Fun Things to do in Indianapolis

September 20, 2018

Fun Things to do in Indianapolis

Marian University calls Indianapolis, the capital and largest city in Indiana, home. The city, which many know simply as Indy, is the 16th largest in the United States.

We love it here and it’s easy to see why our students do too. As a Marian Knight, you’ll have full access to our wooded, historic campus and and all of the usual amenities you expect at a top private university. But you’ll also be able to dive into the local community and enjoy all that Indy has to offer.

Here are just a few of the fun things you can see and do in the greater Indianapolis area.

Support the fine and performing arts

The arts, culture, and entertainment scene in Indianapolis continues to grow and thrive. New events, shows, and galleries pop up every month, while longtime staples of the community continue to improve.

Newfields, the Indianapolis Museum of Art, remains open six days a week and offers public tours. Located on a beautiful and spacious 152-acre campus, the museum is home to historic properties and gardens for visitors to enjoy. Inside the museum, more than 54,000 works are displayed in a permanent collection.

Directions:
Apple Maps
Google Maps

Founded in 1972, the Indiana Repertory Theatre is the largest fully professional resident not-for-profit theatre in the state. See a show in the current season now through May 2019.

Directions:
Apple Maps
Google Maps

First Fridays in downtown happen the first Friday of each month and are open and free to the public. The events showcase gallery openings, live music, exhibits, food, and more.

Directions:
Apple Maps
Google Maps

Get some fresh air

If you’re a fan of Marian University’s 55-acre Nina Mason Pulliam EcoLab, you’ll love exploring the great outdoors in central Indiana. You’ll appreciate the many parks and open spaces that Indianapolis has to offer—and they are all located just minutes from campus.

Canal Walk, a three-mile scenic pathway along the downtown waterfront, is the perfect place for a walk, run, or bike ride through the city. There’s also several restaurants along the walkway to choose from during lunch and dinner.

Directions:
Apple Maps
Google Maps

Eagle Creek Park, only $5 per visit for county residents and $6 for out-of-county guests, hosts fun activities and events, including a live music concert series, watersports, waterskiing, and more.

Directions:
Apple Maps
Google Maps

The expansive White River State Park covers 250 acres of downtown, and is home to many educational and recreational activities and venues. One of the many sites within the park is the Indianapolis Zoo, where a $19.95 admission fee lets you explore the zoo, aquarium, gardens and shows.

Directions:
Apple Maps
Google Maps

Visit iconic sports venues and exhibits

Indianapolis is a sports town and offers a range of attractions, events, and activities for sports fans. You’re a Knight first and foremost, but we encourage you to attend local games and support professional and amateur teams. Indy offers one-of-a-kind venues and exhibits for avid sports enthusiasts.

The NCAA Hall of Champions houses two levels for you to explore. The first level represents all 24 NCAA sports and showcases rankings, highlights, and artifacts. The second level hosts sports simulators, a 1930s retro gymnasium, and ski simulator, among other interactive elements. Tickets for adults are $5. This is also within the White River State Park.

Directions:
Apple Maps
Google Maps

Home to the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts, the Lucas Oil Stadium seats more than 67,000 fans and covers approximately 1.8 million square feet. Take a 90-minute guide-led tour on Tuesdays and Thursdays for only $10. You’ll see the playing field, an NFL locker room, the press box, and other unique spots within the stadium.

Directions:
Apple Maps
Google Maps

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum explores the rich history of auto racing at the world’s largest race track. You’ll see and learn about motorcycles, dragsters, IndyCars, and other vehicles and memorabilia that have defined auto racing and automobile culture.

Directions:
Apple Maps
Google Maps

Interested in attending Marian University and living in Indianapolis? Visit marian.edu/admissions and explore your options!