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Indianapolis Downtown, Inc.
One of Downtown's most scenic views can be found strolling the Central Canal, which runs from 11th Street to the White River, winding through White River State Park. The Canal Walk has been transformed into an oasis with landscaping, fountains, antique-style street lamps, walkways, pedestrian bridges, a boat turnaround, jogging paths and murals depicting scenes of life.
The summer brings pedal boats, exercise enthusiasts, outdoor cafes and a general sense of activity around the Canal. During the winter, the Canal's holiday lights, starting in late November, cast a peaceful glow for visitors to reflect and enjoy a cozy walk with a spectacular Downtown skyline in the background.
There's always something new to see with the Canal's constant changes. More than $150 million in new projects have been completed in the last 10 years, including a $9 million, three-block expansion. The Courtyard by Marriott at the Capitol, Residence Inn by Marriott on the Canal, Watermark townhomes, Canal Court apartments and Canal infrastructure improvements are just a few of the recently completed projects.
Not only is the Canal Walk a destination in itself, but it boasts numerous attractions along its route as well. The most recent addition, the Indiana State Museum, features original works of art, hands-on exhibits devoted to Hoosier culture, L.S. Ayres Team Room, Crossroads Café and much more. Located within the museum is the IMAX Theatre which features 3D and 2D films projected onto a giant six-story-tall screen.
The Indiana Historical Society moved to the Canal in 1999 and houses interactive, changing exhibitions, a state-of-the-art research library, a music room featuring Indiana musicians and the Stardust Terrace Café with a beautiful view of the Canal.
The NCAA Hall of Champions is another addition to the Canal that opened in 2000. The Hall highlights all 22 sports and 84 national championships administered by the NCAA.
Just off the Canal is the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, which has served as the primary venue for Native American art and culture in Indiana. The museum will soon be doubling its size adding about 40,000 square-feet north to the Canal Walk. This $10 million expansion will be completed in late 2003.
The Central Canal is also home to the headquarters of the Historic Landmarks Foundation of Indiana, the Indiana Government Center, the NCAA headquarters and the American College of Sports Medicine, as well as the Navy's Electronics Manufacturing Productivity Facility, a high tech research center. The U.S.S. Indianapolis and Congressional Medal of Honor Memorials can both be found along the Canal path. The Canal ends with a 17-foot waterfall at McCormick's Rock, which commemorates the founding of the city in 1822.
The Central Canal is a must-stroll for all ages. Make your way to the various attractions and come back often as the city's Canal district evolves.
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