In September, we headed to Indianapolis, Indiana for a short weekend to celebrate one of my friend’s weddings.  I was excited to take advantage of this roadtrip since I had never been to Indy! About a three hour drive from where I live in the Chicago Suburbs we enjoyed our sunny travel through all the rural windmills to get to this fine little city.

Hotels in Indianapolis

We stayed at the Omni-Severin Hotel which is located centrally in the city near the Lucas Oil Stadium and Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Around for over 100 years, the hotel gives an early 1900s vibe and the hotel in itself is a great place for a staycation.  The wedding was held there and had a beautiful reception, but in addition the hotel offers a great bar that has a speakeasy feel called Bar Severin.  They also have a restaurant and another wine focused bar called Wine Thief.

Food and Drink in Indianapolis

Our first night we were there we stayed close to the hotel and hit up Kilroy’s, a relaxed American-pub known for its Stuffed Breadsticks and wall menu of giant 32 oz Long Island Iced Tea varieties.  Be careful, they are strong!

We also went to the Claddaugh Irish Pub which offered fun Whiskey flights. Close by is Howl at the Moon for those who have never had the opportunity to go to this popular tourism spot in cities.

The next day we went to lunch on Massachusetts Avenue, which is a cute strip known for more for the foodie culture.  We went to Bru Burger Bar which was fantastic.  It has a great patio area to eat and a nice variety of burgers on the menu.

Touristy Things to do in Indianapolis

Points of interest in Indianapolis are all very close together.  We saw or past the following on just a short walk at night and the next morning in Indianapolis.

• Lucas Oil Stadium – Where the Colts football team play
• Bankers Life Fieldhouse – Home of the Indiana Pacers
• White River State Park
• Indiana Central Canal – perfect for a sunny day stroll
• NCAA Hall of Champions
• Soldier and Sailors Monument

What I Would Do If I Went Back to Indianapolis

Being a short weekend and also one to celebrate a fun wedding, I did not get a chance to really experience the food culture and the nightlife.  These are a few spots I’d hit up if I went back:

• Mesh Restaurant – talked about as one of the best restaurants in Indianapolis
• Elmos – the steakhouse of the city
• Broadripple Village – a great strip for nightlife in the city