Downtown Indianapolis isn't what it used to be. For residents and visitors alike, that's a good thing. Singles, couples and families can find plenty to do downtown. First stop: White River State Park.

White River State Park is just west of the Monument Circle area. The park is bordered by Washington, West and New York Streets. There's something for everyone in this urban oasis.

Your first stop should be the park's Visitors Center. It's just down the walk from the free parking area across from Victory Field Baseball Park. Pick up some maps, buy a snack for the kids and ask the friendly guides for information. While you're there, pet the resident cat, V. C.

If you're a sports buff, stop by the NCAA Hall of Champions. This museum, dedicated to student athletes, covers all aspects of NCAA college athletics. You can learn more about student athletes by watching films in one of the museum's three theaters or by shooting a few baskets in the re-created college gym. Buy a UCLA or Notre Dame t-shirt in the gift shop. (Yes, they sell merchandise from other NCAA championship schools.)

If you visit during the summer, you can catch an Indianapolis Indians minor league baseball game across the street at Victory Field. Minor league baseball is extremely family-friendly. Victory Field has family restrooms and allows strollers into the ballpark. For true old-fashioned fun, bring a blanket and try the lawn seating.

Perhaps art and history are more your style. At the Indianapolis State Museum, you can learn about all things Indiana, from fossils to future technology. The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art takes you back to the days of the Wild West through paintings, Native American art, photography and sculpture. The Eiteljorg presents special activities and educational programs throughout the year. You can try a new art medium, listen to Native American folk tales or earn a special Scouting patch.

Weather permitting, White River State Park is a great place for an afternoon stroll. You can wander through the White River Gardens at the Indianapolis Zoo or choose one of the walkways that crisscross the park. I like to walk or bicycle along the Central Canal and listen to the fountains. You can rent bikes, pedal buggies or paddle boats during late spring, summer and early fall.

My daughter especially enjoys the Indianapolis Zoo, which features not only traditional zoo animals, such as lions and giraffes, but also animals in unique habitats. If you go, don't miss the dolphin dome, which is completely underwater, and the meerkat exhibit.

No matter when you visit, there's something special happening at White River State Park. Don't forget to give V. C. a pat from me.