INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

The Indianapolis Colts gameday experience at Lucas Oil Stadium is a well-rounded blend of Midwestern hospitality, modern stadium features, and die-hard football fandom. Whether you’re a local or visiting, it’s a welcoming and exciting atmosphere from pregame tailgates to the final whistle.

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1) Before the Game

Tailgating & Pre-Game Activities

• Tailgating in Indy is strong, especially in the lots around the stadium and along South Street.

• You’ll see:

  • BBQ smokers, local beers, and friendly fans

  • Colts-themed trucks, tents, and DJ setups

  • Games like cornhole and giant Jenga

• Many fans also tailgate indoors at bars or breweries—Downtown Indy is walkable and packed with options.

Downtown Walkability

• The stadium is right downtown, so you can easily hop between:

  • Bars like Kilroy’s, Slippery Noodle, or Tin Roof

  • Local restaurants

  • Fan zones and pop-up events near Monument Circle or Georgia Street

Touchdown Town

• A free, family-friendly outdoor fan fest before home games.

• Includes:

  • Live music

  • Kids’ activities

  • Food trucks and giveaways

  • Colts alumni meet-and-greets

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2) Inside Lucas Oil Stadium

Modern, Comfortable, and Loud

• Lucas Oil is known for its retractable roof and massive glass windows—beautiful views of downtown and great acoustics when the roof is closed.

• The stadium feels both modern and intimate—you’re never too far from the field.

Colts Fans Are Vocal

• Blue-clad fans are passionate and loud, especially in big AFC matchups.

• The “For the Shoe” chant and other crowd-led cheers are common.

• The stadium plays high-energy music and has a strong in-game production crew.

Unique Features

• Colts Drumline and cheerleaders keep energy up during breaks.

• The Anvil: Each home game, a special guest (celebrity, legend, or fan hero) pounds an anvil as part of the team’s entrance.

• Great views of the field from almost every seat, and plenty of food options (local favorites and stadium staples).

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3) Postgame

• Win or lose, fans spill out into downtown Indy, keeping the energy going at local bars and restaurants.

• The vibe is celebratory and generally friendly—Colts fans are loyal but respectful.

The Indianapolis Colts tailgating experience is a welcoming, spirited, and easygoing affair that blends Midwestern friendliness with urban convenience. While it’s not as over-the-top as some NFL cities (like Buffalo or Kansas City), it holds its own with passionate fans, good food, and a lively downtown atmosphere.

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1) Where It Happens

Tailgate Lots

• The main lots are located near Lucas Oil Stadium, especially along South Street, Capitol Avenue, and Missouri Street.

• Lots open five hours before kickoff, and the earlier you arrive, the better the setup you’ll find.

• Fans bring grills, tents, coolers, and Colts flags—and many have been tailgating there for years.

Downtown Tailgating Vibe

• Many fans opt to “tailgate” at local bars, restaurants, and breweries in downtown Indy.

• Everything is walkable—you can hop from outdoor patios to indoor bars without losing the gameday vibe.

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2) The Food Scene

• Expect plenty of grilled meats, especially brats, burgers, ribs, and pulled pork.

• Midwestern comfort food like:

  • Crockpot chili

  • Mac and cheese

  • Cornbread

• Locally brewed beers (e.g. Sun King, Metazoa, Upland) and tailgate cocktails are common.

• You’ll find a mix of traditional tailgaters and those who order in from downtown restaurants.

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3) Atmosphere & Entertainment

• You’ll hear classic rock, country, and pump-up jams across the lots.

• Fans play cornhole, toss footballs, and share drinks with neighbors.

• Colts fans are known to be friendly and welcoming, even to visiting fans—it’s part of that Midwest charm.

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4) Family-Friendly Options

• Touchdown Town (free pregame fan fest) is ideal for families and casual fans:

  • Located just outside the stadium

  • Includes food trucks, music, giveaways, inflatables, and appearances by Colts alumni or cheerleaders

  • Becomes part of many tailgaters’ pregame ritual