Many Alabamians are surprised to learn that Indianapolis is the 12th largest city in our nation. With a fairly uncomplicated street layout, an accessible interstate system, plus a host of amenities, it’s an excellent choice for this year’s Southern Baptist Convention (SBC). The SBC annual meeting will take place June 14–15 at the Indiana Convention Center, 100 S. Capitol Avenue.
With schools out for the summer, this is a perfect opportunity to combine your family vacation with your SBC attendance. SBC information is available on pages 6 and 7 of this issue and online at www.sbcannualmeeting.net. But here are brief highlights of what else there is to see and do around Indianapolis:
White River State Park — Don’t let the name fool you, this is much more than woods and water. It’s the only attraction in the United States that is accredited as a zoo, an aquarium and a botanical gardens. What’s more, it’s located downtown, an easy walk from the convention site. It’s many venues under one roof, so to speak, with 64 acres of educational and fun activities.
Blue Line Electric Circulator — These quiet and colorful mini-buses run every 10 minutes from downtown into the park and back and cost only 50 cents a ride. Stops include Circle Centre Mall.
The Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial — Along the north bank of the central canal that winds through the park and downtown, massive glass panels display the names of all 3,410 recipients of this highly distinguished award.
The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art — Displays include classic works such as Remington and Russell, as well as contemporary artists’ works from the Taos, New Mexico Artists’ Colony (www.eiteljorg.org).
The Indiana State Museum — Known as Indiana’s “Smithsonian,” exhibits span the history and pre-history of the Hoosier State.
IMAX Theater — This is a part of the Indiana State Museum and will be featuring two offerings: Bugs 3D and NASCAR 3D.
Indianapolis Zoo — More than 350 animals are in these superbly replicated natural environments. The dolphin pavilion is the second largest fully-enclosed, environmentally-controlled facility of its kind in the world.
The NCAA Hall of Champions — The dedication and achievements of college athletes are honored within these walls, via dozens of displays and a short movie titled “What Is a Champion?”
Sculpture in the Park — Visitors can enjoy and purchase any of the local artists’ works highlighted throughout the park.
White River Gardens — More than $14 million went into the creation of this stunning botanical park. Top features are the conservatory and the water garden. More than a mile and half of paths wind throughout the park, and indoor and outdoor dining is offered. Don’t miss the butterflies exhibit.
River Promenade — A half-mile paved walkway along the White River is beautifully landscaped and includes interesting rock carvings.
Central Canal — Going from 11th to Washington Street, the canal extends into the park and is a popular dining and relaxing spot for locals and tourists. The canal cascades down a waterfall to end in White River. Downtown’s Canal Plaza includes beautiful waterfront scenery, great shops and eateries, and a free music concert every Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 10’s lineup features a swing and jazz band, while June 11’s entertainment will be a barbershop quartet.
Free activities
In and around Indianapolis is a plethora of no-cost spots of interest.
Capitol Commons — Walk through this English garden atmosphere and enjoy the fountain and greenery. Located on Capitol Avenue in front of the Westin Hotel.
Christ Church Cathedral — At 125 Monument Circle, Christ Church Cathedral is the oldest church in the city, dating back to 1857. Magnificent stained glass in this English Gothic structure.
The Flowing Well — On 116th Street, just east of Gray Road in nearby Carmel, this natural artesian well is the centerpiece of an 18-acre park with a one-mile walking trail.
Garfield Park — This former horse track is Indy’s oldest park, with picnic areas, sunken gardens and a conservatory containing more than 500 tropical plants and a 15-foot waterfall. 2450 Shelby Street.
Indiana War Memorial Plaza — Paying homage to the military from WWI to Vietnam, this museum includes 24 impressive stained glass windows and memorabilia. 431 N. Meridian Street.
Indianapolis Art Center — Encompasses eight exhibit sectors, more than a dozen studios and a sculpture garden. See artists at work. 820 E. 67th Street in Broad Ripple.
Indianapolis Artsgarden — Located at the intersection of Washington and Illinois Streets, this facility entails seven stories of art-related activities and displays.
Potter’s Bridge Park — This 30-acre park in Noblesville surrounds the county’s only remaining covered bridge. 19401 Allisonville Road; walking trails and a picnic area afford views of White River.
Scottish Rite Cathedral — Ranked as one of the ten most beautiful buildings in the world, this Gothic house has a 54-bell carillon and a 7,000-pipe organ. 650 N. Meridian Street.
Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument — Climb the 330 steps of this memorial for a panoramic view of the city. The Eli Lilly Civil War Museum honors Indiana’s sacrifices during in the Civil War.
State Capitol — Tour the state capitol by scheduling a tour: (317) 233-5293. 402 W. Washington Street.
For more information about Indianapolis and/or the SBC annual meeting, visit the resources section of www.thealabamabaptist.org.
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