Norwood Inn Statefare Grounds

Indianapolis shines as one of the coolest cities in the Midwest. It's an urban oasis of maple and walnut trees growing alongside $4 million of public art and murals. Explore the cultural scene at innovative museum exhibitions or by taking in some of the nightly live music and theatre performances. The city branches into diverse neighbourhoods scattered with craft breweries, bars and restaurants serving creative dishes and local favourites, like shrimp cocktail and breaded pork tenderloin sandwich.

Hostels in Indianapolis often have freebies such as Wi-Fi, parking and breakfast. You can stay in a cosy wood-panelled house with bright rooms and plenty of social spaces. Meet other travellers during a barbecue on an outdoor terrace or unwind with some games in a comfortable common room. It is easy to find an Indianapolis hostel with a shared kitchen, air con for added comfort and even bike rental to help you get around.

Get to know Indianapolis by traversing its neighbourhoods. Southeast of the city centre is the free-spirited Fountain Square, a thriving arts district with performance venues and independent restaurants serving an array of international cuisine. Spend time at wine markets or browse stores selling an eclectic mix of comics, fashion and musical instruments. To the north are the dazzling lights of the Broad Ripple district. A favourite for nights out, the streets here are lined with buzzing restaurants, bars and clubs. 

There's a variety of things to do in Indianapolis. Wander or cycle the urban Monon Trail, an abandoned rail trail that's now paved and passes attractions like the Indianapolis Art Center, Indiana State Fairgrounds and craft breweries. Be part of the thriving live music scene in the city's bars and performance spaces or try and spot the next big league player at Victory Field baseball park. Newfields is an arts hub where you'll find the Indianapolis Museum of Art and an outdoor film series held each summer.

Fly into Indianapolis International Airport or take a Greyhound bus into the city's main bus station. From the airport, catch a bus for around 50 minutes to reach the centre or take a taxi in around 10 minutes. Walking and cycling are favourite ways to get around in Indianapolis, but there's also a network of public buses. You can jump in one of the registered taxis which have a set fare for trips in the regional centre.