After a recent blog I wrote about planning a trip to Indianapolis, several of my friends contacted me about also going. My two-day trip is now a four-day, long weekend.

Because my friends all have different interests, we’ll be doing a variety of things. It’s going to take good logistical planning, and we’re going to be quite busy.

For my friend Ronnie, a car buff, we are going to Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The GMR Grand Prix takes place on Saturday, with stars of the NTT INDYCAR Series competing at the Brickyard. We’re also taking the tour and visiting the museum within the famed 2.5-mile oval.

Photo 86454087 © Jonathan Weiss | Dreamstime.com

My artist friends want to see the Indianapolis Museum of Art. The building itself is a thing of beauty, and it houses what is considered the most comprehensive collection of Neo-Impressionist paintings in North America.

Photo 57318714 © F11photo | Dreamstime.com

Several folks want to do a brewery tour. We are debating going with an established tour, like the Indy Brew Bus, which visits three breweries, or doing our own tour. The group is split, but either way, we will sample plenty of local beers.

One couple is bringing their two youngsters. While they are joining us for part of the stay, they are going to the Children’s Museum and the Indianapolis Zoo, which is the only institution accredited as a zoo, an aquarium and a botanical garden.

Photo 55398747 © Andreykr | Dreamstime.com

Besides friends joining me, the best part is that the extra days will allow for more local dining. I am relying on my recently relocated cousin, Ernie, for a few dining suggestions. Four days will allow at least one meal for pizza, Mexican, Italian and sushi, with plenty of time for other options to be determined there.

I was already looking forward to my return to travel. Now the trip is even bigger and better. I can’t wait.

— John Wroblewski, online writer