Lucas Oil Stadium, United States of America - Things to Do in Lucas Oil Stadium

Things to Do in Lucas Oil Stadium

Lucas Oil Stadium, United States of America - Complete Travel Guide

Indianapolis, the capital of Indiana and home to Lucas Oil Stadium, is a vibrant Midwestern city that seamlessly blends sports culture, rich history, and modern urban amenities. Known as the 'Racing Capital of the World' due to the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the city has evolved into a major destination for sports enthusiasts, history buffs, and cultural explorers alike. Lucas Oil Stadium, the impressive home of the Indianapolis Colts, stands as a architectural marvel in the heart of downtown Indianapolis with its retractable roof and window wall offering stunning city views. Beyond its sports heritage, Indianapolis boasts a thriving cultural scene with world-class museums, a revitalized downtown core, and an emerging culinary landscape. The city's compact downtown area makes it easily walkable, connecting visitors to numerous attractions, entertainment districts, and the famous Indianapolis Cultural Trail. Whether you're visiting for a Colts game, exploring the city's racing legacy, or discovering its hidden gems, Indianapolis offers an authentic American experience with genuine Midwestern hospitality.

Top Things to Do in Lucas Oil Stadium

Attend an Indianapolis Colts Game at Lucas Oil Stadium

Experience the electric atmosphere of NFL football in one of the league's most impressive stadiums. Lucas Oil Stadium features a retractable roof, massive video boards, and excellent sightlines from every seat. The stadium also hosts the Big Ten Football Championship and other major sporting events throughout the year.

Booking Tip: Tickets range from $50-300+ depending on opponent and seating. Book directly through Ticketmaster or the Colts website for best selection. Arrive early to explore the stadium's features and nearby tailgating areas.

Explore the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Museum

Visit the world's most famous racing venue, home to the Indianapolis 500 and Brickyard 400. Take a lap around the 2.5-mile oval track and explore the comprehensive museum featuring historic race cars, trophies, and interactive exhibits. The facility offers various tour options including track tours and behind-the-scenes experiences.

Booking Tip: Museum admission is $15 for adults, with track tours available for additional fees ($20-30). Purchase combo tickets online for savings. Best visited during non-race months for full access to facilities.

Walk or Bike the Indianapolis Cultural Trail

Traverse this award-winning 8-mile urban trail that connects downtown neighborhoods, cultural districts, and major attractions. The trail features public art installations, connects to the Monon Trail, and provides access to numerous restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. It's considered one of the best urban trails in America.

Booking Tip: Trail access is free. Rent Pacers Bikeshare bikes for $8/day or bring your own. Download the Cultural Trail app for self-guided tours. Best experienced during daylight hours with comfortable walking shoes.

Discover the Children's Museum of Indianapolis

Explore the world's largest children's museum featuring five floors of interactive exhibits, including a real dinosaur skeleton, planetarium, and hands-on science demonstrations. The museum appeals to all ages with its innovative displays on natural history, science, culture, and arts.

Booking Tip: General admission is $22.50 for adults, $17.50 for children. Purchase timed tickets online in advance, especially during weekends and holidays. Allow 4-6 hours for a full visit.

Experience Mass Ave Arts District

Immerse yourself in Indianapolis's creative heart, featuring local theaters, art galleries, boutique shops, and diverse dining options. This historic district hosts regular events, festivals, and showcases local artists while maintaining its unique character with converted historic buildings and modern developments.

Booking Tip: Free to explore on foot. Many galleries offer free admission during First Friday events. Restaurant reservations recommended for weekend dining. Check district website for special events and shows.

Getting There

Indianapolis is easily accessible via Indianapolis International Airport (IND), located about 15 miles southwest of downtown with direct flights from major US cities. The airport connects to downtown via taxi ($45-55), rideshare ($25-40), or the GO Express airport shuttle ($12). For ground transportation, Indianapolis sits at the intersection of major interstates I-65, I-70, and I-74, making it highly accessible by car from Chicago (3 hours), Cincinnati (2 hours), and Louisville (2 hours). Amtrak serves the city with the Cardinal route connecting to New York and Chicago, while Greyhound and Megabus provide budget-friendly bus options from regional cities.

Getting Around

Downtown Indianapolis is highly walkable, with most attractions within a comfortable walking distance of each other and Lucas Oil Stadium. The city operates IndyGo bus system with downtown circulator routes and connections to surrounding neighborhoods, with fares starting at $1. The Red Line BRT provides rapid transit along key corridors. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available and affordable for longer distances. The Pacers Bikeshare system offers convenient bike rentals throughout downtown with 31 stations. For exploring beyond downtown, rental cars are available from all major companies, though parking downtown can be expensive ($10-25/day) especially during events.

Where to Stay

Downtown Indianapolis (near Lucas Oil Stadium)
Mass Ave District
Broad Ripple Village
Fountain Square
Airport Area
Keystone at the Crossing

Food & Dining

Indianapolis has evolved into a legitimate foodie destination with a dining scene that celebrates both Midwestern comfort food and innovative cuisine. Downtown offers everything from upscale steakhouses perfect for pre-game dining to casual brewpubs and food trucks. The city is famous for its pork tenderloin sandwiches, sugar cream pie, and craft beer scene with numerous local breweries. Mass Ave and Fountain Square districts feature trendy restaurants, while Broad Ripple offers eclectic dining options. Don't miss trying local favorites like St. Elmo Steak House's famous shrimp cocktail, or exploring the growing farm-to-table movement at restaurants throughout the city.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Indianapolis

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

Conner's Kitchen + Bar

4.7 /5
(4891 reviews) 2
bar

The Eagle Mass Ave

4.5 /5
(4801 reviews) 2
meal_takeaway

Yard House

4.5 /5
(4459 reviews) 2
bar meal_takeaway

Harry & Izzy's

4.7 /5
(4251 reviews) 3

The Fountain Room

4.7 /5
(1596 reviews) 3

Fire by the Monon

4.6 /5
(1365 reviews) 2
bar

When to Visit

The best time to visit Indianapolis depends on your interests, but generally April through October offers the most pleasant weather and outdoor activities. Football season (September through January) is ideal for Lucas Oil Stadium events, with comfortable indoor conditions regardless of weather. May is particularly exciting during Indianapolis 500 festivities, though accommodation prices peak during this time. Summer months feature numerous festivals and outdoor events, while fall provides beautiful weather and colors. Winter visits offer lower hotel rates and indoor attractions, though weather can be unpredictable. Spring and fall provide the best balance of good weather, moderate prices, and fewer crowds.

Insider Tips

Park in one of the many surface lots south of Lucas Oil Stadium for cheaper rates ($10-15) compared to garage parking ($25-30), and enjoy a short walk through downtown
Visit during non-event days to explore Lucas Oil Stadium's public areas and take photos with the Colts horseshoe logo without crowds
Download the Cultural Trail app for free self-guided tours and use the trail to walk between downtown attractions while avoiding traffic and parking fees

Explore Activities in Lucas Oil Stadium