Top Spots to Visit in Indianapolis with Kids

Beth Wood said:  Step back in time to the 1800's and experience what life was like back then. Explore and interact throughout a variety of amazing outdoor and indoor exhibits: 1836 Prairietown, 1863 Civil War Journey, 1859 Balloon Voyage (take a ride!), Lenape Indian Camp, Animal Encounters, William Conner House, Treetop Outpost. Craft Corner, Discovery Station and more. Conner Prairie offers family fun and learning for visitors of all ages. Conner Prairie offers special events for visitors so be sure to check their calendar of events.

Kristy Pepping said:  Located in Castleton, this hotel is a short drive to downtown Indianapolis activities. There is an indoor pool, hot tub and grills for a family cookout. They have cribs, are pet friendly, and have full kitchens in all rooms.

Kristy Pepping said:  Country Inn & Suites Indianapolis Airport South is a great place to stay with kids. It's near several local Indy attractions: Oldfields-Lilly House and Gardens, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Hall of Fame Museum and White River State Park. This is an all suites hotel so no matter what your family size, they can accommodate you. Plus, there is a swimming pool and free continental breakfast.

Beth Wood said:  Get the feel of a 50's diner at Edwards Drive-In on the south side of Indianapolis. Edward's opened in 1957 and is known for their pork tenderloin, hand-dipped onion rings and homemade root beer. As featured on Man vs. Food, this Indianapolis diner and drive-in offers a 165 seat dining room as well as curbside service, too.

Serving lunch and dinner

Kristy Pepping said:  This hotel is a short 5-minute walk from Keystone Crossing which offers shopping, dining and entertainment. Great for little legs or if you need to stretch yours after a long car ride.

Hotel rooms are as large as 2-bedroom suites that have kitchens and living areas with pull-out sofas. They offer a free continental breakfast and parking, as well as a 24-hour convenience store and an outdoor BBQ/picnic area with pool.

Beth Wood said:  Shapiro's is an iconic Indianapolis Kosher deli that is famous for their award-winning, piled-high sandwiches. Shapiro's serve breakfast, lunch and dinner in a cafeteria type setting. They are known for their sandwiches, but also offer a full menu of soups, salads, entrees and desserts. Definitely worth a visit! Plus, there are gluten-free and vegetarian options.

Kristy Pepping said:  Who doesn't love pizza? Instead of trying a national chain when you are in town, try a local favorite. Napolese offers artfully-made pizza and stone hearth baking. They have a gluten-free crust option and use local farm produce grown specifically for their restaurants. They also offer a kid's pizza size.

Serving lunch and dinner

Kristy Pepping said:  Nine Lives is Indy’s first cat cafe! If your kids love cats, stop here for an afternoon break. They have coffee and tea for the parents and local sweets for the whole family. If part of your family is allergic or does not like cats, there is also a cat-free cafe area. They strongly suggest reservations. And if you really have a cat lover in the family -- watch out! All of the cats are adoptable!

Beth Wood said:  Broad Ripple Visit is a charming and well known neighborhood north of downtown Indianapolis settled along the White River that is known for its mix of restaurants, bars and clubs. It is also home to art galleries and great local shopping. Broad Ripple Village is a great place to spend an afternoon or evening exploring!

Beth Wood said:  Does your child want to become a firefighter when they grow up? Be sure to visit the Indianapolis Fire Fighters Museum & Memorial Plaza. This museum is dedicated to Indianapolis Fire Department history and firefighting history in general. Visitors can see a hand pumper, horse drawn hose cart, horse drawn steam pumper and more.

Vanessa M. said:  If you have never tried chicken and waffles together, you are missing out! This local gem serves the best chicken and waffles out there, in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. The menu at Maxine's Chicken & Waffles is bursting with other comfort food favorites as well, such as fried green tomatoes, smothered chicken, sweet potato waffles, fried catfish, yams, collard greens, and mac & cheese.

Vanessa M. said:  The Rathskeller is located in the historic, 19th century Athenaeum Building in downtown Indianapolis. This German restaurant is a fun place for families, as they offer live musical entertainment, hosting a variety of bands playing polka, blues, acoustic rock, and more. The menu at the Rathskeller goes beyond German food, offering something for everyone.

Kristy Pepping said:  The Indianapolis Cultural Trail is an 8-mile pedestrian and bicycle path in the downtown area. You can see neighborhoods, cultural districts and entertainment sites. No need to pack your bikes, you can rent them through Indy's bike share program!

Beth Wood said:  Bru Burger Bar is an Indianapolis favorite for burgers. If you have picky kids, the whole family will find something to eat here. Besides burgers, they have chili, salads and sandwiches. Bru Burger Bar has three Indianapolis area locations, all with outdoor patio seating. The downtown location sits on Mass Ave, which is one of Indy's cultural area. They offer a kid's menu and also gluten-free options.

Beth Wood said:  As featured on the Man vs Food, Bub's is the home of "The Big Ugly" burger in Indianapolis. Take the challenge yourself! Bub's Burgers and Ice Cream is a fun family friendly restaurant that features burgers, sandwiches, salads and fries. Besides their burgers, Bub's has also become known for their elk burgers, Mahi Mahi and hot dogs. They also have an ice cream shop on site for a treat after your meal. Their large outdoor patio sits alongside the Monon Trail in downtown Carmel. They feature outdoor games to keep your family entertained if there is a wait!

Serving lunch and dinner