It has been a while since I have moved to United states(Indy) but this (27 Jul’ 19) was the day when I felt free for the first time. Wandering around with a camera on one shoulder and scrutinizing basic things like a kid. I felt ‘so me’ after a long period of 4 weeks. This blog is about my first day out in Indy.
India to Indiana
So, I began my search for a sense of belonging while strolling the streets in downtown. In no time, I realized that Americans are equal opportunity greeters. Unlike us Indians who are quite selective about our adoration when it comes to strangers on the streets. Americans generally smile and nod to anyone. That made me feel like home 🙂
Places here seem like they just walked out of a Beauty Parlor. Not the discounted version, but the really expensive one. Every lawn is trimmed, every tree is cut to a uniform size, everywhere clear blue sky with low hanging clouds and clean broad highways.
White River State Park
Once you are in downtown, you can ask anyone for the white canal or just follow the direction sign boards. I was thrilled to catch the first glimpse of white Canal and ticking off the topmost item of my Indy Bucket list. One can walk, jog, bike or even glide on a Segway along the wide bike paths that are part of the 8 mile long Cultural Trail.
After enjoying the park on foot way, we thought of trying our hands( read foot) on pedal boats. There are even options to kayak or let someone else do the work while you enjoy a gondola ride from a costumed gondolier.
You can refer the pricing, timings and other details here – wheelfunrentals
The northern stretch of the canal was lined with upscale apartment buildings, condos and restaurants and caste a charming scenic backdrop that looked like a mini Venice to me
The play space and the rainbow fountain will catch your eye when traveling on St. Clair Street. Walking towards the playground near the canal, it’s hard to tell if this is a piece of art or a playground.
Another prominent living beings you can spot in the canal are ducks. You will find them moving in a queue, heading straight towards the coming boats, floating over a water, feeding duckling etc.
Eiteljorg Museum
The Museum is located right on the canal across from JW Mariott. This is a western themed museum featuring Native American art and western paintings. So, it may not be to everyone’s taste.
Timings and Admission Fee:
Monday through Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m, Sunday: Noon – 5:00 p.m.
- Adults: $15
- Seniors 65+: $12
- Youth 5–17: $8
Indiana State Museum
The museum houses exhibits on the science, art, culture, and history of Indiana from prehistoric times up to the present day. The museum is also the site of the state’s largest IMAX screen.
Timings and Admission Fee:
Tuesday through Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m, Closed on Mondays
- Adults: $17
- Seniors 65+: $16
- Youth 4–17: $12
Monument Circle
Like every city has a famous landmark that graces the postcards, hosts year-round events and brands the skyline. Here the sight is Monument Circle that is located figuratively at the center of Indianapolis.
Christ Church Cathedral
Christ Church Cathedral, is the oldest building on monument circle that was built in 1857. The church is known for its music, especially the pipe organs.
The Soldiers and Sailors Monument
The Soldiers and Sailors Monument was constructed between 1887 and 1902 and is 284 feet, 6 inches tall—only 15 feet shorter than the Statue of Liberty. At top is an allegorical statue portraying Victory.
Pools of water on the base of the monument’s east and west sides contrast with the grand stairs on the north and south sides
The structure of the monument circle is just beyond words. You can go close and observe the intricacy with which the artists had created this years ago.
State Capitol building is located in direct view from Monument Circle.
I hope you enjoyed exploring Indianapolis!
Facts and Tips
- Indiana Landmarks’ free walking tour explores Monument Circle, telling the story of the Circle from the original plan. Find the details here Indiana Lanmarks
- On select Fridays, Indiana Landmarks hosts a free art show featuring works by Indiana-based artists, past and present, in the Rapp Family Gallery at Indiana Landmarks Center. Refer here for more details.
- Pack your bag with water and some snacks while roaming around white canal to curb the hunger pangs
- If you are planning to visit the place over weekend, make sure you book a table beforehand to avoid the waiting
- Most of the restaurants here gets closed by 10 PM. So plan accordingly.
Final Words
My first Indy tour is definitely the beginning of ‘Mission US’. Stay tuned for more fun and stories happening in USA. Lastly, here is the list of joints that will leave you drooling over their delicacies.
- Breakfast at City Market |Address: 222 E Market St, Indianapolis, IN
- Get cultured at Newfields |Address: 4000 Michigan Rd, Indianapolis, IN
- Coffee at Coat Check Coffee | Address: 401 E Michigan St, Indianapolis, IN
- Lunch at Milktooth | Address: 534 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis, IN
- Dinner at Livery | Address: 720 N College Ave, Indianapolis, IN
- Drinks at Hotel Tango| Address: 702 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis, IN
- Duckpin Bowling at Fountain Square | Address: 1111 Prospect St, Indianapolis, IN
- Cake at The Cake Bake Shop | Address: 6515 Carrollton Ave. Indianapolis, IN
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