Discover Cultural Districts

Live it up in Downtown Indianapolis

From a sing-along piano bar to trendy ultra lounges, Downtown Indianapolis offers multiple options for a fun night out on the town.

Wholesale District
The Wholesale District, smack-dab in the heart of Indianapolis, continues to boast lively entertainment. The Slippery Noodle Inn is a must-visit for all fun-seekers. Indiana's oldest (1850), continually operated bar in the same building, is by far the city's most well known after-hours attraction. Touted as the Midwest's premiere blues club, the live music and friendly atmosphere has attracted the likes of Harrison Ford, Dave Matthews, Robert DeNiro, Spike Lee and others. (317) 631-6974

For a howlin' good time, head to Howl at the Moon. Dueling pianos and total crowd participation make for a guaranteed riot. Plan to hear everything from school fight songs to current pop tracks. (317) 955-0300

Ultra-lounges are the rage and Downtown Indianapolis is ahead of the trend. 6 Lounge and Restaurant features white upholstery, stone floors and a wood paneled "den." Miami Beach has nothing compared to Indy's own upscale hot spot. (317) 638-6660

Blu Lounge's contemporary atmosphere, also located on South Meridian Street, offers V.I.P. service to the max. Beds surrounded by sheer curtains, themed rooms, leather couches and flat-screen monitors set the standard for all Indianapolis nightlife. (317) 955-3585

Ice Ultra Lounge adds to the mix with three levels, three full-service bars, two dance floors and more than enough style. Sushi on the Rocks restaurant resides within the club for an exquisite dining experience. (317) 951-2174

Known as one of the best nightclubs across the country, Nicky Blaine's Martinis & Fine Cigars, located on Monument Circle, has a classy atmosphere where cigar aficionados feel at home. (317) 638-5588. Ike & Jonesy's, Downtown since 1983, "let's the good times roll" with live music and entertainment all week long. (317) 632-4553

Visit Ireland right in Downtown Indianapolis at Claddagh Irish Pub. The entire interior was handcrafted in Ireland, shipped to the United States and then assembled here. Claddagh features two fireplaces, a center bar, cozy booths and unique flooring and tile. Several different atmospheres may be experienced throughout the pub. (317) 822-6274

Or catch a flick at Hollywood Bar & Filmworks, a movie theater with full to-your-seat food and beverage service (including cocktails for guests over 21 years). Adults 18 years or older are welcome for shows after 5:30 p.m. All ages are admitted to weekend matinees before 5:30 p.m. and The Rocky Horror Picture Show at midnight on select Saturdays.

Other stops within the Wholesale District include Champs Sports Lounge, Coaches Tavern, Have a Nice Day Cafe, Legal Beagle Pub & Eatery, Pullman Bar, Olive's, The Pub Indianapolis, Subterra Lounge, Tiki Bob's Cantina, Vitesse, Whistle Stop Inn and the Wild Beaver Saloon.

Mass Ave
Head northeast of the circle to the diagonal Mass Ave cultural district to find an authentic Indianapolis experience. Enjoy live music every night at the Chatterbox Jazz Club, one of Downtown's most historic hangouts. (317) 636-0584

Don't miss the Rathskeller at the Athenaeum restaurant's Kellerbar or outdoor Biergarten. On warm nights, hundreds of visitors flock outside for live entertainment and friendly quarters. Located in the 1894 German-Renaissance Athenaeum, it's hard to pass up trying the Brat 'n Kraut Balls or warm soft pretzels. (317) 636-0396

Hang out with friends or make new ones at MacNiven's Restaurant & Bar, Front Page Tavern, Old Point Tavern or Metro. The night is always young on Mass Ave.

Indiana Avenue
Before you head home, spend an evening on Indiana Avenue at the Bourbon Street Distillery. A lively atmosphere awaits, both inside and outside on the second level balcony. From live entertainment to DJ night, the Distillery promises a fun time. (317) 636-3316

Family Fun
Nighttime options for families are available too. Jillian's is home to amazing games. Get ready to experience screen after screen of mind-expanding electronic interaction on all the latest simulation games, as well as classic favorites. In addition, Li Life Lanes tempt you to try for your top bowling score. (317) 822-9300

Just south of Downtown in Fountain Square, you'll find Action Duckpin Bowling to be a family favorite. With smaller pins, a softball-sized bowling bowl and three rolls, you're bound to get a strike every once and awhile. Located in the 1928 Fountain Square Theatre Building, you're also near old-fashioned, hand-dipped milk shakes and other tasty treats from the Fountain Diner.

For complete information about the hundreds of special events and festivals that take place Downtown, along with a directory of restaurants, bars, retail shops, parking information and more, visit www.indydt.com or call 317.237.2222.

###
Copyright 2008 © All Rights Reserved.