Explore Meridian-Kessler - Indiana Home Scout

Living in Meridian-Kessler

Welcome to Meridian-Kessler, Indiana!

Meridian-Kessler sits about four miles north of downtown Indianapolis and is comprised of the area from 38th Street to Kessler Boulevard and from Meridian Street to the Monon Trail. Incorporated in 1965, the Meridian-Kessler Neighborhood Association represents more than 18,000 residents, businesses, and community stakeholders.

Rooted in history, Meridian-Kessler was founded in the 1820s, with the town being laid out several years later. Laid out in a grid pattern, the neighborhood’s history is evident in its architecture: including Tudor Revivals, Craftsman bungalows, American Foursquares and the grand mansions that line Meridian Street.

The atmosphere in this town reflects its origins and how it grew into its present-day version. There’s a blend of urban and suburban that features easily walkable routes and a diverse population of young professionals, growing families and long-time residents.

You’ll find plenty of vibrant smaller hubs that contain traditional and eclectic dining options and plenty of coffee shops for your daily dose of caffeine and breakfast sandwiches. But don’t think it’s all about shopping and eating, the local Monon Trail runs along the easter border and plays host to runners, walkers, and cyclists looking to enjoy fresh air and nature.

When you add in an excellent education system and safety, it’s easy to see why Meridian-Kessler is a top choice amongst locals and people looking to set down new roots.

See available homes in Meridian-Kessler

At a Glance

Price Range and Market Trends

You’ll find a competitive real estate market in Meridian-Kessler, with homes average $483K, but as the saying goes, “You get what you pay for.” You’ll be able to choose from several different styles of architecture, all of which carry a feeling of yesteryear. The diverse streetscapes vary from block to block.

Houses usually stay on the market on an average of 26 days, but consider these properties a seller’s market. The beauty and diversity of available properties increases the popularity of this neighborhood, as does its cozy but modern feel.

As always, being prepared financially helps speed up the process. Most of the houses in the area feature multiple bedrooms and updated amenities.

See available homes in Meridian-Kessler

Exterior picture of two story estate in Meridian-Kessler

Monon Trail activity in Meridian-Kessler

Outdoors

The Great Outdoors is more than just great in Meridian-Kessler, with parks and trails offering plenty of space for exercising or just taking an easy stroll and enjoying the wide variety of everything nature has to offer.

One of the advantages of accessing these spaces is that they are within easy walking distance, which means you can leave your car – and your worries – behind!

Green Spaces

If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, the Monon Trail is the crown jewel of outdoor spaces in Meridian-Kessler.

It begins in the heart of Indianapolis and then runs into Hamilton County, where it connects the Central Canal Towpath to the Fall Creek Greenway, eventually leading to the White River Wapahani Trail.

The result is network that’s easy to navigate and enjoy and passes through multiple parks and attractions, making it fun to plan an entire day that includes everything from picnic lunches to running, biking or walking.

Several features and parks connected to the Monon Trail include:

Frank & Judy O’Bannon Park
Martin Luther King Jr. Park
Frederick Douglass Park
Charles R. Williams Park
Indiana State Fairgrounds
Canterbury Park
Broad Ripple Village
Marott Park

Canterbury Park

In addition to the Monon Trail, there are other standouts that require attention, one of which is Canterbury Park. Bordering the Monon Trail, the park is only a bike ride, or brisk walk, away from attractions including Broad Ripple and the State Fairgrounds.

Having undergone a recent construction totaling more than $1 million, the park also features a brand-new playground and sand volleyball court. There’s also a bike pump track for the cycling enthusiasts in the area.

Alice Carter Place

While a first impression may make it seem like a smaller park, Alice Carter Place has more than one can imagine. Starting out as a valued neighborhood gathering spot, the park serves as the trailhead for Central Canal, making it the perfect stop for joggers and walkers to take a quick breath and rehydrate.

The park includes a circular plaza bordered by planters that explode in color in the spring and summer months, with shade trees making it the perfect place for a picnic. Paved paths provide for soothing walks and multiple benches complete the charm.

Walkability & Transportation

If you’re moving into Meridian-Kessler, plan on buying a comfortable and durable pair of shoes, because this town’s accessibility to pedestrians is virtually unmatched. Whether you’re taking your dog for a walk or looking for a caffeine fix, you’ll be able to get there without a car. Convenience stores, grocery stores and hardware stores are also located in the general area.

The transportation options in Meridian-Kessler include the Red Line bus rapid transit system along with IndyGo bus routes. Cars and bikes are other options and if you’re open to ride sharing services like Uber, that’s also available.

Walking Paths & Trails

Many of the walking paths and trails you’ll find in Meridian-Kessler branch out from the larger Monon Trail, but there are other options to explore.

Fall Creek Trail is located near the southern part of the neighborhood and boasts scenic paths bordering Fall Creek. Kessler Trail is completely family friendly with its paved smooth asphalt and concrete path – perfect for walks or cycling.

You’ll find 94 acres of hiking trails, river views and nature center exhibits at Holliday Park, while Marott Park has quiet dirt paths and plenty of nature walks that are wooded and adjacent to the White River. Broad Ripple Park features green space and walking routes near the river.

Outside picture of the entrance to the Jazz Kitchen in Meridian-Kessler

Culture

The culture in Meridian-Kessler ranges from its long and storied history, which can be seen in its varied architecture featuring Tudor Revival. Founded in 1965, the Meridian-Kessler Neighborhood Association plays a vital role in preserving and advancing the area’s historic identity. Complimenting these areas is the annual Home and Garden Tour, designed to showcase the area’s architectural heritage.

Nearby cultural sites include Newfields, also known as the Indianapolis Museum of Art – galleries, the popular Lily House Mansion and the Fairbanks Art and Nature Park draw thousands of visitors every year.

The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is a massive world-class museum features five floors of interactive exhibits, including the Dinosphere and outdoor sports experiences. It’s designed to inspire and educate its visitors, from kids to adults!

Amenities, Shopping & Culture

Meridian-Kessler’s neighborhoods are like worlds unto themselves, each offering its own section of cafes and shops that are walkable and enjoyable. North College Avenue functions as the restaurant district, with choices including Twenty Tap, the Meridian Restaurant and Bar and Mama Carolla’s.

You can view the full board of fare for the local restaurants in the list below:

If you’re looking for a day of shopping, there are multiple boutiques and stores in the area that cater to virtually any taste. Locally made gifts and regional specialties can be found at Prairie General while Surroundings offers home décor and antiques with their sense of flair and fashion.

Schools & Education

Indianapolis Public Schools serves Meridian-Kessler, and has enjoyed a proven reputation for producing first-rate students who are fully prepared for high school and then higher education.

The local elementary schools – Center for Inquiry 84 and Center for Inquiry School 70, are both highly rated for their curriculum, which is inquiry-based. Early middle grade students are also eligible to enter a district lottery for placement in Butler Lab School 55.

There are two separate choices for local high schools. Shortridge High School has a solid reputation in the area and offers an International Baccalaureate program. This program focuses on putting students on a career pathway that combines a commitment to studying and then blending it with real world experience.

Other local high schools that are not in the public school system include:

Buying in Meridian-Kessler

If you’re looking for a home in Meridian-Kessler, be prepared to see historic homes with period architecture located in a neighborhood that’s a mix of urban and suburban lifestyles. These classic homes’ unique craftsmanship and design harken back to when they were first built.

The price points for these homes range from $415,000 to $489,000. Properties usually last 34-54 days, depending on pricing and other factors.

Located only 4 miles from downtown Indianapolis, the walkability rating is high, with plenty of coffee shops, bookstores, and boutiques along the way. You’ll also have easy access to the Monon Trail.

All of these highlights translate into a fast-moving seller’s market, so being prepared to move quickly is a must. Begin by getting fully approved from a local lender, and include the cost of upkeep in your budget, as older properties may need updated electrical systems and plumbing.