A Wheelchair Accessible Travel Guide to Central Indiana 

When you think of Indiana, your mind may immediately go to cornfields, basketball, and the Indy 500. But on a recent trip to Central Indiana, I was blown away by how much more there is to experience and how wheelchair accessible it all is. Honestly, I didn’t really know what to expect before this trip, but I quickly discovered that Central Indiana is a fun destination for people of all abilities! 

From incredible museums and trails to unique restaurants and a stunning boutique hotel, Indianapolis and Hamilton County make a fantastic getaway for wheelchair users in Central Indiana. In this wheelchair accessible travel guide, I’ll share some of my favorite things to do, places to eat, and where to stay. By the time you finish reading it, I can assure you that you’ll be itching to plan an accessible trip to this incredible destination! 

Wheelchair Accessible Central Indiana Attractions & Things to Do

There are so many wonderfully accessible things to do in Central Indiana, but these are some of my favorites:

Roll on the Track at Indianapolis Motor Speedway

No trip to Indianapolis is complete without visiting the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the legendary Indy 500. For racing fans, this is the holy grail, but even if you don’t follow motorsports closely (like me), the energy and history here are enough to make you a fan for the day. 

When I first rolled through the gates, I could feel the excitement that must build every year on race day. It’s hard not to get caught up in the thrill of knowing that some of the fastest cars in the world have sped around the track here.

Inside, the Speedway Museum is fully wheelchair accessible, with spacious galleries, elevators, and ramps to make exploring easy. The exhibits take you through over 100 years of racing history, showcasing vintage race cars, trophies, and even memorabilia from drivers who became household names. 

Wide pathways allow for plenty of room to maneuver throughout the museum, and accessible companion care restrooms are available. There are also accessible parking spaces close to the entrance, which made my visit seamless from the start.

The best part of my time here, though, was taking one of the track tours. Accessible buses equipped with lifts make it possible for wheelchair users to board without issue. Rolling out onto the actual oval where racing legends like A.J. Foyt and Helio Castroneves have competed gave me goosebumps. 

After riding on the bus around the track for about ten minutes, we were able to exit the bus and actually walk/roll on the track. As I made my way onto the track, I couldn’t help but imagine the roar of 300,000 fans on race day. It’s an experience that gave me a whole new appreciation for racing, and I’d now love to actually attend the Indy 500 one day! 

The staff at the Speedway were also incredibly welcoming and helpful, ready to answer accessibility questions or provide assistance. For me, that combination of legendary history, thrilling atmosphere, and thoughtful accessibility made the Indianapolis Motor Speedway one of the absolute highlights of my Central Indiana trip. 

See Art and Beautiful Gardens at Newfields

One of the most beautiful and surprising stops on my trip in Central Indiana was Newfields, a 152-acre cultural campus that includes the Indianapolis Museum of Art, historic homes, and some of the most impressive gardens I’ve seen in the Midwest. Rolling onto the grounds felt like entering another world. It was part serene nature escape, part world-class art collection.

Inside the museum, accessibility is excellent. Elevators connect all levels, doorways are wide, and galleries have ample space to navigate with a wheelchair. Companion restrooms are available throughout, and service animals are welcome. The art collection spans thousands of years, from ancient artifacts to contemporary works, and I loved that the exhibits are arranged in a way that makes rolling through them flow naturally. 

My favorite part of the art museum was The Lume, which was such an incredible experience! It’s a multi-sensory experience and as a wheelchair user, I found it super easy to get around. I loved being completely surrounded by moving art and music. The vibrant projections made me feel like I was inside the paintings, and it was immersive, peaceful, and so beautifully done.  

Outside, the gardens were even more impressive. Smooth, paved pathways wound through lush landscapes, sculptures, and even a greenhouse. While some areas are on a slight incline, I found them very easily manageable, and benches scattered throughout make for good resting spots if you’re with companions. 

The Lilly House and gardens are especially stunning, and accessible entrances allow wheelchair users to enjoy the historic charm without barriers. Staff also have wheelchairs available to borrow if needed, which shows a real commitment to inclusivity. 

What I loved most about Newfields was how it felt like multiple experiences in one. It was part art museum, part outdoor adventure, part historical exploration. Whether I was indoors admiring masterpieces or outdoors soaking up Indiana’s natural beauty, I never had to worry about accessibility. It made for a relaxing, inspiring day that I’d recommend to anyone visiting Indianapolis.

Play at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis isn’t just any children’s museum. It’s actually the largest children’s museum in the entire world. With five floors of interactive exhibits, this place is huge, and I was immediately struck by how much effort they’ve put into making it accessible for all. 

From the moment I entered, I could tell this was a place that families of every ability could enjoy together. The accessibility here is outstanding. Ramps and elevators connect all levels, and the pathways are wide enough for even the busiest of days. 

Companion restrooms are located throughout the museum, and one even has an adult-sized changing table. The museum also offers sensory maps and adaptive programs, which is a great resource for families traveling with children who have additional needs.

Exhibit-wise, there’s something for everyone. I loved the Dinosphere, where life-sized dinosaur skeletons towered above me. The lighting and sounds made it feel like stepping back in time, and everything was arranged with space for wheelchair users to get close. 

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The interactive sports area outside was another favorite. It includes everything from basketball to racing simulations, a Ferris wheel, and a baseball field, and many activities are set up so kids (and adults!) using wheelchairs can participate. They even have adaptive equipment available, so everyone can enjoy the activities. Just ask a staff member and they’ll be happy to show you the adaptive sports equipment options. 

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What really stood out, though, was the museum’s energy. It’s a place filled with curiosity, laughter, and discovery. Even though it’s designed with kids in mind, I found myself completely engaged and entertained. Accessibility here didn’t feel like an afterthought. Instead, it was clearly integrated into every decision. It’s the kind of attraction that proves inclusion can make an experience better for everyone.

Traverse Great Trails in Hamilton County

Central Indiana may be best known for its city attractions, but Hamilton County showed me just how much natural beauty the area has to offer. Two trails in particular stood out: the Monon Greenway and the Nickel Plate Trail. Both are fantastic for wheelchair users and offer very different, but equally enjoyable experiences.

The Monon Greenway is a paved, multi-use trail that stretches for miles through Carmel, Indiana and beyond. Rolling along it, I passed through parks, neighborhoods, and bustling downtown areas filled with shops and restaurants. The trail is smooth, wide, and well-maintained, making it ideal for wheelchair users. 

Accessible entry points and parking areas make it easy to hop on the trail at different points, so you can choose how far you want to go. I especially loved that the Monon connects right to Carmel’s Arts & Design District, which meant I could combine outdoor time with art and food. 

The Nickel Plate Trail offers a quieter, more scenic roll. This trail follows a former railroad line and winds through small towns and natural landscapes. The paved paths are level and easy to navigate, and along the way, you’ll find spots to rest, take in the views, or snap some photos. 

I rolled on the Nickel Plate Trail with my friend Natalie, who runs the accessible travel blog Roamable. We had fun taking in the sights along the way, and it was the perfect place to slow down and enjoy a bit of peace in Central Indiana.

Sometimes outdoor trails can feel like a challenge with uneven terrain or barriers, but these two trails were designed with inclusivity in mind. They showed me that you don’t have to leave accessibility behind when you head outdoors. You can enjoy fresh air and beautiful views in Hamilton County from these two trails!

Visit the Arts District in Carmel

If you love art and culture (and why wouldn’t you?!), the Carmel Arts & Design District is a must-visit. Just rolling down Main Street, I was greeted by colorful murals, quirky sculptures, and charming storefronts. There’s a vibrancy here that made it one of my favorite stops on the trip. It felt like the kind of place where creativity spills into every corner.

Accessibility in the district is excellent. The sidewalks are wide and smooth, with curb cuts at every intersection. Accessible parking spaces are available nearby, and most of the galleries and shops have level entries. I appreciated how easy it was to navigate from one end of the district to the other without worrying about obstacles.

Inside the galleries, staff were welcoming and eager to share their stories about the artists. I enjoyed exploring everything from traditional paintings to contemporary works, and there was always enough space to roll through comfortably. Public art installations added another layer of fun, as you never know when you’ll come across a whimsical statue or bold street mural.

What makes this district extra special is its connection to the Monon Greenway. After spending some time enjoying the galleries and boutiques, I was able to roll right onto the trail and keep exploring. It’s a perfect blend of urban creativity and outdoor adventure, all in a space that feels designed with wheelchair users in mind.

See a Show at Coxhall Gardens 

One evening, I attended Concerts in the Centerpiece at Coxhall Gardens in Hamilton County. And it was pure summer magic! The setting was beautiful, with the open-air amphitheater surrounded by lush greenery. The band Toy Factory took the stage that night, filling the air with infectious energy and familiar tunes that had the whole crowd moving. The mix of Motown, funk, and dance hits made it impossible not to smile, and you could feel the community coming together to celebrate a perfect night of live music.

Accessibility was another highlight of the experience. Navigating the venue in my wheelchair was smooth and easy, thanks to the paved pathways. It’s always a relief and a joy when an outdoor venue like Coxhall Gardens takes inclusion seriously, allowing everyone to enjoy the music comfortably and equally.

Concerts in the Centerpiece is a seasonal event, so it’s worth checking the schedule to see when it returns or if other performances are planned at Coxhall Gardens. The venue hosts a variety of community events throughout the year, and it’s a fantastic place to watch a show. With beautiful surroundings, great accessibility, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a spot I’d happily visit again for another night of live music.

Eat Delicious Food in Great Restaurants

Central Indiana’s culinary scene was one of the biggest surprises of my trip. I expected comfort food and maybe a few breweries, but what I found was a creative, diverse mix of restaurants that rivaled some bigger cities. Best of all, each spot I visited had strong accessibility, so I never had to worry about whether I could get in or find a comfortable place to sit. Here are a few of the standout restaurants I rolled into during my trip.

Monterey Coastal Cuisine

Entering Monterey Coastal Cuisine in Carmel felt like being transported to a breezy seaside town. The interior is bright and modern, with a menu that highlights fresh seafood flown in daily. I don’t often get the chance to eat ahi tuna in the Midwest, but Monterey nailed it. Their dishes were vibrant and flavorful, and the presentation made the whole meal feel special.

Accessibility here was seamless. The entrance has a wide, level doorway, and inside, the layout leaves plenty of room between tables for wheelchairs. The restrooms were also spacious and ADA-compliant, which made the whole dining experience stress-free. They even had a companion care restroom. It’s the kind of place that’s equally great for a casual lunch or a special night out, and I loved that I didn’t have to compromise on either atmosphere or accessibility.

Cake Bake

If you’ve ever wanted to step, or roll, inside a fairytale, Cake Bake is the place to do it. From the moment I rolled through the doors, I felt like I’d entered a whimsical wonderland of twinkling chandeliers, pastel décor, and desserts so beautiful they looked like artwork. Of course, I couldn’t resist trying their famous layered cakes, and they were every bit as delicious as I’d hoped.

While their cakes are exceptional, the appetizers and entrees were fantastic as well. I really enjoyed my Croque Madame sandwich, and I’d love to visit again and try more of their menu. Even though it’s a very popular spot (reservations are highly recommended), I never felt cramped or rushed at Cake Bake. Whether you go for brunch, lunch, dinner, or just dessert, Cake Bake is an experience as much as it is a restaurant.

Four Day Ray Brewing

Four Day Ray Brewing in Fishers offers the kind of relaxed, welcoming vibe that makes you want to linger over a pint or two. Their menu is filled with elevated pub fare like burgers, nachos, and hearty sandwiches. And if you’re a fan of beer, you might enjoy trying a flight of their house-brewed beer. The space itself is lively without being overwhelming, which made it a great place to hang out after a day of exploring.

The brewery is fully accessible, with level entryways, wide pathways, and ADA-compliant restrooms. The tables are a comfortable height for wheelchair seating, and the staff were friendly. It’s the kind of place that’s casual enough for a spontaneous meal but still has enough variety to keep foodies happy.

Borage

Dining at Borage in Indianapolis was an absolute delight from start to finish. The restaurant has its own parking lot with accessible spaces, which made arriving convenient and stress-free. Inside, the layout was open and easy to navigate as a wheelchair user. And then there was the cinnamon roll, which was warm, gooey, and perfectly spiced. It was easily one of the best cinnamon rolls I’ve ever had, and I’d honestly go back just for that alone.

The smoked salmon rillette tartine was another standout dish for me. It was the kind of meal that leaves you savoring each bite. Between the delicious food, the welcoming staff, and how accessible the whole experience was (right down to the parking lot), Borage truly impressed me. It’s the kind of spot that makes dining out as a wheelchair user feel effortless and deliciously rewarding.  

Café Patachou

Café Patachou is a beloved local chain, and after eating breakfast there, I could immediately see why. Known for its farm-to-table approach, everything on the menu tastes fresh and made with care. I had their famous omelet and a delicious latte. The vibe is casual and friendly, making it a great spot to start the day before heading out to explore.

Accessibility here is fantastic. The entrance is step-free, the dining room is open and easy to roll around, and the tables are well-suited for wheelchair seating. It’s clear that this café was designed with comfort in mind, and it made for a very relaxed experience. Sometimes, the simplest meals leave the biggest impression, and Café Patachou definitely did that for me.

Where to Stay: Hotel Carmichael

When it came to accommodations, I stayed at Hotel Carmichael, and it ended up being one of my favorite boutique hotels to date. Located right in Carmel, it’s part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, so you know you’re getting something unique and upscale. From the moment I rolled into the grand lobby with its elegant chandeliers and artistic details, I knew this wasn’t just “a place to sleep”.

My accessible room at Hotel Carmichael was spacious and thoughtfully designed. My room had wide doorways, two beds (they were 25 inches tall), and there was plenty of space to maneuver my wheelchair throughout the room. There was even a push button to open the door of my room, which was absolutely amazing! 

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The bathroom was one of the best I’ve encountered, with modern design and practical accessibility features working hand-in-hand. In the bathroom, there was a pull-under sink, grab bars, and a spacious roll-in shower with smooth entry. It had a fold-down seat and a handheld shower wand. 

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Beyond the rooms, the rest of the property is just as accessible. Elevators connect every floor, and all public spaces, including the on-site restaurant and bar, are barrier-free. Accessible parking spaces are located near the entrance, and whether I was rolling to breakfast in the morning or heading out for an evening stroll in Carmel, everything about the hotel felt smooth and easy.

What really sets Hotel Carmichael apart, though, is its location. Just a short distance away is Carmel’s Arts & Design District, as well as direct access to the Monon Greenway trail. That meant I could roll out of the hotel and immediately be immersed in art, food, and outdoor beauty. It’s rare to find a hotel that combines luxury, accessibility, and convenience so perfectly, but Hotel Carmichael manages to do it all. If you’d like to learn more about Hotel Carmichael or book a stay of your own, just click here. 

Within just a few days, Central Indiana completely won me over. Between iconic attractions in Indianapolis, Hamilton County’s trails and artsy vibes, and a food scene that left me happily full, I found it to be a remarkably wheelchair-friendly region. Whether you’re into history, art, outdoor adventures, or just relaxing in a beautiful hotel, this part of Indiana has something for everyone. 

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*Thank you to Visit Indy and Hamilton County Tourism for working with me on this trip and showing me the best of wheelchair accessible Central Indiana! While my experiences were complimentary, all opinions expressed are authentic and my own.

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