Hoosiers and visitors alike eagerly await the month of May, when the roar of IndyCars fills the air and the scent of tires on the track signals race season. May is a major tourism driver for the Circle City, drawing fans from across the globe to the Racing Capital of the World. 

May also brings National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), an annual opportunity to celebrate the 83,000 individuals who power Indy’s hospitality industry and our nearly 50 major attractions across the city. From May 4–10, destinations nationwide will spotlight the travel industry, with U.S. Travel leading the charge. 

 

Here are five reasons to explore Indy during #NTTW25: 

The ROSE Awards honor front-line hospitality stars at the Indiana Roof Ballroom
1

Hoosier Hospitality

Each spring, Visit Indy honors exceptional non-managerial hospitality employees and volunteers who go above and beyond in delivering top-tier customer service. Visit Indy announced the winners of the 34th Annual ROSE Awards on May 1st. With 75 honorees and six winners taking the stage, this cherished tradition shines a light on true Hoosier Hospitality. Learn more here. 

Indians
2

Best Year for Tourism Yet

Indy is coming off a record-setting 2024, and the momentum continues. The rest of the 2025 calendar is packed with marquee events, including the 30th Anniversary of Indy Pride (June 14), the WNBA All-Star Game (July 19), and Gen Con, the best four days in gaming (July 31–Aug. 3). 

During #NTTW25, there are plenty of events to enjoy. Our Indiana Pacers will take on the Cleveland Cavaliers for two playoff games at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Friday and Sunday night – BOOM BABY! Catch the Columbus Clippers vs Indians game, feel the rush at the Grand Prix, or join the Indy Pride Rainbow 5K Run/Walk for some colorful fun. Don’t miss Spring Blooms at Newfields or the chance to treat Mom to brunch at Bottleworks Hotel or Conner Prairie. 

Starting Experience IMS Museum
3

Museum Madness

It’s a milestone year for several of Indy’s museums. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is celebrating 100 years with new experiences like the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse exhibit and a 110-foot Ferris wheel offering skyline views. 

Earlier this month, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum reopened after an 18-month renovation, offering a refreshed and immersive look at Indy’s racing legacy. Plus, Newfields is unveiling a new LUME digital art exhibit, sure to be a must-see. 

Explore more on our Museums & Attractions page. 

Intercontinential
5

Hotel Hype

With nearly $3 billion in tourism-related development underway, there’s never been a better time to experience Indy. New properties like the InterContinental Indianapolis, featuring a stunning rooftop view of Lady Liberty, and refreshed favorites like the Omni Severin Hotel, offer ideal places to rest, recharge, and soak up the city’s energy. 

Explore more on our Hotels page. 

As you celebrate #NTTW25, take a moment to thank the hospitality professionals who make the magic happen—because Indy wouldn’t be the same without them.