Black Culture in Indy Guide

Every day, there are places and events that connect with our heritage and showcase Black life in the city.

Indy is a city filled with African American culture and attractions. Indiana Black Expo Summer Celebration is the longest-running cultural event in the country, and Circle City Classic brings historic black colleges to square off in Lucas Oil Stadium.

Black culture is alive in Indy. In our sights, in our sounds, and in our soul. This city is your city.

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Black History in Indianapolis
Indy's Black Leadership
Credit: IM Imagebank

1. Black Culture in Indy

Celebrating Heritage and History

  • Every day, there are places and events that connect with Indy’s heritage and showcase Black life in the city.
  • Your guide to Black-owned restaurants, Indy's Black leadership, and the city's Black history.

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2. Black Indy Locals

Get An Insider's View Of The Circle City

Indianapolis Black culture scene is thriving, and not just in our food, festivals, or history. The real measure of Black culture in Indy is the people who are out in the community, making things happen. Hear why these Indy locals are proud to call the Circle City home.

3. Black-owned Restaurants

Support These Entrepreneurs

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4. Crispus Attucks Museum

A Downtown Tribute to Black Excellence

  • The museum explores the triumphs and struggles surrounding this school known for excellence in both academics and athletics.
  • Crispus Attucks was the first all-black school in the nation to win a state basketball title in 1955 in big thanks to NBA legend Oscar Robertson.

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5. Get Creative

Spin Records Or Paint Sneaks

6. Hampton Inn - Indianapolis Canal IUPUI

  • Formerly the home of the Bethel A.M.E Church, this historic church building is now part of the new Hampton Inn/Homewood Suites on the Canal downtown
  • Explore the history and impact of Bethel A.M.E Church's contributions to Black History within the church walls.

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7. Legendary Murals

Tributes To Black Innovators

  • Building-sized murals pay tribute to poet Mari Evans, Pacers legend Reggie Miller, and cycling hero Major Taylor.
  • Connect with Indy jazz legends Wes Montgomery, JJ Johnson, Freddie Hubbard, and more at the Indiana Jazz Legends mural.

8. Madam Walker's Legacy

America's First Female Self-made Millionaire

Madam CJ Walker's hair care empire began in Indy and the Legacy Center stands as a monument to her impact.

Discover a tribute mural on historical Indiana Avenue, and portrait made from combs at The Alexander.

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9. Sounds Of The City

Jazz To Hip-hop

  • Chreece is an annual showcase of hip-hop talent across multiple clubs in Fountain Square.
  • The Jazz Kitchen is an Indy institution and the best place to catch local and traveling stars of the genre.

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10. Take a Tour

Explore Indy's History on Foot

Indy has a rich Black history and tour guide Sampson Levingston has done the homework for you. His Through2Eyes Indiana Walk & Talk Tours give you the opportunity to take in the sights while you absorb storytelling by this dynamic personality. Public and private tours are available.

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11. The Landmark For Peace

Marking A Moment In History

  • The Landmark for Peace pays tribute to Robert Kennedy's landmark speech on the night of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s assassination.
  • The Dr. Martin Luther King Park Visitor Center brings the events of April 4, 1968, to life for visitors.

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12. Center for Black Literature & Culture

Indianapolis Central Library

  • Interactive displays, books, and images highlighting African American heroes who changed the world.
  • Free and open to the public at the Indianapolis Central Library.

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Black History in Indianapolis
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Indianapolis African American Heritage Tour
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Black Culture: From a Local's Perspective
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Indy's Black Leadership
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Black-Owned Restaurants in Indy
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