International Student Services

Indianapolis, Indy, Naptown, the Circle City

Indianapolis is a vibrant city that is growing and changing everyday! Initiatives like the cultural trail that highlights the cultural districts of Indianapolis and promotes alternate forms of transportation, the miles of bike lanes that are newly lining the major streets, the urban farms that are growing all over the city in an effort to 'keep it local', all contribute to a city that people want to live in.

Butler is nestled in a beautiful residential neighborhood that is close to many of the attractions and unique neighborhoods of Indianapolis. The Indianapolis Art Museum (IMA) is just blocks from Butler's campus. The IMA has a summer and winter film series, including the international film festival, as well as world famous art available to the public for FREE!

Along the west side of campus, you can find the trail that runs along the canal. The trail will lead you right into downtown. Where you can discover White River State Park, which is home to outdoor art, the Indianapolis Zoo, summer concerts and more! You can also watch a baseball game at Victory Field or rent a paddle boat and peddle down the canal with a friend.

Below you will find brief descriptions of the main neighborhoods of Indianapolis. I encourage you to follow the links and learn more about Indianapolis and what our city has to offer.

Broad Ripple Village

Broad Ripple Village is known for its bars, restaurants, and small boutiques and thrift stores. It is close to campus and is the neighborhood of choice for most Butler students on the weekend. Broad Ripple is also the best place to catch the Monon Trail from Butler. The Monon is a trail that runs North and South, spanning almost the entire city. During the warm months, you will find many people walking their dogs, biking and jogging along the trail. The Monon is not well lit and for this reason it is not open to the public at night.

Fountain Square

Fountain Square is the furthest neighborhood from Butler, but worth the trip! It has award winning restaurants, unique entertainment and great shopping! Fountain Square has retained a lot of the architecture and character from its beginnings in 1835. It is the up and coming neighborhood of Indianapolis!

Mass Ave

Massachusetts Avenue is the main drag of downtown's cultural scene. It houses independent theaters, premier restaurants and bars, as well as art galleries and the annual IndyFringe Festival.

Wholesale District

The Wholesale District is in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. You will find Circle Center Mall, our historic Monument Circle, and next year it will be the destination of the 2012 Super Bowl, one of the largest sporting events in the country!

Indiana Ave

Indiana Avenue is a historical district that chronicles the lives of African Americans in Indianapolis. The avenue is lined with worship centers, and is home to Madame Walker Theater, which hosts 'Jazz on the Avenue' every last Friday of the month as well as a recently revived movie night, dance lessons and more!

The Canal & White River State Park

The canal is a peaceful place to walk or ride in a gondola, if you choose, with views of the city. It is also the gateway to many of Indianapolis' museums, such as the Indian State Museum, Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, and NCAA Hall of Champions, as well as and entrance to White River State Park and the Indianapolis Zoo. You will definitely have a lot to do.