Ford 71st Annual Indianapolis Boat, Sport & Travel Show

About the Event

Step into a world of adventure at the Ford 71st Annual Indianapolis Boat, Sport & Travel Show, where over 750,000 square feet of indoor space transforms the Indiana State Fairgrounds into a thrilling gateway to the great outdoors. This beloved event brings together acres of gleaming boats, luxurious RVs, cutting-edge fishing tackle, rugged ATVs, and dream travel destinations, all under one roof in an exciting new format that promises fresh energy and endless discoveries. Attendees flock here for the electric vibe—families browsing family-friendly campers, avid anglers testing the latest gear, boating enthusiasts eyeing sleek vessels, and adventure seekers soaking up inspiring seminars and lively entertainment. It's more than a show; it's your spark to plan that epic fishing trip, RV road journey, or off-road escapade, wrapped in the warm Hoosier hospitality that makes every visit feel like coming home. ## The Surrounding Area
Nestled at the Indiana State Fairgrounds just four miles north of downtown Indianapolis in Marion County, this spot pulses with easy access and big-city charm. Indianapolis, the heart of Indiana, blends sports fervor—home to the legendary Indy 500—with vibrant neighborhoods like Broad Ripple's trendy vibe and Mass Ave's artsy flair. Nearby, dive into world-class attractions such as the Children's Museum of Indianapolis, the largest in the world with interactive wonders for all ages; the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, celebrating racing heritage; or Newfields, a stunning art and nature campus. Dining shines with everything from farm-fresh Midwest comfort food at local steakhouses to eclectic eats in Fountain Square or Garfield Park. The adjacent Monon Trail offers scenic walks or bike rides, connecting you to green spaces and breweries. This corner of Indiana captivates with its mix of urban energy, outdoor trails, and welcoming communities, making it the perfect base for show-goers to extend their fun. ## Activities & Attractions
Dive into non-stop excitement with acres of boats from speedboats to pontoons, perfect for imagining lazy lake days or high-speed thrills. Explore expansive RV displays showcasing cozy family rigs and luxury coaches, ideal for your next cross-country haul. Fishing fans will love booths brimming with rods, reels, lures, and live demos from top pros. ATV and powersports zones let you check out trail-ready machines with hands-on test vibes. Travel pavilions whisk you away to exotic spots via vivid booths and virtual tours. Catch expert-led seminars on boating safety, RV maintenance, fishing techniques, and adventure travel hacks. Entertainment keeps the energy high with live demos, kid-friendly zones, and interactive exhibits—think casting contests, gear giveaways, and perhaps even fly-over shows or celebrity appearances. Food vendors tempt with hearty fair bites like grilled specialties, fresh pretzels, and craft brews, fueling your day of discovery in this outdoor paradise indoors. ## Schedule & Logistics
Mark your calendars for February 20-22 and February 25-March 1, 2026—open Friday through Sunday those weeks, closed Mondays and Tuesdays for a refreshed pace. Doors typically swing wide from morning hours, with prime times for seminars and demos in afternoons and evenings to fit busy schedules. Admission details make it family-friendly, though expect a parking charge for the vast lots surrounding the fairgrounds—plenty of spots, but arrive early on peak days. Navigate the massive 214-acre grounds easily with clear signage, ample restrooms, and shuttles if needed. Pro tip: Weekday visits offer lighter crowds for intimate chats with exhibitors, while weekends buzz with full energy. It's all set up for seamless fun, so grab tickets ahead and come ready to play. ## History & Heritage
Since its founding decades ago, the Ford Indianapolis Boat, Sport & Travel Show has grown into the 71st annual tradition in 2026, a cornerstone of Indiana's outdoor enthusiast community. Born from the passion of local promoters eager to showcase the state's love for lakes, rivers, and open roads, it mirrors the Hoosier spirit of adventure amid Indiana's 200+ inland lakes and forested trails. Hosted at the historic Indiana State Fairgrounds—home to events since 1892—this show has evolved from modest displays to a massive spectacle spanning three-quarters of a million square feet, drawing tens of thousands yearly. Its significance shines in fostering connections between families, experts, and dreamers, boosting local boating sales and igniting travel fever. Year after year, it honors Indiana's heritage as a hub for motorsports and recreation, creating lasting memories and traditions for generations.