Across 10+ options tasted, Editor Shea’s favorite mac from the State Fair was the deep fried mac and cheese bites. | Photo by INDYtoday team
Editor Shea here. I may not have been born in Indy, but after several years working, playing, and building a family here, I’m happy to call the Circle City my home.
As we kick off 2026, I’d love to share 26 of my favorite things around Indy. Here’s a little taste — click the button at the bottom of this article for the full list.
23. The chili cheese tots at The Mousetrap | Single-handedly healed me after a bad breakup. Could not recommend more.
21. The bar at Baby’s | If I was one of the Louvre robbers, this sparkly, swirly, sorbet-colored bar would be the next thing on my list. Baby’s, please take that as a compliment.
Editor Shea has never felt stronger than when she was climbing three days a week at North Mass Boulder.
Photo by INDYtoday team
19. North Mass Boulder | This was the first place I made friends when I moved to Indy, and I still love bouldering, going to yoga classes, and decompressing in the sauna here.
11. Metro | I’ve never had a bad night dancing here and I hope I never will.
4. The Irvington Halloween Festival | As a Hallowqueen, this is my favorite event of the year — plus the best outing for fellow people-watchers.
The Hoosiers trounced Oregon 56-22 to advance to the College Football Playoff national championship game in Miami on Monday, Jan. 19. Keep up with the team as they prepare for their greatest challenge yet. (WTHR)
If we gave out a Mansion Monday award for best windows + natural light, this house would take the cake. The modern masterpiece was designed by renowned architect Henry Cooler in 1956 and sits on a private, wooded, creekside lot — take a look before it leaves the market.
Fun Fact
How long can a Twinkie last? Back in 1976, a Maine high school science teacher set out to answer that question, and the sweet treat remains unblemished in its glass case 50 years later. We’ve got that beat in Indy — some of our city’s oldest businesses have been around for much longer. (Bangor Daily News)
Eat
Pizzerias aren’t ruling the restaurant world like they used to. After hitting a record high in 2019, the number of pizza restaurants in the US has steadily declined. Slice lovers, consider this your cue to support local pizza purveyors. (Wall Street Journal)
Listen
While other teams enter the NFL playoffs, what are the Colts up to? Catch up on the latest with Locked On.
Read
Reading is on the rise, with online searches for “good books” recently hitting an all time high. If you’re trying to turn more pages in 2026, read some classic literature, or find out what this fictional hockey romance thing is all about, Indy’s cozy bookstores are the perfect places to start.
Jobs
Kick off 2026 by growing your team the smart way. Whether you’re a small business ready to expand or a large company filling a critical role, our Job Board connects you with engaged, qualified local talent ready to work. Post your open roles for free and start the new year with strong applications rolling in.
The Buy
Our favorite car accessory: a portable air pump and power bank. Never worry about low tire pressure again with this lightweight device that inflates tires while providing a real-time pressure display. Plus, it features a flashlight + flashing SOS mode for added peace of mind during a breakdown or emergency.
Calling all “GBBS” fans: Want to learn how to decorate a cake that would get you a Hollywood handshake this year? Sign up for Filigree Bakery’s classes before all spots fill up. And when you’re done, send me a slice.
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