Where to Live in Indianapolis Without a Car

Indianapolis, a large metropolis located in central Indiana ("The Crossroads of America"), is perhaps best known for its annual hosting of the Indy 500. With a history and culture so deeply rooted in the automotive industry, it's no surprise that Indy is a very car-friendly city, with many major freeways (including I-65, I-70, and I-69) running right through it. However, if you're interested in moving to Indianapolis and don't own a car, you shouldn't automatically assume that you're going to need one. In fact, there are a few specific neighborhoods in beautiful Indianapolis that are pedestrian friendly.

Where to Live in Indianapolis Without a Car

Broad Ripple Village

With a population of just over 17,000, Broad Ripple Village is located about six miles north of Downtown Indy, and is one of six designated cultural districts within the city itself. Broad Ripple Village is also home to Butler University, making its typical demographic young professionals and college students. This is perhaps reflected in the district's motto, "We're Open if You Are." In fact, many local restaurants and bars in this district are known to stay open until 3AM or later, making this a bustling area for pedestrians. The entire Broad Ripple Village district spans just over 10 square miles, yet boasts a number of parks, boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and bars. A bar and restaurant district located in downtown Broad Ripple is a quick bike ride or even cab ride away from just about anywhere in the district, and there are a number of attractive neighborhoods within Broad Ripple worth looking into if you want to live within walking distance from all the action. The popular Monon Trail, which is used by more than one million people each year, also extends into Broad Ripple and is easily accessible by bike or foot. This trail runs through the east side of the district and provides access to the Indianapolis Art Center and a number of other attractions.

Fountain Square

Another one of Indianapolis's six designated cultural districts, Fountain Square has undergone a relatively recent transformation due to a large investment made in the 1990s. Specifically, this district is located on the southeast side of the city, just east of I-65. First settled in 1835, Fountain Square was originally known for its cultural diversity and its roots in theater. Today, Fountain Square is one of the most unique neighborhoods in all of Indianapolis and houses a number of the city's artists. Its proud-to-be-different quirkiness is represented in its local businesses and landmarks, such as its historic diner and bowling alley that's been converted into a swing dance hall and its motto, "Anything But Square." The district even boasts a number of retro entertainment options, including a place that offers duck-pin bowling. At just a few square miles in size, Fountain Square is small enough to get around on foot. However, it should be noted that public transportation options are relatively limited for the time being, so a day trip downtown or elsewhere in the city would likely require a cab ride or other arrangement. On the bright side, you don't really need to leave Fountain Square to grab a bite to eat, stop and have a drink, enjoy some unique entertainment, or even shop for groceries. Plus, future plans for Fountain Square reportedly include bolstering access via public transportation, such as IndyGo and bus routes. Generally, Fountain Square is a great option for those without vehicles who enjoy being around unique culture; it's a great place for young professionals and even entrepreneurs looking to launch a small business idea.

Lockerbie Square

Last but certainly not least, there's also the option of living in Lockerbie Square, a historic district located in downtown Indianapolis. This particular area was actually added to the coveted National Register of Historic Places back in 1973 for being the oldest surviving neighborhood in all of Indianapolis, and efforts to preserve the unique history of this area have been huge in recent years. The total size of this district spans just a few square miles and is dominated by a landscape of historic homes and quiet residential neighborhoods. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Lockerbie Square gives residents that suburban feel while still being literally just steps away from some of downtown's most popular destinations, including Monument Circle and Circle Center. In fact, Lockerbie Square is so pedestrian-friendly that many of its residents do not own vehicles, and the district's website has even posted a self-guided "walking tour," which takes pedestrians on a tour through the area and past some of the famous historic homes, such as the Wiley Cottage (built in 1885) and the Oliver Keely House (built in 1880). There are more than 20 historical landmarks in this small section of Indianapolis. Overall, Lockerbie Square is probably the best option for those looking to live within walking distance of downtown's happenings, but who also want to enjoy that quiet, suburban feel at the same time. Indianapolis may not be the easiest city to live in without a vehicle, but it's moving in the right direction. In the meantime, there are certainly a handful of districts, including Fountain Square, Broad Ripple Village, and Lockerbie Square, where enjoying everyday life without the need for a vehicle is entirely possible. If you're interested in living close to the excitement of a bustling city while still enjoying a strong sense of community, Indianapolis may be worth checking out.