Naptown Unveiled: Hidden Treasures in Downtown Indianapolis

Posted on August 24, 2023 by englishivys

Welcome, urban explorers, to your insider’s guide to Downtown Indianapolis, or as the locals lovingly call it, Naptown. Let’s cast aside the cornfield clichés and dive into the heart of Indy, a place buzzing with energy and steeped in stories yet to be discovered.

From the imposing Monument Circle to the secret nooks and crannies hiding some of the best Indy attractions, our city is not to be underestimated. Buckle up and prepare for an adventure as we reveal the hidden treasures of Downtown Indy. So, who’s ready to do some urban spelunking?

Call 317-822-5070 to Hear About Our Downtown Indy Drink Specials!

Downtown Indianapolis Hidden Treasures to Check Out

Monument Circle

Start your exploration of Naptown at Monument Circle. Located in the heart of Downtown Indianapolis, this ring of statues and monuments is a glorious tribute to our city’s rich history. Many don’t realize that it was designed by German architect George Kessler over a century ago and served as the inspiration for Washington D.C.’s Capitol Building. From here, you can catch glimpses of the area’s beloved landmarks, including the State Capitol Building and Soldiers & Sailors Monument.

Indianapolis Cultural Trail

Of course, Downtown Indy is home to plenty more than just monuments. The city sparkles with a range of cultural attractions that deserve your attention. Many locals love strolling along the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, an 8-mile path stretching through Downtown and connecting numerous parks, galleries, and local eateries. It’s a great way to get a sense of the city’s vibrancy while taking in some of its most notable sights. Speaking of which, don’t miss the Indianapolis Arts Garden, where you can enjoy live performances and art displays for free!

Downtown Indy Bars and Restaurants

Looking for good eats? Downtown Indianapolis has a long list of bars and restaurants that offer local spirits and cuisines. If you’re in the mood for craft beer, check out Metazoa Brewing Co. and Flat12 Bierwerks to sample some of Indy’s most delicious brews. For food lovers, there’s no shortage of sophisticated eateries serving up everything from delectable French cuisine to all-American favorites. Not sure where to start? We recommend a visit to St. Elmo Steak House, a downtown classic serving up melt-in-your-mouth steaks since 1902. For something more laid back, visit English Ivy’s Eatery & Pub, a downtown LGBTQ+ friendly spot serving up made-from scratch brunches, lunches, and dinner specials!

Lucas Oil Stadium and White River State Park

Sports fanatics should also make time for a visit to Lucas Oil Stadium, the home of the Indianapolis Colts. If you’re lucky, you might catch one of their thrilling games. Otherwise, you can still enjoy a list of off-season stadium events. Afterward, head over to White River State Park, which houses a variety of attractions including the Indianapolis Zoo and the NCAA Hall of Champions. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, there’s something for everyone here.

Mass Ave

No exploration of Downtown Indianapolis would be complete without a visit to Mass Ave. This beloved strip is lined with restaurants, boutiques, duck pin bowling, and performance venues, making it the perfect spot for an evening of entertainment. Whether you’re looking for some live music or a quaint cafe, Mass Ave has enough variety to keep locals and visitors alike coming back for more.

Downtown Indy Museums

For a more educational experience, head over to the city’s multitude of museums. First and foremost is the Indianapolis Museum of Art, featuring five floors of art exhibits from around the world. Then there’s The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, which features interactive exhibits for children and adults alike. And don’t forget about the Indiana State Museum, where you can take a journey through Indiana’s past and discover its unique culture.

Wrapping Up

So, what are you waiting for? Whether you’re a local or just visiting, come explore Downtown Indy and uncover all the hidden treasures this vibrant city has to offer! From Monument Circle to Mass Ave., there’s something here for everyone. Looking for more ideas? Check out our list of top 10 things to do in Downtown Indianapolis for a comprehensive look at all the amazing attractions Indy has to offer. From shopping at Circle Centre Mall to taking a cruise along the Canal, you’re sure to find something that appeals to your taste!

So, what are you waiting for? Get your weekend plans in motion right now! Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery and enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner, and delicious drinks all Memorial Day weekend! Be sure to check out our weekly specials, too! Tonight, our special is steak kabobs!

Cornhole Tournaments: Strategies for Competitive Play

Posted on July 28, 2023 by englishivys

Welcome to the thrilling world of competitive cornhole! Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting your journey, understanding the ins and outs of the game can elevate your performance in a cornhole tournament.

Today’s blog post should help shed light on advanced cornhole strategies, rules, and tips to fuel your championship dreams. Get ready to amp up your game and turn each toss into a winning move! Stay tuned as we delve into the realm of competitive play and reveal the secrets of mastering the art of cornhole.

Rules and Regulations for Cornhole Tournaments

The official rules of cornhole are essential knowledge for any competitive player. This includes the basic regulations of the game, safety protocols, and scoring methods. The American Cornhole Organization (ACO) is the governing body that provides players with the most recent set of tournament rules. Here are some general guidelines to be aware of:

🌽 The board should be placed 27 feet apart for regulation play.

🌽 Each team consists of two players and the team who scores 21 points first wins the match.

🌽 The bags must land in the hole or on the board to count as a point.

🌽 If a bag lands on the ground, it does not count for points.

🌽 The team that goes first is decided by a coin toss and the team rotates after each inning.

Strategies for Advanced Cornhole Play

Now that you have a basic understanding of the game, let’s move on to some advanced bean bag tossing strategies. To become an expert cornhole player, mastering the fundamentals is just as important as understanding the nuances of the game. Here are a few tips to get you ready for tournament-level play:

Practice, practice, practice! This is perhaps the best way to sharpen your skills and increase your chances of winning in a cornhole tournament. Make sure to practice with different types of bags so that you can adjust your throws accordingly.

Identify your strengths and weaknesses. Knowing your playing style will help you tailor a strategy to ensure that you are always playing within your comfort zone.

Become familiar with different types of boards. No two boards are alike no matter how “regulation” they are claimed to be. Adjusting to a new board can make or break your game so become comfortable with changing up the angles and distances for different shots.

Study your opponents and their playing style. Pay close attention to their techniques, throwing styles, and strategies to gain insight into their game plan. This can help you come up with an effective counter strategy.

Keep track of the score and follow the rules of play. Staying on top of the scoreboard will give you an edge in tournaments as it keeps you aware of your opponent’s progress as well as your own. Additionally, always make sure to follow the ACO rules for cornhole tournaments.

In Summary

Cornhole is one of those games that rewards hard work and practice, no matter your skill level. Even if you’re still a beginner, making use of the strategies and tips outlined in this post can go a long way towards turning you into an expert cornholer. Start with the basics, such as understanding the rules and regulations, then build up your knowledge by learning advanced tactics from experienced cornhole players. With the right tools, winning a cornhole tournament will be within reach! So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and show the cornhole world who’s boss!

Indy Sluggers Cornhole Tournament in Downtown Indianapolis

Saturday August 12^th, 3PM – 8PM
@ English Ivy’s Eatery & Pub

Cheer on the Indy Sluggers at the Cans and Cornhole Tournament! Come join us for this ultimate Cornhole Classic to support the Home Teams in their pursuit of championship glory! While you’re here, enjoy drinks and snacks and enter our 50/50 raffle – all funds will go towards paying for team expenses in the Gay World Series. Sign up now with a registration cost of just $40 per team and have some fun while doing your part to help make history!

Whether you sign up to play or just show up to watch and cheer on the home teams, English Ivy’s Eatery & Pub in Downtown Indianapolis has everything you’re looking forward to on a Saturday afternoon. Visit us to enjoy a hearty brunch, lunch, dinner, and delicious drinks all weekend long. Be sure to check out our weekly specials, too!

Celebrating LGBTQ+ Pride Month: What it Means and How to Get Involved

Posted on June 6, 2023 by englishivys

June marks the annual celebration of LGBTQ+ Pride Month, a time to recognize and honor the struggles, achievements, and resilience of those in the LGBTQ+ community. From its humble beginnings as a single day protest march in 1970 to an entire month dedicated to celebrating queer identities around the world today, Pride is now celebrated by millions each year with marches, parades, festivals, and other events.

Whether you are part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally looking for ways to support them this June and beyond, this post talks about what you need to know about Gay Pride and how you can get involved.

English Ivy's Eatery & Pub - Downtown Indianapolis - LGBTQ Friendly! — English Ivy’s Eatery & Pub – Downtown Indianapolis – LGBTQ Friendly!

✨🎉Happy Pride Month! 🎉✨

What is LGBTQ+ Pride Month?

LGBTQ+ Pride Month is an annual celebration of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and other non-binary identities within our communities. It’s a time to recognize and remember the struggle for rights that members of this community have faced throughout history, while also celebrating their resilience and achievements today. Every June since 1969, cities around the world have hosted Gay Pride parades and events to celebrate diversity in sexuality and gender identity.

How Can You Get Involved in Pride Month?

Whether you’re looking for ways to show your support for the LGBTQ+ community or simply curious what it’s all about, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in celebrating LGBTQ+ Pride Month.

🌈 Attend a Pride Event: You can find LGBTQ+ events throughout the month of June, from pride parades and festivals to smaller gatherings like drag shows, dance parties and more. Check your local city listings for any upcoming events near you.

🌈 Show Your Support: While attending a pride event is one way to show support for the LGBTQ+ community, there are other ways to express solidarity as well. Wear rainbow-colored clothing or accessories, put up a sign in your window or post on social media about why you’re proud to be an ally.

🌈 Volunteer: Many cities host volunteer opportunities during Pride Month that help make these celebrations possible. Consider getting involved by volunteering at an event or organizing a fundraising drive to support local LGBTQ+ organizations.

🌈 Learn More: For those looking to learn more about the history and struggles of the LGBTQ+ community, there are plenty of resources available online. From articles and books to documentaries and podcasts, there’s no shortage of information out there about queer identity, intersectional issues within the movement and more.

Be an Ally to the LGBTQ+ Community This Month and Forever More!

At its core, Pride Month is about celebrating queer identities around the world while also recognizing the hardships that many people in this community still face today. Whether you’re an ally or part of the LGBTQ+ community yourself, take some time this June to get involved in supporting these individuals and their rights!

By taking small steps like attending pride events, showing your support online or volunteering with local organizations, you can help create an inclusive and safe space for all. So, this Pride Month, take some time to recognize and honor the LGBTQ+ community. We are proud to stand together in celebration!

Looking for a fun and friendly LGBTQ+ spot in Downtown Indy to celebrate all things pride this month? Come celebrate at English Ivy’s Pub and Eatery in Downtown Indianapolis! No reservations required. Enjoy a wide menu selection of lunch and dinner options, plus drink specials, all at neighborhood prices! Enjoy a tasting while you Meet Master Distiller, Devon Walden, this Friday, June 9th!

Uncovering Hidden Gems: A Tour of Unique Shops in Downtown Indy

Posted on April 26, 2023 by englishivys

Are you looking for something special and unique to do in downtown Indianapolis? Why not explore the many small businesses that make up the city’s vibrant shopping scene? From vintage boutiques and independent bookstores to antique shops, LGBTQ+ bars, restaurants, and even record shops, there is something for everyone. Join us on a tour of some of the best hidden gems in downtown Indy and discover why these local stores and small businesses are worth exploring!

Downtown Indy Fun Starts Here - English Ivy's Eatery & Pub — Downtown Indy Fun Starts Here – English Ivy’s Eatery & Pub

Where to Find Unique Shopping in Downtown Indianapolis

Vintage Vogue by GW

Vintage Vogue is a boutique that can be found in Fountain Square in Downtown Indianapolis (also in Broad Ripple Village). They carefully select clothing and collectibles from donations made to Goodwill. This way, they create a modern and timeless shopping experience. Vintage Vogue offers stylish second-hand clothing and accessories for men and women at affordable prices, providing a convenient way to shop for fantastic outfits.

Square Cat Vinyl

You can continue your tour through Fountain Square at Square Cat Vinyl, a vinyl shop offering an eclectic selection of new and used albums from all genres. This shop is renowned for its staff’s expertise in music from across the decades. In addition to records, you can also find t-shirts and posters featuring original artwork created by local artists. Whether you are looking for something new or want to pick up a classic album, this is the place to go!

Bookmamas

Next, take a stroll down Mass Ave., renowned for its independent bookstores, art galleries and antique shops. One such store is Bookmamas, an intimate used bookstore specializing in rare titles from around the world. This store offers both new and used books as well as limited edition prints from local artists. Visit the store and peruse the shelves or attend one of their special events such as literary readings, book clubs and trivia nights.

Midland Arts and Antiques Market

Downtown Indianapolis is a haven for antique lovers, but if you’re searching for the best antique store to peruse, look no further than Midland Arts and Antiques Market. Located in the heart of downtown, Midland Arts and Antiques Market is well known among locals for its vast collection of unique, one-of-a-kind art treasures. Inside its walls, there are more than 200 independent art and antique dealers from all over the Midwest. Furthermore, the store’s friendly and knowledgeable staff are always on hand to answer any questions you may have about their selection, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. So, if you’re in the mood for some antiquing, head on over to Midland Arts and Antiques Market for a shopping experience unlike any other.

English Ivy’s Eatery & Pub

And finally, you and your friends can stop by the beautiful Historic Saint Joseph Neighborhood to visit English Ivy’s Eatery & Pub! We are a vibrant, welcoming LGBTQ+ spot where everyone can come and enjoy great drinks, delicious food, and an atmosphere of acceptance. Our unique creed? We’re dedicated to creating memorable experiences while giving back: we host charitable events that help our community grow stronger every day. Although we have limited apparel to purchase for shopping, you can always donate to our current cause!

But our mission doesn’t stop at philanthropy – our overall mission is to provide a space for connection and belonging in the company of good eats and great vibes! Wherever your journey takes you, English Ivy’s will be here with a vision for celebrating the best parts of life: laughter, friendship, and supporting one another. Although we have limited apparel to purchase for shopping, you can always donate to our current cause!

your options are endless in downtown indy!

These are just a few of the hidden gems that make downtown Indianapolis so special. Support local businesses by exploring these unique stores and discovering what makes them so special. You never know when you might find a hidden gem!

Start your tour of Downtown Indianapolis with a delicious and satisfying meal or cocktails! 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!

5 Delicious Cocktails to Celebrate National Cocktail Day 2023

Posted on March 24, 2023 by englishivys

National Cocktail Day is here! How do you want to celebrate? With some cocktails, of course! In honor of a wonderful and well-deserving nationally recognized day, let’s talk drink orders! From tangy Bloody Mary’s and refreshing Aperol spritzers to the elegant Manhattan and the classic Old Fashioned, there are plenty of deliciously conventional cocktails that can be enjoyed on National Cocktail Day.

So, whether you choose celebrate by heading out to your local bar and restaurant, or just staying at home and raiding your personal mini bar, consider this collective list of traditional cocktail recipes for National Cocktail Day!

Happy National Cocktail Day!

March 24^th, 2023

Let us celebrate Jace Shoemaker-Galloway for instituting National Cocktail Day — a day to imbibe in our beloved cocktails. Why not raise a glass of your favorite drink? Interestingly, the Margarita is America’s most popular tipple! So, go ahead and enjoy it first on this festive occasion!

Margarita

With that fun fact, let’s start with the Margarita! This zesty tequila-based cocktail is the perfect way to kick off National Cocktail Day. Simply mix tequila, lime juice, and triple sec in a shaker and rim your glass with salt. Then, shake everything together and pour into glasses over ice for a refreshing beverage. To add an extra tangy twist, you can also muddle some fresh fruit into your margaritas such as strawberries or oranges.

Manhattan

Next on our list of National Cocktail Day recipes is the Manhattan. This Manhattan is a classic whiskey cocktail that’s sure to please the mavens of mixology. Simply combine whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters in a shaker and strain into rocks glasses filled with ice. If you’re looking for an extra flavor boost, add some orange or cherry juice for a sweeter Manhattan.

Old Fashioned

Third on our list of delicious cocktail recipes is the Old Fashioned. This timeless drink combines bourbon, sugar, Angostura bitters and a splash of soda water for a perfectly balanced sip. To make this classic concoction all you have to do is mix the ingredients in a shaker and strain over fresh ice cubes into an old fashioned glass. You can also garnish the drink with an orange peel or a cherry to add a bit of extra flavor.

Bloody Mary

You can also celebrate National Cocktail Day with a tangy Bloody Mary. This classic vodka-based cocktail is perfect for those who like their drinks on the spicier side. Simply mix tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, and celery salt in a shaker and pour over ice into glasses. Then, garnish your Bloody Mary with pickles, olives or lemon wedges for an extra zing.

Aperol Spritzer

Finally, you can top off National Cocktail Day with an Aperol Spritzer. This light and refreshing drink is perfect for those who like to keep it simple. Simply pour Aperol, prosecco, and soda into a wine glass filled with ice. Then, garnish the Aperol spritzers with orange slices or fresh fruit for an extra special touch.

National Cocktail Day is Your Chance to Expand Your Drink Order Horizon

No matter which cocktail that you choose to celebrate National Cocktail Day, it’s sure to be a hit. Get creative and have fun experimenting with different flavors and ingredients. Remember, National Cocktail Day is the perfect time to let your bartenders and local mixologists experiment and make something truly special! And don’t forget to share your favorite recipes and raise a glass in honor of this special occasion. Have fun and cheers to National Cocktail Day!

Ready to head out and celebrate National Cocktail Day in Downtown Indy? Come hang out at English Ivy’s Eatery and Pub – No reservations required! Enjoy a wide menu selection of lunch and dinner options, plus drink specials every day of the week, all at neighborhood prices! Friday’s specials include $22.00 Prime Rib Dinner, $4 Effen, $5 Kettle One, and $3 house wine by the glass!

5 Ways to Support Small Businesses in Your Community

Posted on March 9, 2023 by englishivys

Small businesses are the backbone of local Indy communities, and they need all the support they can get right now. From locally-owned and operated restaurants and pubs to stylists, boutiques, repair shops, art centers, theaters, and bakeries, these independent businesses play an important role in the overall quality of Hoosier life in Indianapolis. The best part is, there are plenty of ways to show your support for your favorite spot in and around your community.

Below are five great ideas you can try out with family and friends!

How to Show Love to Your Favorite Local Businesses

1. Shop local – Make an effort to shop at local stores whenever you can. You’ll be surprised how much difference it makes when everyone pitches in. This includes repair shops, local artists and photographers, pubs, restaurants, small retailers, music venues, and cultural centers, more.

2. Leave reviews – Leaving positive reviews on social media like Facebook, as well as other websites like Yelp, Google, Bing, and Angie’s List helps spread the word about local businesses and encourages others to give them a try too.

3. Follow their social media accounts – Showing support doesn’t just mean spending money; following their social media accounts is another great way to show that you care and help them reach more people with their message!

4. Buy gift cards – If you want to make sure your favorite small business survives this tough, always-unpredictable economy, consider buying gift cards as presents for friends and family instead of physical items from big-box stores or national chain restaurants.

5 .Spread awareness – Tell your friends, co-workers, and family about all the great things locally-owned small businesses have to offer. More importantly, encourage them to check them out together!

Give Support in Your Own Special Way!

Ultimately, there are countless ways to express your solidarity with small businesses in your community; here are just a few of them. Doing your part can make all the difference in helping them survive during these difficult times. So, why not get out there and start showing some love today?

Downtown Indy is the Place to Be Right Now

Downtown Indianapolis is more than just a lively city center. With so much to see and do, there’s not a dull moment in Downtown Indy! From Wildwood Park, with its miles of picturesque trails and unique wildlife, to Mass Ave, Monument Circle, and the Downtown Canal Walk, all of which are lined with diverse restaurants, quirky shops, bars, music venues, and cultural hot spots; Downtown Indianapolis has something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Come experience Downtown Indy for yourself – the adventure never sleeps!

By now, you have got to be hungry – and maybe in the mood for a refreshing cocktail or beer! Visit English Ivy’s Pub and Eatery and help yourself to lunch, dinner, delicious drinks, and even brunch on the weekends! Enjoy a wide menu selection of lunch and dinner options, plus drink specials, all at neighborhood prices!