Indianapolis brims with vibrant entertainment spots, cultural arts centers, and picturesque parks that captivate both locals and visitors alike. From the lively cultural districts of Fountain Square and Mass Ave to the serene beauty of Eagle Creek Park and the artistic haven of the Indianapolis Art Center, the city offers a broad array of experiences waiting to be discovered. Check out Fellows’ list of hidden gems in the beautiful city of Indy below!
Kan-Kan Cinema
Located in the Windsor Park neighborhood just outside of downtown, this independent cinema offers an eclectic mix of indie films, classics, and foreign movies that you won’t find at mainstream theaters. The venue features state-of-the-art projection and sound systems, ensuring an exceptional viewing experience. Beyond its diverse film lineup, Kan-Kan Cinema also hosts special events, filmmaker Q&As, and community discussions, fostering a rich cultural dialogue. With an attached bistro serving locally sourced food and drinks, it’s the ideal place to enjoy an evening of thought-provoking cinema and lots of yummy food. And in my personal opinion — it has the best movie theatre popcorn in the city.
Garfield Park Conservatory
The Garfield Park Conservatory in Indianapolis, established in 1916, is a historic and vibrant botanical space. Designed to showcase exotic plants, it now features a diverse collection of tropical plants, succulents, and seasonal displays. Visitors can explore themed gardens, including a desert house, rain forest, and sunken garden, alongside a koi pond and waterfall. The conservatory offers educational programs and workshops, making it a great escape for plant enthusiasts.
White Rabbit Cabaret
Nestled at the heart of Fountain Square, a vibrant area in southeast Indianapolis, White Rabbit Cabaret is the ultimate destination for those seeking unique entertainment. This eclectic venue offers a diverse array of live shows, including cabarets, variety acts, burlesque, drag performances, poetry readings, and more. It’s the place to laugh, step out of your comfort zone, and enjoy a fantastic evening with friends. Whether you’re watching a live dating show or dancing at an alternative party, there’s always something unforgettable happening at White Rabbit. Embrace your quirkiest self where the “weirdly elegant” thrive and flourish.
Indianapolis Art Center
Who doesn’t love spending the day surrounded by art and nature? Located in Broad Ripple along the banks of the White River and just steps off the Monon Trail, the Art Center is at the heart of central Indiana’s vibrant creative arts scene. Partnering with various art, culture, and community organizations, it has beautiful nature paths adorned with handcrafted sculptures, perfect for a casual stroll with friends. As a non-profit organization, the Art Center provides a wide array of fun classes and camps where you can try your hand at clay creation, figure drawing, flameworking, and more!
8 Second Saloon
8 Second Saloon is a hotspot, especially among Fellows, offering a spacious dance floor that is ideal for line dancing. Swing by on a Wednesday night and, if you’re new to line dancing, don’t worry — they provide lessons! It’s an excellent venue for groups of non-dancers, country music enthusiasts, and everyone in between. Plus, you can test your skills on a mechanical bull ride (a bucket list must-do).
