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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Indianapolis

Fun activities and historical sites

You prefer your downtime to include a look into the past.

Based on 850 Opinions
+847
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Updated May 2026
01
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum image 1
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum image 2
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum image 3
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Museum showcases historic race cars and original track bricks in a modern, spacious setting. Atmosphere blends energy and pride with interactive exhibits that engage all ages. Visitors experience a balance of excitement and accessibility, with hands-on activities and calming spaces.

Interactive galleries offer fun for all ages with hands-on exhibits. The simulation area provides engaging race experiences that can hold attention for hours.

The museum offers a deep dive into the history of the Indy500 and motorsports. Visitors can spend hours exploring historical artifacts and learning about the significance of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

People are saying

"It's a paradise for racing fans with lots of history."

"The museum's exhibits showcase incredible historical cars and racing memorabilia."

"You'll love the fun activities, especially the driving simulators."

Good to know

1

The museum offers a racetrack tour; tickets should be purchased in advance.

2

Kids can participate in car-building and racing events during special occasions.

3

The PIT STOP competition is a fun family activity available during events.

02
Soldiers & Sailors Monument image 1

Circular plaza centers on a towering monument with phenomenal artistry and an observation deck offering incredible city views. Surrounding area hosts free outdoor games and community art projects, creating a peaceful yet engaging atmosphere. Nighttime brings light shows and patriotic music, enhancing the reflective mood.

Fun little park and Spark park offer family-friendly games and activities. The area around the circle has many shops and open spaces for climbing stairs and relaxing outdoors.

A centrally located monument with beautiful architecture and rich historical significance stands in the middle of the city. Visitors can explore the site for free or pay a small fee to access the viewing deck and enjoy memorial shows.

People are saying

"This historical monument is beautiful and impressive."

"The view from the top is great and worth the trip."

"Climbing the monument's 330 steps is a fun activity with a great view."

Good to know

1

The monument is free to visit, but climbing to the top costs $3.

2

The elevator to the top is often out of order, requiring a climb of 330 stairs.

3

Parking can be difficult; consider using public transport or ride-sharing.

03
James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home & Visitor Center image 1

Victorian home with original furnishings offers a peaceful, intimate atmosphere surrounded by gorgeous gardens. The space supports events and tours that highlight rich history and craftsmanship. Visitors experience a calm, charming setting with knowledgeable guides and accessible amenities.

Tours offer a fun and informative experience. Guides show extensive knowledge and keep the energy enthusiastic throughout.

The site features a historic home with rich history and events detailed throughout. Grounds offer a peaceful atmosphere filled with charm and a strong sense of community.

People are saying

"I learned so much about history during the museum tour."

"These historical sites are a stunning, romantic setting for weddings."

"The guides here make the fun activities so enjoyable and knowledgeable."

Good to know

1

The tour and parking are free, but booking in advance is required.

2

There is a parking lot and street parking available.

3

The admission fee is $10 for the whole family.

04
Historic Hannah House image 1
Historical place

Beautiful historic house with original architecture preserved since 1858 creates a tranquil atmosphere. The space feels like stepping back in time, offering a rich history and occasional paranormal events. Well maintained grounds add to the peaceful, intriguing vibe.

Beautiful architecture sets the scene for fun events that bring energy and interest. Events here consistently offer engaging and enjoyable experiences.

Original historical features remain well preserved, offering a rich glimpse into the past. Tours and events like the paranormal festival bring the history to life with engaging guides sharing fascinating stories.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful historical site, rich with history."

"The history of this house is really interesting."

"The fun activities here are great, especially the haunted house."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for private tours of the paranormal activities.

2

The haunted house event returns after 11 years, attracting many visitors.

3

The paranormal festival is a popular event, typically held in August.

05
NCAA Hall of Champions image 1
Heritage museum

Small, intimate museum combines interactive sports simulators and a 1930s retro gymnasium with traditional exhibits. Atmosphere feels disorganized but offers engaging hands-on activities for all ages, especially kids. Space supports events with modern meeting rooms and easy parking access.

Interactive exhibits on the second floor offer fun trivia and games that engage visitors of all ages. The space combines education and entertainment, making it a lively spot to learn about college sports history.

Displays highlight the history of collegiate sports and achievements of student-athletes. Interactive exhibits and the NCAA Hall of Champions showcase a lot of sports history in one building.

People are saying

"It's a cool interactive museum with lots of games."

"It's a fun place with interactive games and trivia."

"It's a fun place to learn about the history of college sports."

Good to know

1

Admission costs only $2 per person, making it affordable.

2

Parking is available in an underground garage with validation making it free.

3

The NCAA Hall of Champions has two levels of interactive exhibits for visitors.

06
Slippery Noodle Inn image 1

Old building with historic charm and pressed-tin ceilings hosts live blues and jazz music on two stages. Atmosphere feels lively and fun, resembling a dive bar without being dingy. Multiple rooms and bars create a large, somewhat confusing layout with a steady crowd enjoying music and food.

Live music creates a fun atmosphere with bands that sometimes improvise together. Customers and staff bring a lot of energy, making it a great spot for a hangout before or after events.

Authentic bones and an underground passage highlight the rich history here. Tours provide great historical information with knowledgeable guides sharing stories about the building and establishment.

People are saying

"I found the food to be excellent, a step above usual bar fare."

"The live blues music here is truly enjoyable and happens seven nights a week."

"The live music and atmosphere here are so fun."

Good to know

1

Open Mic night occurs on the second Wednesday of each month.

2

Half-price drinks are available all day on Thursdays.

3

Expect a cover charge for live music events.

07
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis image 1

Large museum with three levels and a huge outdoor arena offers interactive exhibits and a dinosaur area that appeals to all ages. Atmosphere varies from quiet rooms for breaks to noisy, lively spaces filled with family activity. Outdoor sports fields and a ferris wheel add to the energetic, fun environment.

Offers endless fun for kids and families without needing to change clothes. Combines learning with play for a day full of unforgettable memories.

Actors bring history to life with detailed backstories. Exhibits cover space history, historic figures like Anne Frank and Ruby Bridges, and interactive displays including a historic carousel.

People are saying

"It's so kid-friendly with tons of hands-on activities for a whole day."

"It's a hands-on place with interactive exhibits and creative spaces."

"You can explore many historical sites, like Egyptian hieroglyphs and terracotta soldiers."

Good to know

1

On the first Thursday of each month from 4 PM to 8 PM, tickets are $6 per person for ages 2 and up.

2

Parking is available in a garage with skywalk access, making it convenient, especially in bad weather.

3

The food court closes at 2:30 PM, so plan meals accordingly.

08
The Rathskeller image 1
German restaurant

Basement German restaurant offers an authentic atmosphere with super tall ceilings and a historic building. Outdoor Biergarten features live music and plenty of seating, creating a lively vibe. The crowd enjoys excellent German beer and traditional dishes in a fun environment.

The Rathskeller offers a lively outdoor venue with a fun atmosphere and live bands. The beer garden buzzes with energy, and events like the Kris Kringle Mart add to the entertaining vibe.

Historic atmosphere fills the space with warmth and character. The traditional German decor transports you back in time, and the manager shares the history and significance of the place.

People are saying

"The German food here is authentic and outstanding."

"The historical sites here offer delicious German food and hearty meals."

"It's a fun place with a lively atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant is often busy.

2

Expect a cover charge for live music events.

3

The venue has stairs leading down to the restaurant; elevator access is unclear.

09
The Vogue Theatre image 1
Live music venue

Historic vintage theater offers intimate live music experiences with great acoustics and a spacious open layout. Atmosphere feels warm and lively, drawing crowds who enjoy close views of the stage and energetic shows.

A fun atmosphere fills the spacious, lively venue with a friendly clientele. Live acts like the 80s Cover Band 16 Candles add to the historical venue's energetic vibe.

A historic movie theater turned live music venue stands out with its cool history and central location. Few historic theaters remain like this one in the city.

People are saying

"I thought The Vogue was one of the best places to see live music."

"I found it to be a fun and cool venue."

"It's a fun historical venue with a cool vibe."

Good to know

1

Parking is best right behind the building for easy access.

2

Most of the venue is general admission, and seating costs extra.

3

Advance ticket purchases are recommended for popular events.

10
Barringers Tavern (re-established 2019) image 1

Historic bar and grill with live music, classic games, and a large patio creates a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Regulars enjoy affordable tap beer and world-class pork tenderloin sandwiches. The space blends old charm with modern updates and sports on big screens.

A large screen projects games on one wall, creating a game night vibe. The atmosphere stays fun and friendly, making it a solid spot for fun activities.

A historic building with a lot of history, the site is very clean and well-maintained. It stands as a neat old establishment with significant historical value.

People are saying

"The breaded Tenderloin's breading is so crunchy and well-seasoned."

"The food here is really good, especially the pizza and fish."

"I found the food here surprisingly great and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available off-street and in the surrounding neighborhood.

2

Every item on the menu is reasonably priced.

3

Karaoke nights happen regularly, providing a fun atmosphere.

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Indianapolis, Indiana

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