Cultural Districts in Indianapolis: Broad Ripple Village

Indianapolis, Indiana is home to a vibrant arts and culture scene with tons for residents to see and do. There are six distinct cultural districts, as they’re called here, that are concentrations of unique shops, inspired art galleries, and sidewalk eateries with diverse cuisine. Broad Ripple specifically, is an eclectic neighborhood with distinct architecture, overall an amazing place to live in the city of Indianapolis.

Photo by: Valerie Everett

Broad Ripple – Past and Present

Broad Ripple Village got its name from travelers in the 1800’s looking for a shallow point to cross the White River. There was one particular place along the river that was perfect and water rippled over the rocks. One of those travelers would go on to name a northern Indianapolis city after the beauty he experience at this river.

Today, Broad Ripple Village is reflective of the people that are living there. Charming neighborhoods with friendly people and acres of greenspace make Broad Ripple a desirable place to call home.

Photo by: Valerie Everett

Things to See and Do in Broad Ripple

Arts – Art lovers and enthusiasts will love it here. The Broad Ripple Art Fair is a city staple that all the residents look forward to. With local, national and international artists showing their work, it’s an event for the entire family. There is also live music, fantastic food and activities for the kids.

Museum – The Indianapolis Art Center can also be found on the north side of Broad Ripple and is a premiere art organization in the Midwest. The 40,000 square foot Marilyn K. Glick School of Art is here also.

Eats – Enjoy lunch an beer specials at Hoghead’s BBQ, or vegan, multi-grain pancakes at 3 Sisters Cafe. Every cuisine that your tastebuds could ever desire can be found in here at one of several Broad Ripple restaurants.

Shops – Quirky shops stock one of a kind, hard-to-find items and collectibles. Broad Ripple Village derives its character from these non-franchise, mom and pop establishments that sell everything from vintage furniture, to trendy eyewear, to gourmet baby food.

Trails – The Monon Trail is one of the most popular greenspace pathways in the nation. At around 10.5 miles long, it connects to other trails in the area and provides an ideal setting for joggers, walkers, and cyclists to enjoy.

Photo by: Craig Stephen

Other Cultural Districts in the Indianapolis Metro Area

• Fountain Square
• The Canal and White River State Park
• Mass Ave Arts & Theater District
• Wholesale District
• Indiana Avenue

If somehow you have scored a fantastic Indianapolis apartment near the Broad Ripple Village cultural district, count yourself lucky.

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