A layover in Indianapolis is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Indianapolis International Airport sits just 80 minutes from the city center by IndyGo Route 8, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of IND:
- Can you legally enter United States? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 80-minute journey each way by IndyGo Route 8, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
How to Get Into Indianapolis
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| IndyGo Route 8 | ~80 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~100 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the IndyGo Route 8 is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
What to Budget for Your Indianapolis Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Indianapolis, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Indianapolis.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Indianapolis, we’d suggest Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum and White River State Park & Canal Walk. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at IND, check out The Club IND or IND Public Art Collection to keep yourself occupied.
Food & Dining Options
In Indianapolis
If you make it into town, St. Elmo Steak House is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try The Eagle.
Inside IND
If you’re staying in the terminal, Harry & Izzy’s is your main option. Sun King Brewery works too if you want something quick.
Luggage Storage Options
You can store your luggage at Luggage lockers are not available at the airport due to security regulations.. Rates typically depend on bag size and duration.
If the airport lockers are full or inconveniently located, services like Bounce and Stasher list verified storage spots in and around Indianapolis as well.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and IND is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Indianapolis and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, IND has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Indianapolis with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Indianapolis may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.