While Indianapolis, Indiana is unquestionably the economic, political and cultural engine that makes the wheels turn in Central Indiana, it just wouldn’t be the same city without its many suburbs. These small satellites of Indianapolis each lend a certain distinctiveness to the particular side of town they border, and in doing so, make Indianapolis a much more interesting place to live.
Located 15 miles west of downtown Indy, Avon, Indiana is a small town of about 13,000 people. Avon is home to the Perennial Gardens, a popular tourist destination, as well as a number of sports bars and strip malls.
Brownsburg, Indiana is another west-side suburb that offers a quite retreat from the big city. Located 17 miles west of downtown Indy, Brownsburg is perhaps best known as the home of Lucas Oil Raceway.
Carmel, Indiana is an affluent suburb with a population of 86,000, located just north of Indianapolis’s 96th Street border. It is known for its Arts & Design District, among many other attractions. Major events include Carmel Fest, an annual July 4th tradition, and the prestigious Carmel International Arts Festival.
Danville, Indiana is a small city of of close to 9,000 residents, located 25 miles west of downtown Indianapolis. It is home to a number of attractions, including the historic Blanton House, an elegant Georgian Colonial Style mansion, as well as several beautiful parks.
Fishers, Indiana is a northeast suburb of Indy, located just east of Carmel, Indiana. It is perhaps best known for the Conner Prairie Interactive History Park, which has preserved the William Conner home. Actors reenact scenes from everyday life in the 19th century along the White River.
Franklin, Indiana is located 25 miles south of downtown Indianapolis. Franklin is known for its older, well-maintained houses and brick-paved streets. It is also home to Franklin College, a private liberal arts school with just over 1000 students. In 1842, Franklin College became the third institution in the nation—and the first in Indiana—to admit women.
Greenfield, Indiana is small city of roughly 20,000 residents, located 25 miles due east of downtown Indianapolis. The most popular attraction in Greenfield is undoubtedly the historic James Whitcomb Riley house and museum. Greenfield is also home to the Hancock Regional Hospital.
Greenwood, Indiana is one of the bigger suburbs of Indianapolis, with a population close to 50,000. It is home to the Greenwood Park Mall, a popular destination for not only Greenwood residents but also south-side Indy dwellers.
The city of Martinsville, Indiana is located 30 miles southwest of downtown Indy. One of the more popular attractions is the Old Morgan County Jail, which is on the National Register of Historic Places listings for Morgan County.
Mooresville, Indiana is located 19 miles southwest of downtown Indy, in Morgan County. It is a small town of roughly 9,300, perhaps best known as the home of the notorious gangster and bank robber John Dillinger. Attractions include the Academy of Hoosier Heritage and Family Aquatic Center.
With a population close to 52,000, Noblesville, Indiana is the 14th largest city in Indiana. Located north of Fishers, and 27 miles northeast of downtown Indy, Noblesville is known for its historic Courthouse Square, with its many mom-and-pop establishments. Other attractions include is Klipsch Music Center, Hamilton Town Center, the Indiana Transportation Museum, and Morse Park.
Plainfield, Indiana is a small town of nearly 28,000 residents, located 17 miles west of downtown Indianapolis. Attractions include the famous Chateau Thomas Winery, the Historical Plainfield Town Center, the Plainfield Recreation and Aquatic Center, and several parks.
Westfield, Indiana is located due north of Carmel, and approximately 28 miles north of downtown Indy. It is home to several independent shops and restaurants, as well as a number or parks and trails. Westfield is increasingly a sought-after place in which to own a home.
Zionsville, Indiana is one of the most affluent suburbs of Indianapolis. Located on the far northwest side of Indy, just west of Carmel, Zionsville is best known for its brick-paved downtown area, whose distinctly old-fashioned atmosphere is home to many restaurants and shops.