Hidden in the heart of the Hoosier State is a delightfully walkable stretch of shops, eateries, breweries, wineries, and more that’s sure to capture your heart from the moment you arrive. It can be found on Massachusetts Avenue in Indianapolis – more often than not referred to as Mass Ave by those in the know – and seriously: It’s the perfect day trip destination. Why bother with crowded parks or touristy places when you can check out the arts and culture district instead? Come on out and see why Mass Ave is definitely one of the coolest places to go in Indiana.

Mass Ave is a one-mile-long stretch of road that holds some of the best-kept secrets in the entire Hoosier State.
Mass Ave INDY/Facebook
The area is quite literally known for its high-quality shopping, eating, and time-killing, and it really is an idyllic Indianapolis location for a little day trip.
We couldn't list every single noteworthy establishment if we tried, but we will mention a few, like Silver in the City.
Silver in the City Facebook Page
This little shop is one of the hottest spots in town, and for good reason: it's only the greatest gift shop in the Midwest. You'll find everything from home décor to seasonal delights under this roof, and we dare you to walk out empty-handed (hint: this is simply impossible, so don't try). Silver in the City is special, and we think you'll fall in love with its small-town charm right in the heart of the big city.
Enjoy world-class wine boutiques and shops, like Mass Ave Wine.
Mass Ave Wine Facebook Page
Enjoy the finest wines in the Midwest at Mass Ave Wine, where you can also indulge in fun stuff like Henna tattoos and Tarot card readings! There's also a selection of small plates to pair with your hearty selection of Midwest and Indiana wines, or perhaps even a pizza, sub, salad, or something else. Yum!

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If you've got a sweet tooth, no worries - it'll surely be sated here.
Kilwins Indianapolis/Facebook
There are numerous chocolatiers, bakers, ice cream shops, and sweet spots peppered across and around Mass Ave, but Kilwins is something special. It's been a thing in multiple states, including Indiana, since the 1950s, and there's a reason it's been around so long: it's. AMAZING. Get one of everything to go. You won't regret it.
The street itself is typically up to something fun and creative, and you'll find it wonderfully decorated for every season and occasion that happens to float by throughout the year.
Mass Ave INDY/Facebook
There are always special and annual events and things to do going on, including live music, festivals, art walks, and so much more. You'll encounter public art installations like artist Julian Opie's Ann Walking. You'll know her when you see her.
If you love to eat, you're definitely in for a treat!
Love Handle Facebook Page
While here you can indulge in other restaurants like Love Handle, a one-of-a-kind vintage-style sandwich shop and about a million other things, all at once. Massachusetts Avenue is so lively that one could, theoretically, make an entire weekend out of it, and what a coincidence: there are plenty of places to stay around these parts, too.

We are completely and hopelessly obsessed with this little slice of heaven, and we suspect you will be, too. There is simply so much to do, see, and experience on good ol’ Massachusetts Avenue that we can’t mention all of it in one, two, or even three articles – you just need to experience it for yourself.

What’s your favorite place on Mass Ave in Indianapolis? Where do you like to go shopping in Indianapolis? What’s your favorite Indiana entertainment district? We’d love to read about your experience in the comments section below!

Read on to learn more about why Indy is one of the coolest places to go in Indiana.

For those who love hiking, you can find some great trails in and around the Indianapolis area by going to the AllTrails website.

If you’re still in the mood for more Hoosier State adventures, take a look at this video:

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More to Explore

More Indiana Adventures

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | November 19, 2023

Where can we find historic sites in Indiana?

  • The Mabel McDowell Elementary School in Columbus was designed by prominent 20th century architect John Carl Warnecke.
  • The Tippecanoe Battlefield Park in Battle Ground was the site of this famous battle fought by the Native Americans and US territory owners of the day.
  • The Madame C. J. Walker Manufacturing Company in Indianapolis is where this famous African American entrepreneur became this country’s first female self-made millionaire.

Read on to learn more about some of the many interesting historic sites in Indiana.

Where can we go for a some great day trips in Indiana?

  • Berne – Berne is a charming former Swiss town which has managed to maintain a great deal of its early history. A great place to start is at the interactive museum here.
  • Wilstem Ranch – Located in Paoli, Wilstem Ranch is a one-of-a-kind elephant ranch offering unique opportunities including petting and feeding these beautiful creatures.
  • White Rock Park – Located in St Paul, the park is home to a natural sapphire pool where visitors can cliff dive, fish, zipline, and swim.

Read on to learn more about some of the best day trips in Indiana.

Where can we go snow tubing in Indiana?

  • Strawtown Koteewi Park in Noblesville encompasses snow tubing on steroids with numerous well-groomed lanes.
  • Perfect North Slopes in Lawrenceburg offers snow tubing as well as skiing and snowboarding.
  • Paoli Peaks in Paoli also features snowboarding, skiing, and a 45,000 square-foot lodge with lots of food and relaxation areas.

Read on to learn more about some of the many exciting places to go snow tubing in Indiana.

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Massachusetts Avenue, Massachusetts Ave, Indianapolis, IN, USA