10 Must-See Attractions in Downtown Indianapolis

Downtown Indianapolis is a great place to explore, with plenty of attractions and activities for visitors. From iconic monuments and historic sites to world-class museums, exciting entertainment venues, and delicious cuisine, Downtown Indy has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a fun day out or an unforgettable experience, here are 10 must-see attractions in Downtown Indianapolis that you won’t want to miss!

Call Us at 317-822-5070 to Learn What Our Downtown Indianapolis Bar and Restaurant Has to Offer!
Call Us at 317-822-5070 to Learn What Our Downtown Indianapolis Bar and Restaurant Has to Offer!

What To Do When You Visit Downtown Indianapolis

1. Indianapolis Motor Speedway: Okay, so it’s not technically Downtown Indy, but it definitely deserves a mention! Home to the Indy 500, the world-famous IndyCar race, and a variety of other motorsports events throughout the year, this iconic oval track is an absolute must-see for any racing fan. Take a tour of the historic facility or catch a race at one of its many events.

2. Indiana State Museum: Boasting interactive exhibits that explore the state’s history and culture, the Indiana State Museum is an ideal destination for anyone interested in learning more about this great state. There are also art galleries, educational programs, and special exhibitions to check out.

3. Downtown Canal Walk: This 3-mile loop along scenic Downtown canals provides plenty of opportunities for recreation and relaxation. Take a stroll along the Downtown Canal Walk and admire its many bridges, monuments, sculptures, and fountains.

4. White River State Park: This 250-acre urban oasis is home to some of Downtown Indy’s best attractions including the Indianapolis Zoo, Indiana State Museum, Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians & Western Art, NCAA Hall of Champions and much more!

5. Historic Military Park: Pay tribute to fallen heroes at this monumental site honoring veterans from all branches of the military. Located in Downtown Indy’s Military Park, it includes memorials for World War I and II casualties as well as monuments dedicated to Vietnam veterans and other wars.

6. Monument Circle: Downtown Indy’s iconic centerpiece, Monument Circle is a sweeping plaza in the heart of Downtown that features a towering monument honoring veterans of all wars. It’s also home to many festivals and events throughout the year.

7. Indiana Convention Center: The Downtown district’s largest venue, the Indiana Convention Center is a great place to check out some of Downtown Indy’s biggest events, including concerts and trade shows.

8. Indianapolis Artsgarden: Located at the intersection of Washington and Illinois Streets above Downtown Indy’s busy street level, the glass-enclosed Indianapolis Artsgarden is one of Downtown’s most beautiful attractions. Enjoy free performances from local artists every day!

9. Downtown Cultural District: Downtown Indy is home to some of the city’s best museums and performing arts centers, including the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians & Western Art and Hilbert Circle Theatre. Don’t miss out on all that Downtown Indy has to offer!

10. Downtown Shopping: From unique boutiques and department stores to specialty shops and outlets, Downtown Indy offers a variety of shopping experiences for everyone. Spend an afternoon exploring Downtown’s many shops or grab a bite at one of its restaurants and cafes.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor recreation, history and culture, or just some great shopping experiences, Downtown Indianapolis is sure to please. With so much to do in this vibrant area, you won’t want to miss out on these 10 must-see Downtown Indy attractions!

Where to Eat in Downtown Indianapolis

Enjoy your next dining experience at English Ivy’s Eatery & Pub in Downtown Indianapolis! Our extensive menu offers delicious dishes and drinks featuring daily specials and even brunch on the weekends. Plus, the expansive selection of craft beers, liquors, wines, and cocktails will tempt even the most discerning palate. Whether you’re in for a casual daytime meal or an exciting evening out, English Ivy’s Eatery & Pub has something for everyone. With a cozy LGBTQIA+ friendly atmosphere ideal for an intimate or group gathering, there’s simply no better place to hang out and get your hands on some unbelievably delectable drinks and eats.

These are just a selection of the many things to do in Downtown Indianapolis! Whatever you’re interested in, you’re sure to find something to enjoy year-round. Visit English Ivy’s Eatery & Pub and enjoy a healthy brunch, lunch, dinner, and delicious drinks all weekend long. Be sure to check out our weekly specials, too!

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Top 4 Tips for a Responsible Night of Drinking

It’s a fact that many adults like to go out, let loose, and enjoy a selection of delicious cocktails with friends and loved ones. Whether it is the end of a long work week, special celebratory occasion, or just another fun weekend with your crew, if you are planning to go out for drinks, be sure to do so responsibly. With good knowledge and best practices, you can enjoy as much celebratory drinking as you like, while also being sensible and safe. This can also help to mitigate those nasty hangover symptoms that we all dread.

Continue reading to learn the top 4 tips for a responsible night of drinking, including a bonus tip on where to get the best drink specials and downtown Indianapolis.

Bar Near Me Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070
Bar and Restaurant Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070

Sensible and Healthy Ways to Enjoy Your Alcoholic Beverages

When you are preparing to grab drinks at your local bar or pub with your friends, these 4 tips will help you have a successful, fun, and safe experience:

Pay Attention to Alcohol Content

When drinking alcoholic beverages, it is important to understand that some cocktails and drinks have a lower alcohol content in them compared to others. For example, dark beers can have up to 12% alcohol in them, while light beers can have as low as 4 to 5% alcohol. This means drinking 4 pints of Guinness will have a higher effect on your blood alcohol level, then drinking for Miller Lights.

The same principle applies to liquor. Some liquors are lower proof than others, so it is important to pay attention to what you’re ordering and how much is being poured in that drink. For instance, 3 ounces of 190 proof Everclear, a pure grain alcohol, will have more of an effect on your blood alcohol level than 3 ounces of 40 proof vodka.

So, if you are drinking a cocktail or beverage that has a higher alcohol content in it, understand that you are basically drinking doubles, and the effect of alcohol will impact you much faster and stronger compared to a less-strong beverage.

Pace Yourself

Along with understanding the alcohol content in each beverage, it is important to take your time when drinking alcohol. Pace yourself by drinking glasses of water in between each alcoholic beverage, and by drinking slowly. Avoid taking shots if you can, although this is sometimes impossible. If you take shots, just be sure you are staying hydrated with plenty of water throughout the night.

Eat Something

Perhaps one of the most important tips for drinking responsibly is to ensure you are eating. Food plays an important role in keeping you satiated, while also giving your stomach something to absorb all the alcohol. If you have ever gone drinking without eating anything, you know that you wake up with a severe hangover and a lot of sickness. You also get drunk really fast, which can actually spoil the night because it can cause you to get sleepy or sick too soon. So, while you’re drinking with friends or loved ones, be sure to order appetizers and continue snacking, or eat a full meal at some point in the night.

Look Out for Others

Another critical tip for drinking with friends or loved ones is to look out for each other. If you notice that one of your friends is becoming too intoxicated to quickly, offer them some food or a glass of water. If someone does end up getting too intoxicated, be sure to help them home safely. It is also important to look out for each other in terms of being victimized. Keep your eyes on your drink at all times and keep an eye out for anyone trying to slip anything into your friends’ drinks.

As promised, we are going to give you a bonus tip on where to get the best drink specials, freshest cocktails, and quality bar menu selections in downtown Indianapolis. Visit English Ivy’s in Downtown Indianapolis for daily food and drink specials and more! Be sure to check out our weekly specials, too!

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Downtown Indianapolis Bar Restaurant
317-822-5070

Are There Any Alcoholic Beverages That are Keto Friendly?

When you are on the Keto diet, strict restrictions on food and beverage options are simply a part of the process. But when you are enduring so much dietary discipline, it can be hard to ignore the temptation to have a glass of wine or a frosty bottle of beer. But will a drink or two negatively impact your keto diet? Are there any alcoholic beverages that are Keto-friendly? Continue reading for some pertinent information on alcohol nutrition to confirm which drinks you can enjoy without throwing you out of ketosis.

Beer Wine Specials Downtown Indianapolis
Beer Wine Specials Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070

Alcohol Nutrition and Diet

No matter which kind of diet you are following, alcohol is not going to be a kind contribution. Not only is alcohol an appetite stimulant prompting you to eat more the more you drink, but it is also very calorie-dense, so even a little bit can add quite the punch to your daily caloric intake values. Furthermore, your body burns alcohol first before it burns any other fat or macro nutrients from food, which means whatever you put into your body aside from alcohol will be stored as fat.

With these factors in mind, there may still be some room for you to enjoy a drink or two depending on your particular ketogenic diet plan. The overall consensus among Keto enthusiasts and experts is that a person should consume no more than 50 grams of carbohydrates per day to remain in ketosis. Some prefer lower carb restrictions, while others indulge in the full allotment of carbs per day.

Wine and Keto

So long as you can enjoy it dry, red, white, or sparkling wine can absolutely be a Keto-friendly beverage! With the average 6 ounce glass of dry wine at only 2 grams of carbohydrates, you can see how you can fit a drink or two in for a special occasion or after a long day at the office. Beware of the sweeter wines however, which can have much higher quantities of sugar, and therefore, more carbohydrates, usually between 5 and 10 grams.

Beer and Keto

If you prefer an ice cold beer after a hard week’s work or on your fishing trip, you can do so while still remaining in ketosis. Many light beers are lower in carbs, such as Corona Premier with 2.6 carbs, Budweiser Select 55 Premium Light with an astonishing 1.8 grams of carbs, Miller Lite with 3 grams of carbs, and Michelob Ultra with 2.6 grams of carbs. Be careful with the darker or fuller bodied beers. After all, beer is known as “liquid bread” as it’s made from grains, so it can really affect a low carb diet plan.

Liquor and Keto

If you are not much of a beer or wine drinker, and instead prefer a harder cocktail, prepare to indulge as much as you like, within reason of course! Whiskey, vodka, and tequila have 0 carbohydrates. So long as you enjoy these spirits straight up or with a zero-calorie mixer (soda water is a popular choice), you are not going to throw off your ketosis. Keep in mind that these liquors still contain calories; just 1 ounce can have 70 calories. Additionally, liqueurs and cordials like Grand Marnier, triple sec, infused liqueurs, flavored liquors, simple syrups, grenadine, and similar cocktail additions are filled with sugar and carbs.

Are you looking for some great wine and beer specials in Downtown Indianapolis? Come to English Ivy’s Pub and Eatery tonight for $3 Domestics, $3 Wells, and $3 Wines! We are located on N. Alabama Street and have both lot and street parking available. Place carryout orders at 317-822-5070, anytime!

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Downtown Indianapolis Bar Restaurant
317-822-5070

What You Can Do With the New and Improved Indy Attraction Pass

Now that summer is right around the corner, and the warm weather is already here, things are finally heating up in Downtown Indianapolis! Want to take advantage of our newly-restored freedom this season and the next? Why not try the new Indy Attraction Pass? Whether male, female, kids, or no kids, anyone and everyone of all ages can enjoy what this great new app can do!

Continue below to learn all about the New Indy Attraction Pass, including what is does, how to get it, and where to get some great eats while you’re in Downtown Indianapolis enjoying everything the pass has to offer!

Food Drink Specials Downtown Indianapolis
Food Drink Specials Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070

The New Indy Attraction Pass for Indianapolis Tourism and Fun

The Indy Attraction Pass is officially relaunched by the City of Indianapolis for 2021! This pass gives you instant purchasing access to more than a handful of amazing and time-honored cultural attractions, like Conner Prairie and the Indianapolis zoo! With one simple click of a button, you can buy tickets at a discounted rate to 8 different cultural attractions offered in Indianapolis. Not only are these passes easy to get and simple to use, but they also save you 15% to 50% on ticket prices!

How to Get the Pass

Getting the Indy Attraction Pass is easy! Just visit the Indianapolis Attraction Pass portal and add your desired package to your cart. Use debit, credit, or Apple Pay, or Paypal to complete your purchase. You can purchase a one-day pass, or go all out with a 3 day pass. The 1 Day Attraction Pass is $48 for adults and $37 for kids, and it is valid for 24 hours after first use. The 3 Day Attraction Pass is $75 for adults and $65 for kids, and it is valid for 72 hours after first use. For both passes, you have up to 90 days to use them, so get one now for Summer 2021!

Once you make your purchase online, you will be sent a text message or email with your pass, and it is ready to use from there. If you save your pass to your phone or home screen, you will have an instant, one-touch access for all 8 attractions covered under this amazing membership.

So, where can you buy tickets to with the New Indy Attraction Pass?

Conner Prairie
Indianapolis Zoo
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum
Indiana State Museum
Eiteljorg Museum
Indiana Historical Society
New Fields
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Added Bonuses

Best of all, sites like the Indiana State Museum, Indianapolis Zoo, Eiteljorg Museum, and Indiana Historical Society are all within walking distance to all the Downtown Indianapolis restaurants and hotels! So, you can your crew can plan an entire day of exploration around Circle City, grab some great eats and drinks downtown, and then retire at one of our revered hotels.

Looking for a great downtown Indianapolis restaurant and bar after exploring the city? Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery and enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner, and delicious drinks! Be sure to check out our weekly specials, too!

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Downtown Indianapolis Bar Restaurant
317-822-5070

3 Reasons Why Moscow Mules are Served in Copper Mugs

Moscow used to just be a city in the Soviet Union. But now, when you hear the name Moscow, you likely imagine that frothy, delicious cold drink that is famously served in a glistening copper mug. What’s actually referred to as Moscow Mules, this always-trending, always-tasting alcoholic cocktail is highly versatile, and compliments virtually any occasion or dish. Traditionally made with ginger root beer and vodka, Moscow Mules have been reinvented in all sorts of flavors and enhancements. But there is one thing that remains common among them all: the copper mug.

Do you know why Moscow Mules are served in copper mugs and glasses? Continue reading to learn 3 reasons why, and share them with your pals over a few this evening!

Indianapolis Moscow Mules Drink Specials
Indianapolis Moscow Mules Drink Specials 317-822-5070 a copper mug on a black table.

The Deal With Moscow Mules and Copper Mugs

Copper is an interesting metal because it retains some pretty incredible qualities. These qualities, coupled with a bit of nostalgic history, have to do with the reasons why Moscow Mules are traditionally served in copper mugs or glassware. The first reason is thanks to the history of preparing and serving Moscow Mules.

History

Although stories are a bit conflicting due to its cloudy origins, it is suggested that the ginger beer and vodka cocktail was partly created by a man named Jack Morgan, who was the owner of an LA British pub called the Cock ‘n’ Bull. As with most cocktail origin stories, it is strongly suggested that the bartender there also helped create the famous concoction. Well, Jack’s lady owned a copper-making company, who is indicated to be a Russian immigrant by the name of Sophie Berezinski. You can connect the dots from there!

It is also suggested that Jack Morgan and John Martin, a man who had just bought Smirnoff at the time, invented the marketing campaign of the copper mug drink together because Jack was having trouble pushing ginger beer off the shelves, while John couldn’t get his vodka sales up. They went around the city taking pictures of celebrities holding Moscow Mules in the shiny copper mugs, thus increasing the drink’s popularity overtime.

Temperature Control

As mentioned, the viable properties of copper metal play a major part in why Moscow Mules are served in copper mugs. You see, copper is the ultimate thermal conductor, which is why it is used so predominately in electronics manufacturing and design. Anything electronic will contain copper because the copper regulates temperature. You don’t want your laptop getting too hot! Well, this thermal conductivity also keeps things cold, like Moscow Mules! The copper mugs actually react with the cold liquids inside, making the drink colder, and keeping the ice solid, for longer.  A real Moscow Mule copper mug will be pure copper. There are other kinds of mugs that are just copper-plated, or lined with copper. They are actually made with steel, nickel, and tin.

Flavor

It is suggested that Moscow Mules taste better when they are served in a true, copper mug! Perhaps it is because the copper decreases the temperature just so, rendering chill-worthy sips from start to finish, or maybe it’s due to some other chemistry. You see, copper also creates that extra fizz and carbonation that makes are Moscow Mules so crisp and aromatic. The copper is also said to enhance the core flavor of the ginger, citrus, and mint inside. Try it for yourself! Serve a Moscow Mule in a regular pint glass, then serve one in a copper mug, and then take the taste test!

Where to Get Fabulous Moscow Mules and Drink Specials in Indianapolis

Call English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to hear about our delicious weekly menu and drink specials we offer at our Indianapolis bar and restaurant! Visit us on Mondays for $6 Mule Mondays! Our famous Moscow Mules are served over ice, in a copper mug, with your choice of liquor, ginger beer, and lime wedge! We also have a fully stocked bar with all your favorites, including wine, premium liquors, beer, and more. To complement your Moscow Mules, order some delicious appetizers and entrees from our lunch and dinner menus! So, if you need to get your Moscow Mule fix on with your crew, trust English Ivy’s bar and restaurant for phenomenal food, fun, and friendship!

Indianapolis Moscow Mule Specials
Indianapolis Moscow Mule Specials 317-822-5070

Tips for Cooking a Delicious Beef Roast

When you want to take credit for preparing the perfect beef pot roast, you have to learn what it takes to achieve it first. In today’s world, there are so many fancy gadgets, cooking methods, and recipes that can sometimes overshadow a perfectly good traditional cut of beef. But when it comes to beef, you really don’t need all the frills to ensure your main course comes out juicy and delicious. Instead, all you need to do is rely on some good, old-fashioned tips handed down by all those talented Grannies. With the right knowledge under your belt, you are fully-equipped to prepare the tastiest and most memorable roast beef your whole family will love.

Continue reading to cover some of the most important tips for cooking a succulent beef pot roast.

Downtown Indianapolis Eatery 317-822-5070
Grandma’s Beef Pot Roast Special 317-822-5070

Use a Good Butcher or Cut

The most important part of preparing a great beef roast is to start with the butcher. You want to concentrate on procuring your beef meat through a trusted, organic sheep farmer who will provide any custom cut for a fair price. Farm-to-table, locally-sourced foods have several benefits, one of which being some of the highest quality product around. Ask your provider to remove the bone for easier preparation. If you prefer to shop at your local grocery store, you have organic options, or you can simply opt for your favorite, trusted cut.

Let Your Roast Come to Room Temp

Another important tip is to let the meat rest before cooking so that it can reach room temperature. This supports more even cooking and balanced flavors. Once your meat is at room temperature, spend the first 10 to 20 minutes searing it on all sides using a cast iron skillet on high heat. This will properly seal in all the delicious juices and flavors of the meat while it cooks in the oven.

Get Your Cooking Time Right

When it comes time to put it in the oven, you want to roast it slowly at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. The amount of time you roast your beef will depend on its weight. The rule of thumb to follow here is 13 to 13 minutes per pound for rare beef, 17 to 19 minutes for medium, and 22 to 25 for fully cooked. For instance, if your beef roast is three and half pounds, you will want to roast it for at least 45 minutes  for rare, and upwards of 90 minutes for well-done.

Let Your Roast Rest

Once you remove your roast from the oven, allow it to rest for 15 minutes to retain all the juices inside. The temperature of your meat is important, and will range depending on your personal preference. Be sure to check your meat with a meat thermometer to ensure it has achieved the proper internal temperature, which is around 145°F for medium rare and 160°F for medium.

Get Delicious, Homemade Beef Pot Roast in Downtown Indianapolis

Call English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to ask us about our Sunday dinner special, Grandma’s Beef Pot Roast Special! Our patrons continue to beg us for the recipe, but we promised Granny we’d keep it a family secret! Fortunately, all you have to do to enjoy this special dish is join us for dinner on Sunday nights! We are open from 10am-3pm, so come in and check out our menus full of delicious appetizers, cocktails, and more! With neighborhood prices and the nicest service around, you will enjoy every minute you spend at our Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant!

317-822-5070

English Ivy’s Invites You to Check Out Our Brand New Website!

If you need a new “Gay-thering” place for your group, trust English Ivy’s bar and restaurant for phenomenal food, fun, and friendship! In fact, we invite you to check out our brand new website!

www.EnglishIvys.com

Bar Restaurant Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070
Call 317-822-5070 to Hear Our Specials!

English Ivy’s has officially launched a brand new website that let’s our customers preview everything we have to offer at our local, Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant. Start on our HOME page to read more about our company creed and why Hoosiers have made us a leading Indy eatery in town. Then move onto our PHOTO WALL page to see just how much food and fun we offer!

In fact, we offer a wide range of delicious MENUS, including BRUNCH, LUNCH, and DINNER options, as well as, a heap of food and beverage SPECIALS every day of the week! Come in on Mondays for 50¢ wing night and $6 Mules, or the next day for $2 Tuesdays when all wells and domestic bottles are only two bucks! We also have $5 Absolut Wednesdays, Taco Thursdays, Prime Rob Fridays, and breakfast all weekend! But the entertainment doesn’t stop there; we also host several fun EVENTS, like Bag Lady Bingo, game night, movie trivia, theme parties, and more!

Bar Restaurant Downtown Indianapolis
Call 317-822-5070 to Hear About Our Specials!

Make a stop on our ABOUT page to learn more about our convenient location in the beautiful Historic Saint Joseph Neighborhood, in Downtown Indianapolis! If you have any questions or requests, feel free to send us an email on our CONTACT page, and we will get back to you within one business day. When you are in between visits to our sociable LGBTQ-enthused restaurant and bar, be sure to check back with our BLOG page for fun and informative posts about food, cocktails, news, and more!

English Ivy’s is the Place Where Great Food and Fun Times MEET!

Contact us today at 317-822-5070 to learn more about our menus, specials, events, and more. We gladly accept wall-ins, reservations, and even carryout orders. And as an added convenience, we have both lot and street parking available, so visiting us is never a hassle. With neighborhood prices and the kindliest service around, you will be fully- satisfied with every moment you spend at our Downtown Indiana bar and restaurant! We look forward to being friends!

317-822-5070