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Layover Ideas Indianapolis Airport IND

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Top 5 Layover Ideas for Indianapolis Airport

If you find yourself with a lengthy layover at the Indianapolis Airport (IND), there are plenty of ways to spend your time. Here are the top 5 layover ideas to help you make the most of your wait.

1. Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum

Located at 38000 West 16th St, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum is a must-visit for racing enthusiasts. Housed in a National Historic Landmark, the museum features exhibits on various racing teams, vehicles from the past, and the aerodynamics of a racecar. You can even take a tour of the actual racetrack for a small additional charge.

2. Indianapolis Museum of Art

At 1200 West 38th St, the Indianapolis Museum of Art offers a vast span of beautifully landscaped grounds and extensive art exhibits. The museum boasts a variety of African, Asian, and European pieces, including a special collection of watercolor paintings by Joseph Mallord William Turner. Other interesting collections include the Clowes Collection, with artifacts dating as early as the 14th century, and modern studio glass and crafts created by local artists.

3. NCAA Hall of Champions

The NCAA Hall of Champions, located at 700 West Washington St, honors the joys and pains of the student-athlete. The Hall of Honor highlights the esteemed character many of the athletes possess and how their strength of character helped them become important leaders. Other attractions include the Wall of Champions and The Turn of the Century Gymnasium.

4. Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra

Founded in 1930, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra at 45 Monument Cir, Hilbert Cir Theatre, has delighted millions with its musical excellence. Under the guidance of director Raymond Leppard, the ISO has presented as many as 200 performances in a year. This orchestra not only strives to please adults who appreciate fine music, but also to educate and entertain children of all ages in regards to the world of the symphony.

5. World War Memorial

Standing atop a hill at 431 North Meridian St, the World War Memorial is an inspirational site with an introductory inscription that reads, “Vindicate the principles of peace and justice in the world.” Visitors can see a variety of war paraphernalia that retraces the history of Indiana and a Shrine Room with an altar and an American flag in honor of those who have lost their lives fighting for their country.

Nearby Attractions for an Extended Layover

If you have more than 12 hours to spend in Indianapolis, consider venturing a little further out from the airport. The city and its surrounding areas are full of interesting attractions that are perfect for a longer layover. Here are some options to consider.

1. Conner Prairie

Conner Prairie is an interactive history park located in Fishers, Indiana, just a short drive from the airport. Here, you can experience life in the 19th century, explore a recreated Lenape Indian camp, and even take a ride in a 1859 Balloon Voyage. This unique and engaging museum is a great choice for families or anyone interested in history.

2. Brown County State Park

If you’re a nature lover, consider a visit to Brown County State Park. Known as the “Little Smokies” because of the area's resemblance to the Great Smoky Mountains, this park offers hiking, horseback riding, and stunning views, particularly in the fall. It’s about an hour's drive from the airport, but well worth the trip.

3. The Children's Museum of Indianapolis

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is the largest children's museum in the world, offering five floors of fun and interactive learning experiences. From a dinosaur exhibit to a planetarium, this museum has plenty to keep kids of all ages entertained. It's located in downtown Indianapolis, about 20 minutes from the airport.

4. Indianapolis Zoo

The Indianapolis Zoo is another great option for families. It's home to more than 1,200 animals and 230 species, as well as a botanical garden and an aquarium. The zoo is located in White River State Park, less than 20 minutes from the airport.

5. Broad Ripple Village

If you're looking for a taste of local culture, head to Broad Ripple Village. This vibrant neighborhood is known for its art galleries, boutiques, and local eateries. It’s also home to the original location of the popular Indianapolis brewpub, the Broad Ripple Brewpub. It's about a 30-minute drive from the airport.

Updated on: November 22, 2023