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Discover Indy: A 5-Day Adventure on a Budget

Discover the charm of Indy without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

An affordable trip to Indianapolis, United States can involve exploring popular attractions for free or at a low cost. Check out the Indy Museum of Art, the Gothic-style Crown Hill Cemetery, or hit up the many seasonal festivals happening throughout the year. To save money, consider staying in budget-friendly hostels or Airbnb rentals, and explore the downtown area on foot or by using the city's bike-share program.

Travel plan

• Check into the Westin Indianapolis, a sleek and modern hotel with great views of the city skyline from its upper floors.
• Head over to the Indianapolis City Market to sample some of Indy’s best food, from gourmet grilled cheese to artisanal chocolates.
• Take a stroll down Mass Ave, a trendy district full of boutiques, galleries and cafes, and stop for a coffee break at the cozy Thirsty Scholar.
• Visit the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the Indy 500, and test your driving skills at the simulator exhibit.
• End the day with dinner at St. Elmo Steak House, a classic Indy spot that offers some seriously good red meat.

• Start the day with breakfast at Milktooth, a hipster hangout that takes brunch to a whole new level with creative dishes and house-made pastries.
• Visit the Indiana State Museum to learn about the state's past and present, from prehistoric times to modern art.
• Head to the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art to explore a unique collection of Native American artifacts and Western paintings.
• Take a walk through the White River State Park, a beautiful urban oasis that offers scenic views of the river and skyline.
• End the day with dinner at Bluebeard, a farm-to-table restaurant that serves up seasonal dishes in a cozy atmosphere.

• Visit the Indianapolis Museum of Art, a sprawling complex that boasts over 50,000 works of art from around the world and stunning outdoor gardens.
• Take a stroll through the Broad Ripple Village, a lively neighborhood full of local shops, live music venues and quirky art galleries.
• Catch a show at the Old National Centre, a historic theater that hosts a wide range of concerts, comedy shows and theater productions.
• Explore the Mass Ave Arts and Theater District, a vibrant hub of creativity that features a mix of galleries, theaters and independent shops.
• End the day with dinner at The Eagle's Nest, a revolving restaurant that offers panoramic views of the city alongside a menu of gourmet cuisine.

• Start the day with breakfast at Three Sisters Café, a charming eatery that specializes in vegan and vegetarian fare.
• Head to the Indianapolis Zoo to see over 1,400 animals, including exotic species like tigers, giraffes and dolphins.
• Rent a bike from the Pacers Bikeshare program and cycle along the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, a scenic path that connects the city's cultural districts.
• Explore the Indiana War Memorial, a grand monument that honors the state's veterans with a museum and spectacular views from its observation deck.
• End the day with dinner at Bakersfield, a trendy taco joint that serves up delicious margaritas and authentic Mexican street food.

• Visit the Fashion Mall at Keystone, a high-end shopping center that offers luxury brands and designer boutiques.
• Check out the historic Fountain Square Theatre Building, a retro complex that boasts an all-ages arcade, duckpin bowling alley and live music venue.
• Visit the iconic Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Indianapolis Colts, and take a behind-the-scenes tour of the facility.
• End the day with dinner and drinks at The Jazz Kitchen, an intimate jazz club that offers live music and a delicious New Orleans-inspired menu.