Indiapolis, IN

We left Tuesday, September 23rd, 07 via car (Nissan Maxima 04). Luann attended the National Recreation and Parks conference. We stayed at the Marriott hotel situated perfectly in downtown Indianapolis. 2 blocks down the street is White River State Park with gorgeous walking paths around the canal. You can also rent paddle boats, kayaks, etc., however not available this time of the year. Three museums within walking distance, Indian Old West Museum, NCAA Museum and the Indiana State Museum. Unfortunately we were not able to visit any of these. We did take a nice walk around the canal each day. Also within walking distance is the IN Convention Center which hosts conventions on a regular basis. Downtown Indianapolis is intertwined with sky walks that allow you to travel most of the downtown area without ever having to step outside into the weather. Also connected is the RCA Stadium, home of the Indianapolis Colts. The new stadium is under construction currently, appears it will be a gorgeous structure. Unfortunately a power plant is located next to it. The site Herm liked was the Triple AAA baseball park called Victory Field, home of the Indianapolis Indians. What a gorgeous park.

Restaurants -
Lots of good dining. 1st evening we ate at Champions in the hotel which is typical bar food. 2nd evening we walked a few blocks to 14 Street Restaurant. Had dinner with Jeff Rogers and Terry Haskell from Musco. We would rate this a 3.5 coconut We both had a salmon entree. We dined outside. The following day, we had lunch at the Alcatraz Brewing Company. Best beer behind bars (pretty catchy). Food was average and beer was cold. That evening we celebrated Roger Beavers retirement from Musco and had dinner at the Palamino. Noisy, crowded, very busy but nice atmosphere. We would rate the meal as a 3 coconut. Wine selection was very nice, we had a Franciscan Shiraz. Quick lunches can be had at any number of quick service restaurants inside the Circle Center Mall.

Weather was rainy one day, other days, typical fall temperatures in 70's. Humid days, cool evenings.

Overall Assessment - you could spend a week there and see most there is to see. Nice place to visit but not necessarily a vacation destination for us.

Drive was Interstate - 333 mile drive.