Wholesale District (Indianapolis, Indiana)

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At the heart of the plan for the Wholesale District is the respect for its historic significance to Indianapolis. Around the turn of the century, when hundreds of trains passed through Union Station daily, the streets were lined with hotels, wholesalers, and retail shops.

Wholesale grocers sold fresh goods daily before the advent of the modern grocery store. The District had many such grocers, but also wholesalers who sold dry and finished goods. The House of Crane, whose facade remains part of Circle Centre, sold cigars and Hanson, VanCamp & Co. sold hardware.

The Wholesale District was of primary importance to the transformation of Indianapolis from a small town to a big city. No longer did shoppers have to rely on retailers who sold finished goods shipped from Louisville or Cincinnati. They could now go to a central location and buy the same items at wholesale prices. With Union Station nearby, wholesalers could ship goods more cheaply and more easily.

Although the Great Depression in 1929 devastated the Wholesale District, the area evolved and remains part of Indianapolis’ central business district.

Since 1995, more than $1 billion has been invested in the area, transforming it into one of the city's premier shopping and dining districts. Notable landmarks include Circle Centre Mall, Georgia Street, Indiana Theatre, Indianapolis Artsgarden, Pan American Plaza, and Union Station. Today, the Wholesale District is home to numerous hotels, restaurants, and bars accommodating visitors to Gainbridge Fieldhouse and Indiana Convention Center.

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