Central Canal

The History and Revitalization of the Central Canal

In the 1830s, the Indiana state government conceived a plan to build a 296-mile waterway through the state to increase commerce. Though the Central Canal never came to full fruition, sections of the canal were developed.

Activities at the Canal Walk

Today, the Canal Walk – a refurbished portion of the Central Canal – is a 3-mile loop that flows by the Indiana State Museum and Eiteljorg Museum, among other popular attractions. You can walk alongside the canal or rent bikes from the two different Pacers Bikeshare Stations along the canal. If it's a special occasion, you can even hire a singing gondolier or rent a pedal boat or kayak.

Sightseeing Along the Canal

Whatever mode of transport you choose, you'll enjoy a spectacular view of the Indianapolis skyline, not to mention a 17-foot waterfall, some of the city's best contemporary architecture, and the USS Indianapolis Memorial and Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial. Keep your eye out for colorful murals on the canal underpasses as well.

Rental Information

Entrance to the canal is free, but you'll have to pay to rent any equipment. Wheel Fun Rentals, which is stationed in White River State Park, offers hourly kayak rentals for $22; renting a double kayak costs $28 per hour while pedal-powered swan boats can be rented for $44 per hour. Old World Gondoliers offers gondola rides, which start at $36 per person for a public ride and $189 for a private ride for two to eight people. Rentals are usually available from spring to early fall, but check each vendor's website for specific availability.

Visitor Experiences

According to recent reviewers, this is the spot for quiet relaxation in Indianapolis. Aside from the peaceful atmosphere, travelers also love how clean the area is. Other visitors were delighted when they found the Central Canal by accident on their trip.