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🎒Backpackers

Where to Stay in Indianapolis

Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips

🛡️ Safe💰 Budget: USD 75/day🚇 Good Transit

Our pick for backpackers

Stay in Broad Ripple Village

Features the only dedicated hostel and offers a more affordable range of dining and lodging options.

Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers

Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Indianapolis

1

Fountain Square

Budget

An historic, artistic neighborhood with a vintage vibe, known for its unique theaters and independent businesses.

culturefoodiescouplesbudget
  • +Unique entertainment venues (theater, duckpin bowling)
  • +Eclectic dining and craft cocktail scene
  • +Affordable compared to downtown
  • -Less polished than other areas
  • -Can feel quiet at times
🏨 La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Indianapolis South🏨 Eagle Creek Lodge
2

Broad Ripple Village

Budget

A bohemian village known for its eclectic shops, lively bars, and relaxed atmosphere.

nightlifefoodiessolo travelerscouples
  • +Abundant independent restaurants and bars
  • +Arts district with galleries and studios
  • +Access to the Monon Trail for biking/walking
  • -Can be very crowded and loud on weekends
  • -Further from downtown attractions
🏨 Indy Hostel🏨 La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Indianapolis - Castleton
3

Downtown

Mid-range

The bustling heart of the city, packed with attractions, business, and entertainment.

first-timersculturenightlifebusiness travelers
  • +Central location for most attractions
  • +Abundant dining and entertainment options
  • +Good public transport access
  • -Can feel quiet on weekends outside event times
  • -Can be expensive
🏨 JW Marriott Indianapolis🏨 Hyatt Regency Indianapolis🏨 The Alexander
4

Mass Ave (Massachusetts Avenue)

Mid-range

A vibrant cultural and entertainment corridor with a bohemian, artsy feel.

foodiesnightlifecouplesculture
  • +Excellent dining and bar scene
  • +Independent boutiques and art galleries
  • +Lively atmosphere
  • -Can be noisy at night
  • -Parking can be challenging
🏨 Ironworks Hotel Indy🏨 Bottleworks Hotel🏨 Hyatt Place Indianapolis Downtown

Daily Budget (Budget)

USD 75/day

HI Indianapolis Hostel dorm bedUSD 35
Breakfast sandwich and coffee from Public GreensUSD 15
IndyGo Day PassUSD 4
Explore White River State Park and Canal Walk (free)USD 0
Visit the Indiana State Museum (free general admission)USD 0
Dinner at Yats (Cajun-Creole)USD 15
Walk around Monument CircleUSD 0
Uber/Lyft for one short trip if neededUSD 6
See all budget tiers

Hidden Gems in Indianapolis

Lesser-known spots the locals love

🛍️

Broad Ripple Farmers Market

FREE

A vibrant Saturday morning market showcasing local produce, artisanal foods, and crafts, it's a great place to mingle with locals and sample regional flavors.

marketBroad Ripple
🍜

Bazbeaux Pizza

A beloved local institution, Bazbeaux serves up delicious and creative pizzas in a casual, friendly setting, consistently ranked as a city favorite.

foodBroad Ripple
⚠️

1 area to be cautious about

Read our full safety guide for Indianapolis

More Indianapolis Guides

Full Indianapolis guideAreas to avoid👩 Solo Female Travellers💑 Couples👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families💻 Digital Nomads✨ Luxury Travellers🎉 Nightlife Seekers