Mass Ave
Once a rundown commercial district, Massachusetts Avenue, locally referred to as Mass Ave, has transformed into one of Indianapolis’s trendiest neighborhoods. Stretching about a mile northeast of downtown, Mass Ave is now home to some of the city’s hottest restaurants, bars, and shops. Your group can spend hours browsing the boutiques, grabbing a craft cocktail, or listening to live music. Some top spots to hit include Twenty Tap craft beer bar, Room 4 dessert lounge, and Mass Ave Toys for the young and young at heart. When you’re ready for a pick me up, duck into one of the neighborhood’s many coffee shops like Calvin Fletcher’s Coffee Company or Provider Coffee Co. After dark, catch a show at the intimate concert venue Hi-Fi or check out the neon lit Tiki bar Inferno Room. With so much to see and do, Mass Ave definitely deserves a spot on your Indianapolis neighborhood tour itinerary.
Fountain Square
Fountain Square is one of Indianapolis’s most vibrant and artsy neighborhoods. Located just southeast of downtown, Fountain Square gets its name from the large fountain built in 1886 as a gathering space and watering spot for horses. These days, the neighborhood draws crowds for its cool shops, globally inspired eateries, and events like the Fountain Square Music Festival. Some top spots to visit include the Murphy Building home to local art galleries and studios, duckpin bowling at Fountain Square’s vintage bowling alley, and 9 Irish Brothers pub for classic Irish fare and beer. Fountain Square is also known for its international food scene, so be sure to sample some arepas at Colombian restaurant La Margarita or banh mi sandwiches at Pho Indy. Your group can work off all that diverse cuisine with some duckpin bowling or vintage arcade games at the Fountain Square Theatre Building.
Broad Ripple
For laid-back vibes and a youthful energy, head just north of downtown to the Broad Ripple neighborhood. Sitting along the White River, Broad Ripple revolves around the lively strip of shops, restaurants, and nightlife hangouts along Broad Ripple Avenue. During the day, browse the art galleries and boutiques or indulge in some retail therapy at The Village shopping center. When evening rolls around, hit up one of Broad Ripple’s many local bars or live music venues like the Jazz Kitchen, the Vogue Theatre, and the Hi-Fi. If you work up an appetite, chow down on some artisanal pizza at Goodfellas Pizzeria or try the Cajun seafood boil at Crack Shack. And if you need a pick me up, grab a cup of joe from the local Indy coffee favorite, Calvin Fletcher’s Coffee Company. With its casual atmosphere and funky vibe, Broad Ripple is the perfect neighborhood for soaking up Indy culture.
Wholesale District
Nestled between downtown and Mass Ave, the Wholesale District has transformed from an old warehouses and industrial area into one of Indianapolis’s most dynamic neighborhoods. Many of the former wholesale buildings now house hip restaurants like St. Elmo Steak House and Iozzo’s Garden of Italy, along with some of the city’s trendiest bars. Must-visit nightlife spots include the Ball & Biscuit cocktail bar, live jazz and drinks at the Jazz Kitchen, and cornhole games washed down with Indiana craft brews at Metazoa Brewing Co. The neighborhood also holds cultural landmarks like the Indianapolis City Market, where your group can sample foods from local vendors and shops. And on weekends, stop by the Indianapolis Cultural Trail to rent a bike and explore the public art installations dotting the path. With its blend of history, culture, and entertainment, the Wholesale District delivers big fun just steps from downtown Indy.
Old Northside
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Old Northside neighborhood provides a glimpse into Indianapolis’ 19th century architecture and history. Located just north of downtown, Old Northside features beautiful Victorian homes and other historic residential buildings. Must-see stops include the James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home to view the Victorian home of the famous Hoosier poet. Your group can also admire the intricate stained glass at Christ Church Cathedral, built in 1883. For art lovers, don’t miss the Harrison Center for the Arts housed in a former steam plant with rotating contemporary art exhibits. And if your crew needs some retail therapy, take them to the shops at Stout’s Footwear or Genesius Guild for handmade leather goods and jewelry. After exploring the neighborhood’s cultural attractions, refuel with locally roasted coffee at Calvin Fletcher’s Coffee Company or house-made pastries at Circle City Sweets.
Fletcher Place
Bordering Fountain Square to the northwest, Fletcher Place offers Indy hipsters an edgy neighborhood vibe. The community got its name from Calvin Fletcher, a prominent 1800s banker who helped establish Indianapolis. These days, the neighborhood provides an artsy, offbeat complement to Fountain Square with converted factory lofts, indie shops, and cafes. Top stops for your group include the Murphy Art Center andBookmark Indy selling art, gifts, and books from local creators. When hunger strikes, grab authentic tacos at Revolucion, loaded fries at BurgerFuel, or coffee and pastries at Calvin Fletcher’s Coffee Company. And on weekends, don’t miss the neighborhood farmers market selling fresh produce and artisanal goods. For an eclectic taste of Indy culture, make sure to include Fletcher Place on your neighborhood excursion.
Irvington
For a charming neighborhood with beautiful historic architecture, head east of downtown to Irvington. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Irvington charms visitors with gorgeous Victorian homes, tree-lined streets, and quaint local businesses. Must-see attractions include the Bona Thompson Memorial Center, Cottage Home, and Irvington Presbyterian Church built in the late 1800s. The neighborhood also holds cultural landmarks like the Irving Theatre and the annual Irvington Halloween Festival. When it’s time to refuel, grab a craft brew at Irvington Brewing Company, indulge your sweet tooth at Circle City Sweets, or enjoy farm-to-table eats at Bluebeard. With its small town atmosphere just minutes from downtown Indy, Irvington makes a delightful addition to any neighborhood tour.
Canal and White River State Park
Along the waterways of downtown Indianapolis lies the green space of White River State Park and the Indianapolis Canal Walk. Your group can enjoy 250 acres of scenic landscapes and cultural attractions all within walking distance of each other. Must-see stops include the Indianapolis Zoo, Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, NCAA Hall of Champions sports museum, and the Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial. History buffs will also appreciate touring the World War Memorial, USS Indianapolis Memorial, and Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War Museum. When you’ve worked up an appetite, grab lunch at the Historic Allisonville Mill along the canal or dine al fresco at the park’s Falls View Restaurant. And be sure to stroll along the Canal Walk admiring the beautiful fountains, bridges, and public art installations. For convenience, culture, and natural beauty, Canal and White River State Park can’t be beat.
Book a Bus With Us
Exploring Indianapolis by charter bus allows your group to maximize your time seeing the top neighborhoods. Leave the parking, traffic, and logistics to us while you enjoy the culture, history, and charm that makes Indy unique. Indianapolis Party Bus Company offers daily routes and custom tours of Indianapolis’s best areas. Our clean, comfortable buses feature amenities like WiFi, entertainment, and plenty of room for your crew and gear. And our knowledgeable team loves sharing the city they know and love. Contact Indianapolis Party Bus Company today at (317) 229-6481 to reserve your ideal group transportation.