While Indianapolis has long been known to racing fans who flock to this capital city every May for the Indianapolis 500, the city now boasts of several new attractions of more interest to families.  Downtown Indianapolis surrounds the majestic Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument, a 284-ft. Spire crowned by the 30-ft. Bronze statue Victory, popularly known as Miss Indiana.  Situated around Monument Circle are entertainment centers, museums, and several new sports stadiums and hotels, to keep up with such events as the Pan-American games and Olympic trials.

The new Circle Centre shopping and entertainment complex opened in 1995 and draws visitors from around the region. Connected to the Circle Centre and several downtown hotels is the Indianapolis Arts garden. The eight-story glass rotunda,  lit by tiny lights and suspended in mid-air over the busy Washington and Illinois intersection,  is a performance and exhibition space for all of Indiana. Indianapolis has undergone an amazing renaissance.  In recent years, the downtown landmarks have all been transformed into new shopping and entertainment centers that have maintained their architectural integrity.

Waiting for you in Indianapolis are a number of excellent museums, including one of the best children’s museums in the country. The Indianapolis Children’s Museum is 5 stories of educational, hands-on learning and fun for the whole family! After you take a ride on the old-fashioned merry-go-round, stop by “Passport to the World” to learn about different cultures from people in their native dress.

When you are ready to “climb the walls”, head for the towering rock climbing wall, complete with all the repelling gear you’ll need to make it to the top!  There’s even a planetarium and the famous IMAX theater for added educational enjoyment.

Surrounded by sculpture, botanical gardens, and a lake, the Indianapolis Museum of Art has art treasures from all time periods. In contrast, the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art is dedicated entirely to native arts and buildings. The new Indianapolis Zoo features hundreds of plants and animals in a lovely natural setting just outside town.

Come to Indianapolis and experience the newly developed cultural and entertainment center of the Old Northwest! Whether it’s the Indy 500, museums to tour, or places to shop, you’ll find something to interest you in Indianapolis.