Central Indiana

Travel Guide
Indianapolis Museum of Art
Experience little-known backcountry gems, intriguing Hoosier-themed museums, a vivid arts scene and the state’s enchanting capital in the Crossroads of America.

When it comes to Hoosier charm, Central Indiana has plenty. The state’s heartland is perfect for learning about local history, discovering unique landscapes and appreciating regional delights. Central Indiana has fascinating museums, family-friendly attractions and restaurants serving Midwestern classics with an Indiana twist.

Begin your discovery of Central Indiana in the state’s capital, Indianapolis. The city’s rich history is visible along the streets with eye-catching monuments and architectural landmarks. Stroll around heritage parks and formal English-style gardens or spend the day discovering the city’s past at its many museums. Popular destinations include the Indiana State Museum, the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art and the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site. Bring the kids to see orangutans at the Indianapolis Zoo or explore some of the city’s premier attractions on the Indianapolis Cultural Trail.

Visit Franklin to experience the town’s revitalized vaudeville house, the Historic Artcraft Theater. The Palladium in Carmel is another hotspot for theater lovers. Shelbyville presents a little slice of Las Vegas with its Indiana Grand Racing and Casino. Enjoy Hoosier-style gastronomical experiences in Fortville, Kokomo and Lafayette. Peruse antiques stores, boutiques and cafés in Noblesville.

Take a road-trip adventure on the Rural Routes to Main Street cultural trail, which crisscrosses Hendricks and Morgan counties via artists’ studios, artisans’ workshops, galleries and many food sellers.

Experience Central Indiana’s great outdoors in the region’s stunning state parks. Sandstone cliffs and canyons are showcased along the hiking trails and picnic sites in Turkey Run State Park. Shades State Park is ideal for canoeing adventures on Sugar Creek.

Central Indiana is known as the Crossroads of America, for good reason. Reach Indianapolis via four different interstate highways. Burlington Trailways, Greyhound buses and Amtrak trains regularly serve the region’s major cities. Alternatively, fly into Indianapolis International Airport or one of Central Indiana’s regional airports. Enjoy Central Indiana’s warm summers or experience its snow-dusted Midwestern winters.

History-rich cities and backcountry treasures make Central Indiana the perfect road-trip destination.

Where to stay in Central Indiana

Central Canal

Downtown Indianapolis

4.5/5(57 area reviews)

As the city's cultural, political, and economic hub, this neighborhood boasts historic districts, performing arts venues, and museums. Enjoy nightlife on Meridian Street and Massachusetts Avenue, or stroll along the Indianapolis Canal Walk.

Downtown Indianapolis
Soldiers and Sailors Monument

Mile Square

The fascinating museums and prominent monuments are top of the list for many visitors to Mile Square. A stop by Gainbridge Fieldhouse or Monument Circle might round out your trip.

Mile Square
Dallara IndyCar Factory

Speedway

Home to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, this enclave of Indianapolis boasts a historic district listed on the National Register of Historic Places and a public library for leisurely exploration.

Speedway
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Castleton

3.5/5(6 area reviews)

Castleton is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Castleton Square and Dave & Buster's while you're in town.

Castleton
8 Seconds Saloon which includes interior views and a bar

Wayne

3.5/5(13 area reviews)

While visiting Wayne, you might make a stop by sights like 8 Seconds Saloon and Rolls-Royce Heritage Trust.

Wayne
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Near Eastside

Travelers enjoy Near Eastside for its breweries and churches. Consider checking out Mass Ave Cultural Arts District while you're in the area.

Near Eastside
JW Marriott Indianapolis
JW Marriott Indianapolis
4 out of 5
10 S West Street, Indianapolis, IN
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is CA $227 per night from May 30 to May 31
CA $227
CA $265 total
includes taxes & fees
May 30 - May 31
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Indianapolis. Enjoy breakfast (surcharge), a 24-hour fitness center, and valet parking (surcharge). Our guests ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,235 reviews)
"Great place to stay. Close to everything downtown, and the accommodations were exceptional.👏👏"

Reviewed on May 26, 2024

JW Marriott Indianapolis
Marriott Indianapolis Downtown
Marriott Indianapolis Downtown
4 out of 5
350 W Maryland St, Indianapolis, IN
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is CA $196 per night from May 30 to May 31
CA $196
CA $229 total
includes taxes & fees
May 30 - May 31
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Indianapolis. Enjoy 2 bars/lounges, 2 coffee shops/cafes, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,014 reviews)
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Reviewed on May 23, 2024

Marriott Indianapolis Downtown
Ironworks Hotel Indy
Ironworks Hotel Indy
4 out of 5
2721 E 86th Street, Indianapolis, IN
The price is CA $269 per night from Jun. 24 to Jun. 25
CA $269
CA $314 total
includes taxes & fees
Jun 24 - Jun 25
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Indianapolis. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 4 restaurants. Our guests praise the restaurant and the helpful ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (1,144 reviews)
"Ironworks is so unique. The location is conveniently located off the highway. The property is beautiful. Lots of restaurants around the hotel and within walking distance. The room was very spacious. Clean, quiet, awesome."

Reviewed on May 27, 2024

Ironworks Hotel Indy
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Alexander, a Dolce by Wyndham
The Alexander, a Dolce by Wyndham
4 out of 5
333 S Delaware St, Indianapolis, IN
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly aparthotel in Indianapolis. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,523 reviews)
"Wonderful property!"

Reviewed on May 20, 2024

The Alexander, a Dolce by Wyndham
The Argyle on Mass Ave
The Argyle on Mass Ave
4 out of 5
613 N East St, Indianapolis, IN
Stay at this 4-star apartment in Indianapolis. Enjoy free WiFi, parking (surcharge), and a garden. Popular attractions Gainbridge Fieldhouse and Lucas Oil Stadium ...
8/10 Very Good! (29 reviews)
"Great location! Dinning, museums and shops all in walking distance. A very enjoyable neighborhood."

Reviewed on May 17, 2024

The Argyle on Mass Ave
The Residences at CityWay
The Residences at CityWay
4 out of 5
302 S Alabama St, Indianapolis, IN
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly apartment in Indianapolis. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Gainbridge Fieldhouse ...
7.8/10 Good! (32 reviews)
"Overall the experience was decent I had some difficulty with finding the building Key cafe was also difficult to find and access"

Reviewed on May 8, 2024

The Residences at CityWay
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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