Indianapolis City Guide

Local dishes include the Hoosier Pork Tenderloin Sandwich and Sugar Cream Pie. The city has diverse international food and growing vegan and vegetarian options. Late-night food is available in entertainment areas.

Nightlife centers around Mass Ave, Fountain Square, and Broad Ripple with bars, breweries, and live music.

Growing coffee scene with local and national shops offering specialty brews and third-wave coffee.

Tipping is expected: 15-20% in restaurants and rideshares; $1-2 per drink at coffee shops; 15-20% for hairdressers; $2-5 per night for housekeeping.

SIM cards are sold at AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile stores. Coverage is good. Prepaid plans need only basic info, postpaid plans require ID.

Generally clean streets and good waste services, especially downtown and tourist areas.

Some 24/7 pharmacies and convenience stores. Emergency rooms open 24/7. Limited late-night food options.

Supermarkets like Kroger, Meijer, and Whole Foods are common. Specialty markets offer international products. Most stores open from 7 AM to 10 or 11 PM, including Sundays.

Most places accept major credit and debit cards, so cash is rarely needed.

ATMs are easy to find at banks, grocery stores, and convenience stores. Out-of-network ATMs may charge $2.50 to $5.00 fees.

Several public and private schools serve the city. The International School of Indiana offers multilingual instruction. Availability varies by school.

The digital nomad community is growing, with coworking spaces hosting events and local tech groups for networking.

Large parks like White River State Park and Eagle Creek Park provide good green space access.

Popular running trails include the Monon Trail and Cultural Trail. The city is safe for runners with active running groups.

Gyms and fitness centers are widely available across the city.

Public and private tennis courts are available across the city with varying booking systems.

Padel courts are less common but can be found at some private clubs.

Multiple studios offer various yoga styles with English-speaking instructors and drop-in classes.

Dojos offer BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, and traditional martial arts with English-speaking instructors.

Ski resorts like Perfect North Slopes are about 1.5 hours away, offering beginner and intermediate slopes from December to March.

Kayaking and paddleboarding are available on the White River and local reservoirs with rentals.

No surfing available due to lack of ocean access.

No dive sites nearby. Some quarries offer limited certified diving in Indiana.

High-quality private hospitals with English-speaking staff. Care is good but can be costly without insurance.

Tap water meets all federal and state standards and is safe to drink.

Lots of parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly spots like The Children's Museum and Indianapolis Zoo. Baby supplies are easy to find.

LGBTQ+ friendly with legal protections, inclusive venues, and an active pride festival.

Pet-friendly with many parks, dog parks, and vet services. Pet-friendly patios are common.