The Secret Ingredient

Located between Meridian-Kessler and Rocky Ripple, Butler-Tarkington is home to one of the city’s most iconic institutions: Butler University. The presence of the university shapes much of the neighborhood’s character, with cultural offerings like Clowes Memorial Hall, year-round sporting events, and scenic spots like Holcomb Gardens open to the public. Butler-Tarkington also borders key thoroughfares and sits just five miles north of Monument Circle, giving residents easy access to downtown while maintaining a close-knit, walkable feel.

The area’s mix of classic homes, tree-lined streets, and neighborhood retail hubs offers both residential comfort and local convenience. Residents can find coffee shops, bookstores, and restaurants at the 56th & Illinois corridor — home to Lunch Money Boutique, Kids Ink Children’s Bookstore, and Byrne’s Grilled Pizza. Recreational options include The Riviera Club, with its pools and tennis courts, and the nearby Central Canal Towpath, a popular route for running, biking, and dog walking. Tarkington Park also serves as a community hub, offering an updated playground, splash pad, café, and regular events.

Civic pride runs deep in Butler-Tarkington, thanks in part to one of the city's longest-running neighborhood associations. From local events to walkable access to cultural and outdoor amenities, this neighborhood offers a balanced lifestyle that appeals to longtime residents and newcomers alike. With connections to Broad Ripple and an active community life supported by institutions like the Martin Luther King Community Center, Butler-Tarkington remains a cornerstone of Midtown living in Indianapolis.