Have you heard of Belmont Beach in Indianapolis? Well, it’s not quite a beach, but Haughville’s historic Belmont Beach — located on the near west side of downtown — is a sandy area to relax and soak in the views of the White River.
For generations of Black residents, Belmont Beach was the only place in Indy where they could access swimming recreation during an era where there were segregated parks + public pools. Now, the Belmont Beach initiative “seeks to salvage this overlooked and overgrown area” into a place where the community can gather and engage in positive change.
Neighborhood volunteers have built the pop-up park with a play area, picnic areas, fire pits, and a performance platform. Plus, there’s a small loop mulch trail to explore, the sand “beach” area, and fishing opportunities (you will need a DNR license to fish).
Events
The grassroots community initiative is organizing events throughout the summer to activate the area.
- Saturday, May 11 | Meditation and nature hike
- Saturday, May 18 | Gardening workshop
- Friday, May 31 | Westside maker’s market + movie night
- Saturday, June 8 | Meditation and nature hike
- Saturday, June 22 | Gardening workshop
- Friday, June 28 | Westside maker’s market + movie night
- Thursday, July 4 | Fireworks at Belmont
- Saturday, July 13 | BLACK: A Festival of Joy at Riverside Park
Know before you go
- Address: 2020 N. White River Pkwy W. Dr.
- Pro tip: You can also access the park on IndyGo Route 37 or via bike lanes on White River Parkway.
- Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk.
- Parking: Limited parking is available. You can find additional parking across White River Parkway on Belmont Avenue. Use caution when crossing White River Parkway.
- Restrooms and water: Portable restrooms are available. There is no drinking water available.
- Hosting an event: Belmont Beach is a privately-managed space + all organized events and activities with more than 20 people must be approved by the resident managing committee.
- Pet policy: Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. You are responsible for cleaning up after your pet.
- Camping: Overnight camping is not permitted.
- Water warning: Stay off the dam. Swimming is very dangerous here. Use of this park and adjacent natural areas comes with risk, so please be responsible and use caution.
