Racing Capital Draws Senior Enthusiasts

Indianapolis, known as Indy, is the capital and most populous city of the state of Indiana, and also the county seat of Marion County. The city’s population runs just over 830,000 making it the twelfth largest city in the US. It is perhaps best known as the “Racing capital of the world.”

Historically, the Indiana Territory was formed in 1800 and admitted as the 19th state in 1816. By far the largest city in the state, Indianapolis was selected as the site of the new state capital in 1820.

Indy is a buzzing metropolis known affectionately  as the “Circle City,” but few who use the term know its centuries-old origin. The name comes from the original design of the city. In 1821, surveyor Alex Ralston carved his place in history by drawing up the plans for the now booming state capital.

 Senior Visitors Find Great Urban Spaces

Two downtown landmarks, Monument Circle and Indiana War Memorial Plaza, are among America’s great urban spaces. The Circle centers the city and furnishes its “Circle City” calling card.

The 24-acre plaza, (think green space and monuments, like Washington, D.C.’s National Mall) gives Indy the distinction of devoting more acreage to honoring veterans than any other city; it’s second to D.C. in number of war memorials.

One of America’s top Western Art Museums attracts hundreds of visitors. The White River State Park is a major hub for fun and the Indy Zoo ranks among the top ten in the US. Senior visitors will find over 200 attractions in town and the Museum of Art ranks #1.

Indy may be best known for its speedway motor racing and the Indianapolis 500. The oldest car race in the world attracts literally hundreds of thousands each year and many come just to see the track. Originally conceived as a test track for local automakers, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway opened in 1909. Two years later, the oval hosted its first 500-mile race.

My brother and his wife used to frequent the track since they owned a Mini-Cooper that has an annual get-together there. They had tons of fun driving around the track along with hundreds of other Minis.

Track, Football And Film Festivals

And let’s not forget the Indianapolis Colts Football team. Sports reign in Indianapolis, but there are many cultural opportunities as well. The city hosts the Heartland Film Festival, emerging as one of the top venues for up-and-coming film artists and the Indy Chamber has events scheduled all year round.

The Indianapolis Canal walk invites senior visitors to ride paddle boats just for fun near the Indiana State Museum. The city was once home to more than 60 major car manufacturers. Indianapolis contains many interesting and historic districts, with Victorian architecture, cobblestone streets, interesting local shops and popular restaurants.

Check out Indianapolis and enjoy the many amenities the city has to offer. jeb