Lovely patio at Good Morning Mama’s
If you and I are anything alike, you plan your week and weekends far ahead of time.
You sit down with your planner, penciling in the exciting muses that transform the most ordinary of days into extraordinary ones. Of course there are a few staples and reccurring summer events such as Symphonies on the Prairie, Indians baseball games and the multitude of free festivals.
I’m giddy and geek out about such things, really.
On any given weekend, there are countless options for fun events – often too many to choose. For moments like this, when you just can’t make a decision, I chose to write about the perfect weekend in Indy. The gauntlet has been thrown down.
Friday Night
I look forward to one event in particular on Friday summer nights in Indy – the outdoor movies at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. Movies start at dusk, usually around 9 p.m., but I recommend heading there early enough (7:30 p.m.) to mark your territory with a blanket, picnic basket and citronella candle. Gosh, this is getting romantic!
While you and your squeeze, and/or friends, wait for the movie, check out the IMA’s Nourish Café for great food and beverage (yes, even the adult-kind), the gift shop full of beautiful trinkets and the 100 Acres at the Museum needs to be explored.
Saturday Morning
I know everyone likes to sleep in on Saturdays. However, I recommend starting your day off with a morning stroll around the downtown monuments between Meridian and Pennsylvania Streets and New York and St. Clair Streets.
Hungry? Need a coffee boost? Conveniently located just south of Michigan Street on Pennsylvania, City Café offers a cozy and unpretentious atmosphere for breakfast. With the following motto, how can you go wrong? “Downtown food, farm-fresh Ingredients. We support family farms and local growers. Life is better when you know your neighbors!” They have great biscuits and gravy and crunchy French toast.
Finish this trip by shooting across the street and visiting the Indiana War Memorial’s interior. It is absolutely beautiful and a true hidden gem in this City.
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Beautiful interior at the Indiana War Memorial (photo cred: Indiana Landmarks)
Saturday Mid-Day
Personally, I love to hunt for cool furniture and vintage garb. My favorite places include Domistyle and Harloh’s Vingtage in Fountain Square, Midland Arts and Antiques Market downtown and Doc’s Architectural Salvage on the near West-side.
Need a lunch spot? My recommendations are Chatham Tap or Yats on Mass Ave.
Saturday Night
Depending on my mood and energy level, I like to enjoy a lovely cocktail or two at my favorite Indy spot, The Ball and Biscuit on Mass Ave. Feeling spicy? Try the Hot Carla. If I’m up to it, you’ll later find me dancing at Talbott Street where Lady Gaga and Katy Perry are sure to played in abundance.
Sunday Morning
Light option: breakfast tacos
Ok, here is your sleep-in day! Only a bit though, ok? We don’t want to waste a beautiful day in Indianapolis. Sunday is Brunchday. Where are the best places to brunch in Indy? This is a tough question and another post in itself. I will share my most recent experience that was not only pleasing to the eye but to my belly as well.
At Good Morning Mama’s, the food, outdoor seating and staff were all lovely. Spend the rest of the day being active! Walk, jog or bike an Indy neighborhood that you have yet to visit.
Heavy option: Hoosier Version of the Loco Moco (sausage and broken-yoke version)
Thanks for reading! I hope you find this weekend guide helpful and worthwhile.
Fin.
– Natalie
