It's officially Autumn in Indianapolis and a time when I feel the city really comes into itself. Not only are the changing leaf colors and temperature beautiful, but the number of festivals and activities throw the city into heightened level of energy.
Four years ago, when I moved to Indianapolis, I was less than thrilled to be in such a small city. Having returned from Germany, I wasn't ready to settle into a place I perceived constricting. Thankfully I've been proven wrong and have come to love Indianapolis, which is why this blog is dedicated to some of my favorites in the city.
1. Favorite art event: First Friday. The first Friday of every month is always something to look forward to. With galleries opening up all over the city, it's a treat to meander through the Harrison Center, the Wheeler Art Center, or Mass. Ave., talk to the artists, and see a mixture of ages and personalities congregate to appreciate art. It's definitely a must if you're visiting or living in Indy: http://www.idada.org/first-friday-map/
2. Favorite Trail: The Monon. This one isn't too surprising, although going with Eagle Creek or the Cultural Trail may have been good alternatives, the Monon has been more accessible to where I live. Memories of riding bikes, going on walks, or jogging along the trail are what makes this a favorite. Also, the friendliness of those on the trail is great. http://www.indygreenways.org/monon/monon.htm
3. Favorite Dance spot: The Mineshaft. Although not the most popular place in Broadripple, I have a soft spot for it. It's one of the few, if not the only, places in Broadripple where it's possible to dance without being suffocated, where you can request songs and know that they'll be played, and with the friendliest bouncer (Dustin). http://www.mineshaftsaloon.ws/
4. Favorite Restaurant: Petite Chou or any of the Patachou/Napolese branches. This was a difficult decision because Indy is packed with good eateries, but my taste buds continuously praise what's served at any of Martha Hoover's restaurants. Whether it's the thin-crust pizza at Napolese or the omelettes at the other locations, you can't go wrong in going here. Even better, Hoover is due to open a new restaurant along the Monon next spring. http://www.cafepatachou.com/
5. Favorite University: Butler University. Well, that one was pretty obvious considering it's my alma mater, but Butler is an institution that continuous to promote the value of a Liberal Arts education. It's place that contains fond memories, where faculty and staff are easily reached, supportive, and excited about helping students. Butler is where I began to explore Indianapolis' community-based organizations and where I learned to appreciate the city.
Four years ago, when I moved to Indianapolis, I was less than thrilled to be in such a small city. Having returned from Germany, I wasn't ready to settle into a place I perceived constricting. Thankfully I've been proven wrong and have come to love Indianapolis, which is why this blog is dedicated to some of my favorites in the city.
1. Favorite art event: First Friday. The first Friday of every month is always something to look forward to. With galleries opening up all over the city, it's a treat to meander through the Harrison Center, the Wheeler Art Center, or Mass. Ave., talk to the artists, and see a mixture of ages and personalities congregate to appreciate art. It's definitely a must if you're visiting or living in Indy: http://www.idada.org/first-friday-map/
With Ali, Katie, and Aubrey at the Harrison Center
2. Favorite Trail: The Monon. This one isn't too surprising, although going with Eagle Creek or the Cultural Trail may have been good alternatives, the Monon has been more accessible to where I live. Memories of riding bikes, going on walks, or jogging along the trail are what makes this a favorite. Also, the friendliness of those on the trail is great. http://www.indygreenways.org/monon/monon.htm
Picture by Andrew Collins http://gaytravel.about.com/od/gaydestinationgalleries/ig/Photos-of-Gay-Indianapolis/Monon-Trail.htm
4. Favorite Restaurant: Petite Chou or any of the Patachou/Napolese branches. This was a difficult decision because Indy is packed with good eateries, but my taste buds continuously praise what's served at any of Martha Hoover's restaurants. Whether it's the thin-crust pizza at Napolese or the omelettes at the other locations, you can't go wrong in going here. Even better, Hoover is due to open a new restaurant along the Monon next spring. http://www.cafepatachou.com/
My friend Allie sipping on some coffee during the ice storm in Feb.
5. Favorite University: Butler University. Well, that one was pretty obvious considering it's my alma mater, but Butler is an institution that continuous to promote the value of a Liberal Arts education. It's place that contains fond memories, where faculty and staff are easily reached, supportive, and excited about helping students. Butler is where I began to explore Indianapolis' community-based organizations and where I learned to appreciate the city.
I'm more nostalgic about leaving Indiana this time around. Maybe it's because of the uncertainty of what I'll be doing or, more likely, because what I've done is woven with emotions I'll relate to this place. Moreover, I've learned to see Indianapolis from a broader perspective -- a changing community, dedicated to supporting one another's passions, where neighborhood dinners still occur, and people give each other the benefit of the doubt. Some of these may sound a bit idealistic, but it's how I've come to see my home.
Aw, Ana! This makes me sad because you're starting to say goodbye, but I really love this post! We share a lot of the same favorite places and they won't be the same without you for these next six months. . but you're going to have a fantastic adventure :) Love you, xoxo!
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