Why Indianapolis Should Be on Your Travel Radar for 2026

As the nation gears up to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, Indy is preparing for a milestone year of its own—one defined by innovation, cultural openings, new trail systems, and the 110^th anniversary of the biggest sporting event on the planet. Add to that the fact that travel trends are shifting toward the Midwest—and that Condé Nast Traveler just named Indy one of the top places to visit in 2026—and it’s clear: the Circle City is having a moment.

Here’s a first look at why Indy belongs on your 2026 travel list.

The Midwest Is Trending—and Indy Is Leading the Way

If 2026 has a theme in the travel world, it’s this: the Midwest is officially trending.According to upcoming Priceline travel trends, travelers are increasingly seeking out centrally located, affordable, culturally rich destinations—and Indy checks every box.

A New Era of Riverways & Trailways

Indy has long been celebrated as one of America’s most walkable cities. In 2026, we’re taking that reputation one step further with an unprecedented $190 million investment in trail expansions—timed perfectly with America’s 250^th birthday.

Launching in 2026, The Trailways will unify Indy’s growing slate of pedestrian and bike trails into one expansive network. Alongside this digital mapping tool and resource, visitors can expect major trail transformations:

• Georgia Street Promenade: A reimagined, three-block pedestrian corridor connecting major venues and creating a lively new downtown promenade.

• The Henry Street Bridge: A striking new gateway into Indy featuring artful rings suspended above the bridge that illuminate the skyline at night. This pedestrian and vehicular bridge crosses the White River, which—thanks to the completion of a decade-long cleanup in 2025—cements Indy’s status as America’s newest river city.

A Contemporary & Couture Cultural Moment

Indy’s arts and culture scene is stepping into the spotlight next year with two major openings.

• Cowboy Couture at the Eiteljorg Museum

In March, the Eiteljorg will debut Cowboy Couture, a high-fashion exhibit celebrating the work of Indy-based designer Jerry Lee Atwood, one of the nation’s leading creators of Nudie suits. His bespoke designs have dazzled on stars like Post Malone, Lil Nas X, and Kesha—and now visitors can explore his craftsmanship up close.

• Opening of CAMi: Contemporary Art Museum Indianapolis

In May, Indianapolis welcomes the opening of CAMi, a 40,000-square-foot contemporary art museum housed within a renovated 125-year-old dairy factory. This cutting-edge space will introduce new artists, rotating exhibitions, and immersive experiences that add depth and discovery to Indy’s cultural landscape.

A Blockbuster Year of Major Events

If you like your travel plans with a side of adrenaline, 2026 is your year. Indy will play host to:

• The 110th Running of the Indianapolis 500 - The world’s largest single-day sporting event, attracting more than 300,000 fans.

• The NCAA Men’s Final Four - One of the biggest championships in college sports, returning once again to a city that knows how to do it right.

With all this excitement comes new places to stay. Indy’s skyline continues to grow with the arrival of the 800-room Signia by Hilton and the highly anticipated Kimpton project—offering fresh options for business travelers, families, and event-goers.

Indy is evolving fast, with new cultural experiences, $3 billion of tourism-related infrastructure, major sporting moments, and national recognition. Whether you're a road-tripper, a culture seeker, a sports fan, or a traveler ready for something unexpected, Indy promises to be one of America’s most memorable destinations in 2026.

Photo by Scott Crone