Aerial view of the skyline and city skyscrapers of downtown Indianapolis

Five unforgettable days in Indianapolis

As you stand in the open air of downtown Indianapolis, you’re surrounded by choices. Will you follow the Central Canal or head for Broad Ripple Village for coffee at a sidewalk café? Experience one of the city’s thrilling sporting events or find calm in a gallery? Wherever Indy takes you, lean in and soak up the unique vibe of this Midwestern metropolis, with its thriving culture and food scene.

From its vibrant downtown districts and world-class museums to its rich motorsports history and lush green escapes, Indianapolis is a city that invites you to discover its layers. And with our new direct route from Dublin launching in May, there’s never been a better time to explore this often-overlooked Midwestern gem.

Our five-day itinerary will help you make the most of your visit, balancing iconic landmarks with local favourites and hidden treasures. You’ll get a chance to explore beyond the city limits with a scenic day trip that takes in Indiana’s natural beauty. Ready to dive into Indy’s charm? Here’s how to spend an unforgettable five days in Indianapolis.

A historic statehouse building in Indianapolis with green leafy trees, lawn and a statue to the front and blue sky in the background. The Indiana State House at 200 West Washington Street.

Day 1: Get to know the city

Start your journey at Monument Circle, the city’s iconic landmark. This bustling centrepiece, dominated by the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, offers a taste of Indy’s history and community spirit. From here, wander over to Mass Ave (Massachusetts Avenue), a vibrant cultural district packed with boutiques, galleries, and cafés. Be sure to stop by The Flying Cupcake for an indulgent treat or browse Silver in the City for cool gifts, homewares and souvenirs.

For lunch, head to The Garage Food Hall at the Bottleworks District. This buzzing space offers everything from delicious street food to live music and events, making it the perfect place to get a true taste of the city.

In the afternoon, explore White River State Park. Here, you’ll find the Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens—a family-friendly spot where you can meet orangutans or stroll among the flowers. If you’d rather art to animals, the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art offers a fascinating look into Native American and Western culture.

End your day with dinner at Bluebeard on Virginia Ave, a beloved local restaurant serving farm-to-table dishes made with seasonal ingredients. Don’t skip the bread—it’s baked fresh daily in-house.

An Indianapolis street at sunset with light angling down a laneway Sunset in downtown Indianapolis

Day 2: Dive into history and motorsports

No trip to Indianapolis would be complete without visiting the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the iconic Indy 500. Visit the Hall of Fame Museum to learn about the city’s rich racing heritage and, if you’re lucky, join a track tour to take in the thrills of the world’s largest sports venue.

For lunch, make your way to the nearby Charlie Brown’s Pancake and Steak House. This retro diner serves hearty portions of classic American comfort food, perfect for refuelling after a morning of high-speed history.

Spend your afternoon at the Indiana State Museum, which covers everything from natural history to Hoosier state achievements. If you’re travelling with kids, The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis—the largest of its kind in the world—is a must-visit. Highlights include its immersive Dinosphere and the International Space Station exhibit.

Wrap up your day with a meal downtown at St. Elmo Steak House, a legendary Indy institution famous for its shrimp cocktail with sinus-clearing horseradish sauce.

A view of the Indianapolis skyline with skyscrapers and blue sky in the background
Indianapolis is a city that invites you to discover its layers.

Day 3: Explore Indy’s cultural side

Begin your third day at Newfields, a sprawling cultural campus that houses the Indianapolis Museum of Art and stunning gardens. The museum’s collections range from European masterpieces to contemporary works, while the outdoor landscapes are perfect for a morning stroll.

For lunch, explore the Broad Ripple neighbourhood, a bohemian hub brimming with cafés and eclectic eateries. Try Fire by the Monon, a relaxed eatery known for its hearty American comfort food and impressive craft beer selection.

Spend the afternoon gallery-hopping along the Harrison Center for the Arts, where you can meet local artists and pick up one-of-a-kind pieces to bring home.

As evening falls, head to The Jazz Kitchen. This iconic venue combines live jazz performances with New Orleans-inspired cuisine. It’s an ideal spot to wind down with soulful tunes and a plate of gumbo.

Day 4: Day trip to Brown County State Park

Escape the city for a day and venture to Brown County State Park, about an hour’s drive south of Indianapolis. Nicknamed the “Little Smokies” for its rolling hills and misty vistas, this park is a haven for nature lovers. Spend the morning hiking one of its many trails or renting a bike to explore the picturesque scenery.

Make time for a stop in the nearby town of Nashville, Indiana. This charming artists’ colony is packed with unique shops, studios, and cafés. Lunch at the Farmhouse Café and Tea Room (a brick farmhouse dating back to the 1800s) is a must for its fresh, locally sourced menu.

Return to Indianapolis for dinner at Tinker Street, an intimate spot offering creative small plates. The patio seating under twinkling lights is particularly inviting.

A close up shot of a Honey Bee Pollinating Small White Flowers Brown County State Park: a haven for nature lovers

Day 5: Shopping and local flavours

Spend your final day immersing yourself in the city’s local vibes and retail therapy. Start with breakfast at Milktooth, a trendy café known for its inventive takes on morning classics. The Dutch baby pancake is a favourite.

Then, head to the Keystone Fashion Mall for a mix of high-end stores and local boutiques. For lunch, satisfy your cravings at Shapiro’s Delicatessen, an old-school Jewish deli that’s been serving towering sandwiches since 1905.

In the afternoon, explore Fountain Square, a historic Indy district with a retro vibe. Browse vintage shops, check out street art, and grab a coffee at Calvin Fletcher’s Coffee Company. End your shopping spree with a sweet treat from Lick Ice Cream, where flavours like Goat Cheese with Fig Jam or Raspberry Beet Sorbet take centre stage.

For your farewell dinner, book a table at Beholder. This stylish restaurant is known for its creative, flavour-forward dishes and chic ambience—the perfect way to toast your Indy adventure.

A shot of a downtown Indianapolis junction bordered by tall buildings
Spend your final day immersing yourself in the city’s local vibes

Ready to discover Indy?

If Indianapolis isn’t already on your radar, it needs to be: it’s a city that surprises and delights at every turn. With our new direct flights to the city, it’s easier than ever to plan an adventure in this fun Midwestern gem. So pack your bags, and get ready to experience the charm, culture, and flavours of Indy for yourself.