Indianapolis. 100 miles away. A city I’ve come to know and love over the last several years.
As much fun as I’ve had in the past on my visits, nothing can come even close to the 2 nights/3 days spent recently in this wonderful metropolis. The days and evenings were filled with fun, great food, great sites, and a spectacular hotel.
The fun began upon arrival at the Alexander Hotel. We were wowed by the beauty… Stunning lanterns for two stories, in a sleek, contemporary setting. I had never seen such beautiful holiday decor. Tasteful and elegant. The room was perfection. Cool, yet comfortable at the same time.
Our journey began at “Mass Ave.”, a fun collection of shops and restaurants not far from the hotel, and headed to Bru Burger. The burger and fries were oh so worth the calories (good news…there’s one open now here in Cincinnati!). Had to get in some shopping.. Which continued at Union Centre in the heart of downtown Indy.
We then proceeded to the Indianapolis Museum of Art… and upon entering, looked at a stunning display of books, yes books, made into a mosaic suspended from the ceiling. Chiluly’esque in paperback! Wonderful exhibits on every floor. Then back for a little cocktail at Plat 99, The Uber cool spot in the hotel. Tasty drinks and appetizers, and truffle popcorn (my personal fave!). Nap time!!!!
Dinner was spent late at Georgia Reese’s…. And I let my partner in crime select the meal. His eyes lit up at the word “alligator”…. In bites (tasty fried morsels), and then in a spicy gumbo (so good we got a quart to go!). Then ribs, shrimp and grits, and the best sweet potatoes I’ve ever had. We will be back.
Day two..off to the Indianapolis Car Show! Was the perfect rainy day activity… Followed by… Shopping! Keystone at the Crossing, a serious mall for serious shoppers. Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, and bunches of other fun places to hit. We then dined at a spectacular Italian gem, Napolese Pizzeria, not your typical mall restaurant. The Meat Pizza and Brussels Sprouts salad (OMG!). I would seriously consider opening this restaurant in Cincinnati, if that was the business I was in!
Back to the Alexander Hotel to decompress for a bit before heading over to watch the Pacers.
Had to stop back at Plat 99 first, then a quick two minute walk to the arena. The Pacers were playing the Atlanta Hawks. The crowd was electric! Our seats were amazing, and I must admit that seeing Larry Bird in person (he was just seats away) was just too cool. I spent part of the game trying to get that perfect pic of him! Everyone was pumped… The Pacers took an early lead, and maintained throughout. Superstars playing amazing basketball just a few feet in front of us. Too cool.
Off to St. Elmo’s for dinner after (it was perfect as they are open late), where we dined on Shrimp Cocktail, The perfect bread basket (yes, perfect), and the Lamb Porterhouse. Wonderful. Bedtime!!!!
Day three… almost time to head back to reality. But first, and conveniently at the highway entrance, sits Schapiro’s delicatessen. A must stop place each time we are in Indianapolis. We ordered a gargantuan sandwich to eat in, then of course food to go. Was the perfect way to end this little Indy getaway.
So, next time you find yourself with one, two or three days and looking for a quick escape, Visit Indy. So fun!!! Go to www.visitindy.com for the latest info!!!