Media and Indianapolis Story Ideas

Something is Happening in Indy. And we think it is a story worth telling.

Indianapolis is on the rise. In 2024, the city welcomed the highest number of inbound travelers in its history. Add nearly $3 billion in tourism-related developments transforming our downtown, and it’s clear: Indy is one of the nation’s most exciting mid-sized cities to watch.

The story ideas below highlight what’s new, next, and newsworthy in Indy for 2026–2027. We’d love to collaborate with you—whether you’re developing a feature, seeking fresh angles, or needing insider access. You’ll find contact information at the bottom of the page.

Media Resources:

General Indy Media Sheet
Sports-related Indy Media Sheet
For iconic images, explore our Media Hub
Need broadcast footage? Contact Clare Clark for specific b-roll requests
Planning to film in Indianapolis? Visit the Indianapolis Film Commission at FilmIndy.com for guidelines and support.

If you're a social media influencer, we'd love to talk to you. For influencer inquiries, please complete our collaboration request form.

Major Developments

A Changing Skyline

New development announcements keep coming and these key projects will help keep Indy's pole position as USA Today's "#1 Convention City in the U.S."

NEW DEVELOPMENTS

Contemporary and Couture Art Experiences

Immerse yourself in Indy's Culture

The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art has a new exhibit honoring one of the nation’s leading country western wear designers, Indianapolis’ own Jerry Lee Atwood. Cowboy Couture showcases Atwood’s iconic Nudie suit-inspired creations, including pieces worn by Post Malone, Lil Nas X, Kesha and other stars. Open until August 2026.

Four miles south of Monument Circle, Indianapolis’ historic Garfield Park neighborhood is redefining community through creativity. A former dairy factory there was recently transformed into the Contemporary Art Museum of Indianapolis, CAMi (featured image). The free, accessible art campus features eight rotating exhibition spaces, a café and bar, and five incubator storefronts for emerging local artists.

Trail Investments

Get Moving in Indy

With $190 million in trail expansions and enhancements underway, Indianapolis is strengthening its reputation as one of the nation’s most connected cities — and reinforcing its identity as the Crossroads of America. As the country approaches its 250th anniversary, the city celebrated the continued growth of Central Indiana Trailways with the launch of The Trailways in April, a regional trail network and interactive online resource designed to connect communities across Central Indiana.

At the heart of downtown is the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, now featuring 10 miles of wheelchair- and scooter-accessible pathways throughout downtown. The trail links visitors to key destinations including Indiana Avenue, the city’s historic Black cultural district and home of the Madam Walker Legacy Center, as well as the South Street corridor and Lucas Oil Stadium. Guided Cultural Trail tours are also now available for visitors and groups.

The Cultural Trail continues to expand westward through the Henry Street Bridge project (featured image), which will create a new pedestrian and bicycle connection across the White River.

Experience Hubs

From dining to wellness and everything in between

Indianapolis is booming with multiuse districts, many of them transformed from former industrial landmarks. The historic Stutz factory and the world’s largest Coca-Cola bottling plant have been reimagined into thriving mixed-use destinations now known as the Stutz District and Bottleworks District. On the city’s near east side, the 16-acre Factory Arts District houses hundreds of artists and serves as a creative hub for the neighborhood. It also features one of Indy’s newest dining establishments, the Daisy Bar. Just northwest of downtown, the 16 Tech Innovation District combines research, entrepreneurship and dining, anchored by a food hall where more than 75% of vendors are minority- or women-owned businesses – with connectivity over the White River via the recently opened 16 Tech Bridge. Construction is underway at the original Cole Motor Campus (featured image), just east of downtown, where a mixed-use development will include a concert venue scheduled to open in 2027. Across the city, these districts reflect Indy’s momentum—offering experiences in art, dining, innovation and wellness.

Indianapolis’ Culinary Moment Is Here

A Culinary Capital on the Rise

Indianapolis’ culinary scene continues to earn national recognition as James Beard–recognized chefs and restaurants gain momentum — all while MICHELIN inspectors are currently exploring the city. Leading the conversation is Bodhi, recently named one of USA TODAY’s Best Restaurants in 2025 for its innovative approach to modern Thai cuisine. Meanwhile, local hospitality leaders and chefs are gaining acclaim from the James Beard Foundation, one of the industry’s highest honors.

From globally inspired dining concepts to chef-driven neighborhood favorites, Indianapolis’ food scene is rapidly evolving, and increasingly attracting national attention.

America's Newest River City

Frank's Livery

A waterway revitalization effort has transformed downtown Indy, including the opening of its first-ever livery, Frank's Paddlesport Livery. Offering canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding—this waterway activation gives visitors a fresh way to explore the city. Over 4,000 people explored Indy via Frank’s last year, its first year in business.