Best Historic Locations in Indianapolis

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.

After a visit to the Indianapolis Museum of Art, explore the Oldfields – Lilly House & Gardens. Nestled on the grounds of the museum, this 26-acre (10.5 hectare) verdant landscape features manicured lawns, exotic flora, sculptures, fountains and garden ornaments. The mansion, former home of late business luminary and philanthropist J.K. Lilly Jr., boasts 22 rooms and illustrates American Country Place Era architecture. Take an audio tour of the house museum for a glimpse of 1930s culture.

Formerly the residence of the Hoosier poet of the same name, the James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home is a bastion of historic preservation. This museum is filled with the historical artifacts, furniture and belongings of Indiana's most beloved poet. The home itself is a great example of late-Victorian architecture, and takes one back in time to the early days of James's life.

A visit to downtown Indianapolis is incomplete without a stroll down the Monument Circle. This historic landmark encloses the famous Indiana Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument, which pays homage to the heroes of the American Revolution. This site is also home to a wide range of cultural and local events held by the city. Attend the Marsh Cookout on the Circle, where you can expect good food for a good cause. Call the Visitors Bureau for more details on current and upcoming events.

Popularly known as One Indiana Square, the Regions Bank Tower boasts a stunning glass facade that glimmers in the sunshine as it stands tall even today. At an imposing height of 36 storeys, this building was the Indiana's tallest at the time of its completion in 1970. Its reign as state's tallest building continued for 12 years and was only brought to an end in 1982 when its height was finally surpassed by the OneAmerica Tower. Nevertheless, the Regions Bank Tower continues to draw admiring gaze of onlookers even today, having forever made its mark in history.