Fall is here, people, and that means cozy sweaters, steaming cups of cocoa, and show-stopping leaf colors. Feeling too nervous about flying these days because of COVID-19? Lucky for you, Tennessee borders eight states, so road trip options are numerous.
If you feel the urge to venture out of our beautiful state and do something different, have no fear that the city of Indianapolis is only a mere 4 hours away. If the Indy 500 is what first comes to mind when you think of Indianapolis, you may be curiously surprised to learn that there is so much more to the second largest city in the Midwest.
From its culinary scene to their endless sports venues along with a flourishing arts and culture vibe, here’s what makes Indianapolis a must-go city. Even during Covid there are so many things to do with a family as a family.
Things to Do:
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is definitely a bucket list destination for kids. The worlds largest children's museum there is so much to see among their 5 stories and 473,000 square feet of space.
The museum hosts a variety of educational exhibitions throughout the year, some permanent and some rotating. Currently you can experience adventure at the Dinosphere, travel to Greece to learn about their culture (and maybe a few Greek words) and uncover more about Anne Frank and her diaries and walk children through the timelines of her life.
The Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience is over 7.5 acres and is an indoor and outdoor sports experience and it was built to celebrate family health and fitness. Kids can try out multiple sports, including football (with a field goal to practice your kicks), tennis, soccer, basketball baseball and golf. The baseball field even includes pretend people in the stadium.
Located in White River State Park with the picturesque downtown in the backdrop the Indianapolis Zoo offers both indoor and outdoor animal attractions. It is open year round with hours that vary by season. Some favorites in the zoo are the orangutans, tigers, bears and giraffes. A special show includes the Dolphin In-Water Adventure. Visitors behind the scenes can learn more about these gentle animals while also helping to advance the Zoo’s animal conservation mission.
Other fun and interesting things to do in Indianapolis but certainly not limited to: some excellent karting opportunities for indoor karting courses and some good outdoor courses. Inexpensive foot massage parlous are in abundance for your tired feet. Also, check out the calendar at Newfields for their spectacular events. Newfields also boasts the Indianapolis Museum of Art which is the 9th oldest encyclopedic art museum.
To See:
Whether you're looking to go on a relaxing stroll, a vigorous run, rent a bike or take a surrey with your family for the afternoon, the Canal and White River State Park has things to do for everyone. You can interact with dolphins, visit the Indiana State Museum, Victory Field, The Amphitheater at WRSP, Indiana History Center, Eiteljorg Museum and the NCAA Hall of Champions. Scattered throughout the Canal and 250-acre White River State Park are some of the city's most inspiring attractions and celebrations.
Named "the biggest and boldest step by any American city" by Project for Public Spaces in New York City, this $63 million, internationally-acclaimed 8-mile biking and walking trail connects all six of Indy's Cultural Districts. From Mass Ave to White River State Park and Fountain Square, the trail is a safe, healthy and convenient way to explore the city.
Monument Circle is the true heart of Downtown Indianapolis. Often filled with life at any given time of the day or during one of the many events that happen year round, it's truly a must-see for anyone visiting the Circle City. Come Thanksgiving, the monument will be all dressed up as the worlds largest Christmas tree. Visitors can enjoy a nightly signature salute at the Soldiers and Sailors Monument.
Where to Stay
Very walkable and with plenty of options to eat out, downtown would be your best option for a great place to stay while enjoying all that the city has to offer. You can probably meet your budget (high or low) with a downtown hotel. Whether it's the JW Marriott or the Hyatt House, downtown has plenty of options including more wallet friendly options.
Also, unlike many large cities, you're pretty safe booking a downtown Indy hotel on the various blind sites as there really aren't any bad/unsafe hotels in downtown nor are any hotels located in bad/unsafe areas. Now obviously some hotels are nicer than others and some locations are better than others but overall
What to eat:
Indy was named the most ‘Underrated Food City in America’ by Condé Nast Traveler. Pre-Covid, Indy’s culinary scene was booming. Today, some favorites still stand but like every big city, they need some help. Most memorable trips begin and end with a great meal, we at Brentwood Lifestyle, recommend the following places to add to your todo list when visiting Indy.
- The District Tap
- Bru Burger
- St. Elmos Steak House
- Longs Bakery
- The Eagle
- Bakersfield
- Bazbeaux Pizza
- Smallcakes Cupcake & Creamery
- Trader's Point Creamery
