The Midwest is often overlooked as fly-over territory, but I’m from the Midwest, and I think there are many underrated spots. While Pawnee, Indiana, is fictional, Indianapolis might give off some Parks & Rec vibes in its own special way. We compiled a sample itinerary for spending a weekend in Indianapolis and included a few parks for you to explore and live your best Leslie Knope vibes.
The suggestions for a weekend in Indianapolis are based on my favorite things, mostly eating, drinking, and learning about history. However, if you are a sports fanatic, don’t miss out on the Indy 500 draws. I’m a Leslie Knope, so you’ll find no shortage of places to eat and ways to learn more about the city.
All About Indianapolis
Indianapolis is Indiana’s capital and the largest city in the state. The city is named after the state, Land of the Indians. This land was originally home to the Miami Nation. In 1820, the Indiana General Assembly assembled a committee to find the site for the new state capital, and they settled on this area. It’s on the White River near the center of the state. The National Road was built through this part of the state in 1827, bringing more traffic as people moved east to west. Over time, the city grew and surged in the pork and auto industries. Today, it’s home to over 800,000 residents.
One of the most popular events here is the Indianapolis 500, the world’s largest single-day sporting event. The city is also home to the Colts (NFL), the Pacers (NBA), and the Fever (WBNA). Downtown is home to many museums, and you can even tour the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library since the author is known for his connections to the city. If you love presidential history, you can visit the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site and see the restored home of our 23rd president.
The city is filled with history and the stories of incredible people.
How to Spend a Weekend in Indianapolis
Like I said, I’m a Leslie Knope and not a Ron Swanson or Tom Haverford (sorry if you’ve never seen Parks and Rec.) There are many ways to enjoy a weekend in Indianapolis, but this itinerary would be my perfect couple days. It’s perfect for a weekend with the girls or even a couple’s getaway. Pick your favorites and get planning your weekend in Indianapoils.
Friday
Grab a Late Lunch at Cafe Patachou
Start your weekend off with a fantastic meal at Cafe Patachou. It’s known for breakfast, but if you love breakfast food all day, you can avoid the crowds by checking this fantastic spot off your list for a Friday lunch. Martha Hoover owns the restaurant. She was named one of the most innovative women in food and drink and has been nominated for Restaurateur of the Year by the James Beard Foundation multiple times. There are multiple locations, but just check the hours before you go.
Shop, Drink, and Eat Your Way Through Broad Ripple
Broad Ripple is a neighborhood northeast of downtown and the perfect place to wander. Within a few blocks, you can find many restaurants, shops, and bars. Food options include Thai, Indian, sushi, tacos, burgers, and more. Grab a pint at the Broad Ripple Brewpub, enjoy champagne at Petite Chou Bistro, or try craft cocktails at The Vanguard. Head to Dueling Pianos to dance and sing. You could spend hours in this neighborhood (it’s also packed with adorable houses to rent.)
Saturday
Brunch at The Garden Table
One of my favorite experiences in Indianapolis was our breakfast at this restaurant. Anytime you offer me a flight of anything, I’m excited, so imagine my delight when they have a coffee and donut flight on the menu. There is also a cold-pressed juice flight. There are multiple locations, so you can visit the one in Broad Ripple if you’re staying in that neighborhood, but I loved the location on Mass Ave.
Shop Along Massachusetts Avenue
After brunch, you can walk off your food by browsing the unique shops up and down Mass Ave. There are incredible murals and public art pieces, so it’s fun even if you aren’t into shopping. Tomorrow Books, Decorate, and Silver in the City are my favorite shops.
Grab a Snack at the Garage Food Hall
You’ll find the Garage Food Hall at the other end of Mass Ave. It’s an indoor space with stalls and casual eateries. It’s a great way to try a few things or handle multiple dietary restrictions. Stop here for a snack and rest your feet for a bit.
Stroll through the White River Gardens or Kayak the Canal
The afternoon can be spent enjoying some outdoor spaces near downtown Indianapolis. Rent a kayak on the canal or explore the White River on bikes or boats. It’s nice to have a waterfront area in the city. Take the afternoon to explore at your own pace.
Monument Circle and Soldiers and Sailors Monument
The Soldiers and Sailor Monument is in the center of downtown. Its observation deck provides a unique vantage point of downtown. You can dive more into history with this smartphone-guided walking tour of this part of the city. It’s a fun way to learn more about the “Crossroads of America” and see a few places you might not have found on your own.
Have Dinner Downtown at Livery
There are many great restaurants in Indianapolis, but if you like a little Latin flavor, Livery is worth checking out. The building used to be a horse stable, and now it’s a stunning spot for dinner. It’s located back on Mass Ave, so it’s walkable from your other activities.
Drinks with a View at The Eagle’s Nest or Take in a Show
Finish up your evening with a rooftop drink at the Eagle’s Nest and watch the city lights come on. You can also take in a basketball game, a concert, or a show downtown. Indianapolis is the 16th-largest city in the country, so plenty of great national acts are coming through town (hey Swifties), and there are also excellent local bands to enjoy.
Sunday
Explore the Indianapolis City Market
The Indianapolis City Market is housed in a building that is currently being redeveloped, but the farmer’s market is still operating. Find the market downtown and grab a coffee and snacks while you wake up. Get updates on the current locations and hours for the market here.
Stretch Your Legs at Eagle Creek Park
Before you get on a flight or get in the car, take a nice walk in Eagle Creek Park. Find the best trail in the park on the AllTrails app. It’s the best way to finish off a lovely weekend in Indianapolis.
Where to Stay for Your Weekend in Indianapolis
Broad Ripple is the best neighborhood if you want to do a vacation rental for your weekend in Indianapolis. It’s easier to find parking, and you can walk to many great restaurants and bars while still having an affordable Uber to get to anything downtown.
Click here for a list of the rental properties in that neighborhood.
If you want to stay downtown for a weekend in Indianapolis, the Bottleworks Hotel is right on Mass Ave. Book your stay here. It’s a unique property with a spa and incredible guest ratings.
If you want something quieter, there are also great options outside of the downtown area. This property has a relaxed vibe. It’s right next to the big mall in the metro area, so plenty of eating and shopping options are nearby.
Day Trips from Indianapolis
Take advantage of any extra time you have in Indiana by exploring some spots outside the Indianapolis metropolitan area. Each spot would be possible as a day trip or perfect if you’re driving from one of the other Midwest cities and can stop along the route. Add these to a weekend in Indianapolis to experience a bit more of the Hoosier State.
Bloomington, IN
This college town is home to Indiana University and has all the cool features of a city with a college population. Enjoy the outdoor trails through forests and around lakes. There are dozens of breweries, distilleries, and wineries where you can sample drinks and relax. It’s a cool place to explore if you have an extra day to hang out in Indiana. Plus, it’s home to one of our favorite hotel chains that you can only find near college campuses, so book a room here if you want to stay for the night.
Clifty Falls State Park
This state park is under two hours from Indianapolis and is home to stunning scenery overlooking the Ohio River. Hike the park and find a few beautiful waterfalls. Discover marine fossils in the 425-million-year-old limestone and shale rocks. If you visit in the summer, you can also enjoy the pool and picnic areas in the park.
Indiana Dunes National Park
This is a bit of a stretch for a day trip, but it might be worth the additional driving if you’re on a mission to explore National Parks. The Indiana Dunes National Park is about two and a half hours each way. Once there, you can hike the West Beach Dune Succession Trail and boardwalk, taking in the beautiful views of Lake Michigan and the dunes. Stop in the visitor center and learn more about the park. Check out the historic homes from the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair. It’s a unique park, but the size is pretty small, so it’s easy to explore quickly.
Grab your National Park Pass here and get access to all National Parks and Monuments for the next 12 months (a big money saver.)
Are You Planning Your Weekend Trip to Indianapolis?
Let us know if you have any questions, and tag us in your photos so we can see your Indianapolis weekend adventure. And if we are really missing out by not getting into the Indy 500, comment below. I could probably be convinced to check it out on our next trip.
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