Tucked away in the heart of beautiful Indianapolis is a delightfully walkable stretch of shops, restaurants, breweries, wineries and more that will capture your heart from the moment you arrive. It’s on Massachusetts Avenue—often referred to as Mass Ave by those in the know—and seriously, it’s the perfect day trip destination. Why bother with crowded parks or tourist spots when you can visit the arts and culture district instead? Come and find out why Mass Ave is definitely one of the coolest places in Indiana.
Mass Ave is a mile long street that holds some of the best kept secrets in the entire state of Hoosier.
The area is literally known for its quality shopping, dining and pastimes and it really is an idyllic spot for a short day trip.
We couldn’t list every single notable establishment if we tried, but we’ll mention a few, like Silver in the City.
This little shop is one of the trendiest spots in town, and for good reason: It’s just the largest gift shop in the Midwest. You’ll find everything from home decor to seasonal delights under this umbrella, and we dare you to leave empty-handed (hint: this is simply impossible, so don’t try). Silver in the City is something special, and we think you’ll fall in love with its small-town charm right in the heart of the big city.
Enjoy world-class wine boutiques and stores like Mass Ave Wine.
Enjoy the best wines in the Midwest at Mass Ave Wine, where you can also indulge in fun things like henna tattoos and tarot card reading! There is also a selection of small plates to pair with your hearty selection of wines or maybe even a pizza, sub, salad or something else. Yummy!
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, don’t worry – they’re sure to get their fill here.
There are numerous chocolatiers, bakers, ice cream parlors and sweet spots dotted across and around Mass Ave, but Kilwins is something special. It’s been around in several states, including Indiana, since the 1950s, and there’s a reason it’s been around for so long: it is. STUNNING. Get one of everything to go. You will not regret it.
The street itself usually has something fun and creative going on, and you’ll find it beautifully decorated for every season and occasion that passes through the year.
There are always events and things to do including live music, festivals, art walks and much more. You’ll come across public art installations such as those by artist Julian Opie Anna on foot. You will know them when you see them.
Indulge in other restaurants like Love Handle, a unique vintage style sandwich shop…
…and about a million other things at once. Massachusetts Avenue is so lively you could theoretically spend a whole weekend there, and what a coincidence: there are also plenty of places to stay in this area.
We’re completely and hopelessly obsessed with this little piece of heaven, and we suspect you will be, too. There is just so much to do, see and experience on good ol’ Massachusetts Avenue that we can’t cover it all in one, two or even three articles – you simply have to experience it for yourself.
Address: Massachusetts Avenue, Massachusetts Avenue, Indianapolis, IN, United States
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