Quick Facts About Indianapolis

By David Urmann

Indianapolis is the state capital of Indiana and also the largest city in the United States. It is considered the seat of Marion County, found at the western portion of the White River. It has approximately 800,000 inhabitants, with the dominant religion being Roman Catholic and Protestant.

The city usually has a relatively leveled land. It has almost 800 ft elevation. Downtown Indianapolis lies on the west bank of the White River, Converging here, much like the spokes of a wheel, are many of the city's main streets.

The downtown of Indianapolis, Indiana, is undergoing a makeover. New restaurants, new hotels, a new library, an expanding convention center and a state-of-the-art sports facility have helped change the face of the city's  
skyline.

White River State Park is one of the must see places when visiting. This place ranks among the most impressive attractions. Here you can find White River Gardens, the Indiana State Museum, the Indianapolis Zoo and the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art.

Other heritage & historical attractions in Indianapolis are the American Legion National Headquarters, Crown Hill Cemetery, James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home, Lockerbie Square, Madame Walker Theater Center, Morris-Butler Home, Obelisk Square, President Benjamin Harrison Home, and the Scottish Rite Cathedral.

Vacationers will find it good to time their visit on the months of May to June, and September to October. The climate at these months is mild and suitable to enjoy the outdoors. The flowers start to bloom on the last stretches of April.

It is very common in Indianapolis to experience sunshine and rain at the same time. It will be helpful to be ready always with a sweater or umbrella. During spring, temperature can reach 73 to 83 degrees Fahrenheit. It falls to 66 to 67 degrees Fahrenheit come fall season. The coldest days here may reach 40 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

It usually starts snowing on November, and will go on until March. Heavy snowstorms may likely happen sometimes, so a dependable weather forecast must be included on your trip schedule. It is obviously very cold during winter at 0 Fahrenheit. Winter is normally at 17 to 39 degrees Fahrenheit.

Be sure to be fully clothed in spring and autumn seasons. The cold temperature can make your skin dry. The seething coldness will also be very uncomfortable if you are not dressed warmly. Be ready with a jacket, umbrella, coats, boots, bonnets, scarves and gloves.

In summer time, you can dress more comfortably and casually. Wear something light or you will be drenched with sweat.

Business attires may be trickier because it varies from culture to culture. You might be used to wearing coats and ties, but is not the usual custom in another land. It is always good to dress down to be safe, rather than be overdressed for the occasion.

All foreign travelers who wish to enter Indianapolis must first secure a passport. Foreigners, except when specified, must first secure an entry visa to the United States. Usually, Mexicans and Canadians are exempted. All they need is a passport. Foreigners denied a visa will be prompted to try applying again after a certain period.

Taking your vacation in Indianapolis you can find comfortable accommodations from budget lodgings to first-class hotels. Most major hotels are located for easy access from the interstate highways serving the city. Some of the popular hotels in Indianapolis are Canterbury Hotel, Conrad Indianapolis, Hyatt Regency Indianapolis and Marriott Center - Indianapolis East.