With historic monuments, picturesque parks and vibrant Midwest sunsets, Downtown Indy has no shortage of inspiring places to photograph. But there is only so much time in a weekend to see it all. Having worked for Downtown Indy, Inc. for nearly three years, I have narrowed down the best Instagram-worthy places in the city. Charge up your phone, put on your walking shoes and get ready to step up your Insta game. Here are the 10 most Instagram-worthy views Downtown.
While you are out ‘gramming, use #DowntownIndy.
Monument Circle
As the heart of Downtown Indy, Monument Circle is one of our state’s most iconic destinations. Take the elevator or stairs to the top of the Monument for a bird’s eye view of Downtown Indianapolis. Better yet, capture the Monument the day after Thanksgiving when it’s lit up for the annual Circle of Lights.
Central Library
When I took a job at Downtown Indy, Inc., one of my first meetings was at the Central Library. I remember sitting in a conference room with floor to ceiling windows and views of the Downtown Indianapolis skyline. Who wouldn’t enjoy a meeting with that view in the backdrop? The breathtaking glass and steel Atrium always makes for the quintessential Downtown Indy photo.
Indianapolis Museum of Art
Fill your camera with LOVE and snap a picture at the iconic sculpture at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. While visiting the IMA, stop by The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park: 100 Acres. The Park is one of the largest museum art parks in the country and is a Instagramer’s nature wonderland woodlands, wetlands, meadows and a 35-acre lake, not to mention funky contemporary art.
Canal Walk
During the warmer months, Downtown Indy’s Canal Walk is dotted with any number of pedal boats, gondolas, bicycles, surreys and Segways, making it one of Downtown’s most vibrant attractions. It is also beautifully lit at night. Walk to the bridge off Blackford Street and you can capture one of the most iconic views of Downtown Indy.
A photo posted by Keith Webb (@keithwebb00) on
White River State Park
As America’s only cultural urban state park, White River State Park offers a unique mix of green space and cultural attractions. Give yourself time to museum hop: the Eiteljorg, the Indiana State Museum and the NCAA Hall of Champions are all on-site. And don’t miss public art scattered through the Park, including The Tent, a colorful collection of polished metal tiles that sits in the center of the park.
A photo posted by Downtown Indy (@downtownindy) on
Garfield Park Conservatory and Sunken Gardens
When you want a really unique photo – or simply want to escape city life for a day – visit Garfield Park. With 10,000 square feet of tropical plants that are in full bloom year-round in the Conservatory and three acres of classic, European formal garden, Garfield Park is a must-see. For only $2, the Conservatory offers beautiful waterfalls, fruit bearing plants, Koi ponds and more.
A photo posted by Katie Krauter (@katiegkrauter) on
City Market
In summer months, Instagramers flock to the City Market for the Original Farmers Market – an outdoor market with rows upon rows of vendors offering fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods and cheeses. Set to the backdrop of the Soldier and Sailors Monument, this setup perfectly showcases summer in our city. Once inside, stand on the second floor for the obligatory City Market overview photo.
Working downtown today. #indianapolis #citymarket #downtown #lunch #indy
A photo posted by jacob (@jacoblonsway) on
Indiana War Memorial
Located in the five-block picturesque setting of War Memorial Plaza, the grand Indiana World War Memorial sits 210 feet above street level. Capture the War Memorial from many different angles: from the top of the Memorial, check out the view of the American Legion Mall and the Central Library. On the grounds of the Memorial, capture the fountains, statues and monuments. Note: the Memorial’s antique gold doors look fantastic in photos.
A photo posted by Kevin Pease (@k_sneeze) on
Depew Fountain at University Park
After snapping the Indiana War Memorial, head just a block south to the Depew Fountain, a five-level fountain built in 1919. Whether photographed up close for a glimpse of the bronze figures or far away to showcase the entirety of University Park, this fountain has beautiful historic elements.
Our fave: Depew Fountain in University Park its a beauty! Your fave? #loveindy #indy
A photo posted by Instagram For HI ❤️ Indy (@herstoryindy) on
Alexander Hotel
From the sleek mixology lounge Plat 99 to the garage graffiti art, the Alexander Hotel is an Instagramer’s dream location (not to mention a personal favorite). Plat 99 has, arguably, the best lighting in the city – sure to draw ooh’s and aah’s from your Instagram followers. The views from the bar’s outdoor patio, overlooking the south side of the city, are equally as stunning.
A photo posted by Melissa Gabel Morse (@melissagmorse) on
