Every couple knows that it’s important to keep the romance alive in their relationship. Whether you’ve only been together a short while or your relationship has lasted for decades, it can still be hard to find ways to inject a little variety into your routine.
Well, never fear: When you live in Indianapolis, you have access to a rich array of cultural sites, cuisine, art, music and more. If you’re looking for things for couples to do in Indianapolis, you’ve come to the right place.
Here are our favorite picks for things to do in Indianapolis for couples:
1. Check out the Art and Outdoor Experiences at Newfields
Indy is artsy — so why not explore all the exhibits being offered at the Newfields campus. There, you and your partner can stroll through the indoor exhibits in the Indianapolis Museum of Art at your leisure or explore the acres of land around it.
Couples can also check out the beer garden, the pop-up restaurants and seasonal displays throughout the year. During the winter holidays, for example, the whole place turns into a wonderland of lights, song and hot cider that’s genuinely magical to share with someone else. Because there’s always something new at Newfields, this is one place you can return again and again without fear of boredom.
2. Go “Antiquing” at Midland Arts
The Midland Arts and Antiques Market is located near the heart of downtown Indy, and it’s pretty much in the hearts of a lot of area couples, too.
Home to more than 200 independent artists and antique dealers, the market has been a favorite destination for local couples for years whether they’re setting up their home together for the first time or just looking for a special gift item or piece of decor. If vintage, antique or unique items are your thing, this is the place to go.
3. Take in a Movie at Tibbs Drive-In Theater
There’s something inherently romantic about going to a drive-in movie theater. The Tibbs Drive-In is open annually from early spring through late fall, giving you and your sweetheart someplace to spend a few hours cuddled up together in your car while you take in the latest flicks.
This family-owned business is the last operating drive-in inside Indy proper, and it’s a true local treasure. The gates open again early in March, so it’s the perfect place to go when you’re tired of being stuck in the house all winter.
4. Get a Little Tipsy at New Day Craft
Located in historic Fountain Square, New Day Craft has been creating complex ales, ciders and beers from wholesome ingredients since 2006.
The tasting bar has become a favorite for couples young and old to try. When you have romance in mind, sampling their craft meads in the tasting room can help break the ice or set the mood. When you’re done, don’t forget to stroll through Fountain Square itself. One of the most eclectic, lively areas in Indy, Fountain Square is a great place to check out one-of-a-kind boutiques and area artists.
5. Go for a Walk Through Crown Hill
Who says a cemetery can’t be romantic? Crown Hill is the second-largest urban cemetery in the nation, and it’s the final resting place of notable figures like President Benjamin Harrison, poet James Whitcomb Riley and outlaw John Dillinger. If your beloved happens to be a history buff, this is a great spot to go.
More importantly, perhaps, the cemetery is also home to the highest point in the city. That’s made it a favorite place for locals who want to find a quiet, secluded spot to “pop the question,” to their partner.
6. Get Dinner and Drinks at St. Elmo’s Steakhouse
If you’re looking for a special place to mark a birthday, anniversary or significant accomplishment, you can’t go wrong by heading to St. Elmo’s Steakhouse.
Open since 1902, St Elmo’s has been featured on the Travel Channel and seen in several different television shows. A true favorite among locals, many visitors to Indy wouldn’t think their time here was complete without a trip to St. Elmo’s for its world-famous shrimp cocktail and signature drinks — so remember to make reservations in advance if you plan to go.
7. Bike the Indianapolis Cultural Trail
Is your sweetheart an urban explorer at heart? The Indianapolis Cultural Trail is eight miles worth of roads that wind throughout the downtown area that offers area residents and visitors alike the opportunity to explore.
A multi-million dollar project, the trail will take you safely past public art projects, historic neighborhoods and cultural hotspots all over the city — and it’s slated to be expanded. You can walk or bike the trail with or without a guide whenever the weather permits.
8. Grab Some Laughs at Crackers Comedy Club
You know what they say: Laughter’s the best medicine. If life has been a bit of a struggle lately, grab your partner by the hand and head over to Crackers Comedy Club.
The club regularly plays host to some of the most well-known comedians and great up-and-coming comedy artists. They also have open-mike nights where almost anybody can try their hand at making people laugh. This is a great place to retreat once in a while from the rest of the world.
9. Go for a Show at the Indianapolis Repertory Theatre
For more than 40 years, the Indianapolis Repertory Theater (“IRT,” in local parlance) has been delighting area residents with their independent productions, American classics and Broadway hits.
Just recently, they’ve even made their productions available to stream, so you can enjoy a play while still snuggled up on the couch with your beloved (although you have to get your own popcorn).
There really are tons of fun things for couples to do in Indianapolis — and the ideas above are just for starters. Once you start exploring, we think you’ll come up with plenty more on your own! If you have other tips, please let us know in the comments below.