The best thing one can do for oneself is travel. It’s the perfect way to recharge your batteries and explore other parts of the US.
There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road and exploring new cities along the way. The best part is you don’t need to put in a lot of organization and planning. You can simply take your car, pack a few bags, and you’re ready to go.
You can decide if you take the trip alone or if you go with a group of close friends. The choice is completely up to you. If you’re looking for a less-touristy area to visit, we recommend checking out the Midwest and states like Indiana. These places have so much to offer, yet they don’t get too overcrowded with tourists.
Its capital, Indianapolis, has so many sightseeing opportunities, and you won’t have a dull moment when visiting. In case you’re not sure what to add to your travel itinerary, we’ve prepared some recommendations for you below.
If you’re wondering where to start, here are four great sights to check out in Indianapolis that make it a perfect road trip stop.
A few quick tips for road trippers in Indy
Before you head your way to Indianapolis, let’s also share some tips for you. Going on a road trip is fun and exciting, but that doesn’t mean you can totally go unprepared. If you’re going alone, you need to think about a couple of things that will keep you safe on the road.
Best time to visit:
When travelling by car, it’s always best to avoid the busy season, especially if you’re the angsty type who gets nervous in traffic jams. For instance, August is usually a busy month with summer holidays and everything, so it’s probably best to avoid travelling then. Not only that, but August is often the “deadliest” month as many car accidents happen in August.
When it comes to visiting Indianapolis, spring or fall is ideal, especially if you want to enjoy the parks and outdoor spaces. It’s not as busy, and you can easily explore the city by car.
Prepare your car
So, apart from packing your bags and planning your trip, you also need to ensure that your car is ready to take the trip with you. Do a quick inspection of your tires and see if all the liquids (oil, windshield wiper fluid) are there.
Additionally, as you’re travelling to another state where different rules apply, make sure to check how your car insurance works in Indiana and if tow service is included. As mentioned, car accidents are prone to happen, so having an Indianapolis car accident attorney’s number won’t hurt. In case you end up in an accident, you’ll be able to keep a cool head and simply have the attorney handle the situation for you.
Places to visit: Our top 4 recommendations
1. Monument Circle as a classic downtown stop
Monument Circle is the heart of downtown Indianapolis and a great first stop. It’s home to the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, a towering tribute to Indiana’s veterans. The monument is surrounded by a wide, circular brick road lined with cafes and stores. You can treat yourself to a coffee-to-go and do some window shopping.
You could even take a ride up to the observation deck at the top of the monument (yes, there’s an elevator if you’re not up for the stairs). From up there, you get a 360-degree view of the city skyline—great for snapping a few photos.
If you’re into people-watching, this is the place. Locals, businesspeople, and tourists all pass through here, giving the area a lively, city feel without being overwhelming.
2. Indianapolis Motor Speedway for racing fans
You don’t have to be a racing fanatic to enjoy the Indianapolis Motor Speedway(but it’s a more wholesome experience if you are). This is the home of the famous Indy 500, one of the biggest races in the world.
Even if there’s no race happening, you can still explore the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, which showcases historic race cars, trophies, and stories from over 100 years of racing history.
You can also take a guided tour around the track (sometimes even on a bus that goes on the actual oval), giving you a new appreciation for just how big and fast-paced the sport really is.
If you’re travelling with kids, they will definitely enjoy the interactive exhibits. It’s a fun and affordable stop that’s a little different from the usual road trip attractions.
3. White River State Park for a relaxing walk
Driving for hours can be exhausting, and sometimes the best thing to do is just relax in nature for a while. White River State Park is a large green space in the heart of the city where you can stretch your legs, breathe in some fresh air, or even rent a paddleboat and cruise down the river.
There are also several cool attractions you can check out near the park. You can also visit the Indianapolis Zoo or check out the Indiana State Museum.
If you’re looking to picnic, there are plenty of quiet spots along the walking trails. It’s a peaceful escape that’s still close to everything else downtown. And the park is pet-friendly in case you’re wondering.
4. Fountain Square
If you like places with a bit more personality, Fountain Square is your spot. Just southeast of downtown, this area has a fun and artsy vibe. It’s known for its vintage shops, murals, music venues, and unique local restaurants.
There’s a little bit of everything here. If you’re in the mood for a casual diner breakfast, you’ll enjoy different delicious dishes. The area has a retro feel, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a classic car meet-up or an outdoor movie night in the square.
It’s a great place to take it slow, explore, and maybe even do a little people-watching or pick up a cool souvenir.
The key takeaways
Now that you have four good reasons to visit Indianapolis, all that’s left is to pack your bags and hit the road.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing spot or some adventure, Indianapolis offers plenty to see and do without going too far off your route.
