If you like architecture, you'll love the Scottish Rite Cathedral in Indianapolis. The outside of the Cathedral is Gothic, the main lobby is Tudor, the lounge is Tudor Gothic, the library is Jacobean, the theater is Elizabethan, and the banquet hall is English Renaissance. The building is 179,000 square feet and can host three weddings and a high school prom at the same time. Everything in the building symbolizes Freemasonry and is based on 33, symbolizing the 33 years of Jesus Christ's life. Architect George F. Schreiber, who designed the cathedral, drew inspiration from the cathedral in Cologne, Germany.
Parking and Public Transportation at Scottish Rite Cathedral
The cathedral has its own parking lot. IndyGo routes 18, 38, and 39 stop across the street.
Best and Worst Times to Go to Scottish Rite Cathedral
As the Scottish Rite Cathedral sometimes hosts private events (they host an average of 50 weddings per year), call before you go. Tours are conducted Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and the third Saturday of each month. Reservations are required for groups of 10 or more.
Admission to Scottish Rite Cathedral
Admission is free, although donations are accepted. There is a small per person charge for groups of 10 or more.
Must See/Do at Scottish Rite Cathedral
Don't miss the magnificent crystal chandelier, which weighs more than 2,500 pounds and contains nearly 200 incandescent lamps--your guide will probably light it for you. Also worth looking at is a stained glass window with two knights whose eyes and feet seem to follow you around the room. Finally, there is the Double Eagle Cafe, which is open to the public--the carrot souflee is excellent. The menu changes daily, but a salad bar is available and pork tenderloins are served daily (a must-try for those visiting from out of state, but be prepared to share it with a friend).
Other Places to Visit Near Scottish Rite Cathedral
The Indianapolis-Marion County Public Library Central branch is located a brief stroll away, and offers an excellent view of downtown Indianapolis. The Indiana War Memorial is a short jaunt away. One of the best-kept secrets in downtown is Quill's Coffee, which is located on 9th Street, close to the Canal.
Insider Tip for Scottish Rite Cathedral
The Scottish Rite Cathedral is home of the 32-degree Masonic Learning Center for Children, which provides free tutoring to children and teenagers with dyslexia, a learning disability that makes it difficult to read. Donations and teachers with a Bachelor's degree are always welcome.
Author's bio: Becky Oberg is a professional writer who has lived in Indianapolis on and off for nearly thirty years. Her hobbies include acting, reading, singing, and playing video games.
