Broad Ripple Village

I have a really mixed relationship with Broad Ripple Village, located six miles north of downtown Indy and the longest established of Indy's seven cultural districts. The area was established by Jacob Coil (which is where the recently established Coil Apartments got their name) in 1836 - Coil actually did name it Broad Ripple because "the ripple in the river at this point was the largest and widest in the country." Legend had it only one man, Isaac Simpson, could throw a stone across it. The area has nearly 17,000 residents and is known for its diverse population. It played host to White City Amusement Park in 1906 and The Vogue opened in 1938. The Broad Ripple Village Association was founded in 1969 to promote life in the area. Of course, many who've lived here for years will testify that the area's "village" vibe has lessened over the years as ramshackle buildings are replaced by high-rise apartments and indie shops are replaced by corporate chains. Crime is higher these days (though overstated in my opinion). The bar scene has always been pretty heavy in the area and the introduction of parking meters continues to be an unpopular decision. I find accessibility to be hit-and-miss in the area, though it has improved with recent construction efforts as curb cuts get better, accessible parking improves, and at least some stores have made an effort to improve access. Some of the older buildings continue to be difficult in terms of access including one-step spots right on the strip and those places in some of the older residential settings. Broad Ripple continues to be a great area for dining, the still under development Riverwalk, a handful of great coffeehouses, nightlife, and a general artsy vibe. The Broad Ripple Art Fair continues to be popular, the Vogue is still a great spot for indie acts, the farmer's market is great, and Broad Ripple Park (and family center) remains popular (Personal Note: It's also where I was baptized!). In terms of parking, there are quite a few businesses with lots, the parking garage at 62nd and College, parking meters, and the Red Line goes directly to 62nd and College. Despite lamenting some of the commercialization of the area, I still have a soft spot for Broad Ripple and spend quite a bit of time here. To catch everything available, check out the Broad Ripple Village Association website as there's an awful lot to do including the Monon Trail and the Indianapolis Art Center.

This sub-division on Indianapolis is a happening spot. It was established in 1836 by Jacob Coilis and currently has a population of approximately 17,000 residents. It is an artsy kind of place that is filled with public art. You will find some awesome murals here. You will also find some nice shops, art galleries, boutiques and restaurants here as well. Some cool restaurants include 317 Burger, Union Jack Pub, Rise n Roll bakery, Sun King Brewery, Broad Ripple Brewpub, the Egyptian Cafe and Hookah Bar, Hoagies and Hops, and Brickhouse Dueling Piano Bar, just to name a few. And some cool and notable shops to check out include Indy CD and Vinyl, Monon Plant Company, Uptown Pup, Prairie General, Indy Urban Flea, and the Indianapolis Art Center. It is also home to the 62 Acre Broad Ripple Park. Most of the area is covered with metered street parking with a few commercial lots also available. It is a relatively clean area that has a high class feel. It is very close to Butler University and is a popular spot for many students.This is a beautiful place that holds a large portion of the Monon Trail and runs some of the White River Canal. They host a farmers market every Saturday, year round, in the Glendale Town Center.This is definitely a place to check out and spend some time at if you are visiting. It is a cool place for locals to come to as well. I thoroughly enjoyed checking out the shops and wonderful murals in the area. This area is full of life and packed with history and culture.

The event seems to be very interesting.The food that I tried were good but not so many variety provided. The admission fee was 7 per person. I spent only 30 mins there. The booths were not so many that made people lined up for a while. Looking forward to better one next year!

If you're new to Indy and are looking to explore and make new friends, Broad Ripple has all your essentials for a good time. From excellent food and drink to a vibrant night life and music scene; parks and walking trails to cafes and boutiques, Broad Ripple seriously has it all.Some of the must try spots:Breakfast/Brunch: 3 Sisters, Biscuits, Good Morning Mama's, TasteLunch: La Piedad, India Garden, Flatwater, Garden TableDinner: Open Society, Bazbeaux, Public Greens, Sangrita Saloon, Sushi BarFor a guaranteed good time, be sure to catch a show at the Vogue. The venue isn't too large so it's great for small, intimate shows.