Hear the rhythm of Indy

Mondays are for music, especially in Indianapolis. Kick off your week at Rhythm! Discover Center, the world’s first interactive drum and percussion museum. You can spend hours playing tam-tams, bongos and drum sets while learning how percussion has shaped cultures and music around the world. If you’re traveling in a group of at least 10 people, you can also book a 60-minute guided tour that ends with a facilitated drumming circle. Afterwards, visit the Jazz Kitchen to hear professional musicians perform during the weekly Jazz Jam Session. The free event starts at 7 p.m. and there are discounted prices on food and drinks.

Experience local culture at the Artsgarden

The Indianapolis Artsgarden in the center of downtown Indy is the city’s cultural beacon. Check the events calendar before you visit—in addition to art exhibitions, the Arts Council of Indianapolis hosts over 250 free lunchtime concerts throughout the year called Garden Jams. If one happens to take place during your stay, bring your lunch and find a comfy spot to enjoy the sounds of local bands and singer-songwriters. Traveling with family? Visit Indy Reads Books, one of the few remaining bookstores in Indianapolis. On Tuesdays from 6-7p.m., there is a Chess Club for Kids taught by a professional chess instructor.

Spend the day at the market

For a healthy dose of history, culture, architecture and agriculture, plan to spend Wednesday at the Indianapolis City Market. Founded in 1821, the location is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. If you’re visiting Indianapolis between May and October, you’re in luck, because every Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. is the Original Farmers’ Market. Pick up fresh goodies like strawberries, cheese and cookies while getting to know local farmers and enjoying live music. Finish your visit with a local craft beer at the Tomlinson Tap Room, open Monday-Saturday from 2-9 p.m.

Fly through local history

In 1995, a special union took place in Indianapolis when Rolls-Royce acquired the Allison Engine Company. Today, you can visit the Rolls-Royce James A. Allison Exhibition Center and see an extensive collection of aircraft engines, including Viper turbojets, automotive gas turbines and the Concorde Olympus. The free exhibition is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. In the evening, check out Indianapolis’ oldest bar (established in 1850!), the Slippery Noodle Inn. Every Thursday at 8:30 p.m., enjoy half-priced drinks and watch some of the city’s best local bands for only a $5 cover.

See the sights, then grab some bites

Take in 360° views of Indianapolis at the Indiana Soldiers and Sailors Monument. Hours vary throughout the week, but you are guaranteed entry every Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tickets are just $2 for adults, $1 for kids and free for veterans. On the ground floor is the Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War Museum. Free to visit, the museum details Indiana’s contribution to the U.S. Civil War. Close by is Tin Roof, a fun restaurant bar where local musicians like to hang out and play. Happy hour drink specials and half-off apps (not including tenders or wings) are available from 3-6 p.m.

A tip for weekday travel

Traffic can be a bit heavy in this city, and many Indianapolis attractions may not be within walking distance of each other. Whether you decide to rent a car during your stay or using a ride-sharing service like Uber, Choice Privileges® members can earn extra perks by spending at least one Sunday through Thursday night at participating Choice Hotels^® locations in Indianapolis. Choose from Fuel Rewards^® savings, Uber trip discounts, bonus points and more as part of the Your Extras program.