1. Old World Gondoliers

    1. Old World Gondoliers

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    Indianapolis, IN

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    Old World Gondoliers

    4.9 (22 reviews)
    Open 12:00 pm - 8:00 PM

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    Indiana Central Canal and Fresco Cafe near where you check in and board
    Ann C.

    We scheduled a gondola ride with two other couples for our anniversary weekend. Unfortunately the weather did not cooperate but Jeff from Old World Gondoliers called us that morning to work with us on our options. He gave us choices on rescheduling for the gondola or we could take the covered cocktail yacht. We choose the yacht. We arrived early and because of the approaching inclement weather they were able to board us right away. Massimo was our gondolier and he was an excellent host with an amazing voice! The scenery combined with Massimo's serenades was so relaxing. Everyone with Old World Gondoliers was friendly and accommodating and we all had a great time. What a unique experience in the middle of Indiana! On a side note, Fresco cafe is located near the boarding area and you can purchase Italian beer or drinks to take on board if you choose.

    Hannah H.

    What a fun and unique experience! My family came to Indy for the weekend, and we booked an afternoon ride. We were nervous it would be canceled due to a forecast of rain/wind, and we were thrilled that they called us in the morning to ask if we would like to move our ride to earlier in the day to have better weather. Great service! Massimo was our gondolier, and he had an absolutely incredible voice. We loved the ride, and I would 10/10 recommend requesting Massimo!

    Christin C.

    5/5 stars for the time spent learning some history and listening to Mossimo's beautiful voice. He even sang Happy Birthday to me and my sisters. The views on the canal can't be beat.

    Our afternoon view
    Matt S.

    Absolutely incredible. Unique and entertaining, yet also romantic and with such an authentic Italian feel, we almost forgot we were still here in Indiana. The ride was perfect and 60 minutes provided just the right amount of time to enjoy each other's company and a bottle of wine. Customer service from the entire team went far beyond my expectations. This will become a new summer tradition for us and I hope others take advantage of this Indy experience. We were fortunate to have Matteo and wouldn't have changed anything about our afternoon with Old World Gondoliers.

    Riding on the Gondola

    Dante was absolutely amazing. He really made the experience live not only with the singing of songs but the history of the canal and area. I've lived in Indianapolis my whole life and didn't know the interesting facts he mentioned. Very easy access to the Gondola and parking close by. Would recommend to friends and family for special occasions. Truly made my wife and I day special.

    Brian M.

    I was able to check this company out today durning a Yelp event. Didja know that there use to be 10000 gondoliers in Italy and now there are only 600 around the world? Didja know that only about 60 of those gondoliers will still sing that beautiful Italian music? Didja know that some of those singing gondoliers are right here in Indianapolis Indiana? Yep, we got'em and the trip is awesome, peaceful, informative, friendly, comfortable. It is an awesome date night thing to do in Indy! I want to one back with my wife for a romantic trip down the canal!

    Christine Z.

    I always think of the Central Canal as the ultimate money shot - it's just so dang pretty. The skyline background, the beautiful Indiana History Center, the fountains. It's romantic even if you are one of eight people in the boat. So romantic, in fact, the owner, Goffredo, mentioned they have two marriage proposals everyday they're running. A few notes: Gondolo - imported from Venice, Italy (so it's the real deal), complete with an Italian singer Cost - $25 pp (+20% for gratuity) for the 30-minute public boat tour, or $150 for a private ride Location - They depart in front of the Fresco Italian Cafe. I took Pacers Bikeshare to Senate & Michigan Street. There's a canal entrance (staircase right off Michigan) which made it easy to locate. Tip: Go on the 7 pm Thursday ride to hear the free concert at the Indiana History Center Tip #2: After the ride, head into Fresco Italian Cafe and order their delectable s'mores bar!

    View from our boat on the Canal in Indy

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    Thank you so much for coming and we’re glad you had a wonderful time.

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    Review Highlights - Old World Gondoliers

    He really made the experience live not only with the singing of songs but the history of the canal and area.

    Mentioned in 7 reviews

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