The bustling Indianapolis never sleeps. During the day, people can enjoy history, sports, parks, malls, and the like.
But the fun does not stop when the sun sets. For some, their day starts when the moon rises. With its stylish pubs, lively restaurants, and trendy spots, Indianapolis’s nightlife should not be missed!
So, for everyone curious about the nightlife in Indy, this article will let you discover some of the most notable spots to visit when exploring the captivating city!
1. Broad Ripple Village
Broad Ripple Village is first on our list and one of Indianapolis’s cultural hubs. It is located about six miles north of downtown Indy. If you want an easygoing atmosphere, this is the place to go.
College students and young professionals are drawn to it because of its hip pubs, unique restaurants, and live music venues, which all contribute to the lively yet laid-back vibe. Let’s take a closer look at this famous village.
History and Vibe
Broad Ripple’s history dates back to the early 1830s. It was formerly an independent village and became part of the city in 1922. The town’s development was felt and witnessed thanks to the Central Canal, which was constructed in 1836.
Because of the canal, Broad Ripple experienced prosperity and growth since transport became more manageable and accessible. The canal brought both transit and water power, supporting businesses and residences.
Fast-forward to the 1900s, when Broad Ripple finally became annexed to the city. It developed into a prosperous area. Restaurants and stores were built, bringing people in and supporting its economy. The nightlife also became known due to the community’s lively atmosphere, creative culture, and close bond.
Today, Broad Ripple has become a home to fantastic shopping, dining, galleries, recreation, commercial, and residential opportunities.
It has captured the hearts and interests of people who want to live in a community where culture is distinct, arts are at its heart, and fun is valued.
This place is only about 25 minutes away from the Crystal Pointe neighborhood!
Popular Spots in Broad Ripple
The Vogue
6259 N College Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220
Get ready to experience an excellent music fest in The Vogue. The place is popular among people who like to dance to groovy and upbeat music. This is where the party starts, and the music artists who perform in this music venue deliver!
For starters, The Vogue is an old cinema theater that opened in the 1930s. Today, it is known as one of the best venues for live music. Going to The Vogue will surely take away your worries
Kilroy’s Bar & Grill
201 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46225
You can go to Kilroy’s Bar & Grill for a hearty meal before or after The Vogue. The bar & grill place is open until midnight, seven days a week! Yes, they don’t sleep, and there’s no day they don’t open! It sounds fantastic for nightlife enthusiasts who seek great food.
Kilroy’s Bar & Grill is known for its delicious breadsticks and extensive American cuisine menu. It is a perfect place for hangouts, catching up, and watching games, and it is an excellent representation of Broad Ripple!
Try Kilroy’s famous stuffed breadsticks, wings, brisket, and double-smash burgers. For drinks, they offer draft, bottled, and canned. They also serve wine!
It would be better to book a reservation and check their menu online since tourists and locals love this place, as it could be hard to find a spot for walk-ins.
Brothers Bar & Grill
910 Broad Ripple Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220
Lastly, for Broad Ripple, there is the Brothers Bar & Grill. It is known for its friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere. It’s an excellent spot for casual get-togethers with pals, socializing with locals, and meeting new people.
Brothers Bar & Grill offers a large selection of beers on tap, traditional pub fare, and many T.V.s for sports.
The bar and grill is also open until midnight, Mondays to Sundays. When in Brothers, if you’re a starter, try their Bone-in Wings and choose the sauce you want. They also have an extensive selection of drinks ranging from bottles, cans, and wines.
You might also check out their daily specials when ordering. Their menu might be too extensive for some when it is their first time, so checking out their website would be helpful before going to their place.
2. Mass Ave (Massachusetts Avenue)
Nightlife in Indianapolis is not complete with exploring the famous Mass Ave. This artistic region of downtown Indianapolis is ideal for people who love culture and nightlife!
When you visit this place, you will be greeted by art galleries, theaters, upscale bars, and fine dining establishments.
Cultural Hub
Mass Ave is your destination if you are searching for Indianapolis’s cultural hub. The Old National Centre, Ann Dancing, and The Athenaeum are the cultural spots you should not miss. These places offer a peek at Indianapolis’ art and architecture. It will transport you to the old centuries because of their unique decor and architecture.!
The welcoming vibe of the area also contributes to the overall appeal of the place. Taking pictures is fantastic here, there are so many exciting things to check out and facts to learn!
Must-Visit Venues
There are plenty of places, food, and products to see and explore here in Indianapolis, Mass Ave. Whether in it for the arts, shops, attractions, or food, you will have a well-spent day and night!
For a more fantastic stay, check out these must-visit venues on Massachusetts Ave:
The Ball & Biscuit
331 Massachusetts Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46204
You will love The Ball & Biscuit because of its warm and inviting atmosphere. Their vast cocktails, wines, and regional brews selection make everyone want to buy and try more than one drink. Their cozy setting and retro-ish layout give a romantic date vibe and a perfect relaxing night with colleagues, friends, or family.
The vintage aspect of the bar drives people to visit their place and try out their menu. Take this chance to try out different drinks and find your signature drink.
For starters, try the B&B Og Cocktails, such as the classic Gin & Tonic (Spanish style), Mango Coconut Mojito, Rye Whisky Smash, and Summer Spritz.
The Ball & Biscuit also offers non-alcoholic drinks, so you can bring along a companion who does not drink, and they can also try B&B’s incredible beverages.
You should definitely check out the menu of one of the best bars in Indianapolis!
Bru Burger Bar
410 Massachusetts Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Aside from Broad Ripple, you can also find fantastic American dining on Mass Ave. Nothing beats a good old burger paired with a cold beer. Yes, you can get that mouth watering combo at Bru Burger Bar!
Burger enthusiasts assemble here because this contemporary burger place with hints of traditional American cuisine is ready to serve you their perfectly cooked burgers.
Their iconic Bru Burger is definitely a must-try. It consists of deliciously cooked bacon, tomato jam, chopped lettuce, caramelized onion, Taleggio cheese, mayonnaise, and a freshly baked Bru Burger bun. This burger will surely make you want to have burgers at every meal.
And oh! their place is always full of people, not just because of their food but also their fantastic service and inviting atmosphere. It is the perfect burger bar to run to during nighttime cravings, making it an ideal addition to our Indianapolis nightlife must-visits!
Click here to find out more about their menu and beverages.
Chatterbox Jazz Club
435 Massachusetts Ave.Indianapolis, IN 46204
If there is one iconic and signature place on Mass Ave that you should take advantage of, it is the Chatterbox Jazz Club. It is a well-cherished gem by the locals in Indianapolis for its remarkable jazz experience.
Chatterbox Jazz Club is perfect for date nights, celebrations, catch-ups, hangouts, and more. You can visit this fantastic place, even if it’s just a typical day, and have a great night!
The establishment has been a mainstay of the Indianapolis jazz scene for many years, presenting occasional national acts and exceptional local musicians.
The locals and tourists love it so much that they leave a five-star rating every time they visit. Chatterbox Jazz Club is for people looking for a place for great food and drinks, excellent company, and fantastic live music.
They are open daily from 4 PM to 12 AM, Monday through Thursday, and from 4 PM to 1:30 AM, Friday through Sunday.
3. Fountain Square
Third on our list is the iconic Fountain Square. This place’s unique vintage vibe adds to the charm of nightlife in Indianapolis.
Fountain Square has become a favorite spot for fun nights with its vibrant art scene, amazing live music performances, fabulous antique shops, and top-notch dining establishments.
Artsy and Eclectic
Fountain Square is also one of the most popular cultural districts in Indianapolis. This region is a fantastic location if you are on a quest for historical and artistic exploration.
As Indiana’s first commercial historic district, it has become a significant representation of the state’s early establishments and entertainment scene.
Fountain Square has plenty of attractions, each offering a unique and remarkable experience to everyone, particularly art enthusiasts.
During the day, visitors and locals can visit the Murphy Arts Center, Fountain Square Theater, and Wheeler–Schebler Carburetor Company Building, to name a few.
Top Nightlife Destinations
Here are the best spots to visit in Fountain Square at night after a long day of history and art appreciation.
White Rabbit Cabaret
1116 Prospect St, Indianapolis, IN 46203
Hoping to see some theatrical performances in Indy? White Rabbit Cabaret is the place to be. Located in the heart of Fountain Square, the cabaret bar offers patrons and first-time visitors a memorable evening.
People go to White Rabbit Cabaret in hopes of seeing amazing Burlesque Bingo, live music performances, comedic acts, and even dance parties. Plenty of events happen here every day of the week, so many talented performers are here to provide outstanding entertainment.
When visiting White Rabbit Cabaret, you are transported to the early 20th century because of the vintage atmosphere and iconic cabaret-style seat plan. It is a fantastic destination for dates and fun night out with friends!
Duckpin Bowling at Atomic Bowl
1105 Prospect St Indianapolis, IN 46203
The next top nightlife destination in Indianapolis around Fountain Square is Duckpin and Bowling at Atomic Bowl. Atomic Bowl offers a trip down memory lane because of its early 1930s vibe and setting.
Come to Duckpin Bowling at Atomic Bowl and experience what it was like to have fun in the early 1900s. The place is one of the most visited and loved entertainment spots in the artistic district of Fountain Square, and that is because of its amazing duckpin lanes, billiards, city views, and original decorations from the 1930s.
It’s an excellent date spot and hangout place for friends and families. Enjoy a sporty and competitive evening in Duckpin Bowling at Atomic Bowl and showcase your athletic side!
The Hi-Fi
1043 Virginia Ave Suite 4, Indianapolis, IN 46203
Indianapolis nightlife in Fountain Square would only be complete with stopping by the Hi-Fi. It is the center of Fountain Square’s music scene and hosts performances by many talented musicians from different genres.
For the last 10 years, The Hi-Fi has been hosting unforgettable concert experiences for every local and tourist in the city. It is an ideal spot to meet new people and socialize with locals and tourists. Enjoy a night full of fun and amazing music at The Hi-Fi.
You can buy tickets online through the official website of The Hi-Fi!
4. Downtown Indianapolis
Downtown Indianapolis is the heart of Indiana. It is where diverse commercial establishments are located, including restaurants, pubs, stores, and many more. In terms of nightlife, there are plenty of things to do and places to visit.
If you are living in the Feather Cove neighborhood, good news because the downtown area is only less than 30 minutes away!
Heart of the City
As the heart of the city, Downtown Indianapolis has a significant concentration of people and establishments. The entertainment scene of downtown Indy is home to casual pubs, upscale lounges, breweries, dance and music venues, and bars.
Ready to taste what it is like to have fun in Indianapolis style? Check out the key spots in downtown Indiana below!
Key Spots to Check Out
Downtown Indianapolis nightlife will never be behind when it comes to a lively night. You can continue exploring the city’s rich history and heritage by visiting the oldest running bar in the area, the Slippery Noodle Inn.
Along a historically significant establishment are an American bar and a party venue always brimming with life.
Slippery Noodle Inn
372 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46225
Slippery Noodle Inn is an authentic, hidden treasure of Indianapolis. Since the 1850s, it has been catering to the entertainment needs of locals and tourists.
Although it is the oldest bar in the area, it still has the glory of its early days today. With its warm, inviting ambiance and soft lighting, the rustic brick walls make it the ideal place to take in live blues music.
The Inn offers great food from their menu, along with good music. Yes, talented musicians perform here to give outstanding performances and give patrons and first-time visitors a great time. Experience the comforting company of the past and present times at Slippery Noodle Inn!
Punch Bowl Social
120 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46225
The next key spot in downtown Indianapolis is Punch Bowl Social, where people love to gather to play and dine.
Punch Bowl Social is known for its amazing food and lively atmosphere. The ambiance and atmosphere are a blend of informal yet sophisticated charm that really draws people in.
It has a retro-chic vibe that evokes relaxation and fun. At Punch Bowl Social, you can enjoy delicious food and drink and take on game challenges with your colleagues, friends, dates, and family.
You can choose from draft, craft cans, and classic beer cans. Their beers are perfect with their main dishes. Don’t miss out on the fun! Visit the place while you’re in Indy and have an unforgettable time.
Howl at the Moon
20 E Georgia St, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Are you ready to release some energy? Well, head to Howl at the Moon right away! It is one of the most exciting places to be in downtown Indy because it is where the party is!
Howl at the Moon is the perfect destination for people who love to party and go to concerts. Upon entering the venue, you will immediately feel it is full of life. Inside, Howl at the Moon has colorful lights, a bar counter, a stage, and tables and chairs.
Enjoy a drink or two with your friends while dancing to the music. Whatever kind of party you’re celebrating, Howl at the Moon promises to provide an amazing evening filled with dancing, singing, and fun.
5. Meridian-Kessler
Unlike the other bustling districts of Indianapolis, Meridian-Kessler is leaning towards the more calming nightlife in the city.
Upscale and Stylish
The Meridian-Kessler area might be on the quieter side of Indianapolis’s nightlife, but that does not limit what you can do around the area.
Upscale and stylish are the most appropriate words to describe the area. If you’re more into quiet nightlife but still seek fun, add Meridian-Kessler to your top priority list of nightlife spots in Indianapolis to visit.
Highlight Venues
Let’s look at the nighttime venues in the Meridian-Kessler area and why they are a favorite spot in the city:
Twenty Tap
5406-08 N College Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220
Twenty Tap is a quaint bar offering a fantastic relaxation place, great food, and good company. Beer enthusiasts will surely fall in love with its beers.
Here, you can order classic American food like delicious fries and burgers. Your favorite comfort American food is here; previous customers have highly praised it.
Twenty Tap is one of the best places to spend a lively yet relaxing and fun-filled night in Meridian-Kessler. It’s life, the place you first want to go to every time you have a long day.
Livery
720 N College Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202
Livery offers a sophisticated dining experience in a rustic-themed setting. The brick walls, wooden beams, and soft lighting create a cozy and classy aesthetic.
The establishment offers a fantastic selection of menu items centered on Latin American cuisine. Every bite, whether a delicious taco or a savory empanada, is a heartful taste of their cuisine.
On top of that, their cocktail drinks are perfect for every occasion. Their beverage menu is extensive; trying only one would be a waste of opportunity.
The Vanguard
6319 Guilford Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220
The Vanguard is our last entry for Meridian-Kessler’s best nightlife spots. With gentle lighting and vintage decor that creates the ideal mood, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming.
Going to The Vanguard is like visiting a close friend’s house. The welcoming feel of the place gives that kind of feeling.
It is a fantastic place for birthday parties, watch parties, baby showers, company dinners, and more. Their event organization and service are exceptional, providing an amazing experience to everyone there.
6. The Wholesale District
The Wholesale District lives up to its name because a wide range of fun night activities await everyone here. Historic buildings, theaters, music venues, pubs, clubs, you name it.
Vibrant and Lively
Where else should you head after work or on a tiring day? Indianapolis’s Wholesale District, where a vibrant community is located. This district offers pubs that serve excellent beverages and an amazing atmosphere that will make you stay for hours.
Popular Hotspots
Enjoy Indianapolis nightlife by visiting these popular hotspots in The Wholesale District!
Taps and Dolls is an excellent place for a night out with pals. The tavern is friendly and lively, where customers can casually hang out and kill time.
The ambiance is cozy and energetic. You can imagine that the background music blends with the buzz of people, mixed with laughter and cheers. Taps and Dolls is a place that has a little bit of everything, including TVs for watching sports with friends, live music, and a large assortment of draft beers.
The District Tap is ideal for excellent craft beer on tap and good food. Their menu offers lunch and dinner selections. If you want a place to get a delicious meal, head to The District Tap.
Grace your taste buds with delicious food such as sizzling burgers, burritos, and wings, partnered with a good beer, tequila, or vodka. The gastropub offers a relaxing environment and a lively community with great company.
Their other services include private events and catering. Visit their site to learn more.
Click this to check their online menu.
7. Fletcher Place
Fletcher Place is a highly inviting neighborhood in Indianapolis. Food lovers and craft beer enthusiasts will find this district interesting because the places offer high quality of what they love. Some of the best local businesses in Indy are located here, and together, they make up the economic and tourism scene of the place.
Trendy and Up-and-Coming
Fletcher Place is a thriving neighborhood home to humble yet amazing local shops and dining establishments. The food scene in Fletcher Place is amazing, and it would be a shame not to talk about it.
Although not the city’s star neighborhood, Fletcher Place is known among the other districts in Indianapolis because of the distinct characteristics of its restaurants. People from within and outside the city travel to Fletcher Place to experience its trendy and impressive cuisine.
Top Picks
Here are the top picks for Fletcher Place and a brief description.
One of those unique locations is Fletcher Place, Indianapolis, where you would immediately know that it offers superb quality services and products.
The quaint distillery, established by a military veteran, has a distinct charm due to its rustic décor and friendly atmosphere. The tasting room, with its bare brick walls and wooden beams, encourages you to unwind, relax, and enjoy everything the place offers.
Taste some of the best-tasting handcrafted spirits, such as vodka, gin, rum, and whiskey, in Indianapolis, and learn why Hotel Tango Distillery owns a well-regarded reputation in the neighborhood and the city.
Bluebeard is another fantastic place in Indianapolis for an excellent evening. At Bluebeard, they only offer food made from scratch. Yes, their food and drinks are meticulously cooked and crafted for the best gastronomical experience of guests.
The menu features farm-to-table cuisine regularly rotated to highlight the best local produce. At Bluebeard, culinary innovation is at the heart of its operations, which is why it has captured the hearts of the people who have been in the restaurant since it opened its doors to customers.
Click this to check out their online menu.
Chilly Water Brewing Company is ideal for relaxing and savoring a delicious beer. It is a crowd favorite because of its delicious taste. This humble yet thriving brewery offers plenty of cozy seating both inside and on its large outdoor patio. It has a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere perfect for adults of all ages.
The extensive beer menu features locally brewed beers highly rated by their patrons and previous customers. You can enjoy your beer with thick sandwiches, pretzels, and nachos.
8. South Broad Ripple
South Broad Ripple is a less crowded and more laid-back area in Indianapolis. The nightlife in this district is more about visiting pubs and enjoying the food and beverages served.
Relaxed and Fun
South Broad Ripple, or “SoBro,” is the other district of Broad Ripple. Like the central area, it boasts many vibrant restaurants, pubs, barbecue places, and more. The area is more on having a relaxed yet fun nightlife in Indianapolis.
Notable Spots
There is a great spot for barbecue and beer in South Broad Ripple. It is a local favorite because of its fantastic food and beverage selection, accommodating setting, and impressive service.
Half Liter BBQ & Beer Hall is a casual yet highly enjoyable place. It offers comfortable and relaxing outdoor dining. The setting is cozy, and the atmosphere is homey, excellent for informal meetings.
The hall is filled with the aroma of smoked meats and the sound of laughter from patrons and tourists. It’s the ideal place to get together with friends. It has some incredibly fulfilling food like juicy brisket and ribs, especially with an ice-cold beer from its exceptional beer selection.
9. Keystone at the Crossing
For people seeking a different style and environment, let’s say a more sophisticated and posh mood, Keystone at the Crossing is our entry for that. The neighborhood is well-known for its upscale restaurants and retail options, including chic and modern pubs, fine dining establishments, and luxurious lounges that provide for a classy, enjoyable evening.
Chic and Modern
Keystone at the Crossing is for people who enjoy sophisticated and elegant nightlife. It’s meant for people who are seeking a relaxing and romantic evening. Although on a more luxurious scale, the venues in Keystone at the Crossing are roaring with life. These places offer superb comfort and hearty laughs. It is where you would want to keep the conversation going and never end.
Best Venues
These Keystone at the Crossing venues offer chic, modern interiors and vibrant, energetic ambiance. Expect soft lighting, calming background music, large windows, bar seating, booths, and high-top tables.
Seasons 52 offers a sophisticated and classy setting that will put you in a good mood. The food at this chic grill and wine bar is exceptional, emphasizing rich, fresh ingredients that are flavorful and fantastic. Enjoy a well-cooked steak and a glass of wine.
The elegant yet cozy atmosphere in Seasons 52 is perfect for celebrations, date nights, and catch-ups. More than the setting, they receive excellent reviews about their food, beverages, and services. Visit Seasons 52 for a romantic and relaxing night in Indianapolis.
Bar Louie is an elegant pub with a lively and buzzing atmosphere. It is known for its cocktails and flatbreads. During happy hour, Bar Louie becomes a busy yet comfortable place to stay. Their service is superb, thus earning them five-star ratings and good customer reviews.
It’s a terrific area to watch games because large TVs are available for customers to watch and entertain. Bar Louie always provides a fantastic time, whether you’re here for a quick lunch, a celebration toast, or just a drink and relax after a long day outside.
10. Castleton
Finally, Castleton. Castleton is a commercial center that offers a wide range of entertainment, recreation, shopping, and dining opportunities. Because of its laid-back atmosphere, it is also a great place to go whenever you’re dining out or hanging out with colleagues, friends, and family.
Family-Friendly and Fun
Castleton’s area was established in 1852 by Thomas Gentry. At first, it was just a small town catering to farmers and travelers along the Nickel Plate Road. Yet today, it has grown into an amazing and thriving district in Indianapolis.
When you visit Castleton, you will be greeted by a bright and inviting atmosphere. The Castleton Square Mall is the largest in Indiana, offering many activities for people of all ages. Sahm Park is also an excellent spot to have fun with family here. Moreover, the dining places in Castleton offer a mix of arcade and food accompanied by refreshing beverages. It is truly a place to have a great time.
Recommended Places
Castleton has a collection of places to play and eat. These spots have laid-back vibes, perfect for casual get-togethers. These are the most-visited places in Castleton for a fun-filled evening.
If you are wondering what is another way of having a fun night in Indy, go to Dave & Buster’s. It is a sports bar, a dining establishment, and an arcade place where you can play, watch your favorite teams, and enjoy mouthwatering food at the same time.
Hit the arcade and see how excellent you perform with the classic and modern games like Pac-Man and Galaga, and then have a chill night with a good drink while watching sports on their large televisions. There is no dull moment in Dave & Buster’s, which is why it is an always visited place in Castleton. Whether you go to this establishment with your lover, friends, or family, everyone will have a blast.
Twin Peaks is another American food and sports bar in Castleton that offers a fantastic nightlife experience in Indianapolis. It offers delicious food, beverages, and sports in a cozy, friendly, and inviting atmosphere.
Enjoy perfectly cooked burgers, wings, sandwiches, flatbreads, tacos, and more. Twin Peaks offers an extensive list of American comfort food, plus cold drinks. It is heaven on earth! A perfect 10 experience. Since TVs are everywhere, you will get all the sports action. You can unwind, make new friends, enjoy the community’s company, and feel at home. Twin Peaks is a nice place to hang out and a great restaurant.
Click here to take a peek at their menu.
Eat. Drink. Play. If this is your philosophy, Alley’s Alehouse is a paradise to you. Their entertainment area is defined as fun and games.
Alley’s Alehouse is a gem for group hangouts. Its extensive menu offers mouthwatering appetizers, dinners, desserts, and more. Beer enthusiasts will find their selection of craft beer on tap impressive. Curious about the setting and atmosphere? It is superb! Experience most adults’ dream of a fun beer and play night in Alley Alehouse and understand why it completes Indianapolis’s nightlife.
Note: This image may include elements generated by artificial intelligence (AI).
Wrap Up
With unique features in each area, Indianapolis offers a never-ending list of interesting places to check out even when sundown. Nightlife enthusiasts will have a blast exploring the Broad Ripple, Mass Ave, Fountain Square, Downtown Indianapolis, Meridian-Kessler, The Wholesale District, Fletcher Place, South Broad Ripple, Keystone at the Crossing, and Castleton.
What are you waiting for? Visit Indy now and experience the fantastic Indianapolis nightlife we have discussed! Contact us anytime for your queries and concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
To experience the best time in Indianapolis nightlife, you should schedule your visit from summer to early fall. Warmer months are the ideal months compared to colder months. The nice weather is perfect for parties, dining, and more. Rainy and cold seasons will only limit the opportunities you can get.
Generally, visitors must be 21 or older, especially when trying pubs or nightclubs. However, legal ages are good to go.
Indianapolis nightlife offers a wide range of opportunities catering to different budget ranges. There are reasonably priced food and venues, as well as upscale ones.
Yes, parking is available close to most Indianapolis entertainment venues. Although it can get crowded during peak hours, many parking spaces and street parking alternatives exist. The earlier you arrive, the higher your chance of an excellent parking spot.
