Things to Do | Indianapolis, IN

Ever wondered what it is like to live in Indianapolis, IN? While you may spend most of your time in class or studying, there is tons around to explore in this area we call home!

Whether you’re from the area or an Indianapolis newcomer, you’ll find something to love within steps of The Avenue. Explore our town’s best and brightest local attractions, starting with these six things to do, see, and eat.

Mass Ave

Known affectionately as Mass Ave, this five-block area is ripe with theaters, restaurants, art galleries, and, most attractively for shoppers, a number of eclectic, independent boutiques. You'll encounter unique finds on each block, from Stout's Shoes (the nation's oldest shoe store, established in 1886), to Silver In The City/At Home In The City (offering silver jewelry and unique gift items), to The Best Chocolate In Town (which is fairly self-descriptive). Try local craft beers at Ralston's Drafthouse, or sip a cocktail at the prohibition-era ball&biscuit. Foodies can indulge in American-modern cuisine at Mesh or take down a platter of tacos at Bakersfield. Take in Indy culture at its finest on Mass Ave, "45 Degrees from Ordinary."

Monument Circle

Since 1821 when Alexander Ralston laid out the state's capital in Indianapolis and located "Circle Street" in the middle of the mile square plat, Monument Circle has served as the literal and figurative center of Indianapolis. The Soldiers and Sailors Monument rests at the center of the Circle. Other features include bronze statuary of three former Indiana governors and a general, a grand staircase, and two water pools. There also are striking views of the state capitol building and the city from atop a 231-foot-tall observation tower.

Canal Walk

The Canal Walk is part of the Indiana Central Canal, which was dug in the early 1800s, in an effort to facilitate interstate commerce. Today, the refurbished Canal Walk (stretching north through White River State Park to 11th Street) serves the downtown community as a waterside promenade for walkers, runners, bikers and sightseers (while the canal itself includes a steady stream of pedal boats, which may be rented west of the Indiana State Museum).

Catch a Colts Game

The atmosphere is electric in downtown Indy before a home Colts game. Head to Lucas Oil Stadium for the new Fan Zone, a pre-game party area for fans of all ages. The Fan Zone offers a variety of games for kids and adults, including: Quarterback Throw, Tower Climb, Football Bouncer, face painters and more! The Tailgate Tent, also available in the area, includes a full pre-game tailgate menu. In addition, The Colts Retail Express Trailer and the Colts In Motion traveling museum are on site. As if that's not enough, live entertainment will always take to the outdoor stage to help get the party started.

See the Indy 500

Picture this: The largest single-day sporting event on the planet is moments away from roaring to life, and the Racing Capital of the World falls silent. Thirty-three drivers. 200 laps. 500 miles. One bottle of cold milk. The only thing missing from this magical Indianapolis 500 mix is you. Don't miss out on another incredible event of "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing."

Indianapolis Zoo

Run with cheetahs on the African Plains, or swim with dolphins in the deep blue oceans. Wherever your adventure may take you, the Indianapolis Zoo will be your guide! Located along the scenic riverbanks in White River State Park, the Zoo is conveniently located near beautiful downtown Indianapolis with easy access to walking and biking trails into the city.