A. Does it qualify as work if it never feels like work?! The Center for the Performing Arts hosts some of the biggest names in music, arts and entertainment. From legends like Joshua Bell to the Cleveland Orchestra, to Megan Hilty and Melissa Etheridge, the breadth of programming reflects the wide-ranging palates of the region. Plus we offer programs that build stronger, more compassionate community, including arts education and enrichment for people of all ages. One that particularly resonates with me and my family is “Perfect Harmony,” which uses music to minister to seniors with dementia, memory loss and Alzheimer’s. Whether serving as a cultural catalyst or addressing the real and present needs of our neighbors, the Center indeed is a special place for so many.
A. Fletcher Place is the perfect mix of diversity. Old and new. Historic preservation of our Indy heritage juxtaposed next to new builds. All ages, backgrounds, vocations, and avocations. In spite of all the tasty steps Fletcher Place has taken – and the national attention it garners – it still is a residential family where neighbors take care of neighbors. There are frequent block parties. A neighboring 12-year-old girl bakes (the best!) chocolate chip cookies that she sells to support area nonprofits. And the Hoosier “I got your back” mentality abounds in Fletcher Place. But thank goodness we have gyms, parks, and the Pacers Bikeshare in Fletcher Place, too. With all of the great foodie haunts in the neighborhood, one must mix-in equal parts of old-fashioned sweating, too!
A. You’re killing me smalls – this is like picking a favorite child! Anything Abbi Merriss creates at Bluebeard should be given a standing ovation, but especially when she graces us with her house-cured-smoked salmon. Oh, and the lamb! Oh, and the ostrich tenderloin… Serious props to Napolese, too, though, because their pizza (Hamaker’s Corner is loaded with my faves) and salads (run, don’t walk, to their nearest Double Chopped Salad) were the foundation of our wedding rehearsal dinner. Insider secret: Sit at the pizza bar, and you’ll get extra special attention from the culinary team, and maybe even a taste of something they’re working on for future menus.
A. Nothing beats a classic martini served in a classic vessel at a classic Indy restaurant like Harry & Izzy’s. We love to travel to Napa/Sonoma, and the wine menu at Meridian Restaurant offers the perfect chance to explore new bottles. Their half-price Wednesday – also known as “Winesdays” in our lexicon – give us an opportunity try new vintages. All in the name of research, of course.
A. I’m a Hoosier from birth, but I love being on the water. If you’ve never made the easy trek to Eagle Creek Park in the northwest corner of Indy, get thee hence! I’ve been taking sailing lessons at their marina for the past three years, warmer temps and wind providing of course. Since I was 12 years old, I’ve loved the MG British racing car. Although it’s still within Indy, a drive in my MGA around the Traders Point corner of Marion County feels like a quick escape to the lush greens of Indiana’s countryside.
A. Three Indy areas I’m apt to frequent: Fountain Square, Garfield Park (such intentional beauty), and the Butler University campus (go Dawgs!).
A. Is there any way that you can expand the number of hours in a day for me? There’s so much I want to see in the next few months. The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra performs the Shostakovich Festive Overture (which feels so regal), The Cabaret hosts Broadway dive Laura Benanti, the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir’s Festival of Carols is always a holiday treat, and of course I’m not going to miss John Hiatt and Jane Lynch at The Palladium. To name just a few.
A. I’m impressed with the strides Indy has made in the past five years when it comes to locally owned biz. And it’s not just your typical, everyday options. Here are my top 5 choices:
A. Shhhh … why are you asking me this?! If I have to let everyone else in three highly off-the-radar gems in Indy, let’s stick to physical activity and culture. In this case, namely art and architecture. A stroll around the grounds at Newfields is completely Zen and inspiring with the mix of art and environment. I love a walk or not-too-brisk run along historic Meridian Street – houses that have played home to governors, writers, senators, and Indianapolis’ legacy. Similarly, the boulevards and fountains, equally as beautiful with the snow of winter, of historic Woodruff Place are magical.
A. I hope they’re well rested, because I’m going to take them on a journey. A cocktail at Bluebeard. A bike ride on the Cultural Trail (it’s a heck of a lot more than a fancy sidewalk, trust me!). A homemade milkshake from Traders Point Creamery. An evening concert or cultural event – good luck picking just one.
A. Wake up early and feel the buzz of Monument Circle at sunrise – it’s at the heart of the nation’s 14th largest city, after all. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and especially when it comes with a side of cinnamon toast from Café Patachou. Then, stretch my legs with (another?!) ride on the Cultural Trial. Oh, be sure to catch one of the late-morning, weekday Coffee Classical or Pops concerts at the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra! A jolt of energy from Calvin Fletcher’s Coffee Company in Fletcher Place. Read and meditate at one of Indy’s numerous city parks – what a gem in the city’s crown of amenities. And then time for dinner and a sip. Rise and repeat.
A. One of my earliest holiday memories was the entire Pettry family – grandparents and all – driving an hour to Indianapolis for shopping at the old-school L.S. Ayres department store right in downtown Indy. I still think there’s something magic about downtown Indy during the holidays. Snap a selfie in front of Monument Circle’s Circle of Lights, take in a show (Yuletide Celebration at the ISO, Festival of Carols with the Symphonic Choir, or IRT’s A Christmas Carol), and I’m guaranteed to be in the holiday spirit.
