How to Get Around Indianapolis Without a Car

Indianapolis, the capital of Indiana and the 12th-largest city in the United States, is often associated with car culture. With wide highways, sprawling suburbs, and the famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway, it’s easy to assume that owning a vehicle is essential to navigate the city. But the truth is, getting around Indianapolis without a car is not only possible—it’s increasingly practical, affordable, and sustainable. Whether you’re a new resident, a student, a budget-conscious traveler, or someone choosing to live car-free for environmental or personal reasons, this guide provides a comprehensive roadmap to mastering urban mobility in Indianapolis without wheels.

This tutorial walks you through every aspect of non-automotive transportation in the city—from public transit and biking infrastructure to ride-sharing, walking routes, and community resources. You’ll learn how to plan efficient trips, avoid common pitfalls, and take advantage of underutilized services that make car-free living not just feasible, but enjoyable. By the end of this guide, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to move around Indianapolis with ease, no car required.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand the Public Transit System: IndyGo

The backbone of car-free transportation in Indianapolis is IndyGo, the city’s public bus transit agency. IndyGo operates over 30 fixed bus routes across Marion County, with frequent service on major corridors like Meridian Street, Broad Ripple Avenue, and Washington Street. The system has undergone significant modernization since 2018, including the introduction of the Red Line—a 15-mile Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor that connects downtown Indianapolis to the northeast side via the Cultural Trail and the IUPUI campus.

To begin using IndyGo:

• Download the IndyGo app from the App Store or Google Play. It provides real-time bus tracking, route planning, and fare payment.
• Register for a free account to save favorite stops and receive service alerts.
• Purchase a fare using the app (single ride: $1.75, day pass: $4.50, 31-day pass: $55) or use a reloadable GoCard at any retail partner or transit center.
• Plan your trip using the IndyGo Trip Planner on their website. Input your origin and destination, and the tool will suggest the best route, including transfers and estimated arrival times.

Key routes to memorize:

• Red Line: Runs every 10–15 minutes from 5 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week. Connects downtown, Butler-Tarkington, and the University of Indianapolis.
• Route 8 (Meridian Street): Runs north-south through the heart of the city, serving the Wholesale District, Lockerbie Square, and the Virginia Avenue Transit Center.
• Route 11 (Broad Ripple): Links downtown to the vibrant Broad Ripple Village, a hub for dining, shopping, and entertainment.
• Route 15 (Washington Street): Connects the west side (Castleton) to downtown and the Indiana Convention Center.

2. Master the Cultural Trail

One of Indianapolis’s most valuable assets for car-free residents is the Cultural Trail, a 8-mile multi-use path that links downtown’s key cultural institutions, neighborhoods, and transit hubs. Designed specifically for pedestrians and cyclists, the trail is fully paved, well-lit, and monitored with security cameras. It connects the Indiana State Museum, the Indianapolis Museum of Art, the Circle Centre Mall, and the Mass Ave district to the Red Line stops at University Place and the IUPUI campus.

Whether you’re walking or biking, the Cultural Trail is the safest and most scenic way to travel between major destinations. Use it to:

• Commute from your apartment near Mass Ave to downtown offices.
• Visit museums, theaters, and restaurants without worrying about parking.
• Connect to IndyGo buses at stops along the trail, including the Virginia Avenue Transit Center and the University Place stop.

Pro tip: Install the TrailLink app to view real-time trail conditions, public art installations, and nearby restrooms or water fountains.

3. Utilize Bike Share: Pacers Bikeshare

Indianapolis has a robust bike-sharing system called Pacers Bikeshare, operated by the nonprofit organization Bike Walk Indiana. With over 150 stations located throughout downtown, the Near East Side, the Wholesale District, and near major universities, Pacers Bikeshare offers affordable, short-term access to bicycles.

How to use Pacers Bikeshare:

• Download the Pacers Bikeshare app or use a kiosk at any station.
• Create an account using your email or phone number. Options include single rides ($2 for 30 minutes), day passes ($12), and monthly memberships ($15).
• Scan the QR code on the bike to unlock it. Return it to any station with an available dock.

Important notes:

• Use helmets—Indiana law doesn’t require them for adults, but safety is non-negotiable.
• Many stations are located near Red Line stops, making it easy to combine biking and bus transit.
• Peak hours (7–9 a.m. and 5–7 p.m.) may see low bike availability; plan ahead or use the app to check station inventory.

For longer rides or commuting outside the core area, consider purchasing a sturdy hybrid bike from a local shop like Second Spin or Urban Bicycles and using the Cultural Trail and connected greenways to travel safely.

4. Leverage Ride-Share and On-Demand Services

While ride-sharing isn’t a replacement for daily commuting, it’s a powerful supplement for car-free residents. Services like Uber and Lyft operate throughout Indianapolis, including in areas with limited bus coverage such as the south side and suburban neighborhoods.

Best practices for using ride-share:

• Use it for late-night trips after transit hours end (IndyGo buses stop running around midnight).
• Combine with transit: Take a bus to a major hub like the Virginia Avenue Transit Center, then use Uber/Lyft for the “last mile” to your destination.
• Split rides with friends or coworkers to reduce costs.
• Use the “Shared Ride” option on Uber or Lyft when available—it’s often 30–50% cheaper than a solo ride.

Additionally, Indianapolis offers a specialized on-demand service called IndyGo On-Demand in select zones (primarily on the west and south sides). This is a microtransit service where you book a ride via app or phone, and a small van picks you up within a 3/4-mile radius of your location and drops you off near a transit hub or major destination. Fares are $2 per trip, and service runs from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday–Saturday. It’s ideal for residents in areas not served by fixed routes.

5. Walk Smart: Learn Walkable Neighborhoods

Indianapolis has several highly walkable neighborhoods where daily errands, dining, and entertainment are all within a 15-minute radius. These areas are designed for pedestrians and often feature sidewalks, crosswalks, traffic calming measures, and mixed-use development.

Top walkable districts:

• Downtown: Home to the Circle Centre Mall, the Indiana Statehouse, the Canal Walk, and dozens of restaurants and coffee shops. Most attractions are within a 2-mile radius.
• Massachusetts Avenue (Mass Ave): A historic district with boutiques, galleries, theaters, and farm-to-table restaurants. Walkable from the Cultural Trail and Red Line.
• Broad Ripple Village: A charming, tree-lined neighborhood with independent shops, breweries, and the historic Broad Ripple Park. Connected to downtown via Route 11 and the Cultural Trail.
• Meridian-Kessler: A residential neighborhood with a walkable commercial strip along Meridian Street, featuring cafes, bookstores, and a weekly farmers market.
• Virginia Avenue Transit Center Area: A transit-oriented development with grocery stores, pharmacies, and apartments clustered around the main bus hub.

Use tools like Walk Score to evaluate the walkability of any Indianapolis address. Scores above 70 are considered “Walker’s Paradise.”

6. Plan Multi-Modal Trips

The most efficient way to get around Indianapolis without a car is to combine multiple modes of transportation. This is called multi-modal transit, and it’s the key to maximizing convenience and minimizing cost.

Example: Getting from the University of Indianapolis to the Indianapolis Zoo

1. Walk 5 minutes to the Red Line stop at University Place.
2. Take the Red Line southbound to the Virginia Avenue Transit Center (15 minutes).
3. Transfer to Route 10 (to the zoo) at the transit center (wait time: under 10 minutes).
4. Arrive at the zoo entrance in 25 minutes total.

Another example: Getting from the Eastside to the Indiana Convention Center

1. Use Pacers Bikeshare to bike 1.5 miles to the Cultural Trail.
2. Ride the Cultural Trail south to the Circle Centre stop (10 minutes).
3. Walk 3 minutes to the convention center.

Always check the IndyGo app for real-time updates and delays. Many routes have scheduled maintenance or detours on weekends—plan accordingly.

7. Use Park-and-Ride Facilities for Longer Trips

If you’re traveling from the suburbs or beyond Marion County, consider using IndyGo’s park-and-ride lots. These are free parking areas located near major highways where you can leave your car and board a direct bus into downtown or other key destinations.

Popular park-and-ride locations:

• Northwest Park & Ride: Near I-465 and US-31
• Eastside Park & Ride: Near I-70 and I-465
• Southside Park & Ride: Near I-465 and Fall Creek Parkway

From these locations, express buses run during peak commute hours (5:30–9 a.m. and 3–6:30 p.m.) and connect directly to downtown, the airport, or the University of Indianapolis. Fares are the same as regular IndyGo routes, but travel time is significantly reduced.

Best Practices

1. Plan Ahead, Not Last-Minute

Public transit schedules in Indianapolis are reliable, but they’re not as frequent as in larger cities like Chicago or New York. Missing a bus can mean a 20–30 minute wait. Always check the IndyGo app before leaving home. Set reminders for departure times and enable push notifications for service alerts.

2. Carry a Backup Power Source

Your smartphone is your lifeline for transit apps, maps, and real-time tracking. Always carry a portable charger, especially if you’re traveling for extended periods or during cold weather when phone batteries drain faster.

3. Pack Light and Smart

Bus and bike travel require mobility. Avoid bulky bags. Use a crossbody bag, backpack, or a small rolling suitcase with wheels that can navigate sidewalks and stairs. Many IndyGo buses have overhead racks and designated spaces for bikes and strollers.

4. Know Your Fare Options

IndyGo offers discounted fares for seniors (65+), students, and people with disabilities. If you qualify, apply for a GoCard with reduced pricing. Monthly passes are the most cost-effective option for daily commuters.

5. Avoid Peak Crowding When Possible

Red Line and Route 8 buses are busiest between 7:30–9 a.m. and 4:30–6 p.m. If your schedule allows, shift your commute by an hour to avoid congestion and improve comfort.

6. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

While Indianapolis is generally safe, always be mindful of your belongings and environment, especially at night or in less populated areas. Stick to well-lit, high-traffic routes like the Cultural Trail and major transit corridors.

7. Engage With the Community

Join local groups like Indy Car Free on Facebook or attend monthly meetings hosted by Bike Walk Indiana. These communities share tips, report infrastructure issues, and advocate for better transit options. Your voice matters in shaping a more accessible city.

8. Embrace the Pace

Living without a car means adjusting your rhythm. You’ll walk more, wait patiently, and discover hidden gems along the way. This isn’t a limitation—it’s an invitation to experience Indianapolis more deeply. Stop at a new café, chat with a vendor at the farmers market, or take a detour through a quiet park. The city reveals itself differently when you’re not behind the wheel.

Tools and Resources

IndyGo App and Website

The official source for real-time bus locations, route maps, fare payment, and trip planning. Available at indygo.net.

Pacers Bikeshare App

Find, unlock, and return bikes at any station. Available at pacerbikeshare.com.

Google Maps (Transit Mode)

Google Maps has robust transit directions for Indianapolis. Select “Transit” mode to see all bus, bike, and walking options with step-by-step guidance.

Walk Score

Evaluate the walkability of any address in Indianapolis. Visit walkscore.com and enter a street name or ZIP code.

TrailLink

Comprehensive trail map for the Cultural Trail and other regional paths. Shows amenities, difficulty, and user reviews. Available at traillink.com.

City of Indianapolis Mobility Dashboard

View citywide data on transit usage, bike lane expansion, and pedestrian safety projects. Updated quarterly. Visit indy.gov/mobility.

Local Transit Advocacy Groups

• Bike Walk Indiana – Advocates for safer streets and expanded bike infrastructure.
• Indy Car Free – Community of residents who live without cars; shares tips and events.
• Indianapolis Metropolitan Planning Organization (IMPO) – Oversees regional transportation planning and funding.

Free Resources

• Public libraries across Indianapolis offer free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and printed transit maps.
• The Indianapolis Public Library system hosts monthly “Transit 101” workshops for beginners.
• Some employers offer transit benefits—ask your HR department if you’re eligible for pre-tax transit passes.

Real Examples

Example 1: A Student at IUPUI Without a Car

Samantha, a sophomore at IUPUI, lives in a downtown apartment and doesn’t own a car. Her daily routine:

• 7:00 a.m.: Walks 10 minutes to the Red Line stop at University Place.
• 7:15 a.m.: Rides the Red Line to Virginia Avenue Transit Center (12 minutes).
• 7:30 a.m.: Transfers to Route 11 to visit her internship at a nonprofit on the east side.
• 5:00 p.m.: Takes the Red Line back to campus.
• 6:30 p.m.: Uses Pacers Bikeshare to bike 1.2 miles to a friend’s apartment for dinner.
• 9:00 p.m.: Walks back to her apartment along the well-lit Cultural Trail.

Samantha spends less than $60 per month on transit and bike share. She saves over $5,000 annually compared to car ownership (insurance, gas, maintenance, parking).

Example 2: A Retiree in Broad Ripple

Robert, 68, moved to Broad Ripple after retiring. He uses:

• Route 11 bus to visit his granddaughter at her downtown preschool.
• IndyGo On-Demand to reach the pharmacy on the south side.
• Walking to the local grocery store, library, and community center.
• Free senior transportation program offered by the Area Agency on Aging for medical appointments.

Robert says, “I didn’t think I could live without a car, but now I feel more connected to my neighborhood than ever.”

Example 3: A Tourist Exploring Indianapolis

Julia, visiting from Chicago, spends three days in Indianapolis without renting a car:

• Day 1: Walks from her downtown hotel to the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument, then takes the Red Line to the Indianapolis Museum of Art.
• Day 2: Bikes the Cultural Trail to Mass Ave, shops at local boutiques, and eats at a vegan restaurant.
• Day 3: Takes the Red Line to the airport, then uses Uber to reach the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for a tour.

She spends $28 total on transit and bike share, and says, “I saw more of the city in three days than I would have driving around.”

FAQs

Is it really possible to live without a car in Indianapolis?

Yes. While Indianapolis was historically car-dependent, investments in the Red Line, Cultural Trail, Pacers Bikeshare, and expanded bus routes have made car-free living viable for thousands of residents. With smart planning, most daily needs—work, groceries, healthcare, entertainment—are accessible via public transit, biking, or walking.

How safe is public transit in Indianapolis?

IndyGo buses are equipped with security cameras, and the Red Line has dedicated drivers and station attendants. The Cultural Trail is monitored 24/7. While incidents are rare, always stay alert, especially at night. Stick to well-traveled routes and use apps to track your ride.

Can I bring my bike on the bus?

Yes. All IndyGo buses have front-mounted bike racks that hold up to two bikes. No reservation needed—just load your bike before boarding and unlock the rack. Folding bikes can be brought on board as luggage.

Are there any discounts for students or seniors?

Yes. Students with a valid ID and seniors 65+ qualify for half-price fares on IndyGo. Apply for a GoCard at any transit center or online. Some universities also offer free or subsidized transit passes to enrolled students.

What if I need to travel outside Marion County?

IndyGo does not operate beyond county lines, but regional services like Hoosier Ride and Amtrak connect Indianapolis to surrounding cities. For longer trips, consider combining bus, bike, and ride-share to reach regional transit hubs.

How reliable is the Red Line?

The Red Line is one of the most reliable transit services in the Midwest, with buses arriving every 10–15 minutes during peak hours and every 20 minutes off-peak. Delays are uncommon, and real-time tracking ensures you know exactly when your bus is coming.

What if I need to carry groceries or heavy items?

Many IndyGo buses have low-floor access and ample space for strollers and bags. Use Pacers Bikeshare’s cargo bikes (available at select stations) for larger loads. Alternatively, use Uber/Lyft for grocery runs—some services offer “grocery delivery” options in partnership with local stores.

Can I use my phone to pay for transit?

Yes. The IndyGo app accepts Apple Pay, Google Pay, and credit/debit cards. You can also purchase day passes and monthly subscriptions directly through the app. No cash needed.

Are there bike lanes throughout the city?

Yes. Indianapolis has over 100 miles of bike lanes and shared-use paths, with new lanes added annually. Major corridors like Meridian Street, Washington Street, and Keystone Avenue now have protected bike lanes. Use the city’s Bike Map on indy.gov to find safe routes.

What’s the best time of year to go car-free in Indianapolis?

Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer the most pleasant weather for biking and walking. Summer is hot and humid, but many trails are shaded. Winter can be snowy, but IndyGo maintains bus routes, and the Cultural Trail is plowed regularly. Layer up and use studded tires if biking in winter.

Conclusion

Getting around Indianapolis without a car is no longer a niche lifestyle choice—it’s a practical, cost-effective, and rewarding way to experience one of America’s most dynamic mid-sized cities. Thanks to bold investments in public transit, pedestrian infrastructure, and bike-friendly design, Indianapolis has transformed from a car-centric metropolis into a city where mobility is accessible to everyone, regardless of income or vehicle ownership.

By mastering the Red Line, embracing the Cultural Trail, utilizing Pacers Bikeshare, and combining transit with walking and ride-share, you unlock freedom—not just from car payments and parking fees, but from the isolation of driving alone. You’ll connect with your neighborhood, discover hidden corners of the city, and contribute to a cleaner, quieter, and more equitable urban environment.

This guide has given you the tools, the routes, and the confidence to navigate Indianapolis without wheels. Start small: try biking to the grocery store. Take the bus to a museum you’ve never visited. Walk to a coffee shop instead of driving. Each trip is a step toward a more sustainable, connected, and vibrant life.

Indianapolis is waiting—not for your car, but for your feet, your pedals, and your curiosity.