The Indiana World War Memorial Plaza is a solemn structure built to immortalize the soldiers who fought in World War I. The memorial was originally conceived in 1919, with the hopes of luring the American Legion to make their headquarters there. Despite the cornerstone having been laid, some parts of the memorial plaza were not completed until 1960. The centerpiece of the plaza is the memorial building itself, standing at a height of 210 feet (64 meters). This building draws inspiration from the ancient Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, residing in present-day Turkey. Ornamented on all sides by pleasant bushes, rolling lawns, stunning statues, and a fountain, the memorial is home to a museum, auditorium and the Shrine Room. Proclaimed a National Historic Landmark, the Indiana World War Memorial is a stirring locus of American history and a deep sense of architectural excellence.
If you have art at heart, then Clowes Memorial Hall at Butler University is the place to be. Built in 1963 in memory of the late Dr. George Henry Alexander Clowes, it hosts a performing arts series every year and focuses on international and cultural live performances. It is also suitable for conferences, operas, receptions and concerts. With a capacity of over 2,000, there's never a dull moment!
Indianapolis Motor Speedway was the world's first ever racing track to earn the epithet of a 'Speedway'. Boasting a capacity of 400,000 spectators, this track can be aptly described as the holy grail for motorsports aficionados across the globe. Since its construction in 1909, Indianapolis Motor Speedway has hosted several prestigious racing events but the revered Indianapolis 500 and Brickyard 400 have always been its major crowd pullers. The on-site Hall of Fame Museum houses NASCAR and racing memorabilia and artifacts. At any given time at least 75 vehicles are on display for the public.
One of the famous landmarks of Indianapolis, the President Benjamin Harrison Home was built in the 1870s and is now a museum dedicated to President Harrison. In order to explore his life, the historic building houses artifacts and books belonging to the Harrison family. The chambers have period furniture, the president's personal items, and political memorabilia. The house is also a venue for city events and exhibitions. Tours of the house are held regularly.
Home to the Indiana Pacers and the Indiana Fever, Gainbridge Fieldhouse is on a permanent adrenaline rush. Add to that occasional live music concerts by the likes of Celine Dion and Neil Diamond, and temperatures are bound to soar. A huge sports facility, in the basketball-crazy state of Indiana, Gainbridge Fieldhouse is like a magnet for locals and visitors alike. The visual appeal of the facility is awe-inspiring for its sheer magnitude and world-class amenities.
The Indiana State Museum is located along the canal in White River State Park. The museum has three floors of galleries that tell the story of the great state of Indiana. Visitors are inspired to learn more about the state (and its glittering capital city) by exploring its art, science and culture. Some galleries on the top floor are often devoted to much sought-after traveling exhibitions as well. The building itself is a sight to behold, especially after noting that it is constructed exclusively of Hoosier materials: limestone, steel, brick, sandstone and glass. It is truly a work of art. On site is a two-story gift shop and some casual dining options.