Known for its famous motor speedway, Indianapolis thrives on action and energy. From the annual Indianapolis 500 race to cutting-edge urban parks and a world-class children’s museum, there’s nothing left to chance in the “Crossroads of America”.

Things to do

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is the place to be during race season, but there are plenty of speed-based thrills anytime of the year. You can tour the 2,800-square-meter museum that’s jam-packed with memorabilia, trophies, race cars and Indy 500 footage from over the decades. Craving a hands-on experience? Zip along the four-kilometre speedway on a guided IndyCar tour.

Take the little ones to the multi-level Children’s Museum of Indianapolis with 11 main galleries featuring a planetarium, Dinosphere exhibit and The "National Geographic Treasures of the Earth" exhibit. At the Indianapolis Museum of Art, you’ll find Neo-impressionist paintings and contemporary art as well as a 40-hectare art park.

Head over to White River State Park for a romp through multiple museums, including the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art. You can dress in period costume and ride an Old West-style stagecoach. The park is also home to Indianapolis Zoo and its 465-square-metre conservatory, as well as a simulated African savannah.

Walk the five-kilometre Central Canal loop through the city or take a Segway tour, gondolier ride or kayak to enjoy glimmering views of the Indianapolis skyline. Then head over to Mass Avenue for boutique shopping or to Fountain Square for retro treasures. You’ll also find interior design inspiration in the Carmel Art & Design District.

Getting around

A public bus system covers most of Indianapolis and there are bike rentals and electric car-share programs. Climate-controlled skywalks connect major attractions, malls and eateries. You can also rent a car downtown or at the airport or use taxis for getting around.