What to do in Indianapolis while house and pet sitting

With vast farmlands, historic steel mills and the world-renowned Indy 500 motor race, Indianapolis is a must-visit if you get the opportunity on your next pet sit with TrustedHousesitters.

So, whether you’re still debating whether to visit The Hoosier Capital, or your trip is all booked and you’re looking for some things to do in Indianapolis, we’ve compiled our top things to do in Indy. 

Indianapolis attractions

Wondering what to do in Indianapolis? Aside from big shopping events and speeding race cars, Indy (as it’s affectionately known) is awash with green space and glistening waterways, making for a charmingly picturesque city. But what are some of the best things to do in Indianapolis in terms of cultural attractions? Here’s our top three: 

1. Indianapolis Museum of Art: One of the oldest museums in the country, the Indianapolis Museum of Art is located at Newfields. There you can explore The Gardens, 40 acres of contemporary and historic gardens, a working greenhouse as well as The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park. 

2. Eiteljorg Museum: Located in downtown Indianapolis, the Eiteljorg Museum houses an extensive collection of visual arts by indigenous peoples of the Americas, as well as a wide selection of Western American paintings and sculptures collected by Harrison Eiteljorg.

3. Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site: The Benjamin Harrison Home located at 1230 North Delaware St. is a National Historic Landmark celebrating President Benjamin Harrison. The independently-funded nonprofit museum is dedicated to sharing Harrison’s legacy and houses over 10,000 historical items relating to the original Harrison family artefacts. 

Free things to do in Indianapolis

Looking for things to do in Indianapolis for free? We’ve selected our top three budget-friendly options.

1. Central Canal: One of the top free things to do in Indy is walk along the central canal. The popular trail is a 3-mile loop for hikers and joggers alike. Not into hiking? The picturesque downtown waterfront has pedal boats, gondolas and bicycles too. 

2. Indiana War Memorial: Looking for things to do in Indianapolis downtown? The Indiana War Memorial is spread over 30,000 square feet and houses a varied collection of military equipment and artefacts, as well as three parks, four fountains, and 25 acres of monuments, statues and sculptures.

3. White River State Park: White River State Park is America’s only cultural urban state park. Along with plenty of green space and the White River itself, the park has many cultural attractions like the White River Gardens, an IMAX theater, Victoria Field where many outdoor concerts are held as well as the NCAA Hall of Champions. You can tour the park by bike or boat, or take a good-old-fashioned stroll.

Fun things to do in Indianapolis

There’s an endless amount of fun things to do in Indianapolis between exploring fascinating museums, visiting historical sights or discovering local nature sights. So, no matter what your tastes or hobbies, the city is bound to have something you’ll enjoy. Here’s our top picks:

1. Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum: Where else would have the biggest dedicated museum to automobiles if it wasn’t Indianapolis? The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum (IMSM) is a must-see if you’re a fan of speedway (and if you’re not!). It’s uniquely situated inside the historical 2.5-mile oval track and is recognized as one of the best auto racing museums in the world.

2. Rhythm! Discovery Center: Located downtown, Rhythm! Discovery center is the world’s only interactive drum and percussion museum. Founded by the Percussive Arts Society, the museum has interactive exhibits as well as percussion instruments that you can try out for yourself. Check out their exhibits for interactive educational experiences and tutorials from leading percussionists.

3. Eagle Creek Park and Nature Preserve: With over 3,900 acres of woods, meadows and ponds and 1,300 acres of reservoir, Eagle Creek Park and Nature Preserve is one of the nation’s largest city parks. Enjoy miles of trails, ponds and swampy forests. The best part? Dogs are allowed on some trails so check ahead of time before you go.

What to do in Indianapolis with pets

Looking for things to do in Indianapolis that involve your latest fur-friend? Indy is home to a plethora of green spaces and eateries with dog-friendly patios. There's no shortage of local destinations to walk the dog - or have the dog walk you (we know how it usually goes). 

1. Broad Ripple Dog Park: For some off-leash exercise your new fur-pal will love this fenced in dog park. Purchase a Pooch Pass at the Broad Ripple Park Office to get in and remember to take your pup's latest vaccinations when purchasing.  

2. Holiday Park: Take your dog with you to the enchanting Holiday Park. Explore all that nature has to offer at this 94-acre park and hike as far as 3.5 miles of trail along the banks of the White River.

3. Metazoa Brewing Co.: Need a pit stop after all that exercise? Metazoa is a brewery with a conscience, donating 5% of their profits to animal organisations. The tap room is a generously sized, pet-friendly space with a patio space complete with a breathtaking skyline. There’s a Puppy Park right next to the brewery too. An altogether top-notch place to visit with your pup sit. 

Best restaurants in Indianapolis: Food and drink

What’s the best restaurants in Indianapolis we hear you ask? Here’s our selection of mouth-watering eateries: 

1. Ember Urban Eatery: A quaint place, Ember serves well-priced American food. Located on the Cultural trail, it’s a great place for you and your dog to take in the sights of downtown. Visiting in summer? There’s plenty of outdoor seating during the warmer months. 

2. Three Dog Bakery: The world's first bakery for dogs opened in 1989 and specializes in all-natural treats made from scratch. There’s two locations: downtown and Broad Ripple so wherever your pet sit is located you can treat your dog to a visit (or two). 

3. La Margarita: Love Mexican food? La Margarita has been Indy’s favorite Mexican spot since 1984. A soulful place, expect to find plenty of craft beer as well as large portions of delicious burritos and enchiladas. In the summer La Margarita’s patio is hopping with live music, diners and their furry pals who are always welcome. 

If you're up for going a little further afield for a bite to eat with a pooch in tow, check out our guide to dog friendly restaurants in Chicago.

House and pet sitting in Indianapolis

Now we’ve shared our top picks for what to do in Indianapolis, we hope you have a great time while you’re pet sitting. With its vibrant food scene and regenerated downtown scene, Indianapolis is a go-to destination – and it’s brimming with pet owners just waiting to welcome you into their homes (and their pets hearts). 

Now you’re ready to visit Indy, all that’s left to do is find a house and pet sit. Just head right over here and connect with loving pet owners and their four-legged friends.