Are you visiting downtown Indianapolis soon or doing a staycation like I did? Looking for the some spots to visit while here? Look no further! I’m sharing 10 destinations to go to in downtown Indianapolis. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this guide will give you plenty of ideas for exploring what downtown Indy has to offer. So grab your walking shoes and get ready to explore.
Places to Eat At in Downtown Indianapolis
Breakfast
Provider Coffee Shop
Provider Coffee Shop: If you’re visiting downtown Indianapolis and looking for a cozy and inviting coffee shop to start your day, look no further than Provider Coffee Shop. This hidden gem is a must-visit destination for coffee lovers, serving up some of the best coffee in the city along with delicious breakfast and lunch sandwiches.
One of the highlights of Provider Coffee Shop is their butterscotch latte and golden milk, both of which are absolutely delicious and perfect for a chilly morning or afternoon pick-me-up. And if you’re feeling hungry, be sure to try their bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich – it’s a fan favorite and for good reason. But it’s not just the food and drinks that make Provider Coffee Shop such a great destination. The venue itself is absolutely beautiful, with both upstairs and downstairs seating as well as outdoor seating when the weather permits.
So if you’re looking for a great coffee shop to start your day or unwind after a busy day of sightseeing in downtown Indianapolis, be sure to check out Provider Coffee Shop. With its delicious coffee and food, beautiful venue, and inviting atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to relax and recharge.
Spoke and Steele
Spoke and Steele: Spoke & Steel, located in downtown Indianapolis, is a convenient breakfast or brunch option if you are staying downtown and need a place to eat. It is located inside the hotel Le Meridian. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for starting your day off right.
The menu at Spoke & Steel is full of unique options, with something to satisfy every palate. You can indulge in classic breakfast dishes like eggs benedict or S&S eggs. Or if you’re looking for something sweet, try their fresh blueberry pancakes or 3-berry stuffed French toast. Plus, their impressive selection of cocktails and coffee drinks will leave you feeling energized and ready to take on the day.
Whether you’re looking for a place to catch up with friends or a spot to fuel up before a busy day of exploring downtown Indianapolis, Spoke & Steel is the perfect choice.
Lunch/Snack
Twenty Two Juicery:
Twenty Two Juicery: If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious meal or snack in downtown Indianapolis, look no further than Twenty Two Juicery. It is located inside of the Garage food hall. This trendy juice bar offers a menu full of fresh and nutritious options, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a mid-day snack. Everything is made to order, ensuring that you’re getting the maximum amount of nutrients in each sip.
One of the standout items on their menu is the acai bowl. Made with a base of frozen acai berries and topped with fresh fruit, granola, and other tasty toppings, these bowls are both delicious and nutritious. The acai itself has a subtle berry flavor and a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the crunchy granola and juicy fruit. But the acai bowl is just one of many delicious options at Twenty Two Juicery. Their menu also features cold-pressed juices, smoothies, salads, and other healthy snacks that are sure to satisfy your cravings without weighing you down.
So whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full meal, be sure to check out Twenty Two Juicery and try one of their delicious acai bowls. Your taste buds (and your body) will thank you.
Square Scoop
Square Scoop: If you’re looking for a sweet and delicious treat to cool down on a hot day while exploring downtown Indianapolis, look no further than Square Scoop Homemade Ice Cream. This charming ice cream parlor is a must-visit destination for anyone with a sweet tooth, offering a wide variety of unique and creative flavors that are sure to delight your taste buds. All of their ice cream is made in-house, with no artificial flavors or preservatives, ensuring that every scoop is bursting with flavor and goodness.
So if you’re looking for a delicious and unique dessert experience in downtown Indianapolis, be sure to check out Square Scoop Homemade Ice Cream. With its fresh and flavorful ice cream, and creative flavor combinations, it’s the perfect place to satisfy your sweet tooth and cool down on a hot day.
Dinner
Root and Bone
Root and Bone: If you’re in the downtown Indianapolis area and looking for a restaurant that serves up mouth-watering cuisine, look no further than Root and Bone. Whether you’re in the mood for brunch or dinner, this restaurant has something for everyone. One dish that you absolutely must try when dining at Root and Bone is their Korean-style BBQ ribs. These succulent ribs are cooked to perfection, with a slightly sweet and smoky flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.
In addition to their amazing ribs, Root and Bone is also famous for their fried chicken. This classic Southern dish is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, with just the right amount of seasoning to make it absolutely delicious. If you’re in the mood for brunch, Root and Bone has you covered there as well. Their biscuits are light and fluffy, with a buttery flavor that will make your heart sing. And if you’re looking for something a bit heartier, their chicken biscuits are a must-try. You also must try their American roots breakfast, highly recommended.
Overall, Root and Bone is a must-visit restaurant in downtown Indianapolis. You’re sure to leave feeling satisfied and eager to come back for more.
Modita
Modita: If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable dining experience in downtown Indianapolis, look no further than Modita. This restaurant offers a menu full of creative and delicious dishes, along with an impressive selection of cocktails and sake.
One dish that you absolutely must try at Modita is their Wagyu skirt steak. This high-quality beef is cooked to perfection, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a rich, savory flavor that will leave you wanting more. And if you still have room for dessert after your meal, you must try their Yuzu Bar. This sweet treat is the perfect way to end your dining experience on a high note.
The staff is incredibly friendly, attentive, and personable, making you feel right at home from the moment you walk in the door. And if you’re lucky enough to snag a seat near their plant wall, you’ll be treated to the sight and scent of fresh herbs that are actually used in the dishes they serve.
Overall, Modita is a restaurant that should be on every foodie’s list when visiting downtown Indianapolis. From the delicious Wagyu steak, cocktails, and dessert to the friendly staff and fresh herbs, this restaurant is sure to leave you with a memorable and satisfying dining experience.
Things to Do in Downtown Indianapolis
The Garage Food Hall
The Garage Food Hall: If you’re visiting downtown Indianapolis, one spot you absolutely have to check out is the Garage Food Hall. This buzzing hub of culinary creativity is home to a variety of food vendors, offering everything from classic American fare to international cuisine.
One of the great things about the Garage Food Hall is its versatility. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack, a full meal, or just a drink, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from. With so many vendors under one roof, it’s the perfect spot for groups with different tastes to all find something they’ll love. And with a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to catch up with friends or simply soak up the local culture.
So if you’re visiting downtown Indianapolis, be sure to make a stop at the Garage Food Hall. With its diverse selection of food vendors and vibrant atmosphere, it’s a must-visit destination for foodies and culture seekers alike.
Hero House Comic Shop
Hero House Comic Shop: If you’re visiting downtown Indianapolis and looking for a fun and unique activity, be sure to check out Hero House Comic Shop. This shop is a haven for comic book and Marvel enthusiasts, and is the perfect spot to spend some time indoors. And if your husband is into comics and Marvel, like mine is, he’ll absolutely love it!
The shop is packed with all kinds of comics, graphic novels, and collectibles, making it the perfect spot to find that missing issue or complete your collection. And with friendly and knowledgeable staff who are always happy to help, you’re sure to have a great shopping experience.
So if you’re looking for a fun and engaging indoor activity in downtown Indianapolis, be sure to check out Hero House Comic Shop. Whether you’re a longtime comic book fan or just looking for something new and exciting to do, this shop is sure to leave you with a memorable and enjoyable experience.
Indianapolis Culture Trail
Indianapolis Culture Trail: If you’re visiting downtown Indianapolis, one activity you won’t want to miss is walking on the Indianapolis Cultural Trail. This beautiful and expansive trail winds through the heart of the city, offering a unique and immersive way to experience the local culture. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll, intense workout, biking or riding a scooter, the trail is perfect for all kinds of activities. You can even bring your furry friend along for the walk, as dogs are welcome on the trail.
So if you’re looking for a fun and immersive way to experience downtown Indianapolis, be sure to check out the Indianapolis Cultural Trail. This trail is a must-visit destination that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the city and its culture.
Pacers NBA Basketball Game
Pacers NBA Basketball Game: If you’re visiting downtown Indianapolis, one of the most exciting and quintessentially American experiences you can have is attending a Pacers game. Attending a Pacers game is a high-energy experience that is sure to get your adrenaline pumping. The team plays at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The atmosphere during a game is electric, with fans cheering on their team and engaging in all kinds of fun and exciting game-day activities. And with a talented roster of players, the Pacers always put on a great show.
But attending a Pacers game is about more than just the sports. It’s a chance to connect with the local community and experience the unique culture of Indianapolis. From tailgating with other fans to exploring the city’s many restaurants and bars, attending a game is a great way to immerse yourself in the local scene and make new friends.
So if you’re visiting downtown Indianapolis, be sure to check out a Pacers game. With their exciting gameplay, passionate fans, and unique game-day experiences, the Pacers are a must-see attraction that you won’t want to miss.
Newfields Museum
Newfields Museum: If you’re visiting downtown Indianapolis, one of the must-see destinations is the Newfields Museum. This world-class museum is home to an incredible collection of art and artifacts from around the world, and is a great way to immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage.
But one of the most exciting times to visit the Newfields Museum is during Black History Month. Throughout the month of February, the museum showcases a special selection of artwork and exhibits that celebrate the contributions of black artists and thinkers throughout history. From powerful paintings and sculptures to thought-provoking installations and multimedia displays, the black selection of artwork at the Newfields Museum is a truly immersive and inspiring experience. You’ll see works from a wide range of artists, each with their own unique perspective and style, and gain a deeper understanding of the many ways in which black culture has shaped and influenced the world of art.
So if you’re visiting downtown Indianapolis, be sure to check out the Newfields Museum. And if you’re there during Black History Month, don’t miss the special selection of black artwork – it’s a truly unique and inspiring experience that you won’t soon forget.
Square Cat Vinyl Record Store
Square Cat Vinyl Record Store: If you’re visiting downtown Indianapolis, one of the coolest and most unique destinations to check out is Square Cat Vinyl. This independently-owned record store is a mecca for music lovers, offering an incredible selection of vinyl records, CDs, and other music-related merchandise.
One of the things that makes Square Cat Vinyl so special is its commitment to supporting local musicians and artists. The store stocks a wide variety of music from Indianapolis-based artists, as well as a curated selection of national and international releases. And with knowledgeable and friendly staff on hand to help you find the perfect record, you’re sure to leave with something special.
So if you’re visiting downtown Indianapolis, be sure to add Square Cat Vinyl to your itinerary. It’s a must-visit destination for music lovers and anyone who appreciates the unique and independent spirit of the city.
Where to Stay in Downtown Indianapolis
Airbnb (Entire Home Downtown With Backyard):
Airbnb (Entire Home Downtown With Backyard): If you’re visiting downtown Indianapolis, one of the best ways to get a true sense of the city’s vibrant culture and community is by staying in a local Airbnb. Unlike traditional hotels, an Airbnb allows you to experience the city like a local, with direct access to the unique neighborhoods, shops, and attractions that make Indianapolis such a special place.
One Airbnb that I highly recommend is located in the charming and eclectic neighborhood of Fountain Square. This cozy and stylish 2-bedroom house offers the perfect mix of comfort and convenience, with easy access to all the shops, restaurants, and nightlife that Fountain Square has to offer. But the best part of staying at this Airbnb is the backyard, which is perfect if you’re traveling with dogs or kids. It’s a great place to relax and unwind after a busy day of sightseeing, and provides a quiet and peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. The house is just a quick 10-minute drive from downtown Indianapolis, making it easy to explore all the city has to offer.
So if you’re looking for a truly immersive and authentic experience in downtown Indianapolis, I highly recommend checking out this local Airbnb in Fountain Square. With its prime location, comfortable amenities, and charming backyard, it’s the perfect place to call home during your stay in the city.
