Butler-Tarkington.
Butler's campus, Hinkle Fieldhouse and Meridian Street mansions, about five miles north of downtown.
The lowdown
Butler-Tarkington takes its name from Butler University and author Booth Tarkington. Before that, folks called this stretch Mapleton for its sugar maples. It sits about five miles north of downtown, between Meridian Street, 38th Street, Michigan Road and the Central Canal. Streetcar-era bungalows from the 1910s and 1920s fill the side streets, and grand homes line North Meridian, including the Governor's Residence. Hinkle Fieldhouse, the canal towpath and Newfields are all in walking range.
Our top 5
Five things we love in Butler-Tarkington.
- Cafe & bakery
Illinois Street Food Emporium
Corner cafe, deli and bakery at 56th and Illinois since 1979. Get a sandwich, then a slice from the dessert case.
- Landmark
Hinkle Fieldhouse
Butler's 1928 basketball cathedral. Catch a Bulldogs game, or walk the self-guided history tour on a weekday.
- Stargazing
Holcomb Observatory & Planetarium
Public planetarium shows and telescope nights on Butler's campus, cheap at the door. Stroll Holcomb Gardens beforehand.
- Art museum
Newfields
Art museum, gardens and grounds at 38th and Michigan Road. Book Winterlights tickets early for the holiday light walk.
- Trail
Central Canal Towpath
Shaded 7.7-mile stone path along the canal past Butler and the art museum. Great for a slow Sunday walk.
