Travel Log: Indianapolis

Indianapolis -- just mentioning the city's name is like cranking the engine of a racecar, unless of course you're Peyton Manning or Jimmy Chitwood.

Open-wheel, stock car or dirt ovals, racing is to Indianapolis as high school basketball is to the rest of the state. But on this trip, the focus lies outside of wheels and engines. Only one of the stops listed has to do with racing, and it's a must-see for any fan making the journey to the Midwest.

Indy leads to nice weather, outdoor music and perhaps the absolute best tourist attraction for a family with children. So yes, it's OK to bring the kiddies to the races. They'll be worn out by the time Sunday comes.

White River State Park -- Check out the zoo, a baseball game, the state's history and bask in the sun all in one stop: Indianapolis' downtown state park. The downside is the NCAA Hall of Champions is closed for construction. The upside is the weather is nice and outdoor hiking or riding is in order for this unique stop.
• For more information, click here

ORG01 -- 106th Grill at the corner of West 106th Street and Michigan. Good people, good food, good drinks and fun.

NASCAR_Sunny -- St. Elmo's! Great steaks and shrimp cocktail sauce that will open your sinuses for days!

NASCAR.COM's Raygan Swan, an Indy native, suggests:
• Mug-N-Bun -- Root beer, burgers, hot dogs and rings
• Long's Bakery Inc. -- Rumored as having the best donuts in the land
• Union Jack Pub -- An English pub with an American twist

Join the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Crew

Thursday: Mostly sunny with a high of 84 degrees, low of 64
Friday: Mostly sunny with a high of 83 degrees, low of 70
Saturday: Partly sunny with a high of 86 degrees, low of 67
Sunday: Partly sunny with a high of 86 degrees, low of 65
Complete Forecast

More
• Let NASCAR.COM help book your last-minute travel.
• Directions and aerial map of Speedway, Ind.

The summer months continue with a second trip to the Pocono Mountains. This time we'll journey around Pennsylvania. Share your personal favorites here.