Whether you’re new to town or just looking to explore Indy with fresh eyes, we’ve rounded up our favorite local gems—from cozy brunch spots to lakeside escapes, and everything in between. Bookmark this one for your next weekend plans or neighborhood daydreams.
MORNING VIBES
Favorite brunch spots
• Cafe Patachou – A longtime staple with a farm-fresh feel
• Good Morning Mama’s – Retro charm and hearty favorites in SoBro
Hidden gem coffee shop
• Kaffeine – Minimalist, moody, and excellent espresso
FOOD & DRINK
Favorite restaurants
• Convivio – Mark’s absolute favorite
• Mama Carolla’s – Romantic old-world Italian
• Delicia – Bold Latin flavors in Meridian-Kessler
Best date night spot
• 45 Degrees – Stylish sushi and cocktails in the heart of Broad Ripple
Wine bar we love
• Solely Wine – Sophisticated, small-batch pours and a beautifully curated vibe
Grab & go lunch favorites
• Mass Ave Pub
• Broad Ripple Bagel Deli – Local, low-key, and delicious
Best outdoor patio
• Bakersfield – Street tacos and tequila with unbeatable Mass Ave energy
WELLNESS & STYLE
Spa & massage
• Woodhouse Spa at Bottleworks – Total luxury in a restored Art Deco setting
Med spa & aesthetics
• LaserAway – Modern treatments and aesthetic care in a sleek space
Home décor shop
• Decorate – Chic pieces for every room, whether you’re furnishing or just dreaming
Gifts & specialty finds
• Silver in the City – Playful, stylish, and perfect for gift-giving with local flair
OUTDOOR FUN & LAKE DAYS
Favorite farmers markets
• 16 Tech Farmers Market – Downtown’s best farmers market
• Fishers Farmers Market – Fresh produce and community vibes every weekend
Top parks & trails
• Mounds Park (Anderson)
• Nashville, IN
• Brown County State Park
Boating & lake days
• Geist Reservoir – Cruise, paddle, or float the day away
Jet ski rentals & beach spot
• Morse Park & Beach – Launch into fun and soak up the sun
DOG-FRIENDLY DESTINATIONS
Breweries & bars with pup access
• Metazoa Brewing (Downtown)
• Crate Escapes (Westfield)
Best dog parks
• Broad Ripple Bark Park
• Fort Ben
Local pet stores
• Three Dog Bakery – Pupcakes, doggie ice cream, and more treats for your best friend
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Museums & galleries
• Newfields – Art, gardens, and immersive seasonal installations
Live music hotspots
• Hi-Fi and Lo-Fi Lounge (Fountain Square)
• Joe’s Grill (Westfield)
Outdoor concert series
• Rock the Ruins – Live shows set against an unforgettable skyline
SEASONAL FAVORITES
Weekend getaway (without leaving the city)
• Bottleworks Hotel – Stay, spa, sip, and explore
Fall pumpkin patch
• Stuckey Farm
Holiday light displays
• Winterlights at Newfields
• Sullivan’s Hardware
• Lights at the Brickyard
• Indiana State Fairgrounds Holiday Festival
4th of July fireworks
• Geist Reservoir
• Carmel Freedom Fest
• Neighborhood block parties that go all out
REAL ESTATE & LOCAL LIVING
Favorite neighborhoods to live in
• Irvington – Historic, charming, and community-minded
• Meridian-Kessler – Tree-lined streets, walkable blocks, and timeless homes
Go-to local stager / designer
• Scott Hofer – Elevated interiors with personality
Event spaces for milestones & memories
• VisionLoft – Stunning venue with downtown energy
Looking to call Indy home—or find a neighborhood that finally feels like you? I’d love to help you discover the right fit: home, vibe, and lifestyle included.