10|10|10: My favorite things to do in Indiana (food, attractions, and activities)

by - March 04, 2019





10|10|10: My favorite things to do in Indiana (food, attractions, and activities)

    If you’re like me, you’ve probably struggled to find a good place to eat or a nice activity to engage
in with your friends. So for those of you who need date ideas, friend gigs, or meal ideas, I’ve made
a list of 30 places I’ve enjoyed or want to enjoy in Indiana.

Food:

  1. Maggiano's little Italy
Location: Carmel
Price: $$
Formality: semi-formal
    This might be my favorite place to eat in Indiana. Maggiano’s Little Italy is located near Carmel
and Fishers so it’s a bit of a drive for me, as I live on the south side. However, the drive is worth it!
They have some pretty decent combos for couples and for families. My boyfriend and I always
choose the Meal for Two option. It comes with: drinks, an appetizer, two meals, a desert, and two
meals to take home! For only $40! As for the food, it is the BEST Italian food I’ve EVER tasted. I
love that I can take a whole meal home with me. I’m always stuffed after the dinner, and it’s nice to
know I get to have the same full and satisfied feeling after I’ve left. My favorite dish is the four-cheese
ravioli.

  1. Fat Dan’s Deli
Location: Broad Ripple
Price: $$
Formality: Casual
    Matt and I found Fat Dan's sports bar on accident. We were initially doing to visit the Jazz Cafe in
Broad Ripple, however I was not old enough to go into the dinner (you have to be 21). So we
stumbled upon Fat Dan’s. Matt knew of it previously. A friend had told him that they have the best
tasting wings in Indy. I would like to say, that though they are not the “best” in my opinion, they were
delicious! The vibe in the sports bar is very relaxed. The music was good. And the food was very
savory.

  1. Insomnia Cookies
Location: Broad Ripple
Price: $$
Formality: Casual
    Insomnia Cookies was also found by accident. Matt and I were looking for a place to eat in
Greenwood and everything was closed (except McDonalds and Taco Bell). We were looking for
something new and I wasn’t extremely hungry. I told him that ice cream or cookies would be a nice
snack. However, there wasn’t a single place around that offered cookies and ice cream after 10pm.
Until we stumbled across Insomnia Cookies. Insomnia is located in Broad Ripple. But we took the
drive anyway as Insomnia is open until 4am. And yes, they serve amazing ice cream and cookies! I
suggest you try the strawberry cheesecake flavor.

Photo from: visitbn.org

  1. Kuma’s Corner
Location: Fountain Square
Price: $$$
Formality: Casual
    I’m not a fan of burgers. However, for Valentine’s Day in 2018, Matt and I found ourselves in
Fountain Square. We decided to stop and eat at Kuma’s and despite not being a big burger fan,
I was very pleased. The portions are massive and actually quite delicious. The menu is set up so
that every meal is named after a famous singer or group: Rolling Stones, Metallica, AC/DC, etc. It
has its own kind of metal/rock/sports bar-esque type vibe. But it was a good experience.

  1. Stacked Pickle
Location: Greenwood
Price: $
Formality: Casual
    The Stacked Pickle was another burger joint that at first I wasn’t too keen to go to. Matt and I
visited on a Saturday when there were some trivia games going on that customers could participate
in. It was loud. Very loud. And the vibe received was that of a hyped up sports bar. But the food was
good and the experience was actually pretty entertaining.

  1. The Eagle
Location: Indianapolis
Price: $$$$
Formality: Formal
    Though I’ve yet to visit The Eagle downtown, I have received a lot of feedback on this place by a
number of friends. The Eagle is a unique restaurant that spins as you eat. After 90 minutes the
structure has come around 360 degrees giving visitors a view of the surrounding city. I’ve heard the
portions are a bit small, but they are worth the expense. One of my friends really enjoyed the shrimp
appetizer, saying it was the best she’s ever had.

  1. Edward’s Diner
Location: Beech Grove
Price: $$
Formality: Casual
    Edwards Diner might very well be the last 50’s diner in Indiana. My parents used to take me to
this place as a kid and it was honestly one of my favorite places. The scenery around the diner isn’t
super attractive but inside the diner is similar to stepping back in time. There is a real, full-functioning
jukebox and a beautiful 50’s esque set-up. The food is savory and filling. And every time I always get
a frosted root beer float. Edwards is also unique as it hosts car shows pretty often, showcasing old
50’s style cars.

Photo from: yelp.com

  1. Calvin Fletcher Coffee Shop
Location: Fletcher’s Place
Price: $
Formality: Casual
    I stumbled upon Calvin Fletcher’s Coffee Shop when I got invited on a mini adventure with a
friend. The coffee shop is unique in that it showcases pieces from local artists each week. The
coffee is good and the atmosphere is even better. It has a sort of hipster vibe to it that makes it really
charming.

  1. Strange Brew
Location: Greenwood
Price: $
Formality: Casual
     This is quite possibly my favorite coffee shop. It has a very homey feel which I am in love with.
The mugs that the coffee is served in are each unique! There’s an assortment of art on the walls,
mismatched couches and chairs. And the bathroom is a little...odd. (I know it sounds weird but go to
the bathroom while you’re there. It’s...an experience…). It’s personally one of my favorite coffee
shops because it’s a bit quieter as most people who go there are there to study.

  1. Grey Brothers Cafe
Location: Mooresville
Price: $$
Formality: Casual
     I’ve been going to Grey’s for years now. It was my cousin and I’d favorite place to go! The
restaurant itself is a buffet, so if you like open selections, this is the place or you. But what makes
Grey’s unique to other restaurants in the area is that they have a cafeteria style line for people who
would like to grab their food and go! I’ve found this to be very handy!

Attractions: (other than the stadium or Indiana Dunes)

  1. Indianapolis Museum of Art
Location: Indianapolis
Price: $$ (free energy first Thursday of the month!)
    The IMA is one of my favorite places to go when I’m looking for inspiration. My favorite thing
about the IMA is probably the gardens. I’ve only ever gone to the IMA on the first Thursday so I’m
not entirely sure how expensive it is to go other times throughout the month. I highly suggest going
if you haven’t already. And be sure to see Funky Bones! (It was in The Fault in our Stars)
Photo from: indianapolisimage.com

  1. Monument downtown (the circle of lights)
Location: Indianapolis
Price: Free
    If you’ve never gone to The Circle during Christmas time, you’re missing out. It’s a really simple
thing and it happens every year, but it always brings back childhood memories for me. I love the lights
and the decorations. I love the dresses up horses and carriages. It’s a magical place during the
winter months and sometimes that’s what you need.

  1. The Canal
Location: Indianapolis
Price: Free
    This is another free attraction in the city. It’s not much, but it’s still nice. I’ve been to The Canal for
walks many times. It’s a nice place to go if you want to see some interesting sights or talk with a
friend for awhile. They best time to go is in the spring or summer. The vines and plants by many of
the buildings are in full bloom and it gives the Canal a whimsical feel. Plus, I personally enjoy people
watching and it’s the Canal is a perfect representation of the city of Indy and it’s people.

  1. Fountain Square
Location: Fountain Square
Price: Free (unless you buy something in a shop)
    I didn’t know Fountain Square was a place until a couple of years ago. It’s not a place my family
visited often and I’m still not sure why. It’s a big cultural part of town with good food, bars, a record
shop, a vintage store, duckpin bowling, swing dancing, music, and much more. And of course, there
is a gorgeous fountain smack in the middle of the square. If you’re looking for a younger and more
cultural taste of Indy, this is the place to go! (There used to be a really neat 50’s style diner here that
I LOVED, but they turned it into an Italian restaurant instead).

Photo from: do317.com

  1. Indiana World War Memorial
Location: Indianapolis
Price: Free
    Matt loves history so naturally he was the one who took me here. I’m not a big history buff. I find
it interesting, but history can’t hold my attention for hours. However, Matt and a couple of friends of
mine found this place to be a sort of “heaven on earth.” I will agree that it is quite interesting. After
all, I put it on my top 10 attractions. If you love history, specifically Indiana world war history, you
should visit this place. It’s pretty neat.

  1. Mass Ave. & Broad Ripple
Location: Massachusetts Ave. Indianapolis/ Broad Ripple
Price: Free (unless you purchase something)
    These two places could stand alone as their own attractions. However, I grouped them together
because to me, they are very similar in what they offer. These are both cultural districts in their own
right who offer about as much a variety as Fountain Square. There are book stores, tattoo shops,
restaurants, bars, etc. You name it and it’s there! The shops always have some unique twist that
make them interesting and stand out from the competition. If you’re looking to step into a night of
dancing and fun, or a day of exploration and art, these are the places to go.

  1. Nashville, IN
Location: Nashville, IN
Price: depends on what you buy
    Nashville, IN is notorious for its cute shops and market vibe. I’ve only been there once but it was
a genuinely interesting experience. Some of the products are sort of pricey. But it’s nice to see a lot
of the homemade trinkets in the small shops. I wish I had more time to visit when I had gone that one
time. Next time I’ll have to jot down my favorite shops or purchases.

  1. Freedom Fest
Location: Greenwood
Price: $
    This is an event that happens around Independence Day each year. Basically, it’s an event
where, at night, a bunch of fireworks get set off overhead. Leading up to the fireworks, there is fair
food, live music, crafts you can buy, and places to set up a picnic. I went with Matt one summer.
We sat on the lawn, talking to friends for hours. And when the fireworks finally went off, I felt the child
within myself awaken. It was beautiful. A must-see event in my book if you happen to be in Indy
around that time.

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  1. ISO symphony
Location: Indianapolis
Price: varies between events
    If you have never seen the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, you’re missing out. They often
perform at the ISO building in monument circle. If you're looking for a nice date idea to dress up
and go out for a classy evening, I highly suggest going to see the orchestra play. I’ve gone a number
of times. I love the architecture of the building as well. It adds to the nostalgic feel for the past.
Aside from price, because it is quite a price to attend some gigs, it’s a wonderful experience.

  1. Tibb’s Drive-In
Location: Indianapolis
Price: $
    I have yet to go to Tibbs drive in. What is wrong with me. I’m obsessed with 50’s era nostalgia and a drive in is one of the closest, coolest 50’s things one can experience. A lot of my friends have gone and have said it was an incredible time. I really want to try this one out with Matt. I think it would be a super cute date idea. Plus, I like to do some things old school, like movies!
    
Photo from: flickr.com

Activities: (other than the speedway and the zoo)

  1. Clifty falls
Location: Clifty falls state park
Price: $$
    I actually haven’t been to this place either (I’m crazy. I know). Matt went here with a bunch of
his friends for an overnight hike and camping getaway type thing. He said the trails and cliffs were
stunning and he really enjoyed the spot where they camped. Unlike most conventional camping sites,
they got to go into the woods, find a lonesome fire pit away from other campers and set up for the
night. It was just them, a nice fire, and the stuff they brought on their backs. I want to try this at least
once in my life, for the thrill. I’m not super outdoorsy or athletic, but it would be fun.

  1. Spring Mill State Park
Location: Mitchell, IN
Price: $
    This was probably one of my best state park experiences ever (including topping glacier and the
badlands). Matt and I decided to take a day trip to Bloomington and to spring Mill. We ate a place
called Mama Bears’ Pizza which was really cool before heading to spring Mill. Spring Mill was
BEAUTIFUL. They had tons of hikes to explore, a cave (which was the coolest part), and a small
pioneertown. The pioneer town was almost like Conner prairie except smaller. And the cave was
the BEST part. You are allowed, at your own discretion, to explore the cave on your own. Matt and
I bought some hiking shoes, and a few flashlights and we explored the cave. It was probably one
of the best days of my life.

  1. Horseback riding
Location: I don’t know
Price: $
     This suggestion actually doesn’t really help anyone. The problem is, I had an amazing
experience horseback riding with my friend, Rachel, years ago. However, I can’t remember the
name of the place in which we went...it was somewhere south of indianapolis, and that’s all I know.
It was a family run horse riding business. So the horses were well kept and the trails were unique.
For this suggestion, my real advice is that you ride horses from family ranches open to the public
rather than places like Brown County. Brown County is cool and all, but it’s overpriced and treatment
of the animals is sub par.

  1. Conner prairie
Location: Fishers
Price: $$$
    I’ve been to Conner Prairie numerous times, but not recently. It’s always an adventure to go. And
I love that it feels like you actually stepped back in time. The actors are great and love to get the
audience involved. And the sites to see and amazing! They have so many specials and events that
I couldn’t begin to name them all to you. But I will let you know that the reason it’s in my top 10
activities is because every time I’ve gone, I’ve had a blast! It’s educational and exciting. My favorite
thing about Conner prairie is watching the horses go through with the wagons. It’s a really simple
thing, but it makes me happy.

  1. Escape room (mooresville and downtown)
Location: downtown or mooresville
Price: $$$-$
    I’ve been to two escapes rooms in Indy and I couldn’t choose just one to be my favorite. The first
one I went to was for a birthday with some friends and it was downtown at Indy’s Escape room. We
didn’t have a big enough party so we were paired with another group which was fine. The room we
had however was on a difficulty way too high for us (we overestimate our abilities). Everything was in
Russian! But it was fun nonetheless. Everything was real (handcuffs, books, locks, etc). And the
room was well put together. Mooresvilles escape room was more handmade and homey. I did that
one with Matt and his family, and there wasn’t another group with us. There was only one room to
choose and the difficulty was pretty low (we still didn’t solve it in time though). But I really liked the
experience. Both were super fun and if you haven’t done an escape room before, I encourage you
to try!

  1. Climb time Indy
Location:
Price: $$
    This is probably my favorite place to go rock climbing in Indiana. Matt and I have gone twice. It’s
a really relaxed environment. They teach you how to use the safety rigs and then you’re on your own.
I recommend bringing a friend or partner along so that they can hold the rope at the bottom. But
Climb Time Indy also has solo rigs that you can use by yourself and the machine lowers you on it
own. The place had different walls with different challenges and I’m always crazy tired after each
visit. It’s a nice work out and something fun to do to challenge yourself physically!

  1. Christkindlmarket
Location: Carmel
Price: $$
    This is one of my favorite places to visit during the Christmas season. Christkindlmarket is an
outdoor ice rink decorated for the Christmas holiday. The food is all German and there are a bunch
of stands that pay homage to German roots and tradition. It’s a really neat experience and the whole
place looks like something out of a hallmark movie!

Photo from: twitter.com

  1. Edinburgh shopping center
Location: Edinburg
Price: $-$$
    Edinburgh mall is probably my favorite mall. Greenwood is okay, Castleton has the cool nitrogen
ice cream (check this place out! I should have put it on my list!), and Circle City is pretty big and
pretty cool, but Edinburgh takes the cake. It’s an outdoor mall so it’s best enjoyed during the summer.
It’s pretty typical as far as malls go but they have a pretty cool Fourth of July sale every year.

  1. Wolf Park
Location: Battle Ground, IN
Price: it varies
    I haven’t actually been to the Wolf Sanctuary. Though a few of my friends have. You can rent
a cabin or just schedule a tour. And there are more specials during the winter months (so I found
on the website). I’ve heard good things about it. You are able to get a closer look at the wolves in
their natural habitats, better than any other places you could go to. It’s on my list because I WANT
to go there sometime. And maybe afterwards I’ll be able to write a better and more personal review.

  1. Bargersville Market
Location: Bargersville
Price: depends what you buy
    Matt also introduced me to this place. In a sense, the Bargersville Market is just that. It’s open
on Sundays during the summer months while the weather is nice. The best time to attend is earlier
in the morning as you’re more likely to find all of the good stuff before it’s been bought. I really
enjoyed it because, like a flea market, there’s a bunch of random stuff that you can’t find around
anymore. Plus, it’s fun to barter.

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