An Affordable Gem Just Outside The Heart Of Indianapolis Is A Walkable City With A Charming Community

A city break, within a city? Look no further than the quaint city of Beech Grove, located in Marion County, Indiana, it sits in close proximity to the buzzing neighborhoods of downtown Indianapolis. This self-governing haven is praised for being an affordable place to live and an accessible place to explore thanks to its walkable streets and parks.

It was once home to Hoosier poet and women's rights activist Sarah T. Bolton, and it is proud to have its own relaxed atmosphere and identity. Aside from Beech Grove's rich history, a broad main street, hospitable locals, and trailing lights check all the boxes of a sweet small-town, and conveniently for visitors and locals alike, long-term living options (where house prices at the time of writing hover around $200,000) and short-term stays are suited to a wide scope of budgets. Beech Grove exudes a serenity and friendliness that could be ordinarily tricky to find in a city, which makes it perfect for year-round day trips from Indianapolis or longer, more refreshing stays if you're looking for a few days to relax.

Beech Grove is roughly 10 minutes from downtown Indianapolis by car, a 22-minute drive from Indianapolis International Airport, and easily accessible by Indianapolis city taxis. However if you don't drive, public transport is frequent, reliable, and affordable via the 56 bus. There's no shortage of eateries, shops, amenities, and city conveniences, yet Beech Grove's own leafy city center, as its name suggests, retains an earthy green charm. A nod, perhaps to its previous rural life as Indiana farmland.

Exploring the city on foot and by bike is encouraged by the local government and tourist agencies, and a snaking 2.2-mile trail system named the Franciscan Trail gives pedestrians a stunning, foliage-dense route around town. This greenway system has a total of five starting and ending points and four bridges over the city's waterway, Lick Creek. It is a fully accessible trail system, suitable for wheelchair users and disabled people, and the whole route is pet-friendly.

The city has a busy calendar of seasonal events for locals and visitors of all ages, making it easy for day trippers to tailor into an itinerary. Think summer concerts in the city's parks, pumpkin carving and movies by a bonfire in the spirit of Halloween, and a host of magical Christmas gatherings on Main Street. Additionally, community recycling days and Small Business Saturdays, exude all the attributes of a community that is committed to sustainability and ethics, both from an environmental and human perspective.

Historically significant in Beech Grove is Sarah T. Bolton park, a 32-acre green space and former farm belonging to the writer most often described as the "Hoosier Poetess" by historians (via Untold Indiana). Accessible from several points in the city including Churchman Avenue and Main Street, it features as a notable place of beauty on the Franciscan Trail. A favored relaxation area, it was formerly known as Beech Bank and bought from the Bolton Estate by the city in 1930. For more outdoor fun and relaxation, head an hour west of Indianapolis to the serene Shades State Park.

To balance all the walking, Beech Grove's eateries are plentiful and affordable, with several meal options available for under $25 per person at the time of writing. For a relaxed lunch stop, visit The Tea Room at Rustic Root on Main Street. Decked out in florals and silverware, it lives up to the small-town charm. The menu features sandwiches, wraps, salads, and omelettes, but according to Tripadvisor users, these folks excel at great tea and desserts. A popular evening dining spot is Napoli Villa. This Italian restaurant, which has been in the community since 1960, proudly serves up favorites like Pollo Parmigiana, pizzas, and meaty subs, cherished by residents and visitors. If you love Mexican street food, El Mariachi welcomes diners for traditional Mexican flavors — think quesadillas, tacos, and enchiladas. A night out in Beech Grove wouldn't be complete without a visit to 5th Ave Bar and Grill. Pizzas, burgers, wings, cocktails, and beers are staples here, and the establishment is a keen observer of lesser-known national days (National Mac and Cheese Day and National Chicken Wing Day, to name but a few), all to be enjoyed in front of live music.

Overall, Beech Grove is undeniably affordable. Walking-friendly routes and public transport connections to Indianapolis undoubtedly save on transport costs, while booking sites offer accommodation options from affordable chains to upscale hotels, the latter of which can be secured on a budget at less than $100 per night at the time of writing. For busier times of the year, the adjacent district of South Indianapolis also has plenty of last-minute hotel options. With public transport options, sightseeing on foot, and moderately priced meals, Beech Grove is the perfect place for inexpensive travel. Don't forget your walking shoes!