The Wholesale District: Historic Cultural District in Indianapolis

The Wholesale District in Indianapolis refers to a unique sector of the city on the southern edge of downtown Indianapolis. The Wholesale District is one of six separate and distinct areas in the city that have been designated as Indianapolis cultural districts; the other five are Broad Ripple Village, Canal and White River State Park, Fountain Square, Indiana Avenue and Mass Ave.

Circle Center Mall at night in downtown Indianapolis, Indiana
Circle Center Mall at night in downtown Indianapolis, Indiana

Anchored by the very first Union Station in the country, which is now a part of the famous Crowne Plaza Hotel, the Wholesale District was once the center of commerce to the entire metropolis of Indy. Wholesalers grew up around the railroad hub during the late 1800s, and the entire sector enjoyed a great deal of prosperity until the Great Depression.

In 1995, the city began investing back into the area, spending over $686 million to pump new life and energy back into the nearly devastated district. Conseco Fieldhouse, Circle Centre Mall, the Omni Severin Hotel and the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra were also part of the revitalization of this era.

Today, the Wholesale District remains one of the city’s most brilliant jewels, a living historic sector that epitomizes the great spirit of its residents.

Interior view of the Indianapolis Arts Garden from the balcony in Indianapolis, Indiana
Interior view of the Indianapolis Arts Garden from the balcony in Indianapolis, Indiana
Slippery Noodle Live Blues in the Wholesale District of downtown Indianapolis, Indiana
Slippery Noodle Live Blues in the Wholesale District of downtown Indianapolis, Indiana
Bankers Life Fieldhouse in the Wholesale District of Indianapolis, Indiana
Bankers Life Fieldhouse in the Wholesale District of Indianapolis, Indiana

Read more about Indianapolis, Indiana. | See homes for sale in Indianapolis, Indiana