Hudnut Commons

A Tribute to Mayor Hudnut

Tucked into the corner of Maryland Street and Capitol Avenue in downtown Indianapolis sits Hudnut Commons - a small but mighty green space with a big story to tell. Named after William H. Hudnut III, Indy's cherished four-term mayor, this pocket park honors the man who helped shape the city we know today.

If you're exploring downtown, you'll find this tranquil spot just a stone's throw from the Indiana Convention Center - an excellent little oasis amid the urban hustle.

Park Features

The heart of the park features a life-sized statue of Mayor Hudnut himself, casually seated on a bench. There's something wonderfully approachable about this memorial - he's not standing on a pedestal looking down, but sitting right where you could join him, reflecting his reputation for being accessible to Indianapolis residents.

A serene water fountain bubbles at the center of the commons, adding a soothing soundtrack to your visit. The well-kept lawns and thoughtfully designed gardens round out this small but intentional space, making it a natural gathering spot for both locals and visitors taking a breather from city exploration.

Shade and Seating

One of the nicest things about Hudnut Commons is how the mature wisteria vines create natural canopies overhead. These living umbrellas offer cool patches of shade that are especially welcome during Indiana's warmer months.

The seating areas are positioned just right - you can relax with views of the fountain and greenery, or turn your attention outward to capture some great photos of downtown's architecture. The Hyatt and Westin Hotel make particularly striking backdrops if you're in the mood for some urban photography.

Historical Background

This little patch of green has quite the backstory. The land once housed the Indianapolis Times newspaper until it stopped the presses for good in 1965. After that, it became something far less inspiring - a parking lot - until the Westin Hotel development nearby in 1987 sparked changes for the area.

The space evolved into Capitol Commons before finally becoming Hudnut Commons in 2013. Today, the Capital Improvement Board of Managers keeps the park in good shape, and it remains a meaningful stop on historical tours through downtown Indianapolis.