Indianapolis is bursting with awesome places to explore, from sporting arenas and event centers to museums and restaurants. While the city has definitely grown over the years, it can be a little nostalgic when you look back on great places that no longer exist. Here are 9 places that are long gone from Indy that every Hoosier misses.
1. The Hoosier Dome
The Hoosier Dome (later renamed the RCA Dome) was the home of our beloved Colts from 1984 until 2007. The dome was destroyed in 2008, and while we love our Colts' new home at the Lucas Oil Stadium, it'll never quite be the same.
2. Roselyn Bakery
This bakery can still make the mouths of any Hoosier water. Opened in the 1940s, Roselyn lasted until 1999 and was famous for their zebra square brownies and sweetheart coffee cakes (amongst many other freshly baked goodies). A retro themed Dunkin Donuts soon took its place, but also they've closed down since.
3. Burger Chef
This classic restaurant (also referred to as Retro Hardees) was once rumored to have the best burgers in Indy. Ultimately, these locations were sold to Hardees and Burger Chef became a thing of the past.
4. L.S. Ayres
This once-popular department store was famous in downtown Indianapolis, as well as the Glendale Shopping Center in Indy. The downtown location housed an incredible tea room and was truly magical around Christmas time.
5. Paramount Music Palace
If you grew up in Indy before the 1990s, you likely remember this incredible pizza parlor that was a hot spot for parties and celebrations. With a large, unforgettable organ cranking out tunes, this unique spot was one of the hottest in town.
6. Zayre
This once-familiar store used to be the fifth largest retailer in the country. This business shut its doors decades ago, but many Hoosiers have fond memories of shopping here with their families.
7. Knobby's
Unlike most classic Indianapolis drive-ins, this old fashioned eatery was particularly unique because it featured a Polynesian menu! It was definitely great while it lasted (though we wish it was still going strong).
8. Child World/Children's Palace
This former children's store was literally shaped like a palace and used to be the second largest toy store in the country. It was a great place for any kid to have fun in Indy! They started disappearing in the 80s and finally made their exit in the 90s.
9. Bush Stadium
For many Hoosiers, Bush Stadium holds some of their most treasured memories. This stadium was home to the Indianapolis Indians until 1996, when they moved to Victory Field. It briefly became a speedway before ultimately being converted into lofts and apartments.
How many of these long gone places do you remember? Are there others that we missed? Share your memories in the comments below!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.