Since we live so close to Indianapolis, we have been able to spend quite a bit of time in the city. There are so many things to do and see. Far more than will ever go in this one News Break post. But for this post in particular, I want to share five things to do in Indianapolis as a couple.
Indianapolis Cultural Trail
While searching for things to do in Indianapolis, Indiana on Pinterest one month, I came across the Indianapolis Cultural Trail: A Legacy of Gene and Marilyn Glick.
The Cultural Trail is an eight mile long path for pedestrians and cyclists to explore much of downtown Indianapolis. In addition to exploring downtown, the path connects six cultural districts including Massachusetts Avenue, Fountain Square, The Canal & White River State Park, Indiana Avenue, the Wholesale District, and Broad Ripple.
While you can walk the trail, a fun thing to do to explore it further and faster is to check out bikes from one of the Indiana Pacers Bikeshare Stations and explore the art and culture along the path.
Along the path are very interesting places to stop, such as the Ransom Place Historic District. Ransom Place Historic District is the most intact 19th century neighborhood associated with African Americans in Indianapolis.
According to history, the district is named for the prominent Ransom family that resided in that particular district. Freeman Ransom was the patriarch of the family who was also an attorney and manager of the Madame C. J. Walker Company.
While this trail can be done anytime of the year, I would recommend doing it on a warm day in the summer. The flowers along the Trail are also amazingly beautiful during this time of year.
For example, a few of my favorites along the trail are the Summer Sunset Coneflower, the Bluecarpet Speedwell, and the Evening Primrose.
If you choose to do this, here are 7 Tips for Exploring the Indianapolis Cultural Trail:
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and clothes.
- Bring water.
- Bring a small camera. I used my pocket Sony Cyber Shot.
- Bring extra cash and a reliable credit card if you plan to stop for food at the food stands, visit museums along the Trail, or rent some form of transportation such as a boat or bike.
- Bring your own bike if possible. A day pass for the Pacers Bikeshare is $8 plus an additional $2 for every 30 minutes you have the bike checked out.
- Take your time, observe, and read about the art and cultural districts along the way.
- Relax and Enjoy!
Indiana State Soldiers and Sailors Monument
Another interesting place to visit as a couple in Indianapolis is the Indiana State Soldiers and Sailors Monument. It is the largest outdoor memorial and the largest of its kind in Indiana coming in at 284 feet and 6 inches.
The monument is built in the center of downtown and intersects Meridian Street and Market Street. What I love about this location is that once you have explore the monument, you can take gorgeous photos and also explore more of the shops and restaurants that surround the monument.
In addition to this, the Col. Eli Lilly Civil War Museum is located on the lower level and the Observation Deck can be accessed by climbing up 330 steps or by taking the elevator to step 290 and walk the remaining 40 steps.
Circle Center Mall
While you are in the downtown area, don’t forget to take a stroll through the Circle Center Mall. The mall is located in the heart of downtown Indianapolis just south of Monument Circle at 49 W Maryland Street. The mall features over 100 retailers with so many places to dine, both in and around Circle Center Mall. There’s also entertainment places inside such as golf and an arcade.
There are few things to keep in mind while visiting. You may need to park in a parking garage, so be mindful that each garage charges a different cost.
If you want to explore the area outside of the mall, you can walk or use rentable transportation such as rental cars, rental bikes, or rental scooters. There are even horse drawn carriages available, as well.
Lastly, it is important to be mindful of COVID restrictions and/or guidelines.
Garfield Park Conservatory & Beer Tasting
Another beautiful place to explore as a couple is the Garfield Park Conservatory. This Garfield Park Conservatory of Indianapolis has a 10,000 square foot tropical Conservatory in addition to a three-acre Sunken Garden. It is located at 2345 Pagoda Drive in the Garfield Park neighborhood district.
It is breathtaking. On the grounds when you enter are plenty of bright green, patio table sets along with Chess and Checkers available to play while you enjoy the Gardens. There are also hammocks available to lounge in and relax.
There is no cost to explore outside. However, there is a small fee of $2 to explore indoors and take a self-guided tour through the Conservatory.
Hundreds of different plants from the world's tropics can be found within. According to the Conservatory, it has a rainforest theme with a wide variety of plant species including palms, orchids, ferns, cacao, vanilla, bananas, and coffee.
In addition to the plant life, there is an adorable Waterfall Pond, as well as interesting information about a few species of reptiles and amphibians.
Garfield Brewery
Once you are done, just down the street is Garfield Brewery. Garfield Brewery prides itself as your friendly neighborhood brewery. It is located at 2310 Shelby Street in the heart of Garfield Park.
Garfield Brewery sells craft beers, wine and some simple foods. Keep in mind that Garfield Brewery is a 21 and over establishment in the taproom and on the patio.
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
The last place on today’s list is the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. I particularly enjoy the Indianapolis 500. As a matter of fact, after our visit to the Indy 500 Crown Royal Armed Forces Qualifying Race last year, I came up with a few tips to help other couples out, especially if it is your first time going.
- Measure your cooler and make sure it is the correct size. If your cooler is too large, it will not be allowed in.
- Bring cans and not bottles. If you have bottles, they will make you return them to your vehicle and you’ll have to opt for buying theirs instead.
- Bring snacks.
- Be prepared to pay at least $20 for parking.
- Bring extra cash.
- Bring an umbrella or poncho - just in case it rains, like it did for us.
- Most importantly, have fun and make memories.
Final Thoughts
Well, there you have it, five things to do in Indianapolis as a couple. Sometime soon, I’ll create a new list of five more places. But, in the meantime, what are your favorite places as a couple in Indianapolis?