Travel Log: Indianapolis

Indianapolis was a planned city from the start. When it was founded in 1821, it was founded as Indiana's state capital. Its name broken down is "Indiana city." Thing is, few knew the growth it would have.

The city was originally designed to be 1 square mile with the governor's home erected at the very center of commerce. Today that location is Monument Circle, where the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument stands.

It was originally designed to be a port city with White River providing the logistics. Today that location is a popular stop for visitors and residents alike.

It was originally one of the country's major producers of automobiles, a perfect fit with its transportation heritage as well as potential due to main arteries and roadways. Somehow that perfect fit never went away.

MAP OF INDIANAPOLIS
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DID YOU KNOW?
Indiana has more miles of interstate highway per square mile than any other state. The first highway built entirely with federal funds is the National Road, which passes through Indiana. Source: 50states.com

WHAT THE AREA OFFERS
The Canal and White River State Park -- It's not Italy, but it may feel a little romantic riding down the Canal on a gondola with the city's silhouette as a backdrop. On land, there are seven major attractions, cafes, restaurants and night life all along the waterway.
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Indy International Wine Competition -- It's a few weeks before the state fair, but visitors can get an early taste of the culture through this taste and competition. Participation is free for this two-day event.
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Tibbs Drive-In -- In a city where cars mean so much, there's only an added excuse to sit in the car and watch a movie the original way at the drive-in. Tibbs houses four screens with double features on each screen.
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Mass Ave -- The arts and theater district of Indianapolis, Mass Ave overflows with galleries, live theater, unique food and certain stops for free-spirited nightlife.
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The Children's Museum of Indianapolis -- Do you have what it takes to become a spy? Do you want to explore the world of optical illusions? Are you ready to check out Fireworks of Glass? The largest children's museum in the world has it all.
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MUST-VISIT RESTAURANT
Mug-N-Bun Drive-In -- Burgers on white bread, fries, car-hops and perhaps the best root beer in the Midwest. It's all in the brown cinder-block building at Mug-n-Bun's, where the self-made "Indy's Finest!!" sign on the side says it all.
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WEATHER FORECAST
A 30 percent chance of thunderstorms on Friday and Saturday, but Sunday looks to be sunny and near 90 degrees. Complete forecast

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL
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