Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Indianapolis South, IN

DOWNTOWN. The original Union Station, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has been adapted as a...

DOWNTOWN. The original Union Station, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has been adapted as a character-laden hotel. As such, it's not necessarily open to touring, but the starting point of the Indianapolis Railroad is worth browsing nevertheless. Trains still run through the Romanesque Revival property, offering a glimpse of yesteryear, and the renovation of the station is a feast for the eyes. The Grand Hall boasts works of art, stained-glass windows, and barrel-vaulted ceilings. A great glimpse of the city's past.

Hours: Daily Open 24 Hours

WAR MEMORIAL PLAZA HISTORIC DIST. A recent $10 million renovation restored the somber walls of this building to their...

WAR MEMORIAL PLAZA HISTORIC DIST. A recent $10 million renovation restored the somber walls of this building to their former splendor. Before the renovation efforts, the walls were a dull green, a color that had been painted by local inmates. The Indiana General Assembly meets here at the beginning of every year. Sightseers may call ahead for a guided tour of the spectacular interior. Once inside, visitors will see the brass spittoons in the Supreme Court Chambers, the beautiful brass chandeliers, and the stately marble floors.

Hours: Guided Tours Mon-Fri 9am-3pm; Sat 10:15am, 11am, Noon, 1pm, 2pm

DOWNTOWN. A visit to this imposing structure, with its exotic turret and detailed tilework, brings you to the largest...

DOWNTOWN. A visit to this imposing structure, with its exotic turret and detailed tilework, brings you to the largest shrine temple in the world. A one-time Shriners' headquarters, the structure now hosts a variety of performances and important events, including conferences, receptions, Broadway shows, and pre-show gatherings. Visitors should keep their eyes open for the appearance of a resident ghost, believed to be the cause of inexplicable slamming doors and blinking lights. Even sans ghost, the ornate Egyptian room and the Islamic-inspired architecture make any visit worthwhile.

Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 10am-2pm Event Dates and Times Vary

Payment Methods: Visa , Master Card , Discover , American Express , Diner's Club

WAR MEMORIAL PLAZA HISTORIC DIST. Constructed in 1929, this Tudor-Gothic cathedral has often been lauded as one of the...

WAR MEMORIAL PLAZA HISTORIC DIST. Constructed in 1929, this Tudor-Gothic cathedral has often been lauded as one of the world's most beautiful buildings. Highlights include a carillon with 54 bells, an enormous pipe organ, a walnut parquet-floored ballroom, and a marble-and-woodwork Tiler's Room (the entrance). Gorgeous, handcrafted art glass windows use natural light to illuminate their intricate designs, and architectural details throughout the cathedral allude to the rites of Freemasonry. Take a free tour to learn more.

Hours: Tours Mon-Fri 10am-2pm

HISTORIC DISTRICT. This gem of Victorian architecture lends a touch of dignity and elegance to the Old Northside...

HISTORIC DISTRICT. This gem of Victorian architecture lends a touch of dignity and elegance to the Old Northside neighborhood, once a fashionable alternative to downtown Indianapolis. A guided tour of the three-floored structure reveals an elegant parlor, servants' quarters, and an intricate, antique Wooton desk, as well as 19th-century paintings and objets d'art. Details like the crown moldings, wallpaper and plasterwork have been faithfully restored to accurately portray the house in its heyday. Exhibits, educational programs and tours afford many opportunities to explore this historical treasure chest.

Hours: Tours (Apr - Oct) Fri-Sat 1pm, 2pm