Hidden Gems in Indianapolis Indiana

Hidden Gems of Indy: Beyond the Brickyard

Indianapolis is known for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and its vibrant cultural scene. But beyond the roar of the engines and the buzz of museums lies a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Here are a few off-the-beaten-path experiences for the adventurous tourist:

1. For the Foodie:

  • Milktooth: This quirky breakfast and brunch spot is a must-visit for its creative dishes and unique flavor combinations. Think ricotta pancakes with seasonal fruit, or kimchi biscuits with a fried egg. They’re known for using fresh, local ingredients in unexpected ways.
  • The Eagle: Craving some delicious Southern comfort food? This bustling eatery serves up mouthwatering fried chicken and other classics like biscuits, mac & cheese, and collard greens.

2. For the Art Lover:

  • Indiana Artists’ Guild Gallery: Nestled within the Indiana State Museum complex, this gallery showcases the work of local artists, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s artistic soul.
  • The Harrison Center for the Arts: This converted warehouse in the vibrant Fountain Square neighborhood is a haven for artists and art enthusiasts alike. It offers a variety of classes, workshops, and events throughout the year.

3. For the History Buff:

  • Indiana Medical History Museum: Housed within a former hospital for the insane, this museum explores the history of medicine and psychiatry. It’s not just about the past though! The museum also has a strong focus on mental health awareness, showcasing artifacts and information that highlight the evolution of mental health treatment.
  • The Indiana State Museum: This museum is a classic choice but with so much to offer, from historical artifacts to art exhibits, it can be overwhelming for some. To avoid the crowds and truly experience the history behind the exhibits, consider going on weekdays or during off-peak hours.

4. For the Nature Seeker:

  • Indianapolis Canal Walk: This 3-mile urban waterway offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Rent a paddleboat and explore the canal at your own pace.
  • Garfield Park Conservatory: Discover the beauty of nature in a tropical setting.

5. For the Foodie (again!):

  • The Garfield Park Conservatory: This beautiful space is home to a variety of plants, from orchids and ferns to cacti and carnivorous ones! It’s a great place to learn about the plant world and escape into a tranquil oasis.

6. For the History Buff (and the Art Lover):

  • Indianapolis Artists’ Market: Held every month during the warmer months, this market showcases local artists and their work.

7. For the Unique Experience Seeker:

  • The Garfield Park Sunken Garden: This hidden gem within the park is a beautiful oasis with stunning floral displays and unique sculptures.

  • Indiana Medical History Museum (again!): This museum offers a fascinating and often overlooked perspective on the history of medicine, focusing on the origins of the Indiana Medical History Museum’s former purpose.

  • The Garfield Park Conservatory (one more time!): The conservatory is a haven for the arts with its beautiful glasshouse structure and unique events like “First Fridays” at the conservatory where they offer free admission, live music, and cocktails.

Bonus:

  • Newfields: Explore the sprawling grounds of this art museum and garden complex. Enjoy the gardens and visit the Indianapolis Museum of Art’s extensive collection to discover local artists and artisans.

White River State Park: This urban oasis offers a serene escape from the city, but it’s not just for relaxing walks!

  • The Eiteljorg Museum: Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Native Americans and the American West.
  • Indianapolis Art Center: A great place to discover the vibrant art scene within Indianapolis.

7. For the History Buff (and the Unique Experience Seeker!)

  • White River State Park: This 250-acre park is a hidden gem in itself, but for those who want to delve deeper, it offers a variety of unique experiences:
    • Explore the Canal Walk: This scenic waterway is a great place to walk, bike, or even rent a boat.

8. Indianapolis Museum of Art (IMA) at Newfields: The Indiana State Fairgrounds hosts various events throughout the year. For a more intimate experience with local art history, check out the Indiana State Museum’s “Hidden Treasures” tour, which focuses on the unique stories behind some of the museum’s lesser-known artifacts.

8. Bonus for those who love history and the arts:

  • The IMA at the Lilly House: This local gem offers a unique experience with their “Behind the Scenes” tours, where you can get a peek into the fascinating world behind the exhibits. You’ll see how art is cared for, learn about historical restorations and discover hidden stories about the artists and their work.

For the adventurous:

  • The IMA offers a variety of classes and workshops, including glassblowing, ceramics, and printmaking, which are often open to all skill levels and can be a fun way to experience something new.
  • Explore the grounds: You’ll find hidden sculptures and art installations scattered throughout the park, making it a delightful scavenger hunt for art enthusiasts.

Beyond the Tourist Trail:

  • The Indiana State Museum: While the above are all great options, remember that this is just a taste of what Indianapolis has to offer.

9. Explore the beauty of nature and the city’s history together:

  • The Canal Walk: This 3-mile urban oasis offers a unique opportunity to experience the city from a different perspective.

For the more adventurous, explore lesser-known “Eiteljorg events”:

  • The Indiana State Museum often hosts special exhibits and events that delve into the history of Indianapolis and its connection to the natural world.

Indiana State Museum: A great place to learn about the history of art in the Midwest and the museum’s unique focus on cultural heritage, art and nature through a variety of exhibits and experiences.

For a Hidden Gem Twist:

  • Indianapolis Artists’ Market: This is a hidden gem within the tourist-heavy events. Held at the Indianapolis Museum of Art, it offers locally sourced items from artists and artisans in the Indianapolis area.
  • Hidden History Tours: Explore the hidden history of Indianapolis, including its underground tunnels and historical cemeteries.

The key to a successful “hidden gem” experience is often the willingness to look beyond the obvious.

Remember to be respectful: The Indiana State Museum’s exhibits are diverse and include historical artifacts from the museum itself and those donated by local artists, who have a deep connection with the city and its history.

The Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields (a 3-acre garden and nature park) is a great place to start exploring the unique intersection of art and history.

10. Don’t forget about the local experience:

  • Local History Walking Tours: These are often a great way to see parts of the city you wouldn’t normally get to visit, and learn about its history from a knowledgeable guide.

Remember: The above “Beyond the Lilly” options are just a few ideas. To make them truly stand out as “hidden gems,” you’d want to research specific events or exhibits that are happening during your trip!**