Take an Alphabetical Adventure Through Indy A to Z

A new immersive experience opening Feb. 27 at the Indiana State Museum really spells out the charm of the Circle City.

Indy A to Z presented by OneAmerica Financial and supported by the Efroymson Family Fund continues through June 28 and is the third of six seasonal exhibits to open at the museum this year. Inspired by a suggestion from local educators and developed by the museum’s experience team, the experience takes visitors on an alphabetical adventure to discover the stories that define Indianapolis.

“Indy A to Z looks at the city in a really interesting way using the alphabet as a framework,” said Brian Mancuso, chief officer of engagement for the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites. “We want people to come away with a deeper appreciation for the city. We want people to find wonder and fall in love with Indy.”

Featuring 26 unique and perhaps unexpected topics, Indy A to Z offers visitors a tour through the city — looking at it one letter at a time. Within the experience, guests will see more than 45 fascinating objects that represent noteworthy personalities, monumental sights, vibrant culture and creativity that have made Indianapolis a city worth celebrating.

An oversized map that pinpoints significant city landmarks is at the center of the space, guiding visitors to begin exploring groupings of similarly themed stories throughout the exhibit.

C stands for “Cheer” and the roar of supporters for the city’s sports teams while V represents “Vroom Vroom” and an event the city is known for across the country — the Indianapolis 500. Next to a race fan’s outfit and an Indianapolis Colts cheerleader uniform, guests can enter the Indy Fan Cheer Booth and measure the might of their voices against the decibels of crowds at Indianapolis’ various venues.

O is for “Ours”, giving a nod to the nearly 500 distinct neighborhoods across the city. Area residents can record personal tales of their beloved communities through a digital story-sharing booth. Plus, a memorable photo op invites visitors to pose with the massive O that once adorned the iconic OneAmerica Financial Tower.

“OneAmerica Financial is proud to be the presenting sponsor of this impactful exhibit, which brings Indianapolis’ stories, people and achievements to life,” said Kim Thomas, chief human resources officer for the organization. “For nearly 150 years, our company has been proud to call Indiana home. Supporting the museum — an institution that preserves our past and inspires future generations — reflects our deep commitment to the history, culture and continued growth of our state.”

Highlighting other pillars in the business community in Indy A to Z, a giant Prozac pill signifies L for “Lilly”, and a sign for Madam C.J. Walker’s authorized agents represents B for “Beauty”. Gen Con’s dragon mascot, Genevieve, stands under H for “Hospitable Hosts” and showcases Indy's role as a premier convention destination. Signified by the city’s signature “NDY” statue, I stands for “Indy” and hints at the many nicknames the city is known by.

The experience also delves into some of the complicated chapters in the city’s past. N represents the Circle City’s “Notorious” characters including John Dillinger, the gangster known as “Public Enemy No. 1,” while S stands for “Skeletons in our Closet” and takes a hard look at stories surrounding Riverside Amusement Park and other points of infamy.

Indy A to Z is free for members and included with museum admission, which is $23 for adults, $17 for youth (ages 3-17) and $21 for seniors. Visitors can go to IndianaMuseum.org to learn more and save by purchasing admission in advance.