Indianapolis Visitor Guide 2024: Everything you need to know

Both the capital of and the most highly populated city in the state of Indiana, Indianapolis is an important cultural and economic hub of the Midwest. And though the city doesn't command the kind of tourist numbers that, for instance, New York does, more and more visitors are discovering what the city has to offer.

The city is perhaps most famous for the Indianapolis 500, which is the world's largest single-day sporting event. It's also home to the headquarters for the National Collegiate Athletic Association, better known as the NCAA. The city is home to 11 professional sports teams, including NFL franchise the Indianapolis Colts. But this sporting city has plenty of culture to brag about too. Drop off your unneeded bags at an Indianapolis luggage storage locker and see what this underrated town has to offer.

A weekend in Indianapolis

A weekend in Indianapolis will hardly exhaust what the city has to offer. But it should be enough time to see many of its major attractions. Time your visit right, and you may be able to participate in one of the city's many major sporting events. But whenever you visit, you'll find plenty to do.

• The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is the largest in the world. This gigantic building is packed full of interactive exhibits that will teach both kids and adults something new. Really, you'll need an entire day here to do the museum justice.
• Indianapolis Motor Speedway is one of the world's most famous racetracks. Visiting during the Indy 500 is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but you can visit the Speedway at any time. Enjoy the Hall of Fame Museum and even take an IndyCar around the famous oval track.
• Step back in time at Connor Prairie Interactive History Park. Located just outside the city, this attraction re-creates an authentic prairie town. Learn about life in Indiana during the Civil War Era at this fascinating place.

Indianapolis lockers

Indianapolis is a fascinating place to explore. But you can make your trip easier on yourself by leaving your bags behind at an Indianapolis bag storage. No matter how many bags you have or how big they are, you can drop them off and know they will be safely looked after until you return. Leave the bags behind and start exploring.

Off the beaten path in Indianapolis

As well as its better-known attractions, Indianapolis has some quirky gems. If you're looking to get away from the crowds and see a different side of the city, drop off your bags at an Indianapolis luggage locker and check out some of these unusual attractions.

• Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art is certainly a mouthful. But at this underrated institution, you can learn all about the Old West. Home to an incredible collection of Native American art, there are also interactive exhibits where you can dress in authentic costume and ride a stagecoach to live out your Western fantasies.
• Live out your Indy 500 dreams at K1 speed. The high-performance go-carts on this track will make you feel like a race driver, and 40 miles an hour feels a lot faster in a go-cart than it is in a car. With cars suitable for both adults and kids, this is a great place to bring the family.
• Those with an interest in science may be intrigued by the Indiana Medical History Museum. Located at the former Central State Hospital, this is the nation's oldest pathology facility. Learn about the sometimes gruesome history of medicine in the autopsy room and the anatomical museum at this unique attraction.

What to do alone in Indianapolis

Safe and friendly, Indianapolis makes a great destination for solo travel. Whether you're in the city on business or for a vacation, you'll find lots to do by yourself. Leave your unneeded bags behind with an Indianapolis luggage storage service and enjoy your solo adventure.

• The Indianapolis Museum of Art is home to a collection of pieces from around the world. With more than 50,000 pieces in the collection, you’re bound to find something you like. Take a stroll through the galleries and admire an eclectic collection from around the world.
• Learn more about the city on a Segway tour. These futuristic vehicles seem tricky to master at first, but you'll quickly get the hang of it. Rolling around the city with a tour guide lets you learn more about the major attractions, and it's a great way to hang out with other travelers.
• Sports fans shouldn't miss the NCAA Hall of Champions. This facility is dedicated to some of the most accomplished student athletes in the history of the organization, and interactive exhibits will test your own knowledge and skills.

The best souvenirs in Indianapolis

Those with a sweet tooth shouldn't miss Rocket Fizz. This incredible candy store boasts old-fashioned candies and unusual confectionery from around the world. If you're looking for something a little kinder on your teeth, the Eiteljorg Museum has a great gift shop full of handcrafted items. If you want something more obviously Indiana, stop by The Shop Indy to pick up T-shirts and other clothing emblazoned with the city logo and merchandise from Indianapolis' many sports teams.