Our Guide to Indianapolis, Indiana
Where we stay, eat, and go for the perfect quick getaway
Indianapolis has become one of our favorite easy getaway cities. So many incredible dining options, beautiful boutique hotels, and fun family-friendly experiences all within a short drive. Whether it’s a quick night downtown or a full weekend with the kids, we find ourselves returning to the same, consistently good spots. We’ve tried a lot along the way, and not everything made the cut, so this guide is curated to save you the guesswork and point you straight to what’s actually worth it. I’m sure we’ll continue adding to it as we discover more.
Where We Stay
A beautifully restored historic property in the Bottleworks District with elevated design, walkable dining, and a true boutique feel that makes it our top stay in Indianapolis. It smells amazing and I’m obsessed with the bathrooms. *Photos are featured throughout this guide. (See our visit here).
An industrial-luxury hotel on the north side of the city with a good restaurant scene and an atmosphere that feels both polished and unique. (See our visit here).
Both hotels are operated under Geronimo Hospitality, which is why we’re drawn to both. They share the same elevated boutique standard and thoughtful design approach, just with different personalities and highlights depending on the location.
Food & Drink
Our go-to coffee stop in the city for consistently great espresso and a clean, minimal atmosphere. They also have great breakfast sandwiches!
Bright, modern café with a creative, elevated menu.
Set inside a beautifully restored historic bank building that feels like a European café.
Small-batch roasts with a cozy, laid-back neighborhood feel.
Originally a private home, this space has a warm, refined, and intentional feel. The menu leans into fresh, thoughtfully sourced ingredients with elevated American cuisine. (See our visit here).
Bright, fresh, and beautifully designed with a breakfast menu that feels both healthy and satisfying. Great espresso! Our favorite location is on Mass Ave. (See our visit here).
This has to be our favorite dinner spot in the city—seasonal, creative, and always memorable. Get a reservation. (See our visit here).
A cozy, intimate spot known for its changing seasonal menu and thoughtfully crafted dishes with a focus on fresh ingredients.
Cunningham Restaurant Group:
Places on our list to try:
Places to Go
Restoration Hardware Dehaan Estate
An insanely beautifully designed space that feels like a hidden gem. It’s perfect for wandering, sipping on a drink, design inspiration, working, or a relaxed afternoon stop with friends. (See our visit here).
This is an indoor luxury shopping destination with high-end stores.
An outdoor shopping center with restaurants and shops.
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
A must-visit if you’re in the city with kids. They have a super cool outdoor space that continues to blow my mind each time we visit.
We’re a little partial to the Fort Wayne Zoo, but this one still makes for a great, convenient day activity when you’re staying in the city.
Parks
Indianapolis has incredible options for outdoor spaces, and we naturally lean toward anything that makes it easy to be outside with the kids. The Carmel area is one we keep coming back to for its oversized, creative playgrounds. Too many to event list! In the Indianapolis area, you’ll also find everything from scenic downtown walking spaces along the canal to larger nature parks and trails.
Bonus Stops
Not necessarily “must-do” experiences for us personally, but great options if you’re visiting Indianapolis for the first time or want easy, low-effort activities built into your weekend.
It really does feel magical walking in, and it’s worth a visit for the experience. While the food and cake weren’t our personal favorites, the overall atmosphere is fun and memorable. It’s located in Carmel City Center, which makes it easy to pair with a walk around the surrounding upscale shops.
Signature Indianapolis Events Worth Planning For
Indianapolis Colts NFL Game (Lucas Oil Stadium)
Indiana Pacers NBA Game (Gainbridge Fieldhouse)
Indianapolis 500 (Indy 500 – Motor Speedway)
Monster Jam (Lucas Oil Stadium)
Supercross (Indoor Dirt Bike Racing – Lucas Oil Stadium)
Disney on Ice (Gainbridge Fieldhouse)
Ruoff Music Center Concerts (summer amphitheater shows at Noblesville)
Brickyard / Motor Speedway Events (NASCAR + racing weekends)
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Eden & Caleb
