Indianapolis will host a regional final in the 2025 NCAA Tournament. Here’s everything visitors need to know about the city!
Indianapolis is no stranger to hosting big sporting events, particularly when it comes to the NCAA. The city hosts the Big Ten title game annually and regularly welcomes in teams and fanbases during the NCAA Tournament, whether it’s Sweet 16 and Elite Eight showdowns, the Final Four or basically the whole dang tournament in 2021.
While it may not have the reputation of a great tourist city, those who have visited the capital of the Crossroads of America certainly walked away impressed. And if you haven’t, you’re in luck as we have you covered with everything you need to know if you’re making the trek to Indianapolis for March Madness.
Best place to eat before the game
- Fat Dan’s Deli — Looking for some pregame wings? There may be no better place than Fat Dan’s. Located downtown, Fat Dan’s smoked wings are always perfectly cooked and go perfectly with an order of tater tots.
- World Famous HotBoys — While this is another restaurant that specializes in chicken, it’s a much different style. If you’re feeling dangerous and want to test your taste buds with some spice, HotBoys is your place. Beware, though. The sauces really pack a punch.
- The Garage Food Hall — Not sure what you’re in the mood for? The Garage is the solution to your problem. With a host of options from regions all over the globe, there will surely have something for everyone.
- Bru Burger Bar & Grill — Want something more traditional like a good burger? Bru Burger is your place to go. On top of being a tasty burger, they also offer vegetarian and gluten-free options as well.
Best Place to Celebrate a Victory
- Kilroy’s Bar & Grill — Located within walking distance of Lucas Oil Stadium — and just across the street from Banker’s Life Fieldhouse — Kilroy’s is one of the go-to bars downtown.
- Tapper’s Arcade Bar — You want to follow your team’s lead and go win a game or two yourself? Tapper’s has you covered. A bar full of arcade machines ranging from NFL Blitz to dozens of pinball machines, you’ll surely find some game you can win at here.
- Sun King Brewery — Looking for a variety of beer options? Sun King has all sorts of beer options, including special selections for big occasions, like a Taylor Swift concert or the NBA All-Star Game.
Best Place to Bounce Back After a Loss
- Pots & Pans Pie Co. — Pots & Pans is the perfect place to grab a slice of pie to eat while wallowing in sadness. While there are pastry options available as well, the recommendation is a piece of apple pie. Or the whole thing, depending on how bad the loss was.
- Insomnia Cookies — If you’re looking more for some cookies, Insomnia is a great option. You can’t go wrong with their classics like chocolate chunk or snickerdoodle, but they’re rotating deluxe options are often intriguing as well.
- Square Scoop — If ice cream is your preferred sadness food, Square Scoop is a great option. On top of having a great variety of ice cream, it’s also located just down the road from HotBoys mentioned above, which is a very convenient combination.
Best Place to Visit Outside the Arena
- The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis — Come to Indianapolis with your family? There’s not a better place to go than The Children’s Museum. The world’s biggest children’s museum has an outdoor sports experience if it’s a nice sunny day while also having plenty to offer inside, including a Mickey Mouse Clubhouse exhibit.
- Central Canal — If it’s a nice day outside, head on over to the canal for a scenic walk downtown. Located on the canal is NCAA Hall of Champions as well as the Indiana State Museum.
- Monument Circle — Located downtown a handful of blocks away from Lucas Oil Stadium, Monument Circle is centered around the Soldiers & Sailors Monument. It’s a tourist friendly area with shops and restaurants located all the way around the monument.
- Hinkle Fieldhouse — One of the most beautiful and historic gymnasiums in the country, let alone the state, Hinkle Fieldhouse is a great venue. If it’s open to the public, I highly encourage stopping inside at some point during your stay as it’s honestly a breathtaking arena.
