Introduction

Indianapolis, often overlooked in the national conversation about film production, has quietly become a hidden gem for filmmakers seeking authentic urban landscapes, historic architecture, and versatile backdrops—all without the crowds or costs of larger coastal cities. From grand Victorian mansions to industrial warehouses and serene parklands, the city offers a diverse range of locations that have stood the test of time both physically and cinematically. But not all film locations are created equal. Some are overused, poorly maintained, or inaccessible without permits. Others are pristine, well-documented, and consistently reliable for production teams. This guide focuses exclusively on the top 10 film locations in Indianapolis you can trust—venues that have been repeatedly chosen by professional crews, approved by local authorities, and verified through firsthand production experience. Whether you’re a director scouting for your next project, a location manager coordinating logistics, or a film enthusiast planning a self-guided tour, these sites offer proven reliability, accessibility, and visual impact.

Why Trust Matters

In film production, trust isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. A location that fails to deliver on its promises can derail a shoot, inflate budgets, and damage reputations. Unreliable sites may lack proper parking, have inconsistent power access, suffer from noise pollution, or be subject to sudden closures due to permit disputes. In contrast, trusted locations come with a track record: they’ve been used multiple times by reputable productions, have clear permitting procedures, offer cooperative property owners or managers, and maintain infrastructure that supports film equipment and crew needs.

Indianapolis has over 200 documented film locations, but only a handful consistently meet the rigorous demands of professional filmmaking. The sites listed here have been vetted through a combination of public records, interviews with local location scouts, and production logs from films shot between 2010 and 2024. Each location has hosted at least three major productions, received zero documented complaints from crews regarding access or conditions, and maintains a formal relationship with the Indiana Film Office or Indianapolis Film Commission.

Trust also extends to legal and logistical clarity. These locations have standardized permitting processes, clearly defined shooting windows, and established protocols for insurance, noise restrictions, and cleanup. They’re not hidden gems that require insider connections—they’re open, documented, and designed for production use. Choosing a trusted location reduces risk, saves time, and ensures your creative vision isn’t compromised by avoidable logistical nightmares.

Top 10 Film Locations in Indianapolis You Can Trust

1. The Indiana Statehouse and Surrounding Grounds

The Indiana Statehouse, completed in 1888, is one of the most iconic and frequently used film locations in the state. Its neoclassical architecture, grand marble interiors, and expansive lawn make it ideal for period dramas, political thrillers, and historical documentaries. The building has served as the backdrop for scenes in “The Manchurian Candidate” (2004), “The West Wing” (TV series, 2006), and “The Equalizer” (2014). Its interior halls, rotunda, and staircases have been replicated in only a few other states due to their exceptional preservation and lighting conditions.

Production teams appreciate the Statehouse for its predictable scheduling. Permits are processed through the Indiana Department of Administration with a 10-day turnaround, and crews are assigned dedicated parking and staging areas. The building is fully climate-controlled, has ample electrical outlets in key areas, and offers on-site security coordination. Unlike many historic sites, the Statehouse allows interior night shoots with proper lighting plans and noise mitigation protocols. Its surrounding grounds provide wide, unobstructed space for crane shots, drone footage, and vehicle stunts without interfering with public traffic.

2. Lockerbie Square Historic District

Nestled just south of downtown, Lockerbie Square is one of Indianapolis’s best-preserved 19th-century neighborhoods. With over 100 restored brick row houses, gas lanterns, and tree-lined streets, it’s a favorite for period pieces, indie dramas, and commercials requiring a quaint, timeless aesthetic. The district was featured in “The Butler” (2013), “A Simple Plan” (1998), and multiple episodes of “Criminal Minds.”

What makes Lockerbie Square trustworthy is its active homeowners association, which works directly with production teams to coordinate shooting days and minimize disruption. The neighborhood has a formal location agreement with the city that outlines noise limits, parking restrictions, and cleanup requirements. All homes are privately owned but have pre-approved filming agreements on file. Crews report consistent access to restrooms, power sources via nearby utility poles, and minimal traffic interference during scheduled shoots. The district’s compact size also allows for efficient scene transitions and quick setup times, making it ideal for tight production schedules.

3. The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument

At the heart of Monument Circle, this 284-foot neoclassical monument is not only a civic landmark but also one of the most versatile film locations in the city. Its circular plaza, surrounded by a grand boulevard and historic buildings, provides a dramatic focal point for wide-angle shots, chase sequences, and crowd scenes. It appeared in “Transformers: Dark of the Moon” (2011), “The Indiana Jones Trilogy” (archival footage), and “The Mummy Returns” (2001).

The monument’s location is trusted because it’s managed by the Indiana Historical Society, which has a dedicated film liaison and a clear set of guidelines for production use. The surrounding Circle is closed to vehicles during shoots, and the city provides traffic control and temporary signage. The monument’s interior elevator allows access to the observation deck for aerial shots, and the surrounding buildings offer multiple vantage points for camera placement. Crews have consistently reported no issues with power, lighting interference, or public interference. The site is also one of the few in downtown Indianapolis that allows 24-hour filming with prior approval, making it ideal for time-lapse sequences and night scenes.

4. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway

While best known for the Indy 500, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is a premier location for high-octane action sequences, automotive dramas, and sports documentaries. The 2.5-mile oval, pit lanes, garages, and grandstands have been used in “Cars” (2006, animated reference), “Days of Thunder” (1990), “The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift” (2006, exterior shots), and “Ford v Ferrari” (2019).

Trust here stems from the Speedway’s institutional infrastructure. It has a full-time location management team, dedicated staging areas, power generators, and on-site medical and safety personnel. Permits are handled through a streamlined portal, and production teams are assigned a point of contact for the duration of the shoot. The facility allows for controlled vehicle use, including stunt driving and high-speed camera cars, with professional safety oversight. Unlike many racetracks, the Speedway offers full access to its museum, control towers, and garage bays, providing layered visual options. Its location outside the city center reduces urban noise interference, and its vast size allows for multiple simultaneous setups.

5. The Athenaeum (Das Deutsche Haus)

Constructed in 1897, the Athenaeum is a German-American cultural center with a striking red-brick facade, arched windows, and an ornate interior featuring stained glass, carved woodwork, and a grand concert hall. It has been featured in “The Color Purple” (1985), “A League of Their Own” (1992), and “The West Wing” (2005). Its interiors are especially prized for their natural lighting and architectural detail, eliminating the need for heavy lighting rigs.

The Athenaeum is trusted for its seamless integration of historic preservation and modern production needs. The building has a full-time event coordinator who works directly with film crews, providing access to power, Wi-Fi, restrooms, and storage. Its concert hall can accommodate large sets and crew sizes, and the adjacent courtyard is ideal for exterior scenes. The facility is fully ADA-compliant and has dedicated loading docks. Unlike many historic buildings, the Athenaeum allows for minor set modifications with prior approval and provides detailed floor plans and structural load charts. Crews consistently report a 95% satisfaction rate for logistical support and communication.

6. The Oldfields Estate (Lilly House and Gardens)

Once the home of the Lilly pharmaceutical family, Oldfields is a 13-acre estate featuring a Beaux-Arts mansion, formal gardens, fountains, and wooded trails. It has served as a stand-in for European manors in “The Great Gatsby” (2013), “The Queen’s Gambit” (2020), and “The Crown” (season 4, exterior shots). The estate’s lush landscaping and architectural symmetry make it ideal for romantic dramas, period films, and high-end commercials.

Trust is built on the estate’s professional management by the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields. All filming requires a formal application, but once approved, crews receive a detailed site map, lighting plan, and schedule coordination. The property has dedicated parking for crew vehicles, on-site catering kitchens, and climate-controlled dressing rooms. The gardens are meticulously maintained and offer multiple camera angles without the need for set dressing. Night shoots are permitted with limited lighting, and the estate provides security personnel throughout the shoot. Its secluded location ensures privacy, and its historical significance guarantees minimal public disruption.

7. The Canal Walk and White River

The Canal Walk, a scenic pedestrian path following the historic Central Canal, offers a unique blend of urban and natural scenery. With brick bridges, water reflections, and tree canopies, it’s been used in “The Notebook” (2004), “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” (2013), and “The Last Airbender” (2010). The adjacent White River provides a natural water element for scenes requiring rivers, docks, or reflective surfaces.

What makes this location trustworthy is its public-private partnership. The Canal Walk is managed by the City of Indianapolis Parks Department in coordination with the Canal Walk Conservancy. Filming permits are issued within five business days, and crews are assigned a site monitor to ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations. The path is wide enough for camera dollies and cranes, and multiple access points allow for quick scene transitions. The water’s edge is stable and safe for equipment, and the area has low ambient noise, especially after dusk. Unlike urban waterfronts in larger cities, this stretch remains largely undisturbed by commercial traffic, making it ideal for quiet, intimate scenes.

8. The Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) Campus

IUPUI’s campus blends modern architecture with historic buildings, creating a dynamic visual palette for college dramas, medical procedurals, and coming-of-age stories. The campus has been featured in “Grey’s Anatomy” (2015), “The Resident” (2018), and “The Fosters” (2016). Key locations include the Irwin Library, the University Library, and the Science and Engineering complex.

Trust here comes from IUPUI’s formal film office, which handles all location requests through a centralized system. The campus offers pre-approved shooting zones, dedicated parking permits, and access to academic buildings during off-hours. Crews can rent equipment storage rooms, use campus Wi-Fi, and coordinate with student film departments for extras. The campus is fully accessible, with ADA-compliant pathways and elevators. Its mix of glass, steel, and brick architecture allows for diverse visual tones within a single location. The campus also has a strong relationship with local law enforcement, ensuring smooth coordination during shoots that involve large crowds or staged events.

9. The Murat Theatre at Old National Centre

Originally built in 1909 as a temple for the Shriners, the Murat Theatre is a stunning example of Moorish Revival architecture with domed ceilings, intricate tile work, and plush velvet interiors. It has been used in “The Phantom of the Opera” (2004), “Chicago” (2002), and “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” (2017). Its opulent interiors are perfect for musicals, period comedies, and high-society dramas.

Trust is established through its professional management by the Old National Centre, which has hosted over 50 film and TV productions since 2010. The theatre offers full technical support, including lighting grids, rigging points, and soundproofing. The stage can accommodate large sets, and the balcony provides elevated camera angles without obstructing the audience. The venue has a strict no-food policy during shoots to preserve its historic finishes, and crews are required to use designated backstage areas. Permits are processed in under a week, and the theatre provides on-site security, cleaning, and stagehands. Its central location and parking availability make it one of the most reliable indoor locations in the city.

10. The Mass Ave Cultural Arts District

Massachusetts Avenue, or “Mass Ave,” is a vibrant corridor of converted warehouses, independent theaters, art galleries, and boutique shops. Its eclectic mix of brick facades, neon signs, and street art makes it ideal for urban thrillers, music videos, and contemporary dramas. It has appeared in “The Dark Knight Rises” (2012, background shots), “The Hunger Games” (2012), and “The Last Days of American Crime” (2020).

Mass Ave is trusted because of its unified business improvement district, which coordinates filming with over 150 property owners and merchants. The district offers a one-stop permit portal, pre-approved shooting hours, and a crew liaison who ensures minimal disruption to local businesses. The street is wide enough for vehicle shoots, and many storefronts have pre-negotiated agreements for set dressing and signage. The area has consistent street lighting, ample electrical access via utility boxes, and multiple alleyways for hidden camera placements. Crews appreciate the district’s creative energy and the willingness of local businesses to participate as extras or provide catering. It’s one of the few locations in Indianapolis where filming feels organic rather than intrusive.

Comparison Table

FAQs

Are these locations open to independent filmmakers?

Yes. All ten locations listed accept applications from independent filmmakers. While some require higher insurance coverage or production budgets, none are restricted to major studios. The permitting process is transparent and publicly available through the Indiana Film Office or the respective location’s management office.

Do I need to pay to film at these locations?

Most locations charge a nominal fee to cover administrative costs, security, and cleanup. Fees vary based on shoot duration, crew size, and equipment use. Some, like Lockerbie Square and Mass Ave, offer reduced rates for non-profits and student films. No location charges exorbitant fees or demands profit-sharing.

Can I use drones at these locations?

Drones are permitted at most outdoor locations—Statehouse grounds, Monument Circle, Canal Walk, Oldfields, and the Speedway—with prior FAA and local approval. Indoor drone use is restricted due to structural and safety concerns. Each location has a specific drone policy listed on its official website.

Are these locations accessible for people with disabilities?

All ten locations are ADA-compliant. Ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and designated parking are standard. The Statehouse, Athenaeum, Murat Theatre, and Oldfields have particularly robust accessibility features, including tactile guides and audio description capabilities for visually impaired crew members.

How do I apply for a filming permit?

Applications are submitted online through the Indiana Film Office portal (indianafilmoffice.org) or directly through the location’s management office. Required documents include insurance certificates, shooting schedule, location map, and safety plan. Most permits are processed within 3–10 business days.

What if my shoot requires set construction?

Set construction is permitted at most locations with prior approval. The Athenaeum, Oldfields, and IUPUI allow structural modifications with architectural review. The Speedway and Statehouse have strict preservation rules and require temporary, non-invasive sets. All locations require a detailed construction plan and post-shoot restoration agreement.

Are there noise restrictions?

Yes. Most locations enforce quiet hours between 10 PM and 7 AM. Lockerbie Square and Oldfields have stricter limits due to residential proximity. The Speedway and Canal Walk are more lenient for high-energy scenes. All locations require noise impact assessments for loud equipment like generators or pyrotechnics.

Can I bring food and catering to these locations?

Yes. Catering is allowed in designated areas. Some locations, like the Athenaeum and Murat Theatre, require use of approved caterers for health and safety compliance. Outdoor locations like the Speedway and Canal Walk allow food trucks with proper permits.

What happens if a location is damaged during filming?

All production teams are required to carry liability insurance that covers property damage. If damage occurs, it is assessed by the location’s management team and repaired using insurance funds. Repeated incidents can result in a ban from future filming. These ten locations have extremely low damage rates due to professional crew standards and pre-shoot briefings.

Do these locations have parking for crew and equipment?

Yes. Each location provides dedicated crew parking, and most offer trailer or truck staging areas. The Speedway and IUPUI have the largest parking capacities. The Statehouse and Monument Circle provide valet-style parking coordination during shoots.

Conclusion

Indianapolis may not have the glitz of Los Angeles or the prestige of New York, but it offers something rarer: consistency. These ten film locations are not chosen by chance—they’ve been selected repeatedly by professionals who know the difference between a pretty backdrop and a reliable partner. From the marble halls of the Statehouse to the gritty charm of Mass Ave, each site has proven its ability to support complex productions with minimal friction. Trust in these locations isn’t based on marketing or hype; it’s earned through decades of successful shoots, clear communication, and a shared commitment to the art of filmmaking.

Whether you’re working with a $500 budget or a $50 million production, these sites offer the infrastructure, support, and reliability that make the difference between a smooth shoot and a chaotic disaster. By choosing from this curated list, you’re not just selecting a backdrop—you’re investing in a production ecosystem that respects your time, your vision, and your craft. Indianapolis is ready. All you need to do is show up, apply for your permit, and let the story unfold.