The 5 Best Places to Fly a Drone in Indianapolis (2024)
A list of the best places to fly your drone in Indianapolis, Indiana.
In this article, we’ve scouted out the best places to fly a drone in Indianapolis, Indiana.
If you live in (or are traveling to) Indianapolis, please use this page as a resource to better understand not just where to fly, but also where it’s legal and illegal to fly a drone. We provide guidance on regulations to help you stay compliant with both federal and local rules.
A Sectional Chart of the airspace surrounding Indianapolis, IN. Source: VFR Map
Indianapolis Drone Laws — Recreational vs. Commercial
The first thing to understand about flying a drone in Indianapolis (or any city for that matter) is that under federal FAA regulations, you are either operating recreationally or commercially.
- Recreational drone pilots fall under the FAA’s recreational flyer rules, which are laid out here. Make sure your aircraft is registered and you complete The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST), which are both required by the FAA.
- Commercial drone pilots fall under the FAA’s Part 107 regulations, which require passing a multiple-choice test and becoming an FAA-certified drone pilot. More information on the drone certification process over here.
Drone operators are no longer required to independently contact air traffic control when flying within five miles of an airport. Instead, both recreational and commercial flyers can use the automated LAANC system to request airspace authorization to fly in controlled airspace around and above many airports. If you’re operating in Class B, C, D, or E controlled airspace, you’ll need to request airspace authorization. You may do this through LAANC or through FAADroneZone in areas where LAANC is not available.
When we list locations below, we’ll share whether they sit in controlled or uncontrolled airspace.
Get up-to-date airspace information, including temporary flight restrictions, using free apps like Aloft , Autopylot , or B4UFLY .
Interested in becoming an FAA-certified drone pilot so you can operate under the Part 107 regulations and make money flying your drone? Check out our industry-leading, online training course over at Drone Pilot Ground School.
So those are the federal rules.
But what about local Indianapolis drone laws?
Here’s a guide we put together for drone laws in Indiana. Make sure to consult that to see if there are any local drone ordinances you should follow in Indianapolis. When in doubt, use good judgment and follow the FAA’s guidelines.
Note: The content on this page is meant for informational purposes only and is not meant to take the place of legal counsel. If we missed something, or if you have further questions, please send an email to support[at]horizonap[dot]com, and we’ll do our best to help you out.
Where to Fly a Drone in Indianapolis
Alrighty—without further ado, here are our top picks for the best places to fly a drone in the Indianapolis area. We selected these locations based on airspace restrictions, accessibility, and attractions. You’ll find that most of the locations we’ve chosen are located in uncontrolled, Class G airspace where you don’t need to request permission to fly. Additionally, we made sure to highlight any locations with designated sUAS/remote aircraft fields.
1 — American Legion Mall
700 N Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis, IN 46204
- Airspace Class: Class G — Uncontrolled
- Airspace Map: https://b4ufly.aloft.ai/?lat=39.775049&long=-86.156670
American Legion Mall is a park in downtown Indianapolis that features various war memorials. It was built in 1924 to honor those who served in World War I and it spans five city blocks. The historic park is also the home of the American Legion headquarters. The focal point of the plaza is the Indiana World War Memorial. The structure is constructed of limestone and stands at 210 feet overlooking the plaza serving as a reminder of those who served their country. Drone pilots will enjoy numerous historical monuments and fountains that symbolize the true spirit of the country.
Source: tspdave
2 — Military Park
West New York Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202
- Airspace Class: Class G — Uncontrolled
- Airspace Map: https://b4ufly.aloft.ai/?lat=39.770629&long=-86.168438
Military Park consists of 14-acres of green space located in Indianapolis, Indiana. It got its name because the shape of the park looks like a military badge. A beautiful deep blue colored canal runs adjacent to the property and features the popular Canal Walk and the Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial. Drone pilots will appreciate the openness of this location and the scenic views of the surrounding city landscape.
Source: Serge Melki
3 — Garfield Park
2345 Pagoda Dr, Indianapolis, IN 46203
- Airspace Class: Class G — Uncontrolled
- Airspace Map: https://b4ufly.aloft.ai/?lat=39.733994&long=-86.145104
Garfield Park is the oldest park in Indianapolis, Indiana, and it spans 122 acres. The park is on the National Register of Historic Places. It is known for the conservatory building which houses a variety of tropical plants including some from the Amazon Rainforest. Just outside of the conservatory are the European inspired sunken gardens built back in 1915. The gardens feature three fountains with 2,500 water jets and 61 LED lights that create an incredible display. The fountains are surrounded by flowers and brick paved walkways. The rich history, numerous attractions, and ample space make this an ideal location for drone footage.
Source: Google Maps
4 — Taggart Riverside Park
2420 E Riverside Dr, Indianapolis, IN 46208
- Airspace Class: Class G — /Uncontrolled
- Airspace Map: https://b4ufly.aloft.ai/?lat=39.803987&long=-86.194034
Taggart Riverside Park is located next to the Indianapolis Parks and Recreation Department headquarters. The majority of the park is an open green area with tennis courts, a small lake, and some other recreational activities. The White River runs next to the property which really enhances the local scenery. The West 29th street bridge can also be seen from the park making this a great location to practice some different shots.
Source: Google Maps
5 — Nest-RC Field (AMA)
15251 Olio Rd, Noblesville, IN 46060
- Airspace Class: Class G — Uncontrolled
- Airspace Map: https://b4ufly.aloft.ai/?lat=40.011545&long=-85.921753
The Nest-RC Field is located just outside of Indianapolis in Noblesville, Indiana. It is located directly behind the Noblesville Fire Station 77. The airfield is run and operated by the Northeast Side Taildraggers R/C Aviation Club. Drone pilots will appreciate the designated take-off and landing areas for drones. The rural setting of this location makes it a great choice for those who are looking to get away from the city.
Source: Google Maps