10 Hidden Attractions in Indianapolis Even Locals Forget: Discover Indianapolis’s Hidden Wonders

1. Fountain Square Theatre Building

Often forgotten amidst the bustling array of attractions in Indianapolis, the Fountain Square Theatre Building offers a unique experience that truly feels like stepping back in time. Located in the vibrant Fountain Square district, the building was originally opened in 1928 and has since been lovingly restored to retain its original charm while incorporating modern amenities. It’s not just a theater – it’s a multipurpose venue filled with entertainment options.

The rooftop garden offers stunning panoramic views of the city and is an ideal spot for a romantic evening or a casual outing with friends. The vintage duckpin bowling alleys located on the second and fourth floors offer a quirky and enjoyable activity that you simply can’t find elsewhere. Whether you are a fan of bowling or not, the nostalgic ambiance is irresistible.

The theaters themselves host a myriad of events ranging from classic movie screenings to live performances, making it a perpetual surprise with something new to discover upon each visit. Even locals often forget the depth of experiences this historical gem offers, allowing it to be one of those hidden wonders waiting to be uncovered.

2. Indiana Medical History Museum

When you think of museums in Indianapolis, the Indiana Medical History Museum may not be the first to come to mind, yet it is one of the most intriguing. Situated in the old pathology building of Central State Hospital, which dates back to the 1890s, this museum delves into the early days of medicine, psychiatry, and medical research.

Walking through its halls, one can explore the original autopsy room, clinical laboratories, teaching amphitheater, and collections of medical artifacts. Each area provides a fascinating glimpse into the practices and challenges of early medical professionals. The preserved state of the museum makes it feel as though the practitioners just stepped out for lunch a moment ago.

The Indiana Medical History Museum offers guided tours that enrich the experience with insightful anecdotes and historical contexts. These tours can enhance understanding of the evolution of medical science and examine some of the more bizarre and astonishing practices from the past. It’s certainly an eye-opening experience and one that even many long-term residents of Indianapolis do not realize is right at their doorstep.

3. Holliday Park

Holliday Park is one of Indianapolis’s best-kept secrets. While many locals visit larger, more visible parks, this 94-acre gem provides a mix of natural beauty and intriguing history that is often overlooked. Located along the banks of the White River, Holliday Park offers beautiful walking trails, lush gardens, and a well-equipped nature center that both adults and kids can enjoy.

One of the standout features of Holliday Park is the Ruins, a fascinating art installation created from the facade of the demolished St. Paul Building in New York City. These massive sculptures and architectural relics are set against a magnificent backdrop of greenery that makes for some breathtaking photography and a unique historical tale.

The park also boasts extensive woodland areas ideal for hiking, as well as the Rocky Ripple neighborhood which offers terrain that you won’t find in the more commercialized parks. Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, or just looking for a peaceful spot to escape the everyday hustle and bustle, Holliday Park is a wonderful hidden treasure waiting to be explored.

4. The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres

The next hidden gem takes us to a place that seamlessly marries art with nature: The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres. Unlike any other park in Indianapolis, it sits adjacent to the Indianapolis Museum of Art and offers an exploration of large, site-specific art installations that integrate beautifully with their natural settings.

The park is expansive and features a diverse landscape that includes woodlands, wetlands, meadows, and a stunning 35-acre lake. Meandering through the park, visitors encounter an array of fascinating and thought-provoking sculptures and installations, each thoughtfully designed to engage with the environment and create a unique sensory experience.

Among the notable works are “Funky Bones,” a skeletal structure you can climb on, and “Free Basket,” an oversized sculpture that pays homage to Indiana’s basketball heritage. Wandering through the park, especially in different seasons, offers new insights and experiences as the surroundings change. Despite its close proximity to the city, this park feels like a tranquil retreat, making it an ideal spot for those looking to balance urban living with an artistic connection to nature.

5. Rhythm! Discovery Center

Nestled in the heart of downtown Indianapolis and often missed by even seasoned residents, the Rhythm! Discovery Center is an interactive museum dedicated to percussion instruments worldwide. As part of the Percussive Arts Society, the center provides a deep dive into the art and science of rhythm and percussion.

What sets this museum apart is its hands-on approach. Visitors are encouraged to play various instruments, from traditional drum kits to more exotic pieces like the Taiko drums. The Discovery Center also includes exhibits on the history of percussion, notable percussionists, and the evolution of these instruments across different cultures and eras.

Additionally, the center hosts educational workshops and performances, offering a dynamic experience that goes beyond merely viewing exhibits. Such interactive opportunities make it a particularly exciting visit for families and children, but also for anyone interested in music and cultural history. The Rhythm! Discovery Center allows you to not just see and hear but also feel the beat, making it an essential yet often overlooked stop in the Indianapolis cultural landscape.

6. Crown Hill Cemetery

Crown Hill Cemetery may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of must-see attractions, yet this historic cemetery is one of Indianapolis’s most captivating hidden gems. Established in 1863, Crown Hill is one of the largest private cemeteries in the country and serves as the final resting place for some of Indiana’s most notable figures, including President Benjamin Harrison and infamous outlaw John Dillinger.

The cemetery’s expansive and well-manicured grounds offer a serene environment perfect for a reflective stroll. The view from Crown Hill’s highest point, known as the “Crown,” provides one of the best panoramic views of the Indianapolis skyline. This spot is particularly enchanting during sunrise and sunset, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s bustling energy.

Guided tours add an educational layer to your visit, providing insights into the historical significance of the people buried there and the fascinating stories behind their lives. Architectural enthusiasts will also appreciate the variety of monuments and mausoleums, each a testament to different artistic and historical periods. Whether interested in history, architecture, or simply looking for a quiet place to unwind, Crown Hill Cemetery offers a unique experience year-round.

7. Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Garden

Tucked away in the historic Garfield Park, the Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Garden is a botanical oasis that even locals often overlook. The conservatory is home to a wide array of tropical plants and exotic flowers, creating a lush and tranquil environment that’s perfect for a moment of relaxation or inspiration.

Opened in 1915, the conservatory offers themed displays that change seasonally, making each visit a unique experience. The adjacent Sunken Gardens are meticulously designed and beautifully maintained, featuring formal flower displays, fountains, and tranquil water features. The garden’s layout, with its symmetrical pathways and blooming beds, offers a perfect spot for reflective strolls or picnics.

The park also hosts an array of events throughout the year, including gardening workshops, seasonal flower shows, and cultural festivals. Whether you’re a plant enthusiast or just looking for a serene spot to escape, the Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Garden provide a captivating retreat that surprisingly remains under the radar for many Indianapolis residents.

8. Oldfields-Lilly House & Gardens

Situated within the grounds of Newfields (formerly known as the Indianapolis Museum of Art), the Oldfields-Lilly House & Gardens is a historical estate that often gets overshadowed by the museum itself. However, this 26-acre property is a hidden gem offering an immersive experience into early 20th-century American life.

The mansion, built in the 1910s and preserved in wonderful detail, offers a window into the opulent lifestyle of its era. Guided tours of the house allow visitors to explore its meticulously restored rooms, each filled with period furnishings and artifacts that narrate the story of the Lilly family and their significant contributions to Indiana’s history and culture.

Surrounding the mansion are the beautifully landscaped gardens, designed by renowned landscape architect Percival Gallagher of the Olmsted Brothers firm. The gardens are a living tapestry of seasonal blooms, stately trees, and charming garden structures that invite you to pause and soak in the beauty. It’s easy to spend hours strolling through the varied garden spaces, each offering a tranquil escape and a unique perspective on the landscape architecture of the time.

9. Indianapolis Catacombs

Hidden beneath the bustling City Market downtown lies one of the city’s most mysterious and intriguing attractions: the Indianapolis Catacombs. These subterranean passageways date back to the late 19th century and represent one of the few remaining segments of the old Tomlinson Hall, which burned down in 1958.

The catacombs are a labyrinth of brick arches and darkened corridors, filled with ghostly echoes of the past. While you won’t find bones and skeletons like the catacombs of Paris, the Indianapolis Catacombs offer a fascinating glimpse into the early infrastructure of the city and the resilience of its past architecture.

Guided tours provide a historical context to these underground chambers, revealing stories of their construction, their uses over the years, and the urban legends that have sprung up around them. Exploring the catacombs is a thrilling adventure, bringing to light a hidden layer of the city that even lifelong residents may not know exists.

10. Southeastway Park

Lastly, Southeastway Park is a hidden natural treasure that offers a reprieve from city life. Located in the southeastern part of Marion County, this 188-acre park features a variety of natural habitats, including woodlands, wetlands, and open fields.

The park is a popular spot for birdwatching, with a diverse array of bird species that change with the seasons. Well-maintained trails provide excellent hiking and biking opportunities, winding through different landscapes that offer a peaceful escape from the urban environment.

Southeastway Park also features an Environmental Education Center that provides educational programs and interactive exhibits focused on the local ecosystem. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a nature photography session, or a solo hike, Southeastway Park’s serene setting and natural beauty make it a perfect, albeit often overlooked, destination.

My Thoughts

Indianapolis is a city filled with well-known attractions and hidden gems alike. While landmarks like the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Children’s Museum garner much of the attention, there are countless lesser-known locations that offer unique and unforgettable experiences. From historic parks and quirky museums to underground catacombs and scenic gardens, the city’s hidden wonders are waiting to be discovered by those willing to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.

For locals, rediscovering these attractions can bring a new appreciation for their city and its rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. For visitors, these hidden gems offer an off-the-beaten-path adventure that can make your trip to Indianapolis genuinely special.