Indianapolis, known as the Crossroads of America, is more than just a hub for interstates and conventions, it’s a city where speed, sports, and creativity intersect. At the center of it all is Monument Circle, a grand civic plaza anchored by the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, which visitors can climb for panoramic views of the skyline. Just a few blocks away is the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the largest sporting venue in the world by capacity. The Indy 500 draws hundreds of thousands every May, but fans can visit year-round for track tours and the on-site museum, which includes vintage race cars and the famous Borg-Warner Trophy.

For those curious about the arts, Indianapolis offers plenty to explore. The Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields features an impressive collection, from African sculptures to Van Gogh paintings, and its 152-acre campus includes formal gardens, a historic mansion, and a popular outdoor art park. The city’s Mass Ave Arts District buzzes with galleries, theaters, and public murals, while the Indianapolis Cultural Trail connects neighborhoods with art installations, parks, and local restaurants along the way.

Indianapolis has a food scene that blends Midwest comfort with bold experimentation. Local chefs have turned old industrial spaces into standout dining spots like Bluebeard, located in a renovated warehouse in Fletcher Place, and Milktooth, a daytime-only restaurant that’s redefined breakfast with dishes like duck egg hash and sourdough pancakes. City Market, operating since 1886, offers dozens of food stalls and is a great place for a quick bite with local flavor.