This charming establishment, formerly known as "Das Deutsche Haus," originated in 1892 as a social club for the city's German immigrants, who sought to promote mental and physical health and culture. The German Renaissance Revival-style building is listed on the National Register of Historical Places and remains popular with city residents. Today, the Athenaeum is home to The Rathskeller restaurant, a YMCA branch, the American Cabaret Theater, and a number of ballrooms.

A recent $10 million renovation restored the somber walls of this building to their former splendor. Before the renovation efforts, the walls were a dull green, a color that had been painted by local inmates. The Indiana General Assembly meets here at the beginning of every year. Sightseers may call ahead for a guided tour of the spectacular interior. Once inside, visitors will see the brass spittoons in the Supreme Court Chambers, the beautiful brass chandeliers, and the stately marble floors.

HISTORIC DISTRICT. This gem of Victorian architecture lends a touch of dignity and elegance to the Old Northside neighborhood, once a fashionable alternative to downtown Indianapolis. A guided tour of the three-floored structure reveals an elegant parlor, servants' quarters, and an intricate, antique Wooton desk, as well as 19th-century paintings and <i>objets d'art</i>. Details like the crown moldings, wallpaper and plasterwork have been faithfully restored to accurately portray the house in its heyday. Exhibits, educational programs and tours afford many opportunities to explore this historical treasure chest.

A visit to this imposing structure, with its exotic turret and detailed tilework, brings you to the largest shrine temple in the world. A one-time Shriners' headquarters, the structure now hosts a variety of performances and important events, including conferences, receptions, Broadway shows, and pre-show gatherings. Visitors should keep their eyes open for the appearance of a resident ghost, believed to be the cause of inexplicable slamming doors and blinking lights. Even sans ghost, the ornate Egyptian room and the Islamic-inspired architecture make any visit worthwhile.

Constructed in 1929, this Tudor-Gothic cathedral has often been lauded as one of the world's most beautiful buildings. Highlights include a carillon with 54 bells, an enormous pipe organ, a walnut parquet-floored ballroom and a marble-and-woodwork Tiler's Room (the entrance). Gorgeous, handcrafted art glass windows use natural light to illuminate their intricate designs, and architectural details throughout the cathedral allude to the rites of Freemasonry. Take a free tour to learn more.