Mass Ave

Massachusetts Avenue, more commonly known as Mass Ave, is a revitalized street in downtown Indy full of hip boutiques and restaurants.  It is within walking distance of the JW Marriott (1.5 miles).  The nearby Old National Centre (formally known as the Murat Theatre) is a venue that has boasted acts such as The Flaming Lips and MGMT and shows like Wicked.

Starbucks     430 Massachusetts Ave.     317-423-9328
While Starbucks in and of itself isn't remarkable, this particular location boasts a clover press.  See the description about Hubbard and Cravens for more on clover-pressed coffee.

Bru Burger Bar     410 Massachusetts Ave.       317-635-4278
Bru is a casual dining restaurant focusing on, you guessed it, burgers.  Beef burgers are the primary focus, but the menu also includes lamb and turkey burgers, salads, and a few vegetarian options--plus a tap list of local, draught beers.  We've had fairly classic burger choices here and weren't disappointed, although we weren't overly wowed.  The prices are very reasonable, however, and dining al fresco on a warm evening is pleasant and good for people-watching.

Bakersfield Mass Ave       334 Massachusetts Ave.       217-635-6962
We've wanted to try this place for months, but it's always packed with young urbanities enjoying an after-work happy hour.  We have it on good authority that the tacos and margaritas are delicious, and when we've passed by during warmer seasons and had a look in, everyone seemed to be having a great time.  Salsas and guacamole looked right.  The tap list seems modest, but the bottled beer selection includes many local favorites like Sun King.

MacNivens is a Scottish (not Irish) pub.  We don't recommend it.

Silver in the City    434 Massachusetts Ave.     317-955-9925
Silver in the City is a favorite for jewelry, gifts, and quirky housewares. It's also where conference-goers can pick up their very own rainbow "We Like You Here" t-shirt to support the LGBT community in Indiana (one way to feel good about attending CCCC in a state with a hostile legislature).

Mass Avenue Toys       409 Massachusetts Ave.       317-955-8697
This is a great little shop with many educational, non-gendered options.  They have science-related toys, selections from Haba, and books we haven't found elsewhere.  We've gone to Mass Ave Toys when looking for gifts for relatives and friends' children, and we'll spend a good hour or so just playing with the toys ourselves.