| Lucas Oil Stadium Quick Guide | Details |
|---|---|
| Home Team | Indianapolis Colts (NFL); also hosts Big Ten Championship, concerts, college basketball, and more |
| Opened | August 16, 2008 |
| Capacity | Football: ~63,000 (expandable to 70,000 for major events) |
| Best Value Seats | Upper-level sideline sections (e.g., 613–617, 637–641) offer solid views at mid-tier prices |
| Premium Seating | Club Seats (with lounge access), 139 suites, Loge Boxes, Field Suites |
| Top Stadium Foods | Pork tenderloin sandwiches, BBQ nachos, craft beer, and Indy-style eats |
| Nearby Bars/Eats | St. Elmo’s Steak House, The Eagle, Kilroy’s, Slippery Noodle Inn |
| Closest Hotels | JW Marriott, Hampton Inn, Hyatt Regency, and more within walking distance |
| Transit Access | Walkable downtown location, rideshare drop zones, and garage parking nearby |
| Unique Highlights | Retractable roof and window with skyline views, host of Super Bowl XLVI, Big 10 Championship Game, 2026 and 2029 NCAA Final Fours, and the Combine |
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Best Seats at Lucas Oil Stadium
Lucas Oil Stadium is modern, climate-controlled, and surprisingly intimate for a 67,000-seat venue—this is where Indianapolis got serious about hosting major events. The retractable roof and massive north window give you that outdoor feel when the weather’s nice, but you’re never dealing with rain delays or freezing temperatures. One honest reality: downtown Indianapolis is walkable and packed with great restaurants, so showing up hours early to explore Mass Ave or grab dinner at St. Elmo’s is part of the experience here, not just a time-killer.
Seating Guide
Lucas Oil Stadium holds roughly 67,000 fixed seats across multiple levels: 100s (lower bowl), 200s (club loge), 300s-400s (club/terrace), and 500s-600s (upper deck), expandable to over 70,000 for events like the Final Four. The layout is straightforward—sections run sideline-to-sideline with the Colts bench at sections 137-143 and visitors at 110-116. Think of this place as one of the NFL’s newer stadiums done right: clean sightlines, comfortable seating, and none of the quirky obstructions you deal with at older venues.
Best Non-Premium Seats
100-Level Sideline (Sections 117 to 121, 132 to 136):These lower bowl sideline sections put you between the 35-yard lines with straight-on views at field level—close enough to hear the hits and see plays develop. Rows 1-15 are ideal: you’re elevated just enough to see over standing fans but still close to the action. The 100-level sideline sections typically run 1-23 rows, so even back rows aren’t terrible. Trade-off: these are pricier than corners or end zones, and if you’re in the first few rows, tall fans standing can block your view during big moments.
I sat in row 10 here once and could read the play calls—that’s how close you are. Worth it if you can swing the price.
100-Level Corners (Sections 122-125, 127-131): Corner sections in the lower bowl give you angled views near the 25-yard lines, perfect for red zone action and goal-line stands. These sections go up to row 25, so there’s more inventory and better availability than straight sideline seats. Rows 10-20 are the sweet spot—high enough for perspective but close enough to feel the energy. You’re paying 20-30% less than midfield sideline but getting 80% of the experience. Trade-off: plays on the far side of the field feel distant, and you’ll rely on the video board more than sideline fans.
600-Level Sideline (Sections 611-618, 635-645): Upper deck sideline seats are shockingly good value at Lucas Oil—rows typically run 1-20, and the sightlines are clean with no obstructions. Sections 638-641 on the home (west) side and 611-614 on the visitor (east) side put you at or near the 50-yard line. Section 640 is dead center at midfield. You’re high up but the view is panoramic, and you can see formations and strategy unfold better than lower bowl corners. You’ll save $40-80+ per seat compared to lower levels, and concourses up here are way less crowded.
Budget/Best Value Option – Non-Premium: Section 531 (the two-row sections in the upper deck) are some of the best-kept secrets in the building—only two rows means no one’s climbing over you, and you get a front-row upper deck view. Other upper deck corner and end zone sections (524-529, 604-607, 619, 624-629, 631-634, 646) start under $50 including fees for many games. You’re farther from the field, but the retractable roof and giant video board make it feel connected. Trade-off: you’re missing the visceral lower bowl energy, and bathroom/concession lines still get busy at halftime despite fewer people up here.
Basketball Seating (2026 Final Four)
Lucas Oil Stadium will expand to over 70,000 seats for the 2026 Men’s Final Four, with the basketball court set up at field level. Best value for basketball: Upper level side court sections (608-610, 616-618, 635-637, 643-645) give you a straight-on view of the court from elevation, perfect for seeing plays develop—these run around $600-$800 per session. Premium basketball seats: Field level corner sections (105-109, 117-121, 132-136, 144-148) put you close to the action near the baskets, running $2,800-$3,500+ per session. Avoid for basketball: Upper level behind-the-basket sections (624-629, 524-529) are the cheapest but give you an extreme end-zone angle that’s awkward for watching basketball—only worth it if you’re on a tight budget.
Weather & Shade Reality
Lucas Oil Stadium has a retractable roof and a massive retractable north window, so weather is rarely an issue—the roof closes in about 11 minutes if rain or storms roll in. The roof is typically closed for most Colts games unless it’s perfect weather (70s, no wind, no chance of rain), and they tend to keep it closed even on nice days to control temperature. When the roof is open, the giant window creates an outdoor stadium vibe, but you can still get sun exposure in certain sections—west side (sections 137-143, home bench side) gets more afternoon sun, while east side (sections 110-116, visitor bench side) gets shade earlier in the day. Bottom line: don’t stress about weather here. It’s climate-controlled 90% of the time, and even when the roof opens, you’re not dealing with heat like outdoor stadiums.
What to Avoid
100-Level End Zone Deep Corners (Sections 101-103, 151-153): These sections sit at extreme angles in the end zone corners, and while you’re technically in the lower bowl, you’re far from the sideline action with awkward sightlines. Yeah, they’re cheaper than sideline seats, but you’re better off going upper deck sideline where the view is actually clearer and more centered. These are cheap for a reason—you’ll spend the whole game watching the video board instead of the field.
400-Level End Zone (Sections 425-447): The 400-level end zone sections are fine for some events, but for football, you’re at a weird mid-height angle that’s too high for intimacy but not high enough for the panoramic view you get in the 600s. These sections can go up to row 22, which means you’re pretty far back. Save money and go 600-level where the view is better, or spend a bit more for 100-level corners with way better sightlines.
Standing Room Only / Obstructed View Sections: Some tickets are sold as “obstructed view” or standing room only near club areas or behind suites—these are traps. You’re stuck behind seated sections or pillars with no real view unless you’re aggressive about positioning. Skip these even if they’re cheap. Pay $20 more and get an actual seat in the upper deck.
Premium Seating
Lucas Oil Stadium has over 7,000 club seats spread across multiple levels, with access to the East and West Club Lounges that actually feel upscale. What sets this place apart: the club lounges are spacious, well-designed, and don’t feel like afterthoughts—they’re legitimate spaces with quality food and bars, not just fancy concession stands. The stadium has three distinct tiers of premium seating, and the gap between them is bigger than you’d think.
The Best Premium Seating (That’s Not a Suite)
VIP Club Sections (112-114, 139-141, 212-214, 239-241), Located on the sidelines between the 25-yard lines on both 100 and 200 levels
Price range: $300-$800+ per seat depending on opponent and location.
What’s included: Access to exclusive VIP club lounges with upscale food stations, premium bars, nearly 100 HD TVs with NFL Sunday Ticket, and in-seat food and beverage service during select events. Padded stadium-style seating with extra legroom, VIP entrance for expedited security, and discounts at the Colts Pro Shop. VIP club guests get the best amenities in the building short of buying a full suite.
The lounge itself: The East and West Club Lounges are spacious, well-appointed, and feel more like upscale hotel lounges than stadium clubs. There are real bartenders, made-to-order food stations (not just grab-and-go), and the food quality is legitimately a step above—think Chef Kelsey Murphy’s restaurant-quality Cubans at Heartland Market. The vibe is definitely more corporate and subdued—you’re around executives and high-spending season ticket holders, not rowdy superfans. It feels a bit isolated from the stadium energy, especially if you spend too much time in the lounge.
Who this is for: Corporate entertainment, client hosting, or celebrating a major milestone like an anniversary or playoff appearance. One-time splurge for a big game or the Final Four. Not for families on a budget or fans who live for the crowd energy and want to be surrounded by die-hards.
Reality check: You’re paying 3x-4x the price of regular seats for elite comfort, excellent food, and quiet. You’re losing some of the raw stadium atmosphere—half the people in these sections spend more time networking in the lounge than watching the game. Worth it if you’re entertaining clients or treating yourself once a year. Not worth it if you care more about the game than the amenities. The food is legit, though—Lucas Oil takes stadium food seriously.
Mid-Tier Club Seating Option
Club Level Sections (300s and 400s between the 25-yard lines), Located on the Loge/Club Level
Price range: $150-$350 per seat.
What’s included: Access to club lounges with premium bars and food options, but unlike VIP seating, food and drinks are not included—you pay separately. You still get wider seats with extra legroom, exclusive club-level bathrooms, and access to VIP entrances. This is the “lite” version of the luxury experience: better amenities than general admission, but not all-inclusive like the top tier.
The lounge: It’s busier than VIP but way less chaotic than the main concourse. You see real fans here who care about the game, not just corporate types using it as a business meeting. The food options are solid—BBQ Heaven between sections 422-423 has pulled pork and ribs that are better than most stadium concessions. The vibe feels more connected to the game because people are bouncing between the lounge and their seats.
Who this is for: Fans who want upgraded comfort without the full splurge. Good for corporate groups on mid-range budgets or families who want some peace and quiet but still want to feel part of the energy. Also solid for regulars attending multiple games per season who want consistent perks without paying VIP prices.
Why this might be better: You’re getting 70% of the premium experience at 40-50% of the VIP price. The crowd is more engaged with the actual game—people here chose to spend money because they care about football, not just because it’s a business expense. Better value, less isolation from the stadium atmosphere. You can still grab great food, but you’re not overpaying for unlimited buffets you might not even use.
Best Value: Accessible Premium Seating
There’s not really a third “accessible” club tier at Lucas Oil—it’s either full club/VIP access or general admission. If you want premium-ish without the price tag, your best move is sitting in the lower club level (300s) where you get club lounge access but pay for food separately. Skip this section if you’re writing up Lucas Oil—there’s no Corona Beach House equivalent here.
Club Lounges
The East and West Club Lounges serve both the 100-level and 200-level club seat holders, so they get busy during peak times. The Quarterback Suite in the south end zone is a massive 200-person suite that’s more of a party space than traditional luxury seating. For actual quality club food, head to Heartland Market if you have club access—Chef Kelsey Murphy’s Cubans are restaurant-quality and make Lucas Oil one of the better stadium food experiences in the NFL.
Suites & Group Options
Suites at Lucas Oil run $15,000-$22,000 per game for regular season Colts games, with prices varying based on location and matchup. The stadium has 139 total suites across two levels: 77 lower suites (19-21 tickets, option for 10 standing room) and 57 upper suites including the massive 200-person Quarterback Suite. All suites include luxury seating, excellent sightlines, in-suite catering options, and access to club lounges. Corporate teams and big celebrations book these. Call the stadium’s group sales office directly or work with a suite broker like SuiteHop—brokers usually get better rates and handle catering customization. .
Lucas Oil Stadium Seating Chart
Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis boasts a capacity of 63,000 passionate fans for NFL games and up to 70,000 for larger events like concerts and basketball games. The stadium offers 139 suites, two club lounges, two exhibit halls and 12 meeting rooms, along with 360-degree ribbon boards and two 53-foot tall HD video boards.
To explore the seating arrangements and secure your preferred spot, refer to the Lucas Oil Stadium Seating Chart available on their website.
Tickets to Indianapolis Colts Games
Vivid Seats: Get your Indianapolis Colts Tickets Here! Through our partnership with Vivid Seats you can get tickets to any even at Lucas Oil, Gainbridge, Indiana, Purdue. Just about any event on the planet.
Official Colts Website: Start by visiting the official Indianapolis Colts website. They often release tickets directly through their website, providing a reliable and secure source for purchasing tickets. Check their ticketing section regularly for updates on upcoming games.
Season Tickets and Waitlist: Consider joining the Indianapolis Colts Season Ticket Holder Waitlist. This gives you the opportunity to secure season tickets, which provide access to all home games. While the waitlist may be long, it’s a great way to ensure you have guaranteed access to Colts games in the future.
Ticket Exchanges and Resale Platforms: Explore reputable ticket exchange platforms such as NFL Ticket Exchange, StubHub, or Ticketmaster Resale. These platforms allow fans to buy and sell tickets, providing a wide range of options for Colts games.
Single-Game Tickets: If you’re unable to secure season tickets or find tickets through other means, single-game tickets are often available for purchase. Keep an eye on the official Colts website or ticket exchange platforms for the release of single-game tickets.
NCAA Final Four Legacy
Indianapolis has hosted eight Final Fours, giving the city the second-highest total of championship games, two behind Kansas City. Lucas Oil Stadium has hosted the NCAA Men’s Basketball Final Four multiple times, including 2010, 2015, and 2021, and will host again in 2026 and 2029.
Big Ten Championship Home
Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis has been the site of the Big Ten Football Championship Game since its inception in 2011 and is scheduled to host through 2024. The game typically takes place the first Saturday of December and since 2017, the game’s official title has been the Big Ten College Football Championship Game Presented by Discover Card.
The Big Ten men’s basketball tournament alternates between Chicago’s United Center and Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, with the Final Four connection making Indianapolis a true basketball capital.
Lucas Oil Stadium Bag Policy
Lucas Oil Stadium implements a clear bag policy for all Indianapolis Colts events and other events as determined by the promoter. The policy allows the following bags:
- Clear bags: One clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bag that does not exceed 12″ by 6″ by 12″ or a one-gallon size clear plastic freezer bag
- Small clutch bags: Approximately the size of a hand (4.5″ x 6.5″)
- Medical and diaper bags: Bags containing medical devices and related supplies, including breast pumps, are not subject to the clear bag policy, but will be subject to security screenings
Note: Fanny packs are not allowed in Lucas Oil Stadium. There are no facilities for storing prohibited bags within the stadium, so plan accordingly to avoid entry denial.
Other Key Policies
Prohibited Items: Bottles and cans of any kind, balloons, beach balls and other inflatable items, banners with poles or sticks, and outside alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
Outside Food & Beverage: Limited outside food is permitted in clear bags, but bottles and cans of any kind are prohibited from being brought into the stadium.
Re-entry: If a patron exits the gated area on the outskirts of the stadium, he/she will not be allowed to re-enter the facility during Indianapolis Colts games.
The Colts have a pretty good A to Z gameday guide here.
Parking at Lucas Oil Stadium
Downtown Indianapolis is walkable and well-connected, so your best bet is parking a bit farther out and walking, or just using rideshare. Driving and parking right at the stadium works but expect to pay event rates and sit in traffic leaving.
Driving & Parking
Official stadium parking is in the Lucas Oil South Lot at 601 S. Capitol Ave, with event rates running $20-$40 depending on the event. The lot holds 1,499 spaces and is event-parking only—no parking after midnight. If you want cheaper and easier exit access, park in one of the downtown garages (Circle Center Mall garages are open 24 hours) or on Virginia Avenue near the three-way intersection of Virginia, South, and East Streets—it’s about a mile walk but you’ll find free street parking and avoid the post-game traffic nightmare. Arrive before 5pm to snag street parking. Capitol/Illinois area also has lots close to I-65 if you’re driving in from out of town.
Walking
If you’re staying downtown or within a mile of the stadium, walk. The area is safe, well-lit on game days, and you’ll avoid parking drama completely. Grab dinner or drinks beforehand and make it part of the experience—places like St. Elmo’s, Harry & Izzy’s, and Tavern on South are all within 10 minutes on foot.
Rideshare
Uber and Lyft are the easiest options if you’re coming from outside downtown. Expect to pay $12-$25 depending on where you’re coming from, but prices can surge 2x-3x right before kickoff and right after the final whistle. Use the app’s scheduled pickup feature or grab a ride 30-45 minutes after the game ends to avoid surge pricing. Pickup/dropoff is typically on South Street or Capitol Avenue near the stadium.
Public Transit
Indianapolis doesn’t have extensive public transit compared to other cities, but if you’re coming from certain areas, check IndyGo bus routes for downtown connections. Most visitors walk or rideshare from downtown hotels, which is easier and more reliable.
Insider Tips for Lucas Oil Stadium
Lucas Oil Stadium is a food destination—Indianapolis takes stadium food seriously, and you’ll find legitimately good options beyond the usual hot dogs and nachos. The retractable roof and downtown walkability make this one of the easiest NFL stadiums to navigate, and the crowd vibe is Midwestern-friendly without being boring.
Access & Gate Strategy
Gates open 90 minutes before kickoff for Colts games. Club and suite ticket holders should use the VIP entrance for expedited security—way shorter lines than general admission gates. General admission fans should enter through the gates closest to their seating section to avoid walking the entire concourse. No specific “secret gate” here—the stadium is well-designed and entry is generally smooth, but showing up 60-75 minutes early beats the crush that happens 30 minutes before kickoff.
Food & Drink Situation
Skip the generic concession stands and hit BBQ Heaven between sections 422-423—pulled pork and ribs are legitimately better than anything else in the general admission areas. If you have club access, go straight to Heartland Market for Chef Kelsey Murphy’s restaurant-quality Cubans—these are a standout. The tacos and wings at various stands around the stadium are also surprisingly good. Pro tip: buy food during the 2nd quarter, not halftime, and you’ll avoid 80% of the lines. Honestly, though, downtown Indy has so many great restaurants within walking distance that eating at the stadium makes less sense here than at most venues.
Concessions Hack: If you’re eating at the stadium, go to the opposite side concourse from your seats during the 2nd or 3rd quarter. Everyone clusters near their sections, so the far-side concourses have way shorter lines for the same food and bathrooms.
Arrival & Gate Timing
Gates open 90 minutes before kickoff. Giveaways and promotional items run out fast—usually by early in the 1st quarter on promo days. Parking downtown fills by 5:30pm for a 7pm game, so arrive early or use rideshare/walking. If you want to explore downtown, grab dinner, and walk to the stadium, plan to arrive 2-3 hours early—the city is built for this, and it’s one of the best parts of the Lucas Oil experience.
Stadium Traditions & Culture
The Colts have a strong community-focused culture, with initiatives like “Kicking the Stigma” raising over $32 million for mental health awareness. Before the annual Kicking the Stigma game, more than 400 mental health professionals hold the American flag during the national anthem. The crowd is Midwestern-friendly—loud when the Colts are on defense, but not obnoxious or overly rowdy. Fans take the game seriously but aren’t as intense as some East Coast or divisional rival cities. First-timers should expect a welcoming vibe—locals are genuinely happy you’re visiting.
Instagrammable Spots & Photo Ops
The retractable roof and north window are the main architectural features—shoot from inside the stadium looking up when the roof is open for a dramatic structural shot. Outside, Lucas Oil Plaza on the street level is the main gathering spot with the stadium name prominently displayed. The downtown Indianapolis skyline is visible from certain concourse areas, especially on the north side near the window. The Colts horseshoe logo is everywhere, so grab a shot at midfield or near the team store.
Stadium-Specific Quirks & Rules
The retractable roof opens in about 11 minutes but is almost always closed for Colts games unless weather is perfect—don’t expect an “outdoor” experience most of the time. The roof and window system is more for aesthetics and natural light than actual open-air football. Club level (300s and 400s) has restricted concourse access in some areas—you can only access the concourse behind your specific section. The stadium is climate-controlled year-round, so even December games feel comfortable.
Bathroom Situation
The club-level bathrooms (300s and 400s) are significantly less crowded than the main concourses, and if you’re in general admission, the 600-level restrooms are the least busy because fewer people sit up there. Go during TV timeouts or mid-quarter—never at halftime when lines get ridiculous everywhere (like most stadiums). Also they have Family Restrooms in all four quadrants of the stadium (NE, NW, SE, SW).
Tech Stuff
Lucas Oil Stadium has free WiFi throughout the entire venue—connect to the “ColtsWiFi” network as soon as you arrive. The stadium upgraded to WiFi-6 in 2019 with over 1,500 access points beneath seats, boosting capacity by 300% and making it one of the best-connected stadiums in the NFL. The system covers levels 100-600 and handles dense crowds without slowing down.
Final Four and Big 10 Championship
Lucas Oil Stadium is home to the Indianapolis Colts (NFL, September-January) and hosts major events like the 2026 NCAA Men’s Final Four (April 4-6, 2026). The stadium also hosts the Big Ten Football Championship Game, concerts, and other large-scale events year-round. If you’re visiting for the Final Four, expect the building to be expanded to over 70,000 seats with a basketball court at field level—totally different vibe from a Colts game, more like March Madness on steroids.
Hotels Near Lucas Oil Stadium
With Lucas Oil Stadium located in the heart of downtown Indianapolis, staying nearby puts you within walking distance of the stadium, Monument Circle, the Canal Walk, White River State Park, and the city’s vibrant dining and entertainment districts.
Conrad Indianapolis: This stylish 4 star hotel is perfect for leisure travelers looking to explore the city with modern comforts, offering polished atmosphere and clean, updated spaces in a central downtown location.
Bottleworks Hotel: An ideal choice for leisure travelers seeking a romantic and luxurious experience in the heart of Indianapolis, featuring a full-service spa, pool facilities, and unique architectural design.
InterContinental Indianapolis: Located a 13-minute walk from Lucas Oil Stadium, this hotel provides accommodations with a fitness center, private parking, a restaurant and a bar.
Omni Severin Hotel: A stylish 4.0-star hotel perfect for leisure travelers, featuring polished atmosphere, business center, and multiple meeting rooms with a serene environment in downtown Indianapolis.
Mid-Range Hotels
Crowne Plaza Indianapolis-Downtown-Union Station: An IHG Hotel featuring a pool and gym, walking distance to Lucas Oil Stadium and surrounded by bars and restaurants.
Staybridge Suites Indianapolis Downtown-Convention Center: An IHG hotel offering free breakfast, pool, and pet-friendly accommodations.
Holiday Inn Indianapolis Downtown: Just a 4-minute walk from Lucas Oil Stadium, featuring an indoor pool, fitness center, on-site restaurant (Champs), and free WiFi throughout the building.
Tru By Hilton Indianapolis Downtown: A 4.4/5 rated hotel offering free breakfast and modern amenities in downtown Indianapolis.
Indianapolis Marriott Downtown: Connected to the Indianapolis Convention Center and minutes away from Lucas Oil Stadium, Victory Field, and other downtown attractions.
Hotel Indy: A Tribute Portfolio Hotel located a 15-minute walk from Lucas Oil Stadium, featuring a fitness center, private parking, shared lounge, and rooftop bar.
Aloft Indianapolis Downtown: Located a 17-minute walk from Lucas Oil Stadium, offering a fitness center, private parking, shared lounge and bar with modern amenities. Bars and Restaurants Near Lucas Oil Stadium
Indianapolis’ downtown area offers some fantastic dining and drinking establishments perfect for pre-game festivities. Here are the top spots that consistently deliver an electric atmosphere:
Restaurants and Bars for Gameday
Indianapolis’ downtown area comes alive on game day with several distinct districts offering the perfect pre-game atmosphere for Colts fans. Georgia Street serves as the official epicenter of pre-game festivities, hosting live music, food trucks, and organized events right in the heart of downtown, while Massachusetts Avenue (Mass Ave) to the northeast provides a vibrant entertainment district filled with craft breweries and upscale dining options. However, the real action for serious fans happens in the blocks immediately surrounding Lucas Oil Stadium along South Meridian Street and Illinois Street. Here are some great options:
Tavern on South: Located in the shadow of Lucas Oil Stadium, this locally owned restaurant features seasonally inspired cuisine, regional craft beers on draft, and a second-level deck with downtown skyline views – perfect for catching some sun over lunch or dining on beautiful Indiana evenings.
Slippery Noodle Inn: established in 1850, this is Indiana’s oldest bar. Whether you want to soak in local history, listen to live blues, or enjoy a cold beer, this legendary establishment offers an authentic Indianapolis experience.
Brothers Bar & Grill: Located near Lucas Oil Stadium,, this is a convenient spot to visit before or after a Colts game with a lively sports bar atmosphere, multiple TVs, and great place to soak up game-day excitement.
Kilroy’s Bar and Grill: This spot is popular for its stuffed breadsticks, long island iced teas, and large screens – a go-to sports bar with lively atmosphere perfect for game nights.
The Whistle Stop: offering classic sports bar fare with proximity to Lucas Oil Stadium.
Outstanding Restaurants
St. Elmo Steak House: This legendary establishment, founded in 1902, offers the best steaks in town. Their world-famous shrimp cocktail is a must-try, but be warned – it’s spicy!
Harry & Izzy’s: An independent, upscale, classic American Grill in downtown Indianapolis with sophisticated ambience. This sister restaurant to St. Elmo shares classic dishes including steaks and the famous shrimp cocktail, while offering more menu variety.
Iozzo’s Garden of Italy: Originally established in 1930, this is the newest oldest Italian restaurant in Indianapolis, featuring traditional Iozzo Family Italian fare with a modern twist, located at 946 S Meridian St.
Shapiro’s Delicatessen: Located at 808 S Meridian St, a staple since 1905 serving classic deli sandwiches and Jewish comfort food, known for its iconic pastrami and matzo ball soup.
The Eagle: Situated on Massachusetts Avenue, this is where you want to go for soulful Southern cuisine. Their fried chicken is legendary!
Bluebeard: A modern American restaurant set in a renovated 1924 factory, offering a menu that changes daily based on local ingredients.
Tupelo Honey: Located at 320 S Alabama St, known for Southern-style dishes with creative twists on comfort food classics, including shrimp and grits and honey-dusted fried chicken.
Things to Do in Indianapolis
- Indianapolis Motor Speedway: Home to the iconic Indianapolis 500, the speedway offers tours and a museum showcasing the history of racing. This is a bit of a drive from downtown.
- NCAA Hall of Champions: Check out the history of collegiate sports with interactive exhibits and displays dedicated to various sports.
- Indianapolis Zoo: Explore diverse habitats and animal exhibits, including the Dolphin Dome and the Simon Skjodt International Orangutan Center.
- Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields: An art museum set amidst beautiful gardens, offering a diverse collection of art from various periods and cultures.
- Massachusetts Avenue (Mass Ave): A trendy cultural district with eclectic shops, art galleries, theaters, and a variety of dining options.
Whether you’re attending an NFL game, Final Four, Big Ten Championship, or any other event, you’re experiencing one of the great venues in the country. Enjoy the game day atmosphere, impressive architecture, and vibrant energy that Lucas Oil Stadium and the great city of Indianapolis has to offer!
Check out our full list of NFL Guides. If you’re headed over to Gainbridge Fieldhouse to see the resurgent Pacers or the Caitlan Clark led Fever we’ve got a guide for that as well as these regional gems:
Wrigley Field and Soldier Field
Paycor Stadium and Great American Ballpark
This guide to includes insights from personal visits as well as updated info from team sources, fan forums, and stadium policies. We aim to help you plan with confidence — enjoy your gameday.