May Packing List for Indianapolis — What to Wear & Bring

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

• Lightweight layersEssential

  Indianapolis temperatures swing from 52°F lows to 72°F highs during the spring season.

• Windbreaker or light jacketEssential

  With 11 precipitation days in Indianapolis, a shell is needed for sudden spring showers.

• Sporty polo or button-downEssential

  Ideal for the Indy 500 where temperatures can fluctuate between 45°F and 90°F in Indianapolis.

• Walking sneakersEssential

  Mass Ave's walkable arts districts in Indianapolis are best explored in comfortable shoes when it is a mild 72°F.

• Athletic sneakersEssential

  Essential for long days at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway where sun exposure is high and temps hit 72°F in Indianapolis.

• SunglassesEssential

  The open sun exposure at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis requires eye protection during sunny, 72°F afternoons.

• Compact umbrellaEssential

  May is part of the peak thunderstorm season in Indianapolis with 11 days of rain expected.

• SunscreenEssential

  High sun exposure at White River State Park makes UV protection a must when temperatures hit 72°F in Indianapolis.

Clothing

• Lightweight layersEssential

  Indianapolis temperatures swing from 52°F lows to 72°F highs during the spring season.

• Windbreaker or light jacketEssential

  With 11 precipitation days in Indianapolis, a shell is needed for sudden spring showers.

• Casual t-shirtsRecommended

  Afternoon highs of 72°F are perfect for breathable fabrics while walking Mass Ave in Indianapolis.

• Lightweight sweaterRecommended

  Evenings near White River State Park can drop to 52°F, requiring an extra layer in Indianapolis.

• Sporty polo or button-downEssential

  Ideal for the Indy 500 where temperatures can fluctuate between 45°F and 90°F in Indianapolis.

Footwear

• Walking sneakersEssential

  Mass Ave's walkable arts districts in Indianapolis are best explored in comfortable shoes when it is a mild 72°F.

• Water-resistant shoesRecommended

  With 11 precipitation days in Indianapolis, you want to stay dry during sudden May showers.

• Athletic sneakersEssential

  Essential for long days at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway where sun exposure is high and temps hit 72°F in Indianapolis.

• Casual loafersOptional

  Great for a casual dinner in Fountain Square when temperatures are a pleasant 72°F in Indianapolis.

Accessories

• SunglassesEssential

  The open sun exposure at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indianapolis requires eye protection during sunny, 72°F afternoons.

• Compact umbrellaEssential

  May is part of the peak thunderstorm season in Indianapolis with 11 days of rain expected.

• Lightweight scarfRecommended

  Useful for breezy evenings near White River State Park when temperatures dip toward 52°F in Indianapolis.

• SunscreenEssential

  High sun exposure at White River State Park makes UV protection a must when temperatures hit 72°F in Indianapolis.