Visit Indianapolis: Military Park

Military Park is a 14 acre public park in the heart of Indianapolis, Indiana. The park is located within the White River State Park and provides room for many events throughout the year including outdoor concerts, festivals, and political rallies. The park recently has its shelter house renovated.

Military Park has the distinction of being the oldest park in the city and also only one of three pieces of land in the city that cannot be sold, according to the Indiana Constitution. The other land included in this agreement are the state capitol building and Monument Circle.

Military Park has served many functions throughout the years. First founded in 1820, it was then known as Military Ground. The purpose for this space was an area for training local militias, though the first documented use was in 1822, celebrating Independence Day. It was an important area to train militias for the Black Hawk War in 1836.

By 1852, the state had forbid the land to be sold and then turned it into the State Fair grounds during the years where Indianapolis was the host. The State Fair was last held on the Military Park grounds in 1863, then the festivities moved to Camp Morton.

By the time the Civil War came to Indiana, the park was once again turned into land for military use, housing Union soldiers. This encampment, however, nearly ruined the grounds due to large troop movements in and out of the area. After the war, efforts were made to improve Military Park by placing playground equipment, a fountain, and a rock foundation to beautify the land.

Image via Wikipedia

Special events are held at Military Park throughout the year including the Indy JazzFest. This three day festival includes jazz music artists from around the country. The JazzFest is held annually.

Attractions within walking distance of Military Park includes the NCAA Hall of Champions, Indiana Historical Society, Indiana State Museum, and the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art.