4 of the Best Local Attractions for Visitors to Indianapolis

March 25, 2022 · 3 min read

Our city of Indianapolis, IN, was founded in 1816. As we've grown, we've become a center for manufacturing, farming, cultural, and sporting events. Indianapolis hosts numerous national and international events, including the world-famous Indy 500. We have a huge array of local attractions to thrill, delight, and inspire visitors, and these are a sample of our favorites.

3 of the Best Local Attractions for Visitors to Indianapolis

Central Canal

The canal was originally dug in the 1800s to connect the Erie Canal to the Ohio River and allow for easy water transportation of goods. Over time the canal route became less productive and was superseded by railways and highways. The canal area was redeveloped, and in 1971 it became an American Water Landmark. A fully paved walkway was built around the canal, and it become a prime location for walking, jogging, bicycle riding, and other relaxing pursuits. Bicycles are available for rent from kiosks in the area, and you can also rent a foot padel boat if you want to explore the waterway. There are several strategically planted trees to provide shade, and benches are conveniently spaced. It's a very popular destination for visitors, as there are great views of the surrounding landmarks. You're also within easy access to stores, restaurants, and other activities.

USS Indianapolis Memorial

This Memorial was dedicated in 1995 to the USS Indianapolis (CA-35) and her crew. This Portland-Class heavy cruiser earned 10 battle stars for successful engagements in battle but was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine in July 1945. Most of the crew sadly lost their lives due to the sinking of the ship and exposure to the elements while waiting for rescue. The Memorial is built from limestone and granite and features a raised picture of the ship. A list of all the names of the servicemen who were lost and the names of the survivors are carved into the surface at the rear of the Memorial. This monument stands in a peaceful and serene location next to Central Canal. It provides a poignant and fitting place for remembrance. The Memorial is located near 692 Ellsworth Street on the canal.

Soldiers and Sailors Monument

The Monument recognizes the service of the citizens of Indiana who fought, and sometimes died, in the War of Independence, the War of 1812, the Mexican-American War, the Civil War, the Frontier Wars, and the Spanish-American War. The column is carved from gray limestone quarried at Romona Quarries in Indiana, and it stands over 284 ft. high. The statues at the base of the column represent the army, navy, cavalry, and artillery. The column is capped with a statue of Victory holding a sword and a torch. This beautiful and impressive, Monument helps to remind visitors of the important part Indiana's citizens have played in the history of our country. The Monument stands at 100 Monument Circle. After seeing some of the sights in our beautiful city, come into Tom O'Brien CJDR - Indianapolis and see our incredible range of new and used vehicles.

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Aug 25, 2023 in Around Town

Make the Drive to These 4 Tourist Attractions Near Indianapolis, IN

Indianapolis, IN, known colloquially as Indy, is the seat of Marion County. There is no city more populous in the state, and there is plenty to do in the area. If you're not sure what in the area is worth your time, keep reading to learn about four of the best tourist attractions in the area. Make the Drive to These 4 Tourist Attractions Near Indianapolis, IN 1. Children's Museum of Indianapolis Conveniently located in downtown Indianapolis at 3000 North Meridian Street, the Children's Museum of Indianapolis is the world's largest children's museum, featuring an astonishing 15 exhibits. The indoor exhibits are open year-round, and the outdoor exhibits are open from March to October. One of the most popular sports experiences is the racing experience. more You and your kids can race on the Drag Strip or Oval track, and you can get a photo to commemorate the experience. One of the most popular indoor exhibits is the Dinosphere: Now You're in Their World exhibit. This one-of-a-kind exhibit features five immersive experiences, including Giants of the Jurassic and Creatures of the Cretaceous. There is so much to explore that your kids may beg you to take them back again. 2. Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum at 4750 West 16th Street is also well worth visiting. This is one of the most iconic automobile museums in the world, and it is located inside the 2.5-mile oval. Whether your passion lies in motorcycles, drag or American short-track racing, NASCAR, or Formula One, there is plenty for you to learn about at this museum. 3. Indianapolis Motor Speedway Once you're done at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, put your 2023 Dodge Challenger to the ultimate test on Indianapolis Motor Speedway's iconic oval track, located at 4790 West 16th Street. After that, you can take part in kissing the bricks that make up the start and finish line, a tradition that legendary racers have kept alive since 1996. 4. Indianapolis Zoo The Indianapolis Zoo is located at 1200 West Washington Street, and it is a great place to spend the morning. It features a 64-acre non-profit zoo, botanical garden, and public aquarium. The whole family will love the 90-minute Dolphin In-Water Adventure program, including half an hour poolside and in the water with the dolphins and their trainers. The Indianapolis Zoo also features several rides and attractions, including the ability to feed birds and giraffes. Indy has a lot to offer, including the largest children's museum in the world, one of the world's most iconic automobile museums, and a 64-acre non-profit zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden. Once you're done exploring some of Indy's most popular attractions for tourists, swing by Tom O'Brien CJDR to browse our selection of new cars and trucks.

Jun 30, 2023 in Around Town

Take the Jeep and Check Out These 3 Hiking Trails Near Indianapolis, IN

Looking for some beautiful natural areas to satiate your wanderlust craving this weekend without venturing too far from home? Check out this list of hiking trails near Indianapolis, IN we put together just for you and the family to get out there and enjoy quality time with mother nature. 3 Amazing Hiking Trails in Driving Distance of Indianapolis, IN South Overlook Waterfowl Sanctuary - A Trail the Whole Family Will Love Located at 6485-6243 Delong Rd, just 20 minutes west of the city, this 2.4-mile loop trail is an easy route that every member of the family can enjoy during a weekend outing, including the family dog as long as he/she stays on a leash. Look out for diverse wildlife and birds to snap photos of or show the kids, especially near the edge of the lake. Birdwatching is popular here and diverse species abound including redheaded woodpeckers. Be prepared to pay the $5-$6 fee to get into the park. more Schoen Creek - A Moderate-Level Adventure That Still Gets You Home at a Decent Hour It takes about an hour to complete this 3.1-mile loop located at Lawrence Creek Trailhead Parking, VX8G+JG in Fort Harrison State Park. This trail is also kid-friendly, and popular with hikers and mountain bikers so expect to encounter other nature enthusiasts enjoying the outdoors during your trip, unless you venture out in the evening when it's less popular. Schoen Creek trail is rockier and holds up to moisture better when it rains compared to other trails in the area. Fort Benjamin Harrison MTB Loop - For a Longer More Vigorous Hike This 7.7-mile loop takes about 2 and a half hours to complete on average and is a great choice for those looking to spend a longer chunk of time outside, to cover more distance or those training for a thru-hike who don't want to drive too far outside the city. The scenery is lovely and green with many patches of wildflowers to be found May through September. Just look out for muddy conditions after it rains or make sure you have hiking shoes with enough tread to prevent slips. Whatever your level of hiking experience, one of the spots listed above will be a perfect fit for a short day trip out in nature and all 3 are close enough to get you back in time to enjoy an evening with loved ones or prepare for the work week ahead. If you're looking for the perfect vehicle to transport you from city-dwelling to the outdoor adventures that await, come visit us at Tom Obrien Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram - Indianapolis and test drive the 2023 Jeep Cherokee Latitude Lux 4X4, with heated seats for winter hikes and a cooled driver's seat for those sweltering summer months.

May 26, 2023 in Around Town

Drive on Over to These 3 Local Parks in Indianapolis, IN

Known as the racing capital of the world, the city of Indianapolis, IN features many local attractions, historical landmarks, and sprawling parks and green areas. If you are driving around the city in your 2023 Jeep Renegade and are searching for nearby places to take a break from the urban bustle, here are three spots you should visit. Drive on Over to These 3 Local Parks in Indianapolis, IN 1. White River State Park Although you might think that a state park should be located far away from the city center, this is not the case of White River State Park. Encompassing nearly 270 acres and created in the late 1970s, this expansive green area is located at 801 W Washington Street in the heart of downtown Indianapolis, making it a popular gathering spot among locals and visitors alike. more Home to numerous tourist attractions, including the Indiana State Museum, Indianapolis Zoo, and White River Gardens, White River State Park is one of the local landmarks you should not miss while exploring the city. Open every day between 5:00 am and 11:00 pm, this beautiful green area draws nearly three million visitors every year. 2. Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park Located at 1850 W 38th Street and less than five miles north of the Indianapolis downtown area, Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park is another well-known local park that features not only sprawling green areas, but also plenty of art installations, museums, and education centers. With an area of a little over 100 acres, this place opened its doors to the public in 2010 and is open every day from sunrise to sunset. Sitting right along the banks of the White River and featuring a 40-acre lake, Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park offers beautiful landscapes and excellent opportunities for picnicking. Additionally, this public recreation area features a footbridge across the Indiana Central Canal, a pavilion, as well as numerous nature trails. Driving here from the Indianapolis city center takes less than 10 minutes via route I-65. 3. Riverside Park Established in the late 1890s and open Monday through Saturday, Riverside Park covers an area of about 860 acres and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2003. This place features not only plenty of open grounds and picnic spots, but also several golf courses, a sports complex, a fitness park, and a canoe club. This park is located at 2420 E Riverside Drive and just three miles northwest of the downtown area. No matter what type of vehicle you're looking for, if you are searching for a trusted, family-owned dealership with decades of experience, you've come to the right place. Hit the road and visit us today at Tom O'Brien CJDR – Indianapolis! One of our team members will be happy to show you around our extensive inventory.