Top Spots to Visit in Indianapolis with Kids

Beth Wood said:  Bru Burger Bar is an Indianapolis favorite for burgers. If you have picky kids, the whole family will find something to eat here. Besides burgers, they have chili, salads and sandwiches. Bru Burger Bar has three Indianapolis area locations, all with outdoor patio seating. The downtown location sits on Mass Ave, which is one of Indy's cultural area. They offer a kid's menu and also gluten-free options.

Dawn Denning said:  Take a 75-minute tour of all the great sights around Indianapolis! An authentic trolley allows your family to see all that Indy has to offer in a fun way. The tour includes many museums, parks and memorials around downtown Indianapolis. You will also visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Indiana Repertory Theater and more!

Beth Wood said:  Shapiro's is an iconic Indianapolis Kosher deli that is famous for their award-winning, piled-high sandwiches. Shapiro's serve breakfast, lunch and dinner in a cafeteria type setting. They are known for their sandwiches, but also offer a full menu of soups, salads, entrees and desserts. Definitely worth a visit! Plus, there are gluten-free and vegetarian options.

Beth Wood said:  Get the feel of a 50's diner at Edwards Drive-In on the south side of Indianapolis. Edward's opened in 1957 and is known for their pork tenderloin, hand-dipped onion rings and homemade root beer. As featured on Man vs. Food, this Indianapolis diner and drive-in offers a 165 seat dining room as well as curbside service, too.

Serving lunch and dinner

Beth Wood said:  Massachusetts Avenue, known as Mass Ave by Indy locals, is located in downtown Indianapolis and is home to public art, galleries, theater, dining, shopping and more. This 7 block stretch is a local hot spot that offers casual to upscale dining options, a popular night life scene, great local shops and boutiques and much more. Be sure to stop by on your visit and see everything Mass Ave has to offer!

Beth Wood said:  St. Elmo Steak House is an Indianapolis tradition. It has been a downtown landmark since 1902 and is the oldest Indianapolis steakhouse in its original location. Well known for their steaks, chops, seafood and infamous shrimp cocktail; St. Elmo is an upscale restaurant where kids are always welcome.

Serving dinner

Beth Wood said:  The Indiana State Museum offers three floors of unique exhibits and hands-on experiences that showcase the stories, events and characters that have helped shape Indiana’s history. The museum tells the story of the Hoosier state by exploring Indiana art, science and culture. Visitors will experience Indiana's past, present and future through scientific, cultural, history and art exhibits that help define our place in the world. There is also an IMAX theater that shows both Hollywood blockbusters and educational films.

Vanessa M. said:  The Rathskeller is located in the historic, 19th century Athenaeum Building in downtown Indianapolis. This German restaurant is a fun place for families, as they offer live musical entertainment, hosting a variety of bands playing polka, blues, acoustic rock, and more. The menu at the Rathskeller goes beyond German food, offering something for everyone.

Vanessa M. said:  If you have never tried chicken and waffles together, you are missing out! This local gem serves the best chicken and waffles out there, in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. The menu at Maxine's Chicken & Waffles is bursting with other comfort food favorites as well, such as fried green tomatoes, smothered chicken, sweet potato waffles, fried catfish, yams, collard greens, and mac & cheese.

Kristy Pepping said:  The JW Marriott is surrounded on three sides by White River State Park which offers several outdoor activities that are great for the kids; think hiking and biking. If the weather is cold there is indoor pool great for swimming anytime of the year. Outside, there are picnic tables, and if you are in need of some shopping, you can walk across a bridge to Circle City Mall.

Kristy Pepping said:  This hotel is a short 5-minute walk from Keystone Crossing which offers shopping, dining and entertainment. Great for little legs or if you need to stretch yours after a long car ride.

Hotel rooms are as large as 2-bedroom suites that have kitchens and living areas with pull-out sofas. They offer a free continental breakfast and parking, as well as a 24-hour convenience store and an outdoor BBQ/picnic area with pool.

Kristy Pepping said:  Located in Castleton, this hotel is a short drive to downtown Indianapolis activities. There is an indoor pool, hot tub and grills for a family cookout. They have cribs, are pet friendly, and have full kitchens in all rooms.

Kristy Pepping said:  At Omni Severin Hotel their youngest guests are given special treatment; making this a great place to stay for the whole family! The Omni Kids Crew program caters to children in several ways. Upon check-in, kids pick up a backpack filled with fun items designed with their needs in mind. Kids will also enjoy the milk and cookies delivered to the room on the first night of their stay. There is also an Omni Kids Crew coloring menu available in the restaurants, with crayons and an Omni Kids Crew cup.

Kristy Pepping said:  Country Inn & Suites Indianapolis Airport South is a great place to stay with kids. It's near several local Indy attractions: Oldfields-Lilly House and Gardens, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Hall of Fame Museum and White River State Park. This is an all suites hotel so no matter what your family size, they can accommodate you. Plus, there is a swimming pool and free continental breakfast.

Kristy Pepping said:  Who doesn't love pizza? Instead of trying a national chain when you are in town, try a local favorite. Napolese offers artfully-made pizza and stone hearth baking. They have a gluten-free crust option and use local farm produce grown specifically for their restaurants. They also offer a kid's pizza size.

Serving lunch and dinner