I've lived in Indianapolis all my life, and while Indiana may not be the most exciting state, Indianapolis has so much to do. I love taking my friends from out of state downtown and showing them what the city really has to offer. I've rounded up my favorite places in all of Indy. Next time you come to the city, you'll know exactly what to do.

1. Bakersfield on Mass Ave

Honestly, anything on Mass Ave is amazing. It's super trendy and has adorable food, drinks, and dessert places. Bakersfield specifically is the best Mexican food in Indy. Their margaritas are to die for and have amazing tacos, chips, and lots of different salsas and dip. The interior is super cozy and trendy, and it's the perfect place to go for a fun Friday night dinner out. When I was working in Indy over the summer, I came here at least once a week.

2. The Cake Bake Shop

Pretty sure this is the most photographed place in all of Indianapolis. The interior is to die for and the cakes are absolutely gorgeous! Definitely Instagram worthy but call ahead to see how busy they are/ if you can get a reservation. I've gone without doing either of these and have been told the wait was 3+ hours. But honestly, it's worth the wait.

3. The Canal

Honestly, no matter what time of year you come to Indy, the canal is always beautiful. My favorite times to come are the fall in spring when the leaves are changing color, and then when the flowers are beginning to bloom. There are a ton of restaurants along the canal and you can even rent a paddle boat to travel down the canal that way.

4. The Dancing Donut

This is seriously the CUTEST place in the Broad Ripple area. One of my BFF's goes to Butler and I make her take me to breakfast here every time I come visit. They have a substantial selection of donuts which includes vegan and gluten-free options. They also have the BEST iced latte I've ever had... just sayin'.

5. Victory Field - Indianapolis Indians

So maybe I'm a little biased because I've worked here for 2 years, but there's seriously nothing like the atmosphere of a baseball game. Tickets are cheap starting at $9 to sit in the field which means you can also bring in coolers, blankets, and (non-alcoholic) drinks!

6. Art Museum

You probably remember those really cool bones in The Fault in Our Stars. Well yep, we got the "Funky Bones" in Indy and you can come sit on them just like Hazel Grace and Gus.

The art museum though overall is really freaking cool. Definitely a good place to go.

7. Monument Circle

Just classic Indy. The circle is filled with businesses, small shops, and the huge Soldier and Sailors monument. During Christmas time they make a "Christmas Tree" of lights coming off the Monument and it's super festive. You can also go inside the monument and climb the (many flights!) of stairs to the top.

Hope this makes your next trip to Indy a little easier and makes you fall as much in love with my city as I am!