With the growth of local pride and demand for “homegrown” products, there are many opportunities to experience true Hoosier culture. Whether it’s restaurants, attractions, shops or anything in between, we’ll showcase some of our favorite gems that make Indiana a great place to live and work.
The holiday season in Indianapolis always starts with a flash! The Circle of Lights is a wonderful tree-lighting tradition that happens the day after Thanksgiving. Although the Soldier & Sailors Monument isn’t actually a tree, it does a great job of creating holiday cheer for the millions of gatherers each year. It can seem like a breath of fresh air from all of the crazy Black Friday shopping that occurs earlier in the day. Don’t worry if you missed the ceremonial lighting, you can still marvel at the pretty lights by visiting Monument Circle.
There are plenty of other exciting holiday sites to see in the city, keep reading for a few of our favorites. Some of these organizations are offering internships (search on our site to find out)!
- Christmas at the Zoo
This is holiday must for many people! Check out the shining lights and exotic animals at the Indianapolis Zoo. Ticket prices vary by day, but you can save a few dollars by booking in advance.
Photograph courtesy of Indianapolis Zoo.
- Lights at the Brickyard
For this event at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, you won’t want to race through the track. Take your time driving through the marvelous lighting displays and revel in the holiday cheer. Ticket prices are per car and vary by the day.
Photograph courtesy of Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
- Holiday Adventures at Conner Prairie
There is an abundance of holiday festivities at Conner Prairie. Visit the Gingerbread Village to look at ornate, prize-winning gingerbread creations. Many activities require reservations, and spots go quickly. Click the link above to learn more and purchase tickets.
Photograph courtesy of Conner Prairie.
- Festival of Trees
The Indianan Historical Society has 72 themed trees at this year’s Festival of Trees. Other activities include daily sing-a-longs, Elf on the Shelf locating and holiday crafting. There are special events depending on the day of the week, as well.
Photograph courtesy of Indiana Historical Society.
- Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure
Visit the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art to see nine model trains pass by local and national attractions. The represented attractions include Lucas Oil Stadium, Monument Circle, Las Vegas Strip, Hoover Dam and more. The cost for this festive event is included in the price of admission.
Photograph courtesy of the Eiteljorg Museum.
- Jolly Days Winter Wonderland
Bring your inner child to this fun and festive time at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. Ride down the two-story Yule Slide, take photos with Jolly Days characters, skate around in your socks and more! The cost for this fun-fill event is included in the price of admission.
Photograph courtesy of the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.
- L.S. Ayres Tea Room
Warm up with nice cup of tea at the L.S. Ayres Tea Room in the Indiana State Museum. This is a recreation of the original tea room that was housed in the department store before L.S. Ayres closed in 1990. Come try the famous chicken velvet soup, and take a step back in time. View their menu for prices.
Photograph courtesy of Karissa Bash.
We hope you have a chance to visit one of these wonderful attractions. Happy holidays!
