Well, hello.  Welcome and please come in to my “Indy Trip Planner” blog.  My name is Cassidy and I’ll be your guide through the wonderful world of Indy.  I have lived in Indianapolis my entire life, but I have to confess that it wasn’t until I took a position in the communications department at the Indianapolis Convention & Visitors Association that I truly began to appreciate all of the wonderful (lazy word alert!) things it has to offer residents and visitors.  Ah, but I’m not going to let that happen to you, dear readers.  Every week, I’ll be posting an Indianapolis getaway/trip idea to entice you to visit Indy or, for you residents, experience your hometown in a whole new way.  So please, come back often to check out each week’s trip idea and to leave me your ideas and comments.  Here – I’ll even make it easy for you...sign up for the RSS feed for my blog and the content will come to you.

In the meantime, here’s a little more about me...

I have been working at the ICVA for almost eight years.  I absolutely love my job – and that’s not just me being PC.  I really enjoy what I do and adore the folks I work with.  I’m the writer behind most of our consumer leisure marketing communications, so it’s fun to write about the fun stuff!  Personally, I’m a 30-something working wife and mother of a young son.  My husband and I love to experience this city with our toddler and hope to give him the same sense of pride in place that we feel living here. 

 

Happy Friday, folks!  I'm back from an extended and much-needed vacation with my family.  We enjoyed an Indianapolis stay-cation and visited lots of our local attractions: The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, Holliday Park with its incredible playgrounds and the ever-popular Central Library, among others.  It was great fun and the weather was fantastic, but now it's back into the swing of things...and by things, I mean blogging.

This week's trip idea is for anyone who doesn't like basketball - and more specifically, college hoops.  Are there any of you out there?!?  I know, I know I'm from Indiana and should love basketball at any level.  But alas, this girl does not (I'm more of a football gal myself!).  So, after what felt like the 583rd televised game I was forced to sit through (or at least listen to) last weekend, I'm getting out this weekend and away from the television...most likely without my husband!

So - what's to do?  Lots!  First on my list is to check out the new "European Design Since 1985: Shaping a New Century" exhibition at the Indianapolis Museum of Art.  Organized by the IMA Design Curator is the first critical survey of contemporary Western European decorative and industrial design. The exhibition presents 250 works including furniture, ceramics, metalwork, glass and product design that reveal the extraordinary creativity of two generations of designers in Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, The Netherlands, Portugal, Scandinavia, Spain and the United Kingdom. The show will travel to a number of American museums and potentially to Europe and Asia after this exhibition closes in late June at the IMA.  Don't forget that the IMA is also home to sprawling, manicured grounds and gorgeous gardens, so stop to appreciate the al fresco "art," too. 

Speaking of gardens and flowers, the annual "Butterflies in Bloom" exhibit is going on now at White River Gardens at the Indianapolis Zoo.  For the first time ever, the exhibit will showcase species from Asia in addition to those from the United States, Central America and Africa.  Discover a wide variety of beautiful butterfly species.  The Conservatory is filled with bright flowers to satisfy the nectar-feeding butterflies, but there's lots of interesting information available so visitors can learn how to attract butterflies to their own yards.  Look for new features, too, including a running stream, tranquil pond and rain wall.

Oh and p.s. - there is a little thing called the NCAA Men's Regional Basketball tournament going on at Lucas Oil Stadium this weekend in downtown Indianapolis, in case you just have to have your hoops fix.  Those games are sure to be a slam dunk (haha)! 

March in Indianapolis is “much madness” as basketball mania takes hold of the city.  Downtown Indy will be the epicenter of the basketball universe, offering up a variety pack of hoops action that is unmatched by any city, anywhere.  In the month of March alone, Indianapolis will host at least 38 high school, college and professional basketball games.  That's a whole lotta hoops, right?!?

The hoops hysteria gets underway tomorrow for the Big Ten Women's Basketball Tournament at Conseco Fieldhouse, followed by the Big Ten Men’s tournament March 12-15.  The Big Ten Women's tournament, which runs through Sunday, kicks off a two-week extravaganza featuring some of the country’s finest collegiate athletes.  During the tournaments, downtown Indianapolis is alive with excitement in a Big Ten-centric atmosphere. Streets are re-named in honor of the Big Ten teams (think Boilermaker Way or Illini Drive) and pre-game pep rallies at designated downtown restaurants and bars pump up the fan fun factor. 

The hoops hoopla continues when national attention is focused on Indianapolis during “Selection Sunday” to announce the fields and pairings for the NCAA Division I Men’s and Women’s tournaments.  Subsequently, Lucas Oil Stadium will host its first NCAA tournament games on March 27 (and more on March 29) during the Men’s Midwest Regional, which will play through the Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight to send a team on to the Final Four.

And, not to be overlooked, are our own NBA Indiana Pacers, who play six home games in Conseco Fieldhouse during the rest of the month (10, 18, 20, 25, 29 and 31).  The new-look team, sporting a new attitude, is poised to make a run for the playoffs with the exciting addition of seasoned NBA veterans and rookie sensations.  For fast-paced action in the heart of downtown Indy, there’s nothing better than the Pacers pounding the hardwood – it’s a slam dunk.

OK - I'm all out of basketball euphemisms, puns and cutesy plays on words, so let's wrap up this installment of "Indy Trip Planner."  Have a great weekend!

Hi - is anyone as sick of winter as I am? Does anyone else have kids that are climbing the walls and dying to get out of the house?  Do any of you parents need to look at a different set of walls for the sake of your sanity?  I feel like my family has been cooped up since 1982. 

Well, if you're feeling like I am - take heart.  There are all kinds of indoor recreation options in Indianapolis, all beckoning you to get out and have some fun...inside a different set of walls.  Here are just a few spots for you to consider if you need a quick cure for your cabin fever this weekend:

• Climb, scale and rappel your way to the top at Climb Time Indy. Thrill seekers of all ages and ability levels can learn to rock climb or perfect their skills with a variety of routes, from super easy to extremely difficult. More than 30 ropes, 4,000 different holds, 8,500 square feet of climbing surface and an area designated for rappelling complete this high-flying experience.
   
• Escape to Xscape, a huge family entertainment center located just minutes from downtown. The largest facility of its kind in the Midwest, Xscape is an enormous indoor theme park complete with more kinds of gaming fun than you can imagine: go karts, duckpin bowling lanes, laser tag, bumper cars, miniature golf, arcade games and amusement rides. Admission price includes the all-you-can-eat pizza, pasta, salad and dessert bar, and unlimited beverages.
   
• Dive headfirst into fun at Indy Island at, a year-round indoor aquatic center at Raymond Park, where kids of all ages can splash and play, slip and slide in heated pools, a water playhouse, slides, geysers and spray features. The grown-ups will find respite in an adults-only spa and hot tub and when you need a break, relax on the deck chairs and pretend it's June.

Find more indoor recreation opportunities here. 

And, tell me: what do you do, where do you go to cure the winter crazies?  I'd love to hear about your favorite Indy attractions so I can keep a running list and always have an idea in my back pocket.  Happy Weekend!

So, Valentine's Day is tomorrow, but I'm sure I'm not telling you anything you didn't already know.  Love is in the air in downtown Indianapolis this weekend and enchanting events abound at area attractions and performing arts venues.  If you're looking for last-minute plans for you and your sweetie this weekend, consider these for your romantic rendezvous:

• On the Hilbert Circle Theatre stage, four-time Grammy nominee Michael Feinstein brings his signature sound to the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s Pop Series during a Valentine’s Day program that’s sure to make you fall in love.
• Join The Indianapolis Jazz Orchestra and singers for an entertaining evening of world-class big band music at the American Cabaret Theatre. Big Band Valentine's Day is an annual concert and dance featuring a popular selection of classic songs all about love, romance and the heart.
• Celebrate the most romantic day of the year and indulge in an elaborate dinner and dessert at the Morris-Butler House's Victorian Valentine's Dinner & Concert. Experience the beauty of the 1865 historic home and a harp concert while sampling the decadent 19th century menu.  Reservations required.
• Share with the one you love during the Bubbles & Sweets event at Easley Winery! Enjoy two glasses of champagne or sparkling grape juice, a box of South Bend chocolates and a full tour of the downtown winery cellars. And, complimentary tastings are always available.
• Across town, enjoy a four-course Valentine's Day dinner and special wines at the Chateau Thomas Winery. Favorite love songs during dinner help set the romantic mood.
• Jazz guitarist Bill Lancton turns to his tender, romantic side as his group reinvents sultry jazz classics, bossas and ballads at The Jazz Kitchen in Broad Ripple. The perfect band for a great night of jazz, dinner and romance. Dinner reservations required.

Wait - there's more!  Visit our online calendar for a complete list of the weekend's events.  Hope your Valentine's Day is sweet!

Happy Friday, friends.  I can't believe that it's already February - even though I'm wishing for April! 

This weekend - and all month long - join the national commemoration of Black History Month in downtown Indianapolis.  Making its home in the Indianapolis Artsgarden in Circle Centre mall, Art & Soul is an annual celebration of African-American art and artists in Indiana, presented by the Arts Council of Indianapolis.  Dozens of free performances feature a diverse lineup of music, poetry, storytelling, dance, and visual art, and showcase some of the state’s most creative African-American artists.  Art & Soul celebrates the traditional and contemporary rhythms, movements, textures and colors that distinguish African-American art and artists in Indiana.

This year, Art & Soul will highlight six African-American artists: actress Temara Patyon, painter Mike Graves, rap artist Albert Paul Spaulding, Jr., pianist Herman Whitfield III, poet Gabrielle Patterson and singer Denise Tichenor-Collins.  Each of the artists will perform once during February and again at separate times throughout the year.

All performances are open to the public (did I mention they are FREE, too) and take place all month long in the stunning Indianapolis. 

For additional events happening in Indianapolis as part of the Black History Month celebration, visit our online calendar of events. 

Happy Hump Day - welcome to my new favorite day of the week, courtesy of the triumphant television return of "LOST" <which I could happily write about all day long, but as it turns out - that's not what this post is about>.  Just popping in quickly to alert my faithful readers to the Indy Wine Fest, taking place this Friday at the Indiana Roof Ballroom in downtown Indianapolis.  If you are a wine aficionado, this is one event that can't be missed.  Sample more than 400 local and international wines, many of Indiana's finest wineries and distributors. Proceeds from the event will benefit WFYI Public Broadcasting's programming and educational outreach services.  Tickets are $50 for general admission and $100 for a connoisseur ticket, which comes with some exclusive benefits.  Get all the information here.  Cheers! 

So, Monday was the Chinese New Year, officially ushering in the Year of the Ox and marking the most important of the traditional Chinese holidays.  Experience the spirit of this ancient culture this weekend - Saturday night - in downtown Indianapolis during "Divine Performing Arts: Chinese New Year Spectacular" at the Murat Theatre.  

The exhilarating, colorful show showcases classical Chinese dance and music in with an elite company of dancers, singers and musicians.  Masterful choreography and graceful routines range from grand classical processions to ethnic and folk dances, with gorgeous costumes  and state-of-the-art backdrops.  The shows themes are drawn from the pages of history, as well as the world today.  Check out videos and get ticket information here.

From performing arts to visual arts, continue your tour of the Orient in Indy with a stop at the Indianapolis Museum of Art, one of the nation's largest and most significant collections of Asian art featuring more than 400 works of art spanning 4,000 years.  One of the major highlights is an encyclopedic collection of Chinese art, including ancient bronze ritual vessels, jades, ceramics, textiles and paintings, with special strength in paintings of the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Finally, take a load off at All Nation's Bed & Breakfast, a cozy bed and breakfast with themed guestrooms - each representing a different country.  The Chinese Room features rich, warm colors, painted Chinese furniture and in-room tea service. 

周末 愉快!  {Have a nice weekend!}

Happy Friday, blog readers.  I have somehow been talked into letting my not-yet-three-year-old son go with Papaw and Daddy to the Monster Jam this weekend at Lucas Oil Stadium.  I couldn't really say no - Papaw offered to buy the tickets and the Boy was so stinking excited to see Grave Digger live and in person, I just couldn't say no.  So, this trip idea is for all the guys out there who are may be looking for something super manly to do this weekend ... monster trucks, exhaust fumes, cold beer and speed, stunts and speed...all in the comfort of downtown's newest venue. 

So, as my husband was putting together his guys night out agenda, I suggested adding dinner to his plans.  Might as well make an evening of it, right?  Bonus for him because we're right in the middle of Indy restaurant week, called Devour Downtown.  Nearly 40 restaurants are serving up an incredibly affordable dining deal.  Simply visit any of the participating restaurants until Jan. 31 during regular dinner hours (a select few offer a prix-fixe lunch menu) and request the special $30 menu, each featuring a full-course, mouthwatering meal (beverages, tax and gratuity not included).  Participating restaurants include several new dining options, as well as Indy originals, including Scotty's Brewhouse, Harry & Izzy's, Weber Grill and the Slippery Noodle Inn among others. 

Eat, drink and be a treadhead this Saturday, Saturday, Saturday in downtown Indianapolis. 

Monday is dedicated to the achievements and memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  Many Indianapolis attractions will hold special events and/or offer free admission to celebrate the holiday, including:

• The Madame Walker Theatre Center will commemorate host a 90-minute commemorative celebration at 12:15 p.m. The "Keep the Dream Alive" program will feature literary artists and a praise program.
• Visitors who bring a canned good for Gleaners Food Bank will receive one free admission per person per attraction in White River State Park. Bring donated items to the Indiana State Museum, Indianapolis Zoo, IMAX Theater, Eiteljorg Museum and Victory Field. There is one free admission for each can of food contributed. 
• Celebrate the life, dream and legacy of the late Dr. King at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. The museum will offer all guests special entertainment throughout the day along with free admission!
• "The Music, Martin & Me" will be performed at the Indianapolis Museum of Art.  It uses still images, video, spoken word and a diverse stylistic mix of live music to celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr.’s impact. While the performance is FREE, seating is limited.
• Join the Indiana Historical Society’s 11th annual celebration from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Through family activities, discussions, spoken word, storytelling, dance and musical performances participants will learn more about King’s legacy and the important role youth play in the nation’s future.

Thank you, Dr. King, for the living legacy of your dream! 

It might be <freakin'> FREEZING in Indianapolis - I mean, there's really no getting around that - but the action on the ice at the Pepsi Coliseum is heating up.  The Indiana Ice, a United States Hockey League team, are all about high-energy, hard-hitting hockey action during their 30 regular season home games.  All but two of their home games are on a weekend evening - Friday and Saturday evening this weekend - making it easy to enjoy an affordable, family-friendly hockey game!  Tickets start as low as $11 for adults and $9 for kids and seniors.  The Indiana Ice are the coolest (and fastest!) guys on skates!

Before or after the game, slide over to Broad Ripple Village for dinner, drinks and even shopping.  Stop by Bazbeaux Pizza for the most deliciously gooey gourmet pizzas - I'm partial to the Mexican and BBQ chicken varieties - in a super comfy casual atmosphere.  Or, if you're having an "adult" evening, check out the Old Pro's Table, the Broad Ripple Tavern or the Broad Ripple Brewpub (or Chumleys or Brothers or the Alley Cat or Average Joe's or ... ) for cold beverages (read: beers).   

If hockey isn't your bag, check out other events that are going on in Indianapolis this weekend.  Stay and play by booking a Hot Hotel Deal. 

I'm late with this week's trip idea - I know - but I'm here just under the wire to sneak one in.  And this week's promises to be a trip...er, tour..as Dance Kaleidoscope reprises its all-time best-selling production, "Magical Mystery Tour," this weekend at the Indiana Repertory Theatre. 

Now - if you don't know - Dance Kaleidoscope is the city's (and state's, for that matter) premier contemporary dance company and "Magical Mystery Tour" is the Beatles 1967 blockbuster album.  See what happens when British rock music meets modern dancing live on stage!

First presented in 2007, "Magical Mystery Tour" is a full-length work presented in two acts. The first act is set in the world of hippies who create a community of free love.  Songs include: "Here Comes the Sun," "Fool on the Hill," "Something," "All You Need is Love" and "The Long and Winding Road."

In Act Two, "Decadence," artistic director David Hochoy explores the worlds of altered states and consciousness. Songs include: "Magical Mystery Tour," "Strawberry Fields Forever," "Yellow Submarine" and "Yesterday." It culminates in the powerful anthem "Let it Be."

The show also features cool, psychedelic costumes designed by Barry Doss - DK's former resident costume designer who has worked on Broadway for the popular musical "Wicked."

My friend and colleague, Karissa, says it's the best performance by DK that she's ever seen...and she's a regular at their shows.  I'd love to hear from you, too.  Have you seen "Magical Mystery Tour?"  What did you think?  Favorite songs, favorite costumes?

Happy New Year from Indianapolis!  I know that I've been MIA for a few weeks - I was at home enjoying some much-needed time off with my family.  It was divine! 
 

But, I'm back now and ready to hit you up with this weekend's trip idea when I post again tomorrow.  But for now, I want to put a plug out there for our Win in Indy electronic newsletter.  It's loaded with information: things to do in Indianapolis, what to see, where to eat, etc.  You can even tell us what you want to know about and you'll get content tailored specifically to your interests.

Why do we call in "Win in Indy?"  Because every issue offers the chance to win an awesome Indianapolis package, everything from hotel overnights and attraction tickets to restaurant certificates and special event vouchers. 

Get in the know and sign up today - you know you want to!

'Tis the season to treat your senses to the sights and sounds of the holiday season by taking in one of the many world-class performances happening on various stages throughout Indianapolis. Classic plays, glorious voices and exquisite dancing will make your spirit soar.  Here's just a sampling of what's on stage in Indy this weekend:

It wouldn't be the holidays in Indy without the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra's perennial holiday favorite at the Hilbert Circle Theatre.  Yuletide Celebration is a showcase of traditional holiday carols set to energetic dance numbers. This year's hostess is Tony-Award nominee Ann Hampton Callaway, best known for her role in the hit Broadway musical "Swing." 

Turn on the Christmas tree lights, and take a warm and wonderful trip to the heart of the holidays via classic country music during Country Christmas Cabaret at the American Cabaret Theatre.  This light and lively performance marries traditional holiday songs with hits by Tammy Wynette, Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton, Charlie Pride and other contemporary country entertainers. 

Delight in the sparkling story of love and redemption brought about by Jacob Marley, three ghosts of Christmas and a little boy named Tiny Tim during the Indiana Repertory Theatre’s stage presentation of Charles Dickens' “A Christmas Carol.”  Also, Frank Capra’s beloved film becomes a winning one-man show during “This Wonderful Life.” One actor plays more than 30 roles and adds insight about the film’s iconic place in our culture. Anyone who’s ever loved this movie won’t want to miss this charming theatrical tour de force!

Follow the yellow brick road to see the Wizard … “The Wizard of Oz” at the Indianapolis Civic Theatre.  This all-new production of Civic’s signature holiday extravaganza brings the film to life in a wild and wonderful musical journey to that magical place where dreams come true. Featuring a large children’s chorus and an array of special effects, including a full-blown tornado, this is a musical favorite for all ages.

For a complete roundup of yuletide activities in Indianapolis, check out our holiday guide.  And, a very merry season to you and yours!

The holidays are the season of giving and 12 Indianapolis attractions and a collection of local restaurants are in the spirit. That’s why they’ve come together to give the gift of something free during the 12 days leading up to Christmas, beginning this weekend on Saturday, Dec. 13. Many of Indy's premier attractions are participating, including the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum, the Indiana State Museum and The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, the world’s largest!  Take advantage of this unique opportunity to experience some of Indy’s most popular attractions, museums and restaurants…all within your budget.  Sweeten the deal by booking a Holiday Hotel Deal, too.

For details on each of the 12 Free Days of Christmas in Indy, click here. 

For a complete roundup of yuletide activities in Indianapolis, check out our holiday guide.

Indianapolis is transformed into a sparkling winter wonderland during the holiday season and a variety of special yuletide events are happening at attractions, museums and theaters. This week's trip idea is focused on the little elves in your family.  Check out these Indianapolis holiday traditions and then start one of your own!

Dive into a seasonal dolphin show, take a listen to carolers performing your holiday requests and get on board for a festive train ride during the Indianapolis Zoo’s Christmas at the Zoo  (now - Dec. 30). Be transported to a far away land to meet Santa, see a real reindeer up close, write a holiday letter and decorate cookies in Santa's Village all while basking in the glow of thousands of twinkling lights.  

Take a fanciful trip through the imaginary town of Celebration Crossing (now – Jan. 4) aboard the "Santa Claus Express" train at the Indiana State Museum. The kids can visit with Santa in his cozy home for a photo or drop by his workshop to participate in daily activities. Stop in the auditorium for a festive holiday performance courtesy of Peewinkle's Puppet Studio, too. 

Family-friendly holiday favorites such as the Yule Slide, Jingles the Jolly Bear and visits with Santa are part of Jolly Days (now – Jan. 4) at the world’s largest children's museum, The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. Try your ice-fishing skills in the Fishing Shack or visit the Cookie Café and heat up your imagination!  Also, visit the Lilly Theatre for an adaptation of “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.”

For a complete roundup of yuletide activities in Indianapolis, check out our holiday guide.  Have a great week.

From the windows of our office, just a few steps from my desk, is an incredible view of Monument Circle and the Soldiers'&Sailors' Monument.  Last Friday during the annual Circle of Lights event, the towering 284-foot structure was transformed into the "world's largest Christmas tree," complete with thousands of lights, and life-size soldiers and sailors standing guard at its base. The trees circling the Monument are all bathed in twinkle lights, which create warm, soft glow. 

So, if you need a little nudge getting in the spirit of the season, bundle up and take a leisurely stroll around the Circle or saddle up for a cozy, romantic carriage ride.  Indulge in a cup of rich, steaming hot cocoa from the South Bend Chocolate Company to keep you warm, even.  As one of Indy's oldest and most beloved holiday traditions, Circle of Lights is not to be missed. 

For more holiday happenings in Indy, check out our Holiday Guide. 

Last Saturday, my toddler was climbing the walls - it was too cold to play outside - and my husband wanted to retreat to our office to work on some school projects.  So instead, I suggested a trip to downtown Indianapolis to spend some time at the new Central Library.  We could cure our son's cabin fever, while also allowing my husband some quiet time to work.

Last winter, we spent several delightful Saturdays at the Central Library.  My kid loves books, what can I say (except that I love that he loves books!).  Heck, he's not even three and already has a library card (turns out he also likes variety in his reading). Of course, there are other fine libraries closer to our home, but there's something - rather, a few things - about the downtown branch that keeps us coming back.

First, the new building is spectacular!  The Atrium is definitely something to behold, with its floor-to-ceiling windows and towering curved steel arches.  It's an impressive space, which houses the circulation desks, lots of bug, comfy chairs and even a cafe (featuring Starbucks, of course).  It's usually a pretty big deal if we can get the boy past the cookies without incident. 

Obviously, we spend most of our time in Learning Curve, the high-tech, high-touch play and learn space for kids (this is the point during Saturday's trip when my hubby retreated upstairs to the quieter, more secluded work areas).  My boy loves it here.  And since it had been awhile since our last trip, he gasped and said "books" longingly in the cutest voice, just above a whisper.  Kid's computers, cool reading pods, an activity wall and interactive theater add to the overall experience. 

On this particular trip (and sometimes we're just not this lucky), we were there for a full two hours before there was a toddler tantrum of any kind.  Impressive!  But, before we left, we quietly checked out the computer labs, the movie and music collections, and the third floor, where we found my husband amid countless rows of very important looking leather-bound books.  For our part, though, it was a varied collection of Clifford, Pooh and Thomas the Train books that made it to the check-out desk. 

The best part of our three-hour outing?  It didn't cost one red cent - we found free parking at a meter and the cafe's cookies when unnoticed. It was absolutely, 100% FREE and that's pretty darn difficult to do these days. 

Oh - and speaking of free, check out the 12 Free Days of Christmas in Indianapolis promotion.  Lots of Indy attractions and a collection of restaurants are offering freebies in the 12 days leading up to Christmas.  Go...enjoy!!

So, I finally made it over to see "Bodies: The Exhibition" with a colleague this week.  There has been quite a buzz around the exhibition since it opened in downtown Indianapolis a few months ago.  But, for those who are unfamiliar, "Bodies" reveals how our bodies work - from the inside out.  See the remarkable intricacies of the human body and what lies beneath our skin - quite literally - through the use of real specimens, many of the whole-body. 

While I have to admit I did have a few ewwww moments, I thought the exhibition - which turned out to be much more robust than I expected - was completely fascinating.  Once I got over the initial shock (and that's a really strong word, but another, more appropriate word is escaping me right now) of the actual bodies, I found it to be very interesting - and I'm not that into science and/or medicine.  It's just absolutely insane how complex and complicated our bodies are and how, yet, it all works together in total perfection to create our living form.  The more I think about it, the more I find to wrap my mind around. 

There's just one thing that bugged me about the whole experience...the exhibition's location, which is in the basement of the Claypool Courts building (northwest corner of Washington&Illinois streets), is that it's just below the Weber Grill Restaurant.  There's just something kinda icky about walking through a exhibition of this nature while the odor of grilled ribs and charcoal-fired burgers wafts all around you.  I dunno - maybe it's just me.  What do you think?

That said, I would still recommend checking this exhibition out.  It's in Indy until the end of the year.  Tickets are $22, adults and $18, children and seniors. Oh, and no cameras allowed. Bummer.

Need more Indianapolis trip ideas for this weekend? Check out our online calendar for a slew of other events going on right now!! 

It's no secret - or at least it shouldn't be - that Indianapolis is home to a wonderful collection of world-class attractions and museums.  The renowned Indianapolis Museum of Art, just a few miles north of the heart of downtown Indy, is one of the largest general art museums in the country.  It is home to a collection of more than 50,000 works from a variety of cultures and periods in art history.  

Blockbuster exhibitions, special events, and unique dining (Puck's, IMA Cafe) and shopping (The IMA Store, Gallery Shop, Madeline F. Elder Greenhouse Shop, Lilly Shop and the new IMA Design Center) options make the IMA a destination in itself.  Given that local weather forecasters are calling for cold and snow on Saturday, this is a perfect weekend to check out the Museum and it's newest exhibition "Power&Glory: Court Arts of China's Ming Dynasty."

This groundbreaking exhibition, the first to focus on the full range of Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) court arts, includes more than 200 treasures from China’s greatest museums, many never before seen outside the country. To complement the exhibition, the IMA is displaying a special selection of its own Asian pieces by famed artisans of the Ming dynasty for this limited time only.

Round our your visit by browsing the Museum's other galleries, stopping by the historic Oldfields - Lilly House&Gardens and grabbing a bite and Puck's Restaurant.  General admission to the IMA is free, but there is a charge for the special "Power & Glory" exhibition ($12, adults; $10, seniors; $7 college students w/ ID and youth 7-17).