There’s nothing like a Colts tailgate before the game on a cool fall afternoon. | Photo by @coltslife
Football season is here + the countdown to the Colts’ kickoff is on. We’ve got the 411 on when and where to catch all the action around Indianapolis.
Whether you’re a Colts, Hoosiers, or Boilermakers fan — here’s where to watch football games in Indianapolis.
Tavern on South | 802 S. West St.
This little brick building was built in 1910 and sits in the shadow of Lucas Oil Stadium. Formerly known as Stadium Tavern, Tavern on South is a hole-in-the-wall spot that features a 60-seat second level deck that looks out to the downtown skyline.
The Bulldog Bar & Lounge | 5380 N. College Ave.
You may recognize this Broad Ripple staple as the site of former Moe & Johnny’s, which closed during the pandemic after 20+ years. The old favorite made a comeback as The Bulldog featuring a full-service bar with two 24-tap walls for self-serve beer, plus a bourbon lounge.
The Slippery Noodle Inn changed ownership in 2023, but the vibe remained the same.
The Dugout | 621 Virginia Ave.
This sports bar in the Fountain-Fletcher District has been offering a relaxed atmosphere for watching sports since 1954. It’s a go-to spot for cheap drinks, good food, and plenty of seats for watching the game. If you don’t need a TV screen, it also has a spacious outdoor patio.
The Slippery Noodle Inn | 372 S. Meridian St.
Known as one of the oldest operating bars in Indiana, The Slippery Noodle Inn has been around since the 1850s + has served as a bar, restaurant, theater, and a stop on the Underground Railroad. Located right by Lucas Oil Stadium, it offers a Colts pregame special and Game Day brunch and reserved seating.
Indiana Fever vs. Los Angeles Sparks | Wednesday, Sept. 4 | 7 p.m. | Gainbridge Fieldhouse | $6+ | Cheer on the Fever as Caitlin Clark continues to break records.
Wednesday Night Trivia | Wednesday, Sept. 4 | 7:30 p.m. | Guggman Haus Brewing Co. | Cost of purchase | Enjoy food, drinks, and trivia for a chance to win prizes.
Thursday, Sept. 5
Elevance Health Roller Rink | Thursday, Sept. 5 | 11 a.m. | Bicentennial Unity Plaza | $4-$10 | Get out and get active with a 90-minute skating session at Bicentennial Unity Plaza.
ICO at Riverside Park | Thursday, Sept. 5 | 7:30-9:30 p.m. | Taggart Memorial Amphitheatre | Free | Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and experience a live orchestra under the evening glow.
Friday, Sept. 6
First Friday Artist Market | Friday, Sept. 6 | 6-9 p.m. | Locations vary | Cost of purchase | Celebrate First Friday at both Fountain Square Plaza and College Avenue Plaza with local artisans.
Yoga in the Park | Friday, Sept. 6 | 10-11 a.m. | Opti-Park Indianapolis | $15 | Join this hour-long yoga session for all skill levels in support of local animal rescues.
Saturday, Sept. 7
Walk It Out America | Saturday, Sept. 7 | 7 a.m. | White River State Park | Free | Walk It Out was designed specifically to help those who may be struggling with health issues to enter the world of walking/running events.
Goodbye Summer Bake Sale | Saturday, Sept. 7 | 9-11 a.m. | Lille Bønne Community Living Room | Cost of purchase | Buy some baked goods at the soon-to-open Lille Bonne during the Fountain-Fletcher District’s Yard Sale with a lineup of favorite local bakers.
Sunday, Sept. 8
Indianapolis Colts vs. Houston Texans | Sunday, Sept. 8 | 1 p.m. | Lucas Oil Stadium | $90+ | Kick off football season with a home matchup against the Texans.
Offline partners with 40+ locally owned restaurants in Indianapolis. | Photo provided by Offline
Offline, Indy’s newest restaurant club, just launched. If you love sampling our city’s restaurants (guilty) and wouldn’t say no to money off your tab (guilty again), an Offline membership is a no-brainer.
Every month, you get two credits to redeem at locally owned restaurants that boast at least a 4+ star rating. Current offers include:
Fall-like temperatures have welcomed the month of September in Indy, and you may have already noticed some trees changing color. How good will the color be this autumn season? Learn how weather affects fall foliage. (WTHR)
Announced
The development project currently under construction at the building that houses 8th Day Distillery, DayWon Fitness, artist studios, and Fowling has been renamed “Factory Arts District.” Read about the rebrand.
Edu
Last month, students went back to the classroom for the first time since IUPUI officially split in July. IU and Purdue are working to create separate identities downtown, with Purdue Indianapolis creating a new campus — starting with a $187 million student center. Read more about the “kind of confusing” dynamic. (Mirror Indy)
Biz
Two new small businesses have moved into the St’Artup 317 space in the Stutz building, adding to its retail accelerator lineup which aims to support Indy’s creative economy. Hair care company HBH Professional and streetwear company Nate Redd will fill the storefronts. (IBJ)
Community
KultureCity, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting inclusivity and accessibility for individuals with sensory needs, has recognized the Indianapolis Zoo as a certified Sensory Inclusive place. A new sensory-inclusive zoo map is available online. (WRTV)
Sports
Where do the Pacers stand in the Eastern Conference? Locked On host Tony East is joined by Shane Young from Forbes Sports to break it down.
Finance
It’s almost fall — that chill you feel should be from the air, not your credit card bill. Experts recommend these four cards with 0% APR for up to 18 months (almost two years) on qualifying balance transfers.*
Answered
Last week, we asked you what your go-to activity with friends is. Here’s what you said:
For a casual dinner, we like Clancy’s Hamburgers for its fries and classic root beer float.
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Photo provided by Clancy’s Hamburgers
“Concerts.” Outdoor concert season isn’t over yet. We recommend checking out Levitt VIBE or seeing a show at Everwise Amphitheater this month at White River State Park.
“Live music.” The live music scene is truly unmatched in our area — from bass to bluegrass to Beethoven, there’s a stage for any type of tune. Check out our guide to live music venues.
“Game nights.” You can’t go wrong with a game night from the comforts of your own home. If you’re looking for a new game to add to the shelf, check out these shops.
“Meet for coffee.” A good catch-up sesh with your bestie is best served over a cup of coffee. Plan your next coffee date.
“Have a casual dinner, then a see movie or go to a bar + play pinball games.” This sounds like a Bottleworks outing to us. Casual dinner at The Garage Food Hall where there’s something for everyone, then a movie at Living Room Theaters or hang out at Pins.
The Buy
Bring on all the cozy fall vibes. Here are five seasonal must-haves that scream luxury (without the hefty price tag):
If you’re a Colts fan, or the partner of a Colts fan, you’re going to want a cute game day outfit to wear to the stadium or your watch parties. BluePeppermint Boutique in Fishers has all the blue clothing and accessories you could want.
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