Three great reasons to visit Indianapolis

When most people think of great places to visit in the United States, Indianapolis, Ind. Is not necessarily one of the places that come to mind. That is a shame since Indianapolis has an amazing variety of things to see and do. You will find history, sports, and the arts. The home of the Indianapolis 500, Benjamin Harrison and one of the finest art museums in the country has a lot of offer visitors of all ages.

Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site

One of the most beautiful presidential sites in the country is located in Indianapolis. The Benjamin Harrison House is not only very attractive; it has one of the best tours we have ever taken. You learn things you never knew about the 23rd president such as the fact that he was the grandson of the 9th president William Henry Harrison. He also was a general during the Civil War, the last of them to serve as president of the United States and preferred to be referred to as “General Harrison”. The site is easy to visit with free on street parking available. Check the website for admission prices and opening times. 

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame

Located on the grounds of the Indianapolis Speedway, the Hall of Fame is a must visit for race car fans or even those who just love an outstanding car display. This writer is by no means a racing fan, however; visiting here was an amazing experience.

More than 30 of the cars that have won the Indianapolis 500 are on display. There are always at least 75 cars on display and they are all winners of one sort or another. You will see names such as Mario Andretti, A.J. Foyt Jr., Parnelli Jones and Al Unser Sr. figuring prominently. There is a film you can watch, exhibits to tour and lots and lots of amazing cars and motorcycles on display.

Indianapolis Museum of Art

This writer has visited some of the premier museums in the world and was blown away by the collection that is on display here at this gorgeous museum. Why everyone hasn’t heard about their phenomenal collection is a mystery but if you are ever in the city be sure not to miss a visit here. Among the many gems, you will see are works by Rembrandt, Rubens, El Greco, Jan Brueghel, Carravaggio, Ribera, Cranach, Monet and Renoir just to name a few.


They also have a great collection of American works as well as art from around the world. Don’t miss the great gift shop and the restaurant The IMA Cafe, is as amazing as the museum is. They have amazing homemade soups and sandwiches that will offer in their own words "offer a stylish, comfortable retreat".

Indianapolis is a great city to visit. We had very little issue driving around to the sites with our own car and enjoyed seeing these three sites all in one day.