Picture-Perfect: A Photo Walk Through Indianapolis Trails and Cityscapes

Begin your photo journey along the Downtown Canal Walk, starting near it’s northern terminus by 10th or 11th Street. The waterway stretches south with tree-lined edges, pedestrian bridges, and quiet corners that reveal reflections of modern buildings. This stretch is full of photo opportunities, from paddle boats drifting under bridges to colorful murals tucked into underpasses.

Once you go beneath West Street, you’ll enter White River State Park and find the Indiana State Museum and the Eiteljorg Museum trailside. Keep going until the Canal ends and venture out on the pedestrian bridge over the White River that links White River State Park to the Indianapolis Zoo. From the center of the bridge, you’ll find one of the best spots to photograph the city’s buildings framed by trees and public art. If you want, venture across the bridge and explore the White River Greenway on the western bank for a bit. You’ll find amazing skyline views reflecting off the river’s surface. 

Once you’re done exploring the river area, pick up the Indianapolis Cultural Trail along Washington Street and head east into the city. As you near Monument Circle, the scenery becomes more architectural. The Soldiers and Sailors Monument a block north on Meridian Street rises high above the street, surrounded by curved limestone buildings and flag-lined sidewalks. At night you can catch a patriotic projection light show on these buildings. Whether you’re shooting wide street scenes or zooming in on the monument’s carved figures, this spot delivers a classic city-center feel.

After exploring Monument Circle, get back on the Cultural Trail and continue east.  At the Indianapolis City-County Building, the trail will turn north on Alabama Street. Keep going until you hit Michigan Street, where a wide-sidewalk connector trail (with about a 3-block stretch of standard sidewalk access path) will take you under Interstate 65 and up a small hill to Highland Park. This small hilltop green space in the Holy Cross neighborhood rewards the extra effort with what most locals will say is the absolute best view of the downtown skyline, especially at sunset. The contrast of grassy slopes in the foreground with high-rises beyond makes this one of the most striking yet underappreciated photography spots in the city. Bring a tripod if you’re staying for sunset.

When you’re done soaking in the views, head back the way you came down Michigan St and once you hit the Cultural Trail again, turn right to head north. You’ll pass the vibrant Mass Ave Cultural Arts District if you want to grab a coffee or ice cream. Keep going until the trail tees at North Street. You’ll turn left there to go west and head through the American Legion Mall. If you stop on the steps of the Central Library you’ll have another stunning view of the city lined by patriotic memorials.

Continue on the Cultural Trail and at the Orange Bridge you’ll be back at the Canal. This connected loop through Indianapolis trails brings together peaceful green spaces, bold skyline views, and dozens of surprising details along the way. With camera in hand and no strict schedule, you’ll find that the city reveals itself frame by frame.