December Packing List for Indianapolis — What to Wear & Bring

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

• Heavy Wool CoatEssential

  In Indianapolis, a high-quality wool coat is vital for walking through the Mass Ave district when temperatures dip to an average low of 25°F.

• Thermal Base LayersEssential

  Since December nights in Indianapolis can drop to 25°F, thermal layers are necessary for staying warm during excursions in White River State Park.

• Water-Resistant ParkaEssential

  With 11 days of precipitation expected in Indianapolis, a waterproof outer layer is crucial for navigating the city's downtown streets.

• Insulated Waterproof BootsEssential

  Essential for navigating potentially slushy sidewalks in the Mass Ave district when temperatures hover near 40°F during precipitation events in Indianapolis.

• Warm Wool SocksEssential

  To combat the 25°F lows, thick wool socks are necessary to keep feet warm while walking through Fountain Square in Indianapolis.

• Thermal GlovesEssential

  Protect your hands from the biting 25°F winds that can occur near White River State Park in Indianapolis.

• Knit BeanieEssential

  A hat is a must-have to retain heat when temperatures drop significantly below the 25°F low in Indianapolis while walking through Mass Ave.

• Compact UmbrellaEssential

  With 11 days of precipitation expected, an umbrella is necessary for staying dry while exploring downtown Indianapolis.

Clothing

• Heavy Wool CoatEssential

  In Indianapolis, a high-quality wool coat is vital for walking through the Mass Ave district when temperatures dip to an average low of 25°F.

• Thermal Base LayersEssential

  Since December nights in Indianapolis can drop to 25°F, thermal layers are necessary for staying warm during excursions in White River State Park.

• Water-Resistant ParkaEssential

  With 11 days of precipitation expected in Indianapolis, a waterproof outer layer is crucial for navigating the city's downtown streets.

• Midweight SweatersRecommended

  Layering with sweaters helps manage temperature swings between the 40°F highs and freezing lows common in Indianapolis while walking through White River State Park.

• Flannel ShirtsRecommended

  These provide practical layering options that fit the Midwestern casual style while handling the 40°F daytime highs in Indianapolis.

Footwear

• Insulated Waterproof BootsEssential

  Essential for navigating potentially slushy sidewalks in the Mass Ave district when temperatures hover near 40°F during precipitation events in Indianapolis.

• Warm Wool SocksEssential

  To combat the 25°F lows, thick wool socks are necessary to keep feet warm while walking through Fountain Square in Indianapolis.

• Leather BootsRecommended

  Sturdy leather boots are ideal for walking on flat pavement in the Indy arts districts when temperatures reach their 40°F highs.

• Waterproof Boot CoversRecommended

  Useful if you encounter slushy conditions during one of the 11 precipitation days in Indianapolis while walking near Mass Ave.

Accessories

• Thermal GlovesEssential

  Protect your hands from the biting 25°F winds that can occur near White River State Park in Indianapolis.

• Knit BeanieEssential

  A hat is a must-have to retain heat when temperatures drop significantly below the 25°F low in Indianapolis while walking through Mass Ave.

• Thick ScarfRecommended

  A thick scarf helps block cold drafts during your walks through the Fountain Square neighborhood in the 40°F weather of Indianapolis.

• Thermal Ear MuffsRecommended

  Keep your ears warm if you are out exploring downtown Indianapolis when temperatures hit the 25°F mark.

Gear

• Compact UmbrellaEssential

  With 11 days of precipitation expected, an umbrella is necessary for staying dry while exploring downtown Indianapolis.

• Hand WarmersRecommended

  These are great to have on hand if you find yourself outdoors in the 25°F evening air near the Indy Speedway area.

• MoisturizerRecommended

  The dry winter air in Indianapolis can irritate skin when temperatures drop to 25°F while walking through White River State Park.

• Insulated Water BottleOptional

  Keep drinks warm if you are out exploring the Indy Speedway area during the 40°F daytime highs.