Central Indiana, IN

Travel Guide

Indianapolis
Indianapolis Museum of Art
Indianapolis Museum of Art which includes a park
Indiana State Museum
Indiana State Museum

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 which includes landscape views, a river or creek and a city

Downtown Indianapolis

4.5/5(2,481 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 Monument Circle or Soldiers and Sailors Monument might round out your trip.

Mile Square
Bankers Life Fieldhouse showing interior views and signage

Wholesale District

If you're spending some time in Wholesale District, Circle Center Mall and Gainbridge Fieldhouse are top sights worth seeing.

Wholesale District
Speedway

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
8 Seconds Saloon which includes interior views and a bar

Wayne

3.5/5(675 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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Castleton

4/5(524 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
Ironworks Hotel Indy

Ironworks Hotel Indy

4 out of 5
2721 E 86th Street, Indianapolis, IN
The price is ¥25,017 per night from Oct 19 to Oct 20
¥25,017
¥29,270 total
Oct 19 - Oct 20
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Indianapolis. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 4 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (1,634 reviews)
"Fabulous and beautiful! Service was top rate!! Just a wonderful beautiful hotel"

Reviewed on Sep 27, 2025

Ironworks Hotel Indy
Courtyard by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown

Courtyard by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown

3 out of 5
601 West Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN
The price is ¥21,737 per night from Oct 5 to Oct 6
¥21,737
¥25,755 total
Oct 5 - Oct 6
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Indianapolis. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,031 reviews)
"Me and my wife were there for a concert"

Reviewed on Sep 28, 2025

Courtyard by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown
Omni Severin Hotel

Omni Severin Hotel

4 out of 5
40 West Jackson Place, Indianapolis, IN
The price is ¥26,629 per night from Oct 26 to Oct 27
¥26,629
¥31,330 total
Oct 26 - Oct 27
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Indianapolis. Enjoy breakfast (surcharge), room service, and a 24-hour health club. Our guests praise the helpful ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (626 reviews)
"Great location Downtown. Felt safe. Hotel was clean and staff were very friendly. Valet was expensive but location wise to be expected."

Reviewed on Sep 24, 2025

Omni Severin Hotel
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 Argyle on Mass Ave

The Argyle on Mass Ave

4 out of 5
615 N East St., Indianapolis, IN
Stay at this 4-star apartment in Indianapolis. Enjoy free WiFi, parking (surcharge), and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Lucas Oil Stadium and Indianapolis ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (138 reviews)
"Great place. Will stay again"

Reviewed on Sep 25, 2025

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 Lucas Oil Stadium and ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (121 reviews)
"It was an excellent experience. If I return to Indianapolis, I won't think twice about returnig to this complex. I am definitely coming back."

Reviewed on Sep 23, 2025

The Residences at CityWay
The village

The village

4 out of 5
1918 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly apartment in Indianapolis. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and dry cleaning or laundry services. Popular attractions Lucas ...
7.6/10 Good! (39 reviews)
"Great stay, everything was clean and the bed was wonderful."

Reviewed on Jan 28, 2025

The village
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.

Popular places to visit

Cities near Central Indiana