Relax on Indianapolis' Central Canal

Whether you are visiting Indianapolis for the first time or looking for a new place to take your lunchtime walk, the Central Canal is a destination to consider. Winding through White River State Park, the Central Canal connects the White River to West Street. You can walk along both sides of the canal, past museum gardens and memorials, or you can rent a bike or pedal-powered four-person surrey at Wheel Fun Rentals (April through October). If you're visiting Indianapolis in the summer months, you can also rent a pedal boat or kayak and float along the canal.

I visited Indianapolis this week with my children. Renting surreys and pedal boats is a summer tradition for us. First, we climbed aboard a four-person pedal boat. For an hour we cruised the canal, waving at pedestrians and cyclists. My son took the tiller and piloted us past fountains and alongside hand-painted murals. My daughter, who loves all animal life, peered overboard to look for fish.

Next, we jumped into a surrey and pedaled past the NCAA Hall of Champions onto the path next to the White River. My daughter is finally old enough to reach the pedals, and she enjoyed contributing muscle power to our trip. My son usually acts as driver. He got a glimpse of the future this week, as Backseat Driver Mom warned him to be careful on turns and hills.

The Central Canal is especially lovely at night. You can rent pedal boats until 8 p. m. (10 p. m. during summer months). The Canal's fountains are lit with spotlights, and Indianapolis's skyscrapers tower over you as you float.

If you're in a romantic mood, Old World Gondoliers offers the perfect way to see the Central Canal. You can cruise the Canal, Italian-style, onboard an authentic Venetian gondola. You can either reserve the entire gondola or take a public ride. Gondola rides are available May through September. You will need to make reservations by calling (317) 491-4835. Yes, the gondoliers sing.