Indianapolis Nightlife Guide: Complete Guide
Experience the best bars, clubs, live music venues, and entertainment after dark. Discover the best nightlife experiences in Indianapolis.
Welcome to the ultimate nightlife guide for Indianapolis! Experience the best bars, clubs, live music venues, and entertainment after dark. This comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best nightlife experiences that Indianapolis has to offer, from popular hotspots to hidden local favorites. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you'll find insider tips, detailed recommendations, and everything you need to make the most of your nightlife adventure in Indianapolis. Our carefully curated selection ensures you won't miss any of the must-see spots while also discovering unique experiences that most tourists overlook.
Key Takeaways
- Indianapolis offers over 80 exceptional nightlife experiences
- Best time to visit varies by activity - check individual listings for optimal timing
- Many experiences require advance booking, especially during peak season
- Local guides and experts provide invaluable insights and access
- Prices range from budget-friendly to premium, with options for every preference
Top Bars & Cocktail Lounges
Craft cocktail bars, rooftop lounges, and unique drinking establishments with great atmospheres.
Tom's Watch Bar - Indianapolis
Highly rated American in Indianapolis with 4.8 stars from 2894 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 140 S Illinois St, Indianapolis, IN 46225, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic American cuisine
Ball & Biscuit
Highly rated Bar in Indianapolis with 4.5 stars from 687 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 331 Massachusetts Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46204, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Nowhere Special
Highly rated Bar in Indianapolis with 4.5 stars from 104 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 608 Massachusetts Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46204, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
The Hangar
Highly rated Bar in Indianapolis with 4.9 stars from 4847 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 501 Madison Ave #106, Indianapolis, IN 46225, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Yard House
Highly rated American in Indianapolis with 4.5 stars from 4564 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 15 W Maryland St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic American cuisine
Slippery Noodle Inn
Highly rated Restaurant in Indianapolis with 4.5 stars from 3776 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 372 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46225, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Dorman Street
Highly rated Bar in Indianapolis with 4.5 stars from 650 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 901 Dorman St, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
The Vault Indy
Highly rated Bar in Indianapolis with 4.5 stars from 155 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1542 S East St, Indianapolis, IN 46225, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Nicky Blaine's Cocktail Lounge
Highly rated Bar in Indianapolis with 4.6 stars from 1006 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 20 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
WildEye Lounge
Highly rated Bar in Indianapolis with 4.9 stars from 180 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1026 Shelby St Suite C, Indianapolis, IN 46203, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Mel’s Speakeasy at Commission Row
Highly rated Bar in Indianapolis with 4.8 stars from 44 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 110 S Delaware St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Kilroy's Bar N' Grill
Highly rated Bar in Indianapolis with 4.4 stars from 4212 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 201 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46225, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Nightclubs & Dance Venues
Popular nightclubs, dance clubs, and venues featuring top DJs and live performances.
The Patron Saint
Highly rated International in Indianapolis with 3.9 stars from 224 reviews.
📍 250 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46225, USA
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Welcoming atmosphere
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Slippery Noodle Inn
Highly rated Restaurant in Indianapolis with 4.5 stars from 3776 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 372 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46225, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
The Red Room
Highly rated Bar in Indianapolis with 3.8 stars from 230 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 6335 Guilford Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220, USA
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Helium Comedy Club
Highly rated Bar in Indianapolis with 4.5 stars from 1937 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 10 W Georgia St, Indianapolis, IN 46225, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Howl at the Moon Indianapolis
Highly rated Bar in Indianapolis with 4.3 stars from 1620 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 20 E Georgia St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
The Hangar
Highly rated Bar in Indianapolis with 4.9 stars from 4847 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 501 Madison Ave #106, Indianapolis, IN 46225, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Estereo Nightclub
Highly rated International in Indianapolis with 3.9 stars from 195 reviews.
📍 6378 E 82nd St, Indianapolis, IN 46250, USA
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Welcoming atmosphere
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Paradox Lounge
Highly rated Bar in Indianapolis with 3.6 stars from 145 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1059 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46203, USA
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
White Rabbit Cabaret
Highly rated International in Indianapolis with 4.6 stars from 217 reviews.
📍 1116 Prospect St, Indianapolis, IN 46203, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Alley Cat Lounge
Highly rated Bar in Indianapolis with 4.5 stars from 873 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 6267 Carrollton Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Live Music Venues
Concert halls, jazz clubs, and venues showcasing local and international musical talent.
The Vogue Theatre
Highly rated International in Indianapolis with 4.4 stars from 2153 reviews.
📍 6259 N College Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Old National Centre
Highly rated International in Indianapolis with 4.3 stars from 2855 reviews.
📍 502 N New Jersey St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Everwise Amphitheater at White River State Park
Highly rated International in Indianapolis with 4.6 stars from 2999 reviews.
📍 801 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
HI-FI Indy & HI-FI Annex
Highly rated Bar in Indianapolis with 4.7 stars from 1894 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1043 Virginia Ave UNIT 4, Indianapolis, IN 46203, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Slippery Noodle Inn
Highly rated Restaurant in Indianapolis with 4.5 stars from 3776 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 372 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46225, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Ruoff Music Center
Highly rated International in Indianapolis with 4.5 stars from 13158 reviews.
📍 12880 E 146th St, Noblesville, IN 46060, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Tin Roof
Highly rated Bar in Indianapolis with 4.1 stars from 1264 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 36 S Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Budget-friendly prices
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Hoosier Dome
Highly rated International in Indianapolis with 4.4 stars from 324 reviews.
📍 1627 Prospect St Central, Indianapolis, IN 46203, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
Late-Night Dining
Restaurants and eateries open late for post-party meals and midnight cravings.
Yard House
Highly rated American in Indianapolis with 4.5 stars from 4564 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 15 W Maryland St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic American cuisine
The Oakmont
Highly rated Bar in Indianapolis with 4.5 stars from 816 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 323 N Delaware St Suite B, Indianapolis, IN 46204, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
The Social View
Highly rated Bar in Indianapolis with 4.3 stars from 173 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 361 Indiana Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46204, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Slippery Noodle Inn
Highly rated Restaurant in Indianapolis with 4.5 stars from 3776 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 372 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46225, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Knowledgeable staff
High Velocity
Highly rated American in Indianapolis with 4.2 stars from 1415 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 10 S West St, Indianapolis, IN 46204, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic American cuisine
Spoke & Steele
Highly rated American in Indianapolis with 4.2 stars from 617 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 123 S Illinois St, Indianapolis, IN 46225, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Established local favorite
- 🌃Authentic American cuisine
The District Tap
Highly rated Bar in Indianapolis with 4.5 stars from 1616 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 141 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46225, USA
- 🌃Highly rated by customers
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic Bar cuisine
Binkley's Kitchen and Bar
Highly rated American in Indianapolis with 4.3 stars from 1216 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 5902 N College Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220, USA
- 🌃Well-reviewed establishment
- 🌃Popular with locals and visitors
- 🌃Authentic American cuisine
Entertainment & Shows
Comedy clubs, theaters, and entertainment venues offering nighttime performances.
Helium Comedy Club
Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Indianapolis venue, featuring talented actors and captivating productions.
- •Book tickets in advance for popular shows
- •Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
- •Dress code varies - check venue requirements
- •Turn off mobile phones during performance
- •Check for student or group discounts
White Rabbit Cabaret
Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Indianapolis venue, featuring talented actors and captivating productions.
- •Book tickets in advance for popular shows
- •Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
- •Dress code varies - check venue requirements
- •Turn off mobile phones during performance
- •Check for student or group discounts
Mind Tripping Show
Experience unforgettable entertainment at this Indianapolis venue, offering shows and performances for all tastes.
- •Book tickets online in advance
- •Check show duration and intermissions
- •Arrive early to find parking
- •Review venue policies before attending
- •Check for package deals
The Cabaret
Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Indianapolis venue, featuring talented actors and captivating productions.
- •Book tickets in advance for popular shows
- •Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
- •Dress code varies - check venue requirements
- •Turn off mobile phones during performance
- •Check for student or group discounts
The Wit Theater - Home of ComedySportz
Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Indianapolis venue, featuring talented actors and captivating productions.
- •Book tickets in advance for popular shows
- •Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
- •Dress code varies - check venue requirements
- •Turn off mobile phones during performance
- •Check for student or group discounts
Mud Creek Players
Experience world-class theatrical performances at this Indianapolis venue, featuring talented actors and captivating productions.
- •Book tickets in advance for popular shows
- •Arrive 15-20 minutes before curtain time
- •Dress code varies - check venue requirements
- •Turn off mobile phones during performance
- •Check for student or group discounts
Nightlife Districts
Popular neighborhoods and areas known for vibrant nightlife and bar-hopping.
Howl at the Moon Indianapolis
Explore Indianapolis's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
Slippery Noodle Inn
Explore Indianapolis's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
Tin Roof
Explore Indianapolis's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
The Hangar
Explore Indianapolis's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
The Rooftop Garden
Explore Indianapolis's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
Tappers Arcade Bar
Explore Indianapolis's vibrant nightlife in this popular district, known for its diverse bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.
- •Start early to explore multiple venues
- •Use ride-sharing or public transit
- •Keep valuables secure
- •Check dress codes for upscale venues
- •Stay in groups for safety
Essential Tips
- 🌃Check dress codes before heading out
- 🌃Arrive early to avoid long lines at popular venues
- 🌃Use ride-sharing apps for safe transportation
- 🌃Keep valuables secure and stay aware of surroundings
- 🌃Pace yourself and stay hydrated
- 🌃Research cover charges and drink prices
- 🌃Make reservations for popular venues
- 🌃Bring valid ID - many places are strict about checking
- 🌃Start early - some venues close earlier than expected
- 🌃Ask locals for current hotspots and hidden gems
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
The best time for nightlife experiences in Indianapolis varies by activity and season. Generally, spring and fall offer ideal conditions with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is peak season with the most options but also the highest prices and largest crowds. Winter can offer unique experiences and better deals, though some activities may be limited.
Average Price
Prices for nightlife experiences in Indianapolis range widely depending on the activity and level of service. Budget options start around $20-50, mid-range experiences typically cost $75-150, while premium and exclusive options can range from $200-500+. Many activities offer group discounts and package deals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Indianapolis offers many excellent nightlife experiences, each with its own unique character. The best choice depends on your preferences, budget, and schedule, but our guide highlights the top-rated options that consistently deliver exceptional experiences.
Timing varies by activity, but generally spring and fall offer ideal conditions. Summer is peak season with the most options but larger crowds. Check individual listings for specific timing recommendations and seasonal considerations.
For popular experiences, especially during peak season, advance booking is highly recommended. Some activities have limited capacity and sell out quickly. Booking ahead also often provides better rates and ensures availability.
Requirements vary by activity, but generally bring comfortable clothing, appropriate footwear, sun protection, water, and any specific gear mentioned in activity descriptions. Check individual listings for detailed requirements.
Many nightlife experiences in Indianapolis cater to all skill levels, from beginners to experts. Check individual listings for difficulty levels and requirements. Many operators offer instruction and guidance for newcomers.
Costs vary widely depending on the type of experience and level of service. Budget options start around $20-50, mid-range experiences typically cost $75-150, while premium options can range from $200-500+. Group discounts and packages are often available.
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