Indianapolis Summer Bucket List: 30 Fun Ways to Make the Most of Summer in Indy

Summer in Indianapolis is made for memory-making. Think wine under the stars, rooftop yoga, berry picking, and bestie-filled adventures. Whether you're new to Indy or a local looking to spice up your routine, we’ve rounded up the ultimate summer bucket list that’s part girl’s guide, part local love letter!

From iconic Indy events to hidden gem experiences, these must-do activities are perfect for exploring the city solo, with your BFF, or with your entire girl gang. 30 Things Every Girl Should Do in Indianapolis This Summer: Hike Turkey Run State Park Channel your inner adventurer and explore the sandstone canyons, swinging bridges, and water trails of this iconic Indiana gem.

Have a Picnic at Eagle Creek Park Pack your favorite snacks, a good book, and your bestie. Pro tip: the reservoir views at sunset are chef’s kiss.

Go to CarmelFest Celebrate the Fourth of July with fireworks, food trucks, and patriotic fun in charming downtown Carmel. Click here for information!

Treat Yourself to a Face Foundrié Facial Glow into summer with a quick, effective facial designed to refresh your skin and your mood. Reserve your spot here!

Bike the Monon Trail Pedal through Broad Ripple and stop at local coffee shops, murals, and more along Indy’s favorite trail.

Taco Tuesday at Agave & Rye Grab a BFF and try one of the most epic taco menus in Indy. (Don’t skip the mac & cheese tacos.)

Staycation at Hotel Indy Turn your weekend into a getaway. Their rooftop bar, The Cannon Ball Lounge, is the perfect place to sip and unwind.

Go to a BFF Indy Event New here? Want to meet amazing women? BFF Indy hosts fun, welcoming events to help you connect with local besties.

Girls’ Night at The Garage Food Hall Order food from different vendors, sip cocktails, and listen to live music in this hip downtown spot.

Pick Fresh Berries at Beasley’s Orchard Strawberries in June, blueberries in July, there’s nothing sweeter than a sun-soaked day at the orchard.

Go to the Indy Pizza Fest Try slices from the best pizzerias in the city and vote for your fave. This is a must for every foodie friend group. Get your tickets before they sell out!

Try a Long’s Bakery Donut If you know, you know. (And if you don’t—prepare for the fluffiest glazed donut of your life.)

Explore Newfields Wander through art galleries, gardens, and The Beer Garden for a perfect culture-meets-cocktail combo.

Shop a Local Farmer’s Market Broad Ripple, Zionsville, Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, or Garfield Park—grab fresh produce, flowers, and small-batch treats!

Attend an Indianapolis Indians Game Nothing says summer like baseball under the lights at Victory Field. Bring a blanket for lawn seating, or buy a ticket in the stands!

Rock Out at Rock the Ruins Catch indie and big-name bands in one of Indy’s dreamiest outdoor venues at Holliday Park. (Plus, BFF Indy gives you exclusive discounts to select shows!)

Unwind at Urban Vines Winery Live music. Wine slushies. Picnic blankets. This is the summer vibe you’ve been craving.

Walk the Indianapolis Canal Grab an iced coffee and stroll the scenic canal downtown. Bonus points for paddle boat selfies!

Explore with Guess Where Trips Get a surprise day trip planned for you, including scenic stops and quirky local gems. Perfect for spontaneous girls' day adventures. Plus, get 10% off your next trip with code BFFINDY10! Find your next trip here!

Do Outdoor Yoga with Invoke Flow under the sun with Invoke Studio's outdoor classes. It’s energizing, peaceful, and totally Instagrammable.

Make a Custom Candle at Penn & Beech Blend your signature scent while sipping wine with friends. It’s part DIY, part therapy. Plus, they have multiple locations!

Join a Local Book Club Need an excuse to read more and meet new people? Check out BFF Indy’s Book Club or one at your local bookstore.

Brunch at Café Patachou Classic Indy staple for a reason. Don’t skip the cinnamon toast or omelets with rosemary potatoes.

Go to the Indiana State Fair Ride the Ferris wheel, eat deep-fried everything, and relive your childhood nostalgia. Plan your visit!

Watch an Outdoor Movie at Tibbs Drive-In Retro movie night under the stars. Load up the car with snacks and cozy blankets, and enjoy the drive-in!

Have a Boat Day at Morse Reservoir Rent a pontoon and soak up the sun with music, floaties, and snacks.

Explore the Indiana State Museum Cool off indoors with art, culture, and a gift shop full of locally made goodies.

Go to Indy GreekFest Opa! Eat spanakopita, dance to live Greek music, and sip Greek wine at this fun cultural celebration.

Cool Down at BRICS Ice Cream After walking the Monon, treat yourself to a scoop (or three) from this local fave in Broad Ripple.

Tag BFF Indy in Your Adventures We want to follow along on your summer bucket list! Be sure to tag @bff.indy for a chance to be featured!

Ready to Make This the Summer You Find Your People?

BFF Indy is here to help you make real connections, explore the city, and say yes to new adventures. Join our upcoming events or sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop.

Let’s make this the summer of connection, confidence, and community!