Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Indianapolis, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America

Based on the climate and weather in Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America, the best time to go is September. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Indianapolis, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America by month

January

If you go to Indianapolis in January, you will notice that it is frosty and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time and snow 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Indianapolis. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the necessary type. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are intending to see the stunning Scottish Rite Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February in Indianapolis can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time and snows sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Indianapolis. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the correct type. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you are intending to see the stunning Scottish Rite Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March here can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Indianapolis. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you are intending to see the stunning Scottish Rite Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April in Indianapolis is cool and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) to low 60s F (high 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Indianapolis. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are intending to see the stunning Scottish Rite Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you visit Indianapolis during May, you may find that it is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Indianapolis. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the necessary kind. Most adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you are intending to see the stunning Scottish Rite Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June for Indianapolis is hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Indianapolis. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you are intending to see the stunning Scottish Rite Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you vacation in Indianapolis during July, you will probably notice that it is hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Indianapolis. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the right kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you are intending to see the stunning Scottish Rite Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

August in Indianapolis is pretty consistently hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 70s F (low 20s C) to 80s F (high 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Indianapolis. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the right type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are intending to see the stunning Scottish Rite Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September in Indianapolis is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Indianapolis. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the correct kind. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are intending to see the stunning Scottish Rite Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

Traveling to Indianapolis in October, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Indianapolis. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the necessary type. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

If you are intending to see the stunning Scottish Rite Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

In November, Indianapolis is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (low 10s C) and 5-10 days this month jump into the low 60s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Indianapolis, with several of the days of the month having rain. In November, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Indianapolis. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

If you are intending to see the stunning Scottish Rite Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

If you are traveling to Indianapolis in December, you will notice that it can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain regularly and snow about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Indianapolis. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the right type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you are intending to see the stunning Scottish Rite Cathedral, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Indianapolis, Indiana, United States of America

Indianapolis, Indiana is a bustling city with a variety of exciting tourist attractions. This midwestern gem has everything from sports venues and cultural landmarks to museums and parks. Here are the top tourist attractions in Indianapolis, Indiana to add to your itinerary.

1. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway: Known as the "Racing Capital of the World," the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is a must-visit attraction for sports enthusiasts. This iconic venue hosts the famous Indy 500, as well as other racing events throughout the year. Visitors can tour the track, museum and hall of fame, and take a lap around the track themselves.

2. The Children's Museum of Indianapolis: The largest children's museum in the world, this museum is a hit with families. With interactive exhibits and attractions, including a dinosaur exhibit and a replica of the International Space Station, there's something for everyone. This museum aims to inspire and educate children across a variety of interests.

3. The Indianapolis Zoo: Home to over 1,200 animals from around the world, the Indianapolis Zoo is a popular attraction for animal lovers. Visitors can get up close with the animals through the zoo's various exhibits such as the dolphin exhibit, petting zoo and even a chance to feed the giraffes.

4. The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art: The only museum in the Midwest dedicated solely to Native American and Western Art, the Eiteljorg is a great spot for history and art lovers. With over 1,400 works of art, featuring both historic and contemporary pieces, visitors can learn about the history, culture and arts of the American West.

5. Indianapolis Artsgarden: A unique attraction, the Indianapolis Artsgarden is a glass-enclosed structure that spans above the busy intersection of Washington and Illinois Streets. Here, visitors can enjoy free concerts, performances and other cultural events with a beautiful view of the city's skyline.

6. White River State Park: A perfect spot to explore nature in the city, the White River State Park offers a variety of walking and bike trails, a scenic canal ride, and is also home to the Indianapolis Zoo and the Eiteljorg Museum. Visitors can enjoy a day spent outdoors relaxing and taking in the beautiful scenery.

7. Monument Circle: This iconic monument in the heart of Indianapolis commemorates the state's soldiers and sailors who served in the Civil War. Visitors can climb the 330 steps to the top of the monument for a panoramic view of the city.

Whether you're a sports fan, a history buff or just want to enjoy some fun activities with your family, Indianapolis has something for everyone. Don’t miss your chance to visit these incredible attractions and discover what makes this city such a popular destination.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Carthage, Tunisia, Bergisches Land, Germany, Frosinone, Italy, Aomori, Japan, Rabka-Zdrój, Poland, Ulverston, England, United Kingdom, Halebidu, India, Elkhart, Indiana, United States of America, Mount Whitney, California, United States of America, Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom, and Redlands, California, United States of America.