Things to Do in Indy During Gen Con 2025 Without a Ticket

Gen Con, known as "The Best Four Days in Gaming," will bring about 70,000 visitors to Indy this week!

Whether you're a passionate gamer or someone who enjoys the lively atmosphere, there's plenty to experience in the Circle City, even if you don't have a Gen Con ticket. Here are some exciting things to do in Indy during Gen Con without needing a badge.

The Indiana State Fair kicks off August 1 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center!
This family-friendly event features a Big Top Circus with thrilling acts like a human cannonball, crossbow artist, and hand-balancer. Enjoy free concerts, animal shows, and more than 40 new food items, including deep-fried creations and sweet treats. There is something for everyone at this can't-miss summer celebration!

Sip the Official Beer and Wine of Gen Con

Sun King Brewery, an Indy staple, has once again brewed a special beer for Gen Con. This year's brew is an apple cyzer; similar to a braggot, this apple cider/beer combo will surely be a hit. Even if you're not attending Gen Con, you can still savor this unique brew by visiting Sun King Brewery at the Gen Con Block Party on South Street. They will also have to-go four-packs and collectible cooler bags available while supplies last. Along with the official beer of Gen Con, you can also enjoy the official wine of Gen Con, Tideborn from Daniel's Vineyard, a full production winery and event venue in Indy.

Eat and Drink at Block Party

Speaking of Block Party, this is a free event that anyone can attend, no Gen Con ticket required! Located on South Street, you can enjoy cold beer, wine, iced coffees, burgers, pizza, food trucks, and more delicious eats all with shade and seating and cooling misters. View the full list of food vendors here.

Roller Skating at Bicentennial Unity Plaza

Let’s roll! Glide through the heart of downtown at Bicentennial Unity Plaza’s Elevance Health Roller Rink. It's highly recommended to make reservations in advance, so be sure to purchase your tickets online before heading to the rink.

SPARK on the Circle

This free event takes place in the heart of downtown—Monument Circle. Enjoy this art-filled park where you’ll find comfortable places to sit in the shade, free games to play like ping pong and chess, a cafe serving food and drink, art experiences, and special offerings like live, local music. Visitors can enjoy SPARK on the Circle from 11 am until dusk each day.

Outdoor Live Music at HIFI and Back 9 Golf & Entertainment

If you’re looking for other outdoor live music venues, check out HI-FI Annex and the Back 9 Summer Concert Series.

HI-FI Annex, located in Fountain Square, will host two concerts during the weekend of Gen Con: Six Foot Blonde, a local band with R&B/Funk/Soul vibes, and Old 97’s, a rock and alt-country band.

Back 9 Golf & Entertainment is a local indoor/outdoor sporting and entertainment space where you can golf and listen to free music in their unique outdoor biergarten. They have live music every Friday and Saturday night, so if you’re looking to elevate your gaming skills in a different way, check out this unique attraction.