Black Culture

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.

Indy's Black History

Celebrating Heritage and History

From early Black settlements of the 1820s, to stops in Indianapolis along the Underground Railroad, to stories of entrepreneurial successes and resiliency, Black history played an essential role in the growth of Indianapolis.

Black History in Indy

Black-owned Restaurants

Supporting Diverse Entrepreneurs

From Gordon's Milkshakes to The Block Bistro & Grill, Indy's black-owned restaurants have unique tastes for you to enjoy.

Basketball Hall of Famer Tamika Catchings owns Tea's Me Cafe in the Butler Tarkington neighborhood. Stop by for a brew or lunch.

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.

Get Creative

Spin Records Or Paint Sneaks

Try your hand at the turntable with classes from Deckademics DJ School that range from novice to advanced.

Art for the walls is cool, but Kicasso Sneaker Art Bar will have you painting a masterpiece for your feet.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.
Currently closed during renovations.

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.

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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Black-Owned Restaurants in Indy

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