Indianapolis: there's something for everyone!

Meet Dillon, a graduate student who loves to travel and prefers quiet, relaxing destinations. Let's see his suggestion about Indianapolis!

What makes Indianapolis a favorite gay destination?

Many of my guests are surprised to learn that Indianapolis has a thriving LGBT social scene. We have 7 gay bars, and they’re all a blast (and affordable!). Having traveled a lot (both inside and outside the US), I can comfortably say that Indy’s gay bars are some of my favorites in the world. One of the best things about Indianapolis’s gay scene is that everyone is friendly and down to earth—no cliches and no judgement. Everyone is welcome.

What is the best gay event that takes place in Indianapolis?

Definitely the Circle City Indiana Pride Festival, which always features big-name performers and draws huge crowds (over 100,000 last year). This year, the festival is on June 10^th at Military Park. I definitely recommend visiting Indy if you’re free that weekend (our door is open!).

What is your favorite gay establishment to grab a bite for lunch? a nice dinner?

Forty-Five Degrees. It’s technically not a gay bar, but it’s gay owned and operated and it’s on the same block as two gay bars (and a men’s underwear store) and the décor is just as amazing as the food. I recommend the spicy caesar with chicken for lunch and the orange chicken for dinner. If you’re a sushi fan, I hear their sushi menu is delicious and it’s half price on Sundays. For dessert, try their Venetian sunset cocktail (which is half price on Thursdays) or head next door to Yogulatte, which is owned by the same guy and has the best froyo in town.

Best gay bar for a cheap beer?

Indianapolis isn’t a particularly expensive city, so beers are pretty cheap wherever you go. I know Zonies has $2 domestics on Wednesday and Greg’s has $3 domestics all week long. If you’re looking for variety, try Ralston’s Draught House on Mass Ave.

Best gay bar for a refreshing cocktail?

Probably Tini, which is a trendy video bar that started as a tiny (or should I say “tini”) bar but has since been forced by its popularity to expand into the space next door and the space above it (which is now the dance floor). They play some of the best music and have some of the best cocktails in the city. Try their Purple Raintini (not on the menu, but most bartenders remember how to make it). I also love the cocktails at Ball & Biscuit, which is just down the street. My favorite is their cucumber cocktail, which is also no longer on the menu (what is it with bars discontinuing my favorites?!) but they’ll still make if you ask kindly.

Which famous gay person is from Indianapolis?

Cleve Jones. He started the NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt (google it if you’re unfamiliar—amazing project) and co-founded the San Francisco AIDS Foundation at the onset of the AIDS pandemic. It’s fitting because Indianapolis has a surprisingly rich history when it comes to activism and advocacy around HIV and AIDS.

Ready to go dancing--what is the best gay dance club?

Metro. Hands down. The second-story dance floor is packed every Friday and Saturday night. The dance floor at Greg’s is also packed on a Friday night and the new dancefloor at Tini is amazing as well.

Which gay bar offers the best happy hour on a Wednesday?

Zonies Closet has super cheap drinks on Wednesdays and a drag show starting at 10:30.

Where to start a gay tour in Indianapolis?

Good question. I’d say start on Mass Ave. Have dinner at Ralston’s (my go-to draught house) or 45 Degrees. Then head to Metro or Tini (they’re neighbors) for an early evening cocktail (both have great patios if the weather is nice). Once you’ve had your fill of Mass Ave, head to Greg’s for more drinks (and dancing) or to Zonies Closet for a drag show. Ready for breakfast at 3am? Time for Ollies.

Best place to socialize with the local gay community?

Greg’s. Greg’s is the largest and oldest gay bar in Indianapolis. It is a staple in the community and probably the best place to sit at the bar, watch slideshows of hot men on the TVs, and strike up conversation with your neighbor. They also have Gay Bingo on Tuesdays, free pool on Wednesdays, a dart tournament on Thursdays, line dancing on Fridays (until 11, when the dance floor switches to house music) and cookouts on Sundays during Colt’s games.

Best place to be surrounded by the local gays?

English Ivy’s. Ivy’s is a bar and restaurant just north of Massachusetts Avenue. It is more laid back than most other gay bars here and is always packed with locals and regulars.

How gay-friendly is Indianapolis?

Super gay-friendly! My partner and I have always felt free to be ourselves wherever we go. If you choose to visit Indy, you won’t have to worry about feeling unsafe or unwelcome because Indy truly loves and accepts everyone <3.

A gay place for brunch on weekends?

Olly’s, which is a 24 hour gay diner in the heart of the city. If you’re looking for something a little more upscale, try Café Patachou (a local favorite), Louie’s Wine dive (my favorite) or Chef Joseph’s (unlimited mimosas!).

What is gay life like in Indianapolis?

Gay life in Indianapolis is much like gay life in any other US city, although the community here is smaller than, say, Chicago (our neighbors to the north). I really enjoy living here because there’s something to do for everyone. If you’re outdoorsy, there are plenty of parks, trails, and urban green spaces to keep you busy for your entire stay. If you’re artsy, the Indianapolis Museum of Art (with beautiful outdoor gardens and a 100-acre nature park) is one of the largest general art museums in the country. And if you’re a foodie like me, Indianapolis has an incredibly exciting and diverse food scene—and if you’re willing to venture outside the downtown district, Indy’s ethnic food scene is unreal (like, HUGE). Check it out if you’re here.

What are your favourite gay venues in Indianapolis?

Personally, I love them all for different reasons. If I’m in the mood for a drag show, Zonies. If I’m looking for a nice dinner followed by cocktails followed by dancing the night away, then it’s Forty-Five Degrees followed by Tini followed by Metro. If I’m looking for an all-around go-to bar for socializing and having cheap (but strong) drinks, Greg’s.