When Indianapolis made the ill fated but not so surprising move to single handedly bring back malls by attempting to hop on the coat tails of the “Mall of America” 10 years after they sailed by, it wasn’t all bad.
In fact, it added at least one…and probably only that one, aesthetic improvement to the city.
The Indianapolis Arts Garden
Covering the intersection of Washington Street and Illinois Avenue, The Indianapolis Arts Garden is an iconic glass-enclosed structure suspended over the intersection of Washington and Illinois streets in downtown Indianapolis, Indiana. It is a multi-purpose venue designed to host a variety of cultural and community events, providing a unique and accessible space for the arts.
Sadly, it is a vastly underused space for the arts. Primarily because it is in a weird space to close off for ticket sales and this city doesn’t support artists in the sense of providing free or inexpensive places to perform or display their work. If they did, this would be a fine place to do so.
Architecture and Design:
- Design: The Artsgarden was designed by Ehrenkrantz Eckstut & Kuhn Architects and completed in 1995. It is a striking glass and steel dome, approximately 17,000 square feet in size, offering panoramic views of the city.
- Suspension: The structure is suspended 17 feet above street level and is connected to the Circle Centre Mall and various office buildings via skywalks, integrating it seamlessly into the urban landscape.
Functionality:
- Event Space: The Artsgarden hosts over 300 free performances and exhibitions annually, including music concerts, theater productions, dance performances, visual art displays, and community events. It can also be rented for private events such as weddings, receptions, and corporate gatherings.
- Cultural Hub: It serves as a cultural hub for Indianapolis, promoting the arts and providing a space for local artists and performers to showcase their work.
- Skywalk Hub: This space is a hub of downtown Indianapolis’ Skywalk System- dee below for more.
Management:
- The Artsgarden is managed by the Arts Council of Indianapolis, which oversees programming and operations. The council works to ensure the venue remains a vibrant and dynamic part of the city’s cultural landscape.
Accessibility:
- Location: Positioned at a central intersection in downtown Indianapolis, the Artsgarden is easily accessible to both residents and visitors.
- Connectivity: The skywalk connections make it convenient for pedestrians to access the venue from surrounding buildings and the Circle Centre Mall without having to navigate street traffic.
Impact:
- The Artsgarden has become a symbol of Indianapolis’s commitment to the arts and community engagement. It provides a platform for diverse artistic expressions and contributes to the city’s cultural vitality.
- It also enhances the downtown area by adding a distinctive architectural landmark and providing a versatile space for public use.
Indianapolis Skywalk
Downtown Indianapolis features an extensive network of indoor walkways, commonly referred to as the “Skywalk System.” These climate-controlled pathways connect numerous buildings, hotels, shopping centers, and entertainment venues, allowing pedestrians to navigate the downtown area comfortably, regardless of weather conditions.
Key Features:
- Connectivity: The Skywalk System connects major downtown landmarks, including the Indiana Convention Center, Circle Centre Mall, hotels, office buildings, and parking facilities. It provides easy access to various destinations without the need to step outside.
- Length: The network spans approximately 11 blocks, making it one of the most extensive skywalk systems in the United States.
- Accessibility: The walkways are designed to be accessible for people with disabilities, featuring elevators, ramps, and clear signage.
Main Connections:
- Indiana Convention Center: The convention center is a central hub in the skywalk network, connected to several hotels, including the JW Marriott, Westin, Hyatt Regency, and Marriott Downtown.
- Circle Centre Mall: This multi-level shopping center is a key part of the skywalk system, linking various retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. It also connects to office buildings and the Artsgarden. Soon to be Condos, now that the Mall is all but dead.
- Lucas Oil Stadium: While not directly connected via skywalks, Lucas Oil Stadium is accessible through the connected Indiana Convention Center.
- Hotels: Numerous hotels, such as the Conrad, Hilton, and Omni Severin, are connected via the skywalk system, providing convenient access for visitors attending conventions, meetings, or events.
Benefits:
- Weather Protection: The skywalks offer a comfortable and convenient way to navigate downtown Indianapolis, particularly during extreme weather conditions such as winter snow or summer heat.
- Safety: Pedestrians can avoid street-level traffic, enhancing safety and reducing the risk of accidents.
- Economic Impact: By providing seamless access to key attractions and amenities, the skywalk system supports downtown businesses, tourism, and the hospitality industry.
- Convenience: The network allows for efficient movement between hotels, office buildings, retail spaces, and entertainment venues, making it easier for residents, workers, and visitors to explore the city.
Notable Destinations:
- Indiana Statehouse: The state capitol building is within walking distance and accessible via nearby skywalk connections.
- Monument Circle: While the circle itself is an outdoor landmark, nearby buildings connected by the skywalk system provide easy access.
- Indianapolis Artsgarden: Positioned at the intersection of Washington and Illinois streets, the Artsgarden is a key feature of the skywalk network, offering cultural events and performances year-round.
Usage Tips:
- Maps and Signage: Maps of the skywalk system are available online and at various entry points. Clear signage throughout the walkways helps guide pedestrians to their destinations.
- Events: During large conventions and events, the skywalks can become crowded, so planning ahead and allowing extra time for travel is advisable.
- Accessibility: Ensure to check the accessibility features, such as elevators and ramps, especially for individuals with mobility challenges.
