Indianapolis’ best guided tours pack history and local culture into well-organized experiences. For travelers seeking authentic encounters, Indy Walking Tours stands out with its personalized touch and local guides who know their stuff. The Indianapolis Prowl Amazing Race & Tour — a clever mix of sightseeing and fun challenges — keeps groups engaged while exploring downtown landmarks.
Tech-savvy visitors will appreciate the convenience of the Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour, perfect for exploring at your own pace. Food lovers should make time for the Fountain Square Food Tour, which we especially love for its mix of historic architecture and local eateries.
The after-dark ghost tours are particularly memorable, with the Indianapolis Ghosts Walking Tour offering the right balance of history and haunted tales — it’s one of our favorites for evening entertainment.
These top tours showcase the best of Indianapolis:
Key Points
- The Indy Walking Tours, led by an expert guide, offer a 2-hour exploration of Indianapolis’ key landmarks with a refreshment break, priced at $55 per person.
- Indianapolis Prowl Amazing Race & Tour provides an interactive experience where participants solve clues and complete tasks while exploring the city, starting from $24 per person.
- The Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour allows for self-paced exploration of Indianapolis’ top attractions, including the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument and the Indiana Statehouse, using a downloadable app.
- The Top Shelf Brewery and Winery Tours offer air-conditioned transportation and guided experiences to multiple breweries and wineries, catering to groups of up to 14 people.
- The Fountain Square Food Tour and Massachusetts Avenue Food Tour showcase the diverse culinary scene of Indianapolis, featuring local eateries, small-batch beverages, and historical context.
Indy Walking Tours
What better way to explore the heart of Indianapolis than with Indy Walking Tours? This highly-rated walking tour company offers an engaging and informative experience, led by the knowledgeable guide Rob.
Reviewers rave about his humor and expertise, as he brings the city’s history, architecture, and local culture to life.
The 2-hour walking tour covers key landmarks, with a refreshment break at the Tavern on the Point. For $55 per person, visitors can expect a maximum group size of 20, ensuring a personalized experience.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation.
Travelers consistently praise the tour’s educational value and enjoyable atmosphere, making it suitable for families and those seeking a non-sporting activity in Indianapolis.
With 97% of reviewers recommending the experience, Indy Walking Tours is an excellent choice for those eager to discover the heart and soul of this vibrant Midwest city.
Read our full review: Indy Walking Tours Review
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Indianapolis: Open-Air Pedal Pub Tour With Local Drinks
For a unique and lively way to experience Indianapolis’ vibrant nightlife, the Indianapolis: Open-Air Pedal Pub Tour With Local Drinks stands out. Participants board a 15-person pedal-powered vehicle and explore the city’s best local breweries, distilleries, and bars.
The open-air design allows for panoramic views as the group pedals through downtown. Along the way, knowledgeable guides provide insights into Indy’s rich history and exciting culinary scene.
Riders can sample a variety of local craft beers, spirits, and cocktails at each stop, making this tour a delightful blend of exercise, education, and indulgence. The route is tailored to highlight Indianapolis’ thriving drinking culture, showcasing the city’s burgeoning reputation as a Midwest hub for artisanal libations.
Whether you’re a local looking to discover new favorites or a visitor eager to learn about the city’s nightlife, the Indianapolis: Open-Air Pedal Pub Tour offers an unforgettable and entertaining experience.
Read our full review: Indianapolis: Open-Air Pedal Pub Tour With Local Drinks Review
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Top Shelf 14-Passenger Brewery Tour
Though the Indianapolis: Open-Air Pedal Pub Tour offers a unique and lively experience, the Top Shelf 14-Passenger Brewery Tour provides a more comprehensive exploration of the city’s thriving craft beer scene.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 based on 3 reviews, this air-conditioned tour transports guests to several top Indianapolis breweries, allowing them to sample a variety of local brews.
The tour includes bottled water, gratuity, and the freedom to make purchases at each stop. Pickup and drop-off can be arranged at any location within the Indianapolis area, and the tour operates daily from 9 AM to 7 PM.
At $599 for the entire group of up to 14 people, the Top Shelf tour offers a private and personalized brewery experience.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a “Reserve Now, Pay Later” option, this tour provides a convenient and flexible way to explore Indianapolis’ thriving beer culture.
Read our full review: Top Shelf 14-Passenger Brewery Tour Review
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Indianapolis Prowl Amazing Race & Tour
Indianapolis Prowl Amazing Race & Tour provides a thrilling and interactive way to explore the city. This 2-hour experience, priced from $24 per person, allows participants to solve clues, tackle wacky tasks, and discover hidden gems throughout Indianapolis.
The adventure is available in English and offers private or small group options, making it family and dog-friendly. Guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The experience begins at a scenic local favorite, where a guide leads the group to various checkpoints, including both indoor and outdoor activities with bonus challenges. Participants interact with locals to solve clues and score points, climbing the leaderboard as they go.
Suitable for a wide range of groups, from corporate teams to bachelorette parties, the Indianapolis Prowl Amazing Race & Tour promises an unforgettable adventure.
With over 600 city experiences available, this tour provides a unique and customizable way to explore the city.
Read our full review: Indianapolis Prowl Amazing Race & Tour Review
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Top Shelf 14-Passenger Winery Tour
What better way to explore Indianapolis’ renowned winery scene than the Top Shelf 14-Passenger Winery Tour? This luxurious tour offers a comprehensive experience, transporting guests in an air-conditioned vehicle to multiple wineries.
Along the way, travelers will enjoy complimentary bottled water and gratuity-included visits, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free journey.
The tour departs from the iconic Monument Circle, with the option to be picked up at a specified location within the Indianapolis area. After a day of wine tasting, the tour culminates at the Soldiers & Sailors Monument, providing a convenient end point for participants.
Priced at £501.08 per group (up to 14 people), this tour offers exceptional value. Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and the reserve now, pay later option.
With daily availability from June 2023 to December 2025, the Top Shelf 14-Passenger Winery Tour is a must-do experience for oenophiles and Indianapolis explorers alike.
Read our full review: Top Shelf 14-Passenger Winery Tour Review
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Indianapolis Childrens Museum Audio Tour (ENG) (NO TICKET)
Providing an immersive experience for young visitors, the Indianapolis Children’s Museum Audio Tour (ENG) (NO TICKET) offers a guided exploration of this renowned institution, even without the need for a museum admission ticket.
Featuring informative narration, the audio tour allows families to discover the museum’s vast collection of interactive exhibits, from the dinosaur-filled Dinosphere to the innovative SpeedZone.
Designed to captivate young minds, the tour highlights key attractions and provides engaging insights, encouraging children to actively participate and learn.
Whether seeking an educational adventure or simply a fun-filled day, the Indianapolis Children’s Museum Audio Tour (ENG) (NO TICKET) serves as an accessible and enriching alternative for those unable to purchase museum tickets.
With its seamless integration of technology and content, this self-guided experience ensures a memorable visit for curious young travelers.
Read our full review: Indianapolis Childrens Museum Audio Tour (ENG) (NO TICKET) Review
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Fountain Square Food Tour
Situated just south of downtown Indianapolis, the Fountain Square Food Tour offers a delectable exploration of the neighborhood’s vibrant culinary scene. This 3-hour walking tour takes visitors on a journey through the funky cultural atmosphere, sampling globally inspired cuisine from French to Thai.
Along the way, guests indulge in small-batch mead, locally brewed cider, and savory barbecue while learning about Indianapolis’ rich history.
The tour accommodates up to 12 travelers and is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it a great option for families and groups.
Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, who provide insightful historical context and facilitate open dialogue among participants. Customers appreciate the excellent customer service, with the tour company responding promptly to inquiries.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Fountain Square Food Tour promises a tasty and immersive experience in this vibrant Indianapolis neighborhood.
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Indianapolis: Crossroads Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour
Although Indianapolis is known for its rich history and vibrant culture, the city also harbors a darker side, one shrouded in ghostly tales and supernatural occurrences.
The Indianapolis: Crossroads Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour invites visitors to uncover these eerie stories firsthand. This 1-hour tour, priced at $32 per person, takes participants on a journey through the city’s most haunted locations.
Highlights include tales of race day tragedies, WWII events, and a presidential curse, as well as the history of the USS Indianapolis sinking and the story of a boy saving the city from the Governor’s Mansion ghost.
Guests will have the opportunity to capture evidence of apparitions as they explore haunted sites like the Indiana Repertory Building, Monument Circle, and Winners Circle Sports Pub.
Led by an experienced local guide, the tour promises a unique blend of history and the paranormal, with a 3.6/5 overall rating from past participants.
Read our full review: Indianapolis: Crossroads Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour Review
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Massachusetts Avenue Food Tour
Departing from the haunted tales of Indianapolis, the Massachusetts Avenue Food Tour offers a delectable exploration of the city’s vibrant culinary scene. Rated 4.2 stars by 17 reviewers, this walking tour showcases a variety of local eateries and Indiana history. Guests can sample gourmet Midwestern classics, German fare, microbrews, and seasonal desserts, starting at the city’s oldest restaurant, Rathskeller.
With all food tastings, lunch, and a local guide included, the tour provides a comprehensive experience. Accommodating up to 12 travelers, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it an inclusive outing.
While reviews note mixed experiences with guide interaction and group dynamics, participants praise the quality and selection of the food. Future guests are advised to be flexible with timing and adaptable to the group.
Read our full review: Massachusetts Avenue Food Tour Review
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Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Indianapolis
The Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Indianapolis offers visitors a self-paced exploration of the city’s vibrant urban core. Using a downloadable app, participants can navigate through the heart of the city, discovering its rich history, architecture, and cultural attractions at their own pace.
The tour highlights iconic landmarks like the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument, the Indiana Statehouse, and the Central Library, providing historical context and insights through the audio commentary.
Along the way, guests can pop into local shops, galleries, and eateries, seeing the lively atmosphere of downtown Indy.
The self-guided nature of the tour allows for flexibility, enabling visitors to customize their experience and spend more time at the sites that pique their interest.
With the app’s built-in map and GPS functionality, staying on track and ensuring you don’t miss any of the key sights is a breeze.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to rediscover your city, this tour is an excellent way to explore the best of downtown Indianapolis.
Read our full review: Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Indianapolis Review
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Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Indianapolis Sights & Stories
Exploring the heart of downtown Indianapolis through the Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey filled with iconic sights and captivating stories. This 24-review tour boasts a 4.1-star rating, offering a private experience at your own pace. The walking tour is created by knowledgeable locals, allowing you to explore the city’s most significant landmarks and uncover fun facts and trivia.
The tour starts at the iconic Monument Circle, taking you on a leisurely stroll through the downtown area, culminating at the intersection of East Washington Street and South Meridian Street. Along the way, you’ll discover family-friendly stops and engage with an easy-to-use web interface, with 24/7 support available by phone or email.
Priced at $27.50 per group (up to 15 people), the tour offers a wheelchair-accessible, stroller-friendly, and service animal-friendly experience, making it accessible to most travelers. With the flexibility of starting the tour whenever you’re ready, this smartphone-guided adventure ensures an immersive and personalized exploration of Downtown Indianapolis.
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Downtown Indianapolis: Walking In App Audio Tour (ENG)
Smartphone-wielding visitors can embark on a captivating audio-guided walking tour of Downtown Indianapolis. The “Downtown Indianapolis: Walking In App Audio Tour (ENG)” leads explorers through the city’s vibrant heart, narrating its history and highlighting must-see landmarks.
With the app’s easy-to-follow directions, travelers can stroll at their own pace, seeing the city’s rich cultural tapestry. The tour covers iconic sites like the Indiana Statehouse, the Indianapolis City Market, and the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument, providing insightful commentary that brings the city’s past to life.
Participants can pause the tour to snap photos or explore side streets, ensuring a personalized and flexible experience. Whether visitors are first-time guests or longtime residents, this app-based tour offers a convenient and enriching way to discover the charming downtown district.
With its seamless integration of technology and storytelling, the “Downtown Indianapolis: Walking In App Audio Tour (ENG)” is a must-try for any visitor seeking to uncover the city’s captivating essence.
Read our full review: Downtown Indianapolis: Walking In App Audio Tour (ENG) Review
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Indianapolis Ghosts: Haunts, Spirits, and Phantoms Walking Tour
Adventurous visitors can join the “Indianapolis Ghosts: Haunts, Spirits, and Phantoms Walking Tour” for a spooky exploration of the city’s haunted past.
This 2-hour walking tour starts at 8 PM from 140 W Washington St, taking participants on a journey through Indianapolis’ most haunted locations. With a maximum of 40 travelers, the tour is priced from $31 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
While the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible and near public transportation, reviews suggest some issues with the experience. Some participants found the storytelling quality and organization lacking, with the guide described as enthusiastic but lacking in knowledge.
There were also reports of difficulties hearing the guide, even with a microphone. Some guests felt the tour was more of a history lesson than a ghost tour. The tour operator has acknowledged these concerns and committed to improving the experience.
Read our full review: Indianapolis Ghosts: Haunts, Spirits, and Phantoms Walking Tour Review
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Sum Up
Indianapolis offers a variety of engaging tours for visitors. From walking tours to brewery and winery tours, there’s something for every interest. Smartphone-guided tours allow for self-paced exploration, while guided tours provide insights into the city’s history and haunted sites. Whether you’re interested in the local drinks scene or seeking a unique sightseeing experience, Indianapolis has a tour to suit your needs.