top-Rated Eateries

Bluebeard is a top choice, located in Indy’s oldest neighborhood. It’s famous for its seasonal dishes. The contemporary ambiance of these places makes dining a pleasure. Each restaurant offers a unique experience, making your dining adventures unforgettable.

Indianapolis has something for every taste, from fine dining to casual eats. As you explore our city’s flavors, be sure to try the many culinary delights. Experience the best of dining in Indianapolis⁶⁷⁸.

Exploring Indianapolis Resorts: Comfort and Luxury

Indianapolis resorts offer a wide range of choices. From luxury seekers to those who love a cozy vibe, there’s something for everyone. The JW Marriott and Conrad Indianapolis are top picks, with their fancy rooms and great food. They’re perfect for both work trips and fun getaways.

French Lick Resort is another standout, thanks to its $500 million makeover⁹. Its Pete Dye Course is a must-visit, ranked #1 in Indiana by Golfweek in 2019⁹. Golf lovers will love the views of the Hoosier National Forest. The course has yardages for all skill levels, from 5,151 to 8,102 feet⁹.

The West Baden Springs Hotel is a historic gem, known as the eighth wonder of the world. The Country Club of Indianapolis is great for networking and family fun⁵. It’s a place where families can relax, socialize, and enjoy top-notch services.

Loews Hotels & Resorts offers upscale stays in Indianapolis. With big rooms, excellent dining, and special event spaces, it’s perfect for any trip. Whether it’s a vacation or a business meeting, Indianapolis has the luxury you need¹⁰.

Indianapolis Golf: Tee Off in the Heart of the Midwest

Indianapolis is a golfer’s paradise, with courses for every skill level. The Highland Golf and Country Club and Brickyard Crossing Golf Course stand out. They offer beautiful views and challenging layouts.

Best Golf Courses in Indianapolis

Brickyard Crossing Golf Course is famous, with a daily rate of $210 from April 26 to October 20. During INDY 500 Race/Qualifying Weekends, it’s $250¹¹. Groups of 80 or more get a special rate of $175 per player¹¹.

Juniors 17 and under play for $125 with a paying adult¹¹.

The Warren Golf Course at Notre Dame opened in 2000. It’s a challenging course with 7,020 yards from the back tees. It has 88 bunkers and water hazards on six holes¹². The upscale clubhouse can host 80 guests, adding to the experience¹².

Saddlebrook Golf Club in Indianapolis offers a versatile golfing experience. It’s open to the public and designed by Bob Thompson. Golfers praise its good conditions, friendly staff, and fair prices here¹³.

Sightseeing in Indianapolis: Top Attractions to Visit

Exploring Indianapolis, we find a blend of history and modern sights. The city is full of iconic landmarks that show its lively culture. Each place offers a special chance for sightseeing, making memories that last.

Iconic Landmarks

The Soldiers and Sailors Monument stands tall at 284 feet, showing the city’s history¹⁴. Sports fans will love the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the world’s largest sports venue¹⁴. The Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields is also a must-see, with over 54,000 artworks.

Family-Friendly Activities

Indianapolis has lots for families, like The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. It’s the world’s largest children’s museum, with five floors of fun¹⁵. The Indianapolis Zoo is home to over 1,400 animals, great for all ages¹⁴. Don’t miss the NCAA Hall of Champions, celebrating 24 collegiate sports.

Landmark	Details
Soldiers and Sailors Monument	Height: 284 feet
Indianapolis Motor Speedway	Seating Capacity: 250,000
Children’s Museum of Indianapolis	Largest children’s museum in the world
Indianapolis Zoo	1,400+ animals from 235 species

Indianapolis is a top spot for sightseeing and family fun. For more adventures, check out top road trips from Indianapolis.

Indianapolis’ Vibrant Arts and Culture Scene

The Indianapolis arts scene is full of theater, live music, and art galleries. Places like Mass Ave and Fountain Square offer performances and local art. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is huge, with over 472,900 square feet for families. The Indianapolis Zoo has over 1,400 animals from 200 species¹⁶.

Indianapolis hosts many cultural events all year. These events bring people together to celebrate creativity. Newfields and the Indianapolis Museum of Art have a wide range of art. The Indiana State Museum shows the state’s history and nature¹⁶.

White River State Park is a beautiful place to explore, with 250 acres and attractions like the Eiteljorg Museum. Our experience with performing arts in Indianapolis helps us understand local culture. We see shows by famous and new artists.

Getting Around Indianapolis: Transportation Tips

Getting around Indianapolis is easy thanks to the city’s friendly transportation options. Over 28 million people will visit Indianapolis this year. This makes traveling there a top priority for everyone¹⁷. The city offers buses and bike-sharing programs like Pacers Bikeshare, making travel easy and fun.

If you like walking or biking, the city’s downtown is perfect. Hotels in Indianapolis are linked by skywalks to famous spots like Lucas Oil Stadium and Monument Circle¹⁷. The Indianapolis Cultural Trail also offers beautiful routes, connecting areas like Mass Ave and Fountain Square, making our adventures better.

Make sure to try the local food while exploring. For more info on getting around, check out these travel tips. Whether you’re visiting the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis or enjoying White River State Park, we promise a great time with our transportation plans.

Transportation Option	Description	Best For
Buses	Reliable public transport with extensive routes.	Budget-friendly travel across the city.
Pacers Bikeshare	Convenient bike rentals for short-term use.	Exploring downtown by bike.
Walking	Simple and enjoyable way to see local sights.	Accessing nearby attractions effortlessly.
Rideshare Services	Easy-to-use apps for quick transportation.	Fast and convenient travel options.

Using these Indianapolis transportation options makes our trip better. It lets us enjoy the city’s beauty fully.

Seasonal Events and Festivals in Indianapolis

Indianapolis loves to celebrate all year round. We have many local events that show off our culture. Events like the Indianapolis 500 and art fairs are always exciting. These Indianapolis festivals bring us together and show off Hoosier hospitality.

As the seasons change, so do the seasonal events in Indianapolis. Summer brings outdoor concerts with famous bands like Barenaked Ladies. They celebrate 35 years of music, along with Toad the Wet Sprocket’s 30th anniversary of Dulcinea¹⁸. KC and The Sunshine Band also perform, with over 100 million records sold and a Grammy¹⁸.

Fall brings spooky Halloween events at the French Lick Resort for family fun. The holiday season is filled with celebrations, like the 50 Days of Lights at the French Lick Resort. This includes grand tree lighting ceremonies and half a million holiday lights¹⁸.

It’s a good idea to buy tickets early. Ticketmaster is the only place to buy tickets for these amazing shows¹⁸.

Event	Time of Year	Description
Indianapolis 500	May	A premier racing event attracting thousands, showcasing speed and excitement.
French Lick Halloween	October	Family-friendly spooky events that celebrate Halloween.
50 Days of Lights	December	A holiday celebration featuring grand tree lightings and festive activities.

Conclusion

As we wrap up our Indianapolis travel guide, it’s clear this city is full of fun and new things to see. From exploring the Cultural Trail to trying local foods, there’s something for everyone. Many visitors love the shopping here, showing the city’s lively markets and boutiques¹⁹.

When planning our trip, we should think about the many resorts available. They offer comfort and luxury, fitting all kinds of travelers²⁰. The city also has lots of attractions, from historic sites to places for fun, drawing in many visitors²⁰.

In short, Indianapolis has something for everyone, whether you’re into sports, arts, shopping, or just enjoying the city’s warmth. So, let’s get ready to explore this exciting Midwestern city!

FAQ

What are the must-visit attractions in Indianapolis?

Top spots include Monument Circle, the Indianapolis Zoo, and The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. The Eiteljorg Museum also offers a unique look into the city’s culture and history.

Where can we find the best shopping in Indianapolis?

For great shopping, check out Mass Ave and Broad Ripple. You’ll find both big brands and local boutiques with unique items.

What’s the dining scene like in Indianapolis?

Indianapolis’s food scene is lively, with local and international dishes. Try the shrimp cocktail at St. Elmo Steak House and the reuben at Shapiro’s.

Are there family-friendly activities in Indianapolis?

Yes! Families can enjoy The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, the Indianapolis Zoo, and the Indiana State Museum’s interactive exhibits.

What are some recommended resorts in Indianapolis?

For a luxurious stay, consider the JW Marriott and the Conrad Indianapolis. They offer top-notch amenities and are close to attractions.

How can we get around the city?

Indianapolis is easy to navigate with public transport, bike-sharing, and rideshare services. The downtown area is also great for walking.

When are the best times to visit Indianapolis?

Spring and fall are the best times to visit. The weather is nice, and festivals like the Indianapolis 500 and art fairs are happening.

Is Indianapolis known for any unique festivals?

Yes! The city is famous for the Indianapolis 500 and hosts many art fairs and cultural events all year.

What golf courses are recommended for enthusiasts?

Golf fans will love Highland Golf and Country Club and Brickyard Crossing Golf Course. They offer stunning views and challenging courses for all players.

Travel Booking Links

Source Links

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2. Top Ten Things a Tourist in Indianapolis Must Do – https://www.mapquest.com/travel/indianapolis-things-to-do/
3. Indiana Tourism Brochures | Visit Indiana | IN Indiana | IDDC – https://www.visitindiana.com/brochures/
4. Featured Golf Travel Destinations For Indiana Golfers – https://www.indianagolf.com/travel/
5. Luxury Private Country Club in Indianapolis IN | CC of Indianapolis – https://ccindianapolis.com/
6. Indianapolis Travel Guide: Rediscovering the City at the Crossroads – The Manual – https://www.themanual.com/travel/travel-guide-indianapolis-indiana/
7. Official page for Fort Harrison Inn – https://www.in.gov/dnr/state-parks/inns/fort-harrison-inn-at-fort-harrison-state-park/
8. Indiana’s Best Girlfriends’ Getaways – Travel Indiana – https://www.travelindiana.com/indianas-best-girlfriends-getaways/
9. The Pete Dye Course at French Lick – Pete Dye Golf Trail – https://www.petedyegolftrail.com/courses/the-pete-dye-course-at-french-lick/
10. Luxury Hotel Locations | Loews Hotels & Co – https://www.loewshotels.com/destinations
11. Rates & Info – https://www.brickyardcrossing.com/play/rates
12. Warren Golf Course – https://fightingirish.com/facilities-3/warren-golf-course/
13. Indiana’s Fairway Drives: You Can’t Miss This Fort Wayne Golf Trip – https://www.visitindiana.com/blog/post/fort-wayne-golf-trip/
14. Top 50 Tourist Spots in Indianapolis – Insider Fandom – https://insiderfandom.com/top-50-tourist-spots-in-indianapolis/
15. Things to do near East Indianapolis | Indianapolis Marriott East – https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/inddt-indianapolis-marriott-east/experiences/
16. Top Places to Visit in Indianapolis: Experience the Magic – https://www.educba.com/places-to-visit-in-indianapolis/
17. About Indianapolis – https://www.visitindy.com/travel-tools/about-indianapolis/
18. French Lick Resort – https://www.frenchlick.com/concerts-and-events.htm
19. Fort Harrison Golf Resort | Indianapolis, IN – https://www.visitindy.com/listing/fort-harrison-golf-resort/5083/
20. The Fort Golf Course | Indianapolis, IN – https://www.visitindy.com/listing/the-fort-golf-course/192831/