A straight shot north on I-65 for four short road trip hours puts you in one of the Midwest's most underrated cities, Indianapolis. The Circle City has spent the last decade quietly reinventing itself into a destination worth seeking out at any time of year, but it is at holiday time that the city really comes to life. From world-class museums and a thriving restaurant scene to one of the most spectacular holiday light displays in the country, Indianapolis offers the kind of long weekend escape that Middle Tennessee families and couples seek out — close enough to drive, different enough to feel like a real getaway, and packed with enough to do that you will leave wishing you had more time. And that's why Indy deserves a spot on your holiday itinerary this season.
Opened in 2025, the InterContinental Indianapolis, a restored historic landmark steps from Monument Circle, sets the tone for a luxurious weekend right from the start. The hotel’s 170 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites and 11th-floor Astrea Rooftop offer sweeping views of the Circle of Lights, which transforms the Soldiers and Sailors Monument into the world’s largest Christmas artificial tree.
The iconic Circle of Lights makes the heart of the city glow. Comprised of thousands of LED lights and garland strands, the display is both luminous and meaningful, with each color honoring a branch of the U.S. military. Monument Circle is home to many events throughout the year that will make strolling through the heart of downtown a fun evening for you and your partner including Symphony on the Circle, art fairs, and pride celebrations, among many others.
Continue your visit to Christmas at the Zoo, a beloved Indianapolis tradition dating back to 1967. As the first zoo in the nation to host a holiday lights event, the Indianapolis Zoo has perfected the art of a dazzling light display for festive fun. Glowing tunnels and illuminated displays feel both joyful and nostalgic. The 2026 programming runs November 21 through January 3.
After a restful night sleep, be sure to start your day with breakfast at Love Handle, a local favorite known for its ever-changing menu of delicious breakfast sandwiches with an atmosphere that is casual and creative.
From there, walk to the Bottleworks District, a reimagined Coca-Cola bottling factory turned vibrant entertainment hub. Even if you’re not staying there, stepping inside the Bottleworks Hotel is a must. The art deco details including the original terrazzo floors, a grand chandelier from the 1920s, and stunning architectural touches take you a step back in time.
Spend the afternoon wandering the district’s shops and food hall along Massachusetts Avenue (Mass Ave), popping into boutiques like Good Neighbor for curated fashion finds or Pumkinfish for playful holiday gifts. For a more sensory souvenir, create a custom scent at Penn & Beech or Aroma Labs, crafting a fragrance that ties Indianapolis to this fun holiday weekend away.
Culture takes center stage at the Yuletide Celebration at Hilbert Circle Theatre, just a short walk from the InterContinental. The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra brings holiday classics to life in a grand, historic setting. This year, the 40th-anniversary production, combines a full orchestra with vocalists, performers, high-energy choreography and returning favorites such as the tap-dancing Santas and ’Twas the Night Before Christmas. Performances run December 4–23,
Later, enjoy happy hour at RH Indianapolis at the DeHaan Estate. It's a furniture store, restaurant and wine bar all rolled into one. Even without a dinner reservation, sipping wine while overlooking the lake and wandering the gallery-like showroom feels both indulgent and serene.
Just minutes away, is Winterlights at Newfields, the 152-acre home of the Indianapolis Museum of Art. The outdoor experience fills The Garden with lights stretching into the branches of century-old trees, while the historic Lilly House features miniature Dickens villages, gingerbread aromas and seasonal décor. Firepits, s’mores, hot cocoa, cider and seasonal cocktails add to the holiday experience. Winterlights celebrates its 10th season this year and it runs from November 21 through January 4.
Start your next day with breakfast at Borage, a cozy café near the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) owned by a husband-and-wife duo. Then head to the newly renovated IMS Museum, where fun and cutting-edge exhibits bring the history of the Indianapolis 500 to life.
The highlight is the “Kiss the Bricks” Tour, a tradition once reserved for race winners and now shared with visitors. Standing at the finish line and kissing the historic bricks is symbolic for achievement and legacy.
Travel just north of downtown for a quick stop at the Carmel Christkindlmarkt, an award-winning outdoor market inspired by traditional Christmas markets in Germany. Dozens of wooden huts serve German specialties and warm drinks while artisans sell handcrafted gifts and demonstrate skills such as woodworking and glassblowing. Visitors can listen to international musicians, explore vendors beneath the market’s towering Glühwein Pyramid on The Ice at Carter Green. Admission to the market is free. The market runs November 21–December 24.
As a last stop on your holiday tour of Indy, end the trip on a high note with a visit to The Cabaret. The intimate venue, devoted entirely to cabaret performances, pairs Broadway-caliber talent with craft cocktails and a thoughtfully curated menu. It’s the "chef's kiss" to a festive weekend du jour.
From sparkling lights and seasonal celebrations to memorable meals, cozy stops and lots of things to do, Indy offers a wonderful mix of holiday tradition and urban adventure. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends or someone special, Indianapolis makes it easy to soak up the season and create a few new holiday memories along the way. VisitIndy.com
"Memories from a trip to Indianapolis will last long after the decorations come down,” said Clare Clark, senior communications manager for Visit Indy.
“With so many festive attractions within walking distance of InterContinental Indianapolis, our hotel is at the heart of the city’s seasonal celebrations. We love helping our guests make the most of this magical time of year,” said Zachary D. Lockett, Director of Sales and Marketing, InterContinental Indianapolis.