The warm weather is finally here! It’s time to take your workout outdoors and swap your views of sweat-drenched treadmills for some sunshine and fresh air. Here are eight great spots where you can head with earbuds and water in tow, whether to bust out routines and reps or get your downward dog on. Below are some of Indy’s most popular places to move your body and break a sweat!
THE CANAL WALK
The Downtown Canal Walk is a three-mile loop that is a popular urban respite for fitness enthusiasts and serenity-seekers alike. You can rent a Pacers Bikeshare, bring your own, or go for a walk or run – it’s 5k roundtrip. They also offer pedal boats, which can be rented west of the Indiana State Museum.
White River State Park
White River State Park boasts world-class attractions and destinations that offer distinctive experiences for every visitor. It also has a wide variety of attractions, from museums to zoos to amphitheaters. The park is known for its beautiful green spaces, trails, trees, and more. Grab your workout sneakers and yoga mat, and take in everything nature offers.
The Monon Trail
The Monon Trail is 26 miles long and is a popular destination for walking, running, and biking. There are also several major access points with free parking, making it a great option for any fitness enthusiast. Just be sure to map out bathroom spots in advance—they’re hard to come by.
HOLLIDAY PARK
One of Indianapolis’ oldest parks, Holliday Park, is located along the banks of the White River, encompassing 95 acres of woodlands and trails, and is a popular site for walking, biking, hiking, and yoga. The park’s wooded areas contain natural springs and wetlands, a woodland pond, a long approachable stretch of the White River, a climax beech-maple forest, and over 400 trees, plants, and wildflower species. They also offer various events and activities throughout the year, making it the perfect spot to work out and have fun.
Indiana State Soldiers and Sailors Monument
The Indiana State Soldiers and Sailors Monument is a 284-foot tall neoclassical monument built on Monument Circle, a circular, brick-paved street that intersects Meridian and Market streets in the center of downtown Indianapolis, Indiana. Many don’t know it’s a museum and you can run the stairs, 331 steps. It is also the largest outdoor memorial and the largest of its kind in Indiana, so you can break a sweat and take in a little history.
Eagle Creek Park
Eagle Creek Park features more than 1,400 acres of water and 3,900 acres of forest. It offers a wide variety of activities just minutes from downtown. Visitors enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, and more. You may even catch a glimpse of a bald eagle. From swimming to ziplining, Eagle Creek Park offers a variety of fun activities and beautiful scenery for everyone.
Georgia Street
Georgia Street is three pedestrian-friendly blocks connecting Gainbridge Fieldhouse and the Indiana Convention Center. There’s a variety of restaurants, hotels, clubs, Circle Center Mall, and much more. They also offer free Workout Wednesdays every week from 12 to 12:45 p.m., providing fun hiphop/cardio classes for all ages and fitness levels. You can soak in the lively atmosphere while getting your steps in, walking around, and exploring some of its unique attractions and entertainment.
Indianapolis Cultural Trail
This eight-mile trail connects all six of Indy’s cultural districts and runs through various popular outdoor areas in the city, including Mass Ave, White River State Park, Fountain Square, Monon Trail, and more. It also provides free Bike and Boot Camp fitness classes for all ages and fitness levels. Check out their calendar for upcoming events like Family Flow Yoga and Pilates on the Plaza.
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