The word "Indianapolis' literally translates into Indiana-City. So it comes as no surprise that this is what the Indiana people named their capital city.

Indianapolis is situated on the Central Till Plains region of the United States and offers the perfect balance of cosmopolitan style and small town charm. Its position within the state is at the crossroads of several of the country's major highways, allowing it to be commonly referred to as the "Crossroads of America". In fact, half the nation's population is within a day's drive of Indianapolis, making travelling by rental car an attractive option. A rental vehicle will give you the choice of extending your holiday, permitting you to travel to basically anywhere your heart desires.

Indianapolis truly is a fresh and diverse cultural city, with an enriching array of arts, attractions, historical sites and special events. It is the perfect destination for a family vacation with the kids and you will literally never be left without something to do.

1. Caribbean Cove Indoor Water Park

While visiting Indianapolis, the best place to stay in town is the Holiday Inn North. Not only is this a great place to stay because of the world-class accommodation facilities, but also because of Caribbean Cove Indoor Water Park. This is Indiana's only indoor waterpark and is only accessible if you are staying at the Inn. The park features 50,000 feet of indoor water recreation and is home to 3 slides, 2 spas, a sports activity pool, a leisure pool and Kids Island. Adults can relax in the Calypso Cafe while their kids run a muck, having the time of their lives!

2. Indiana Historical Society

Discover the fascinating stories of Indiana's historical past when you pay a visit to the local Historical Society. This beautiful building is host to changing exhibitions and publications, and also features a state of the art research library, a music room and a quaint gift shop. This is the perfect way to interact with the past and discover Indianapolis from its humble beginnings.

3. Indianapolis Cultural Trail

Although a recently new development, the Indianapolis Cultural Trail encompasses all of the interesting elements of local history and culture. This world-class urban bike and pedestrian path connects neighbourhoods, cultural districts and entertainment amenities. Essentially, it is the downtown hub for the entire Central Indiana Greenway System, as it connects Fountain Square, Indiana Avenue, Mass Avenue, The Canal and White River State Park. This is definitely a must-see while in the area!

4. Indianapolis Artsgarden/ Visitor Centre

The shimmering environment at the Artsgarden is where over 350 free performances and exhibits take place each year. This glass enclosed structure is a sight of its own and stands a massive 7 storeys tall. The views from the upper floors offer stunning sights of the city, allowing you to get a true sense of the vastness of Indianapolis.

5. Indianapolis Zoo

The local zoo is located in downtown Indianapolis and is home to the state's largest aquarium. The zoo itself features open exhibits that are he habitat of over 350 animal species. The zoo fulfils its mission to connect, animals, plants and people, as the interactive displays allow visitors to see and learn more about the animals than they ever thought possible. There are also seasonal pony, train, and roller coaster rides, making this the destination of ultimate family fun and adventure.

6. IMAX Theatre

Visit Indiana's first IMAX Theatre, where the sounds and images are larger than life. This six and a half storey screen features 2D and 3D films that will treat your senses to the most powerful and involving movie experience of your life!

7. The Children's Museum of Indianapolis

The Children's Museum is committed to enriching the lives of children, encouraging a widening of the mind, all in the name of fun. This is the largest children's museum in the world, so you will probably will never hear the end of it if you don't take the kids for a visit.

The museum is home to major galleries that explore the physical and natural sciences, history, world cultures and the art, making this a place to see, learn and do. The hands-one exhibits allow the kids to get involved, making this an experience that they will remember forever!

Indianapolis is a truly amazing city that offers so much to see and do that you may just run out of time to do it. However, your rental car will allow you to do most things, allowing for your holiday here to be a pleasant and memorable one!

Christine Barton