Indy and Central Indiana: American Crossroads
Indy and Central Indiana: American Crossroads
By Giles Kennedy
Columbus Wired
Family and Travel Columnist
My family has been to Indianapolis many times. My wife’s cousin resides in one of the many communities that are growing, Carmel.
We also visited the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. In fact; prior to the “World’s Greatest Spectacle in Racing” , many events happen. Including a marathon and many other events. As they say “May is Indy”.
https://www.visitindy.com/things-to-do/
But there is so much more to the “Crossroads of America”. Indianapolis and Central Indiana offer many places for you to explore.
Speaking of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway; they are reopening the IMS Museum and Visitors Center April 2nd, 2025. They recently wrapped up an extensive rebuild and remodel for this upcoming race season.
Head to their website for details on visiting outside of the Indy 500 and other racing events.
Carmel; which is north of Indianapolis, has been a growing city. A rising art scene, the middle section of Indy’s Monon Trail (a bike and hike trail), and many shops have great things to experience.
This was my family’s base camp for many of our visits. For more info; check Carmel and Hamilton County (IN)’s visitors website.
https://www.visithamiltoncounty.com/cities/carmel/things-to-do/
This visit, we actually ventured to Bartholomew and Brown Counties, south of Indy.
This led us 1st to Edinburgh. This small city has many antique shops. The main attraction just outside of town, near Indiana Premier Outlets; is Exit 76 Antique Mall.
http://www.exit76antiques.com/
This place is absolutely amazing. Local and regional vendors rent out spaces inside the Mall.
From automobila, collectibles, model trains, die cast vehicles and much more. Clean restrooms, a small and affordable vending area offers drinks and snacks, and friendly staff makes this a true destination.
After exploring the halls of Exit 76, we stretch our legs in Nashville, Indiana.
One of the original “artist colony” communities, Nashville offers many art galleries, craft made items, restaurants, candy shops and much more.
https://www.visitindiana.com/listing/shopping-in-downtown-nashville/1694/
We pertaked of Heritage Candy Shop; in the Heritage Hall Shops. Their homemade fudge, candies and treats have been a staple in Nashville for over 50 years.
https://www.heritagecandystore.com/
My wife and cousin’s wife loved the fudge. I went for the Dark Chocolate Espresso Beans and Malt Balls.
To say you can do this in one day; is underwhelming. A couple days would at least soak in what Hoosier Hospitality has to offer in Brown County. Although, it was a windy day..when the weather is better, we would like to explore more. Brown County State Park; mere miles away from Nashville, is the largest forested state park in Indiana.
Many campgrounds, outdoor attractions and more await in Brown County.
Visit Brown County’s visitor website for details.
Always remember, life is an adventure; get out there and live it!
