Indianapolis

Indianapolis, colloquially known as Indy, is the state capital and most-populous city of the U.S. state of Indiana and the seat of Marion County. According to the United States Census Bureau, the consolidated population of Indianapolis and Marion County in 2020 was 977,203.

With four main interstates flowing across its borders, it appears that all roads lead to Indianapolis. After all, it's connected to Midwest staples like Chicago and St. Louis. When compared to its neighbors, Indiana's capital does not immediately jump out as a cultural hotspot. However, if you look closely, you'll notice that Kurt Vonnegut's hometown is just as colorful as its Midwestern counterparts. To begin with, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway hosts the Indianapolis 500, which, along with the Monaco Grand Prix and the 24 Hours of Le Mans, is part of the famous Triple Crown of Motorsport. Not much of a speed demon? That's fine—Indy has plenty of other sports to capture your attention, including the NFL's Indianapolis Colts, not to mention the Indianapolis Indians, the city's Triple-A baseball team. A baseball team plays in one of the country's best minor league parks.

The city also has a strong family appeal, including the world's biggest children's museum and an amazing zoo. Meanwhile, cultural vultures will be thrilled to learn that Indy is home to The Eiteljorg, one of only two museums east of the Mississippi that highlight both Native America and the American West. In addition, the city promotes the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, an 8-mile urban bike and pedestrian trail that takes tourists through neighborhoods, cultural districts, and through some of the city's most popular attractions. Are you still not convinced? Perhaps the Hoosier warmth and hearty Midwestern gastronomy will persuade you otherwise.

Best Hotels in Indianapolis

• Ironworks Hotel Indy
• JW Marriott Indianapolis
• Conrad Indianapolis

The Best Things to Do in Indianapolis:

• White River State Park
• Central Canal
• Newfields

Ranking + Rating:

• 5 in Best Weekend Getaways in the Midwest