Indianapolis (or as it is often referred to as Indy) has long been known for being the capital and most populous city in the state of Indiana. However, over the years it has also grown a reputation as a city in love with athletic competitions, and especially the game of basketball, often doing a wonderful job hosting some of the biggest events in American sports. Many visitors have enjoyed this vast array of competitions but might have missed some of the Indy highlights beyond “the big game.”
Like other major Midwestern cities, Indy has experienced strong move towards urbanization over the last decade, nearly doubling its downtown inhabitants. The increased population density and the constant stream of large events hosted by the city have clearly caused a development and appreciation of local businesses, culture and history. Many small restaurants, bars and cafes have popped up in the center of the city to accommodate the growing population as well as to host travelers to the city.
However, before looking at the center of the city you should make time for two must see landmarks near the city center. As mentioned previously, Indianapolis as well as the rest of Indiana are enamored with sports. The city is the headquarters for the NCAA and for three US Olympic organizations. Indy has hosted the NFL Super Bowl, College Basketball’s Final Four, FIBA World Championships as well as the annual Indy 500 race. However, the big love for this city is basketball and this obsession has even received a name, Hoosier Hysteria. And speaking of Hoosiers one of the first locations that you must visit on a trip to Indianapolis is the National Historic Landmark Hinkle Fieldhouse. The fieldhouse is not only home to the Butler University basketball team which has been one of the best in the country recently, but it was also the inspiration and filming location for the famous movie Hoosiers.
West from downtown Indianapolis is situated one of the world’s first automobile racing tracks, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. However, not only is the track historic for its age, it’s also considered the world’s largest capacity sports venue with more than quarter of a million seats. Moreover, if you were wondering if they ever need all those seats, well the Indianapolis 500 race, the oldest motor race in the world, routinely sells out the speedway.
Moving back into the center of the city you will discover many more symbols of the love that this city and its citizens have for sports. On the southern part of the city are located Bankers Life Fieldhouse, and Lucas Oil Stadium. It is hard to imagine missing on the opportunity to watch the Indiana Pacers play a home playoff game if you are visiting the city during April or May. The Bankers Life Fieldhouse is seen by the opposition as one of the loudest and hardest venues to play at. Near the arena, you can also take a picture with the unique statue of John Wooden, arguably the greatest college basketball coach of all time.
A short walk away is Lucas Oil Stadium, a venue for many of the most important American football games, as well as home to the Indianapolis Colts. The massive stadium is a top choice for concerts, football and basketball games due to its retractable roof. The stadium has even hosted the college basketball finals in addition to concerts and soccer games. Make sure to stop by the statue of Colts legend Peyton Manning on display at the front of the stadium.
Sports however are not all this city has to offer. On a warmer day in the summer, take your loved ones to the Central Canal. The canal is one of those unexpected treasures you can stumble upon walking aimlessly around a city. The Central Canal was an unfinished project from the 1800s, intended to aid the industry of the city. After sitting unused for decades, the canal was converted into a park enjoyed by the entire community. Trees, street art, kid friendly activities as well as some restaurants line the Canal Walk. And if you and your loved one are looking for some romantic atmosphere or have never had the chance to experience a gondola ride in Venice this might be the next best thing. Old World Gondoliers have authentic Venetian made gondolas in which you could enjoy food and drink while the gondoliers sing Italian songs, and propel you down the canal.
Following the Canal Walk south to White River State Park you will end up by some of the main museums in the city, including Eiteljorg, Indiana State Museums and NCAA Hall of Champions. The Eitelgorg Museum houses numerous Native American and Western American art exhibits. The Indiana State museum on the other hand focuses on all aspects of life in Indiana and contributions that the state has made to different sectors of society. Finally, the NCAA Hall of Champions explores the different sports that the collegiate body presides over.
If you rather keep exploring the city especially on a beautiful sunny day, you should make your way towards the American Legion Mall. The central part of Downtown Indianapolis is split by a few parks and memorials, which are worth exploring. The large grassy area of the American Legion Mall is a wonderful location for a picnic. The park features multiple war memorials and is surrounded by the beautiful buildings of the American Legion Headquarters and the Indianapolis Public Library. Further south the park continues to Obelisk Square, Indiana World War Memorial, University Square until finally reaching the imposing Soldiers/Sailors Monument.
The Soldiers/ Sailors Monument is the largest open-air memorial in Indiana as it towers more than 284 feet. It is open to visitors and has and observation deck which is free to guests that opt to take the stairs. For others an elevator is provided in return for a small charge. The views from the top of the monument are unmatched however and are well worth the price.
Finally if you want to experience some of the local foodie scene head over to Massachusetts Avenue. The street is full of restaurants, cafes, nightlife and fun street art. One coffee shop stands out among the rest due to its delicious offerings and unique atmosphere. Coat Check Coffee is located in the historic Athenaeum building also housing the local German American organizations. You should definitely try the pistachio mocha- it is like drinking a delicious pastry.
Also on Massachusetts Avenue, you will find the Burnside Inn. While Coat Check will get your day started on the right note, Burnside will end it in a similarly wonderful fashion. A cozy little bar smashed between larger counterparts serving delicious cocktails. Often hosting karaoke and trivia nights with a fun atmosphere.
It is understandable why you would visit Indianapolis for all of its fun athletic events, but be sure to experience some of the culture, parks and atmosphere before or after the big game.
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