Happy TravellerWelcome to Broad Ripple Village, one of the seven cultural districts in Indianapolis, Indiana. Located in Washington Township, Marion County, Indiana, about six miles (ten kilometers) north of downtown Indianapolis, Broad Ripple was first platted in 1837, became incorporated as the Town of Broad Ripple in 1894, and was annexed to the City of Indianapolis in 1922. Its name originated with the title of a poem titled Broad Ripple by Hoosier Poet James Whitcomb Riley. The neighborhood has a reputation for being socially, economically, and ethnically diverse.
History:
Broad Ripple has a rich history dating back to the mid-1800s. The public school system dates back to at least 1843, when Washington Township School Number Five was built. Broad Ripple High School originated as a two-year program in 1886, becoming a three-year program in 1887 and a four-year program sometime between 1893 and 1895. The high school closed at the end of the 2017–2018 school year. Broad Ripple was annexed to the city of Indianapolis in June 1922, after previous failed attempts in 1906, 1909, and 1913, and several other times.
Culture:
Broad Ripple Village is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood with a thriving arts and culture scene. The Indianapolis Art Center is located in Broad Ripple and offers a variety of classes and workshops for all ages. Broad Ripple Park is a 62-acre (25 ha) park bordering the White River and located just to the northeast of the village. It features an outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, baseball diamond, athletic fields, playground, picnic shelters, dog park, wooded preserve, fitness path, and a boat ramp. The village is also home to numerous art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Transportation:
Broad Ripple is well-connected to downtown Indianapolis via public transportation. The IndyGo Red Line (Route 90) runs through the village, connecting it to downtown Indianapolis and other neighborhoods in the city. The Red Line’s Broad Ripple Station is located in the median of College Avenue and is accessed from College’s intersection with Broad Ripple Avenue and Westfield Boulevard. The neighborhood is also home to two Indiana Pacers Bikeshare docking stations, making it easy to explore the village on two wheels.
Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or foodie, Broad Ripple Village has something for everyone. Come explore this vibrant neighborhood and discover why it’s one of the most popular destinations in Indianapolis.
