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More Monon Trail Travel Facts
If you know Indianapolis only as the home of the Indy 500, you're in for a treat. This small but bustling Midwest city is packed with activities and attractions.
Getting There
Downtown Indianapolis is located about 10 miles from the Indianapolis International Airport. You can access Indianapolis via five major highways (I-69, I-70, I-74, I-65 and I-465).
Where to Stay
Contact the Indianapolis Convention & Visitors Association  (317-639-4282) for lodging options. Two top choices include the Villa Inn (317-916-8500), an Italian-style bed-and-breakfast in the historic Old Northside, and the Canterbury Hotel (317-634-3000), a European boutique hotel located near the city center.
What to Do
Head to any of dozens of attractions, including the Indianapolis Zoo, Indianapolis Motor Speedway (you can play a round of golf at the Brickyard Crossing Golf Resort, where holes seven through 10 are inside the Speedway), Indianapolis Museum of Art, NCAA Hall of Champions and Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art. Check out the 26 Pullman train cars at the Crowne Royal Hotel in the historic Union Station in downtown Indy—you can even spend the night in one of the cars. Tour the extensive trail system or wander the three miles of walkways along the Central Canal. Depending on the time of year, you might catch a professional sports game, cheering on the Colts or Pacers. In the mood to shop? Hit the two-block Circle Centre mall in downtown Indianapolis, head to Broad Ripple for unique boutiques and vintage shops, or visit the Fashion Mall at Keystone, an upscale mall on Indy's north side.
Where to Eat
Indianapolis has so many dining options, it would take weeks to hit them all. My recommendation? Go to Broad Ripple, where you'll always find something happening. Check out La Piedad, a casual Mexican restaurant where you can sip a beer on the deck in warm weather and watch the Monon Trail; Ambrosia, an Italian restaurant that's revered among residents; the Broad Ripple Brew Pub that serves everything from sandwiches to entrees; Bazbeaux Pizza, which Indy residents swear serves the best pizza; and Rene's Bakery to satisfy your sweet tooth. Options in the center of downtown abound, too, with such chains as Bucca di Beppo, Rock Bottom Brewery and Palomino. For a true Indy treat try St. Elmo Steakhouse, an elegant eatery in the heart of downtown that's been serving customers since 1902 and is famous for its shrimp cocktail.
Bicycle Rentals
In Broad Ripple, contact Rusted Moon Outfitters (317-253-4453); in Carmel, try Carmel Cycling & Fitness (317-848-1996).
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