The New Downtown

Daydreams about the waterway’s potential might not be so wild and crazy after all.

The urban playground may appeal to tourists with its gondolas and Segways, but there’s no better place for residents to take a jog or a pre-concert stroll.

Lately, buzzworthy restaurants and bars keep luring us away from Mass Ave’s eaten path.

“I see a lot of potential for White River as an active recreation space for hiking and water sports, such as paddleboarding, canoeing, kayaking, and tubing.”

For every person who is excited about “made in Indiana,” 50 end up shopping at their local Target. What’s ironic is that these same people don’t mind driving downtown to drop $100 on dinner.

Downtown Indianapolis finally boasts drool-worthy design elements. Lauded local interior designer Nikki Sutton plays tour guide for her favorite pieces.

Former Mayor Bill Hudnut was in Indy a few months back. He drew close, grasped my shoulder, and pointedly asked me, “What’s next for Indy? What are you excited about?”

And I finally had an answer.

You wouldn’t believe how many 5Ks and other runs take place in the city center. Monitor street closings on Downtown Indy’s blog.

Meanwhile, tensions between drivers and cyclists seem more heated than ever. From my viewpoint—while some rogue cyclists flout the road rules—a collision between a 15-pound bike and a half-ton car typically ends with only one loser.

Laying down on the gas feels a little bit like a go-cart, but no one designed an urban road for V-8 engines in the first place, no matter what car commercials show you.

Those who deride the Cultural Trail as a glorified sidewalk should stroll through Fletcher Place. A mere sidewalk does not attract three sleek apartment buildings, 10 independent eateries and bars, and enough house-hunters to quadruple home values.

“Property crimes are the most common type,” says district commander Karen Arnett, “specifically thefts from vehicles.” Not surprising, given the 90,000-plus parking spaces downtown.

“I get it. Indy’s brand is friendliness, cleanliness, and safety. But we’re also a caring community.”

Get to know downtown Indy apartments not by features or floor plans but by these fun nicknames.

Downtown’s new playspace? Rooftops. Here’s where to take your leisure time to another level.