Fountain Square is Indianapolis's most characterful neighborhood, a historic commercial district southeast of downtown with independent restaurants, bars, vintage shops, music venues and galleries clustered around its namesake fountain. This small-group food tour from Food Tour Corporation is the easiest way to eat your way through it. Rated 4.5 from 12 reviews on Viator, it runs for about three and a half hours from an afternoon start, with a local guide leading you between several local eateries for tastings that together make a full lunch. Along the way the guide points out the landmarks that define the area, including the historic Fountain Square Theatre Building and Hotel Tango Artisan Distillery, one of the craft distilleries that have helped make the district a nightlife destination. Groups are capped at twelve, which keeps it relaxed and conversational. It is a good way to see a part of the city most visitors miss, and the guide will leave you with plenty of ideas for dinner on another night.
Booking and timing: the tour starts at 2pm and lasts about three and a half hours, ending back at the meeting point. Confirmation arrives within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability, and the exact meeting point is sent with your booking rather than shown on the listing, so read your confirmation carefully. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours ahead. Food tastings and lunch are included, as are taxes and fees; drinks are not included unless stated, and guide gratuities are extra.
Dietary needs: tell the operator about any food allergies or dietary restrictions when you book, as they must be noted in advance to be accommodated. The child rate applies only when a child shares with two paying adults.
Getting there: Fountain Square is about a mile and a half southeast of Monument Circle along Virginia Avenue. The Indianapolis Cultural Trail, a paved walking and cycling path, links downtown with the neighborhood, so you can walk there in around half an hour or take a short taxi ride. The same operator also runs a Massachusetts Avenue food tour closer to the downtown hotels, though it has more mixed reviews.
What to expect
The experience
A small-group afternoon walking tour with tastings at several local eateries in the Fountain Square arts district.
Best time
A day when you have skipped a big breakfast, since the tastings add up to lunch.
How long
About three and a half hours from a 2pm start.
Tips
Note any allergies when you book, check the meeting point in your confirmation, and bring cash or a card for drinks and tips.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Food lovers and repeat visitors who want to see a neighborhood beyond downtown.
- Families
- Possible with older children who are adventurous eaters, though the length suits adults best.
- Couples
- A relaxed afternoon of tastings, then stay on in Fountain Square for drinks and live music.
- Pair with
- A walk or bike ride along the Indianapolis Cultural Trail back downtown.
- Time needed
- Three and a half hours.
Good questions
How long is the Fountain Square Food Tour?+
It lasts about three and a half hours from a 2pm start. The tour ends back at the meeting point.
Is lunch included on the Fountain Square Food Tour?+
Yes, the tastings add up to lunch and are included. Drinks are not included unless stated, and gratuities are extra.
Where is Fountain Square in Indianapolis?+
Fountain Square is about a mile and a half southeast of downtown along Virginia Avenue. The Indianapolis Cultural Trail links the two.
Can the food tour handle allergies?+
Allergies and dietary restrictions must be noted when you book to be accommodated. Contact the operator if your needs are complex.
How big are the food tour groups?+
Groups are capped at twelve guests. That keeps the stops relaxed and gives you time to talk to the guide.
