Betsy Speckman

Indianapolis Area Guide

Called the “Most Walkable City” by its tourism board, Indianapolis is a beautiful city by day or by night. Also the racing capital of the world, visitors flock to the city for the Indianapolis 500, one of the world’s most famous races, as well as the Men’s and Women’s NCAA Basketball Tournaments. There’s never a lack of things to do in and around Indianapolis, the biggest obstacle is deciding what to do first!

Indianapolis is the capital of Indiana as well as the county seat of Marion County, with an estimated population of almost 800,000 ranking it as Indiana’s largest city and 14th in size in the United States. Well known for its contributions in the fields of education, health care and finance, tourism is also a vital part of the economy, with Indianapolis playing hosts for events throughout the year. Business is booming in Indianapolis, with industry at the forefront of the economy.

Great shopping, over 200 restaurants and activities for the entire community whether you’re six or 60 bring the diverse population of Indianapolis together. So whether you’re beginning your career or ready to start a family and put down roots, Indianapolis has your name written all over it!

To learn more about Indianapolis, please visit: http://www.indy.gov/

History
An act of the Indiana General Assembly brought about the founding of Indianapolis as the capital of Indiana in 1820. Prior to that, Indianapolis was an area called Fall Creek Settlement, a place that was sparsely settled by fur traders. The first European American settler is believed to be George Pogue in 1819, but there is some dispute to that claim, the argument being that John Wesley McCormick was the first European American settler when he built a cabin along the White River that eventually became the White River State Park in downtown Indianapolis.

Although downtown area was the original site of the Governor’s mansion where it was finished in 1827, no Governor ever lived in the mansion that stood at the center of the city. The circular commons was considered to be too lacking in privacy and the Governor’s home was demolished in 1857.

Attractions & Activities

Indianapolis Motor Speedway
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is an American icon and the world's greatest racecourse. With more than 250,000 permanent seats, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is also the world's largest seating facility. http://www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com/

Indianapolis Zoo
The Indianapolis Zoo is located in White River State Park and will soon celebrate their 50th anniversary! The Indianapolis Zoo is a world-class facility hosting a million visitors each year and playing a major role in worldwide conservation and research. The White River Gardens botanical attraction combines the best of gardening ideas, plant information and inspirational design to serve the needs of all visitors. With over one thousand plant varieties on display plus entertaining special exhibits throughout the year, White River Gardens is an international showplace for Indiana where visitors can enjoy and learn about the bounty of the natural world.

For a complete list of Area Attractions, please visit: Indianapolis Attractions

Lucas Oil Stadium
Known best as the home of the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts, Lucas Oil Stadium also is a major site for conventions, exhibitions, trade shows and NCAA basketball competition. The unique retractable roof makes it exceptionally flexible for both indoor and outdoor events. http://www.lucasoilstadium.com/

The Children's Museum
The goal of the Children's Museum is to create extraordinary learning experiences across the arts, sciences, and humanities that have the power to transform the lives of children and families.http://www.childrensmuseum.org/

Hoosier Park
http://www.hoosierpark.com/

Parks & Recreation

With six regional parks placed in natural settings with scenic views near lakes, rivers and ponds, the Parks and Recreation Department is always working toward their goal of preserving the unique areas and open spaces for Indianapolis residents. Amenities throughout the parks system include family and nature centers, sports facilities and playgrounds as well as something for Rover as well with three dog parks for our four legged friends!

For more information, visit: Indianapolis Parks

Events Calendar

Indianapolis is the hub of many exciting events throughout the year, attracting people from not just the United States, but all over the world. From Oktoberfest to the Indianapolis 500, there’s always something happening in Indianapolis!

For a complete listing of events, please visit: Indianapolis Events

For more details about Indianapolis, IN please visit: http://www.in.gov/