Factory Arts District

The First Friday event is very cool and definitely worth checking out. I loved getting to see all of the different artists' work and there were also some DJs playing music and some snacks scattered about the space.

First Friday of every month is such a blast to attend. Lots of art and crafts, music flowing, and good energy everywhere. So many booths and spaces to see peoples creations and merchandise. They also have a brewery and Dab bar with good food. If you're into art or artsy things, check this place out.

Make sure to catch the second floor main gallery and Studios on First friday, and they have like what two breweries and a honey wine place, along with a chocolatier, glassblowing, ceramics, and I believe axe throwing at the end. It's changed a lot since the beginning of the Circle City industrial complex, but it has definitely grown positive in many areas. But I do miss what Wug

Such a unique gem for Indianapolis. Rare to see such a large, historic warehouse converted into 200+ art studios with bars, shops, and soon to be restaurants in the same facility. The best place to be each month for First Friday Art Show. It’s creative, authentic places like this one that makes me feel like I am no longer in Indiana. It was only a couple weeks ago that a TV sports commentator slipped during a Pacers finals game and called us a “flyover state”. Yes, that is who we have been known for years, but it’s places like the Factory Arts District that provide something unique for visiting out of state guests that they may have not seen before in other cities. Now, for all the negative reviews on this establishment, the arrogance that came through their reviews like they’re entitled to a specific experience and if it doesn’t happen then it warrants a negative review, such as….. too difficult to navigate; easily get lost; kinda creepy; too cold. Yes, it’s big and can feel like a maze for the 1st time especially when you don’t pay attention to the the buildings designated maps, but so can Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Lucas Oil Stadium, or even the Children’s Museum. These complainers are the kind of people that get excited to hang out at places that earned our state’s reputation as a fly over state; being boring and forgettable. More specifically, the “kinda creepy” reviewer prefers hanging out at our local city playgrounds based on her reviews. I’ll take the Factory Arts District for its dedication over the years in helping break Indiana out of the stereotypical, vanilla mold.

Just walking through the hallways was a beautiful experience. There is so much to see, appreciate, and experience. I especially love visiting Mako Hemp Co.

Nice area on the east side of town. Went to Lyrics and libations which is the 3rd Thursday of the month awesome open mic and nice date night event for the creatives in the city.

This place is super rad! So many things to do here. Very cool building.

Massive, huge, art space, so many cool things to see for so many different audiences! Definitely recommend!

Formerly the Circle City Industrial Complex (CCIC), Factory Arts District is an art, entertainment, dining, drinking, and retail space in the redeveloped Schwitzer Automotive Building. This place is HUGE and has tons of artisans and businesses to explore. A great time to do that is during First Friday, when everyone is open and partying in the evenings. Check out some art galleries, have a drink at 8th Day Distillery or Centerpoint Brewing, or stop by Mako Hemp Co for some smoke. In the new South section (closer to the 65/70 overpass) there's Bike People, MVMT House Pilates studio, and more every day. If you're tired of big chain business, check out Factory Arts' amazing array of independent businesses. And welcome to the Near East Side!

If you haven't had a chance to visit the Factory Arts District aka CCIC, it is my number one recommendation to native and new Indy residents for First Friday art experiences. The Factory has tons of art, food/beer, and entertainment opportunities. It is on the near east side close to the Bottle Works district.