Why You Should Visit This U.S. City That Is Breaking All-Time Tourism Records

Sometimes the best travel discoveries are the ones hiding in plain sight. You could book the obvious trip to Chicago or another coastal hub, but what if we told you that one of the most exciting and revitalized cities in the country is a place you might have overlooked?

Here at Travel Off Path, we’re all about finding the destinations that are genuinely buzzing, and the proof is in the pudding. One Midwestern city isn’t just recovering its tourism; it’s shattering its all-time records this year, and it’s time to find out why.

Forget its “flyover” reputation. Indianapolis is packed with a vibrant downtown, a surprisingly amazing food scene, and a friendly, welcoming energy that makes it the perfect underrated fall getaway. Here’s why you should make time to visit.

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A Revitalized and Super Walkable Downtown

The first thing that will surprise you about Indianapolis is just how much there is to do right in the heart of the city. The downtown area has undergone a massive revitalization and is clean, safe, and walkable.

The centerpiece is the stunning White River State Park, a 250-acre urban oasis that feels like the city’s backyard. Here you can stroll along the beautiful Central Canal Walk (you can even rent a paddle boat!), visit world-class museums like the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, or just relax in the grass. It’s a perfect way to spend a crisp fall afternoon, and it’s all connected by pedestrian-friendly paths.

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It’s A Seriously Great Foodie City

Indy’s food scene is booming, and it’s one of the main reasons travelers are falling in love with the city. The best place to experience it is on Massachusetts Avenue, or “Mass Ave” as the locals call it. This diagonal street is the city’s coolest corridor, packed with independent restaurants, craft cocktail bars, and unique boutiques.

And for a taste of the city’s resilience, check out the new AMP at 16 Tech, an artisan marketplace that has become a major foodie hub, featuring a diverse mix of local food stalls and pop-ups. It’s a perfect example of the new energy driving the city forward.

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More Affordable Than You Think 💸

This is where Indianapolis really shines. It offers a big-city experience for a fraction of the cost of its more famous neighbors. The value here is incredible.

• Hotels: A room at a great downtown hotel can often be found for around $150 a night, a price that would be double or triple that in Chicago.
• Public Transport: While it’s very walkable, the IndyGo bus system is easy to use, and a day pass is only $4.
• Food: You can enjoy a fantastic meal on Mass Ave without breaking the bank, with many entrees at top spots falling in the $20-30 range.

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Iconic Sights and Hidden Gems

You can’t talk about Indy without mentioning the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Even if you’re not a racing fan, the on-site museum is a fascinating look at over a century of history and innovation.

But the city also rewards those who explore. From the trendy, artistic vibes of the Fountain Square neighborhood to the beautiful monuments and memorials that dot the downtown core (Indy has more monuments dedicated to veterans than any other U.S. city outside of D.C.), there’s a real sense of discovery around every corner.

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So Easy To Get To

Indianapolis isn’t just easy to get to; it’s a pleasure to fly into. The Indianapolis International Airport (IND) is consistently ranked as one of the best airports in North America for a reason. It’s a major hub served by all the big players like Southwest, American, and Delta, offering over 50 nonstop flights from across the country. This fierce competition means you can almost always find an affordable and convenient flight, making it one of the easiest and most budget-friendly cities to reach in the Midwest.

For a fall getaway that is easy, affordable, and full of surprises, Indianapolis is the smart and savvy choice for 2025.

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