The Best of Indy Series: Monument Circle

My first memory of downtown Indianapolis was going to Market Square Arena to see a Disney on Ice production when I was three or four. Since then, I have been downtown hundreds and hundreds of times. I love this city. It's not perfect, but it's a great place to live, work, or visit. Here's why:

 

Monument Circle

• Roundabouts are all the rage now, but don't blow this one off. It was probably the first in Indiana.  
• Drive around the Circle. A couple of times if you want. And put your windows down while you're at it. Listen to the sounds of the Hoosier city-life.
• Walk around the Circle at night. Preferably while holding hands with your guy or girl. Trust me. You'll get all warm inside. It really is romantic.
• Visit during different times of the day and in every season.
• The Circle has a different look and feel during the working hours versus the evening hours. In the spring, on the first moderately warm day, watch as people rush out of offices to eat their lunches on the steps of the Monument, basking in the warm sunshine that has been absent most of winter. During the summer, see the sidwalks transform as Starbucks and the South Bend Chocolate Company create inviting patio spaces for customers. In the fall, look up at as the Colts Blue Horseshoe lights up the windows of the Indianapolis Power and Light Building. And at Christmastime, button up your knee-length wool overcoat and Burberry scarf and enjoy the Christmas lights streaming down the Monument.
• The PR Girl's Tips
• There are actually two driving lanes on the Circle, although they aren't marked. The right lane is for turning right onto the upcoming street. The left lane is for bypassing the sometimes backed-up right turn lane.
• There are 1-2 police cars always parked at the south end of the Circle if you need assistance.
• There is an entire sub-culture of motorcycle riders who park in front of the South Bend Chocolate Company on any given evening, especially if the weather is nice. They will hang out on the sidewalk there for the entire night.
• There is free parking on the Circle. If you're lucky enough to find any.