48 Hours in Indianapolis: A Perfect Family Getaway

We recently spent a couple of days in Indianapolis and had an amazing time, so I thought I would share our experience. Indianapolis is a manageable drive from most areas of Michigan and boasts a vibrant downtown, historic charm, and family-friendly attractions, making it the perfect weekend escape. Here are my tips on how to make the most of 48 hours in this incredible city!

Stay: JW Marriott Indianapolis

For a comfortable and convenient stay, look no further than the JW Marriott Indianapolis. This hotel boasts an unbeatable location, placing you within walking distance of the Indianapolis Zoo, Lucas Oil Stadium, and the bustling downtown area. Renowned for its spacious rooms and incredible views, the JW Marriott is a hit with families, especially our kids, who loved being in the center of it all.

The hotel's on-site dining options are fantastic and include OP Italian, High Velocity, and a conveniently located Starbucks. OP Italian offers classic Italian dishes and Neapolitan-style pizza, perfect for a delicious and authentic meal. High Velocity is a premium sports bar that features an array of American favorites and plenty of screens to catch the latest games.

In addition to the on-site dining options, our family decided to pay an additional $50 per adult to access the executive lounge on the 31st floor. This upgrade provides access to sodas and snacks all day, breakfast, and evening appetizers.

Dining: Culinary Options Indianapolis

St. Elmo’s Steakhouse: This historic institution, in business since 1902, is renowned for its legendary shrimp cocktail (beware, it's very spicy!) and amazing steaks. The history and ambiance of St. Elmo’s are enhanced by the stories shared by our waitress, including tales of serving Caitlin Clark and her teammates, and spotting Peyton Manning and other celebrities.

Bluebeard: Located in the historic Holy Rosary neighborhood, this James Beard-nominated restaurant features an ever-changing menu of locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes. The rustic-modern ambiance adds to its charm, making it a dining experience not to be missed.

Milktooth: Named one of Bon Appétit's best new restaurants, it offers creative spins on breakfast and lunch dishes in a converted auto repair shop.

Downtown: A Walkable Adventure

Indianapolis’ downtown is loaded with sights and activities. Within a few blocks of the JW Marriott, you’ll find the State Capitol, the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, several state parks, Lucas Oil Stadium, and a variety of restaurants and bars. Walking through downtown, we appreciated the city's blend of historical landmarks and modern attractions.

The Zoo: A Wildly Fun Experience

Our kids still relish a trip to the zoo, and the Indianapolis Zoo did not disappoint. Conveniently walkable from both downtown and the JW Marriott, the zoo's location made for an easy and enjoyable day. Visiting on a Monday morning meant minimal crowds, allowing us to enjoy the exhibits at our own pace. The highlight of our zoo visit was the dolphin meet and greet, a fantastic value at an extra $20 per person (link here). This behind-the-scenes experience included direct interaction with the trainers, learning about the dolphins’ histories and personalities, and a thrilling double handshake and photo opportunity with a dolphin.

In addition to the dolphin encounter, we participated in several animal feeding experiences, each costing $4. The kids loved feeding the lorikeet birds and stingrays.

More to Explore: Five Well-Reviewed Attractions We Missed

While we had an amazing time, there are still plenty of other attractions in Indianapolis that we didn’t get to experience this trip. Here are five highly recommended spots worth checking out:

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis: The largest children’s museum in the world, offering interactive exhibits and educational fun for kids of all ages.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum: A must-visit for racing enthusiasts, showcasing the history of the Indy 500 and featuring an impressive collection of race cars.

Newfields: A 152-acre campus that includes the Indianapolis Museum of Art, a nature park, and beautiful gardens, perfect for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Massachusetts Avenue (Mass Ave): A vibrant cultural district known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, theaters, and public art, providing a unique urban experience.

Conner Prairie: An interactive history park that offers a glimpse into 19th-century life, with reenactments, hands-on activities, and educational programs for the whole family.