From the outside, Greenfield, Indiana feels about ten years behind the times — especially compared to the other “donut counties” around the state capital. But look closer, and you’ll see sprinkles of creativity and subtle storytelling all over downtown Greenfield.
You may find famous lines from Hoosier poet J.W. Riley carved into the sidewalk, across gorgeous brick murals splashed over historical buildings, and signage sprinkled throughout Riley Park with notes of times past.
Their annual arts festivals celebrate both Riley’s legacy and today’s local artists, giving creative expression a year-round appreciation in a time where creatives often feel cast aside.
Among all these artistic touchstones, one newer destination has emerged as Greenfield’s landing spot for community get-togethers and appreciation for the performative arts: Depot Street Park.
Where It All Began
This towering, gray structure started as a grain elevator in 1906 and was renovated upwards in 1947. Standing at 112 feet tall, it’s reported as the second-tallest building in Greenfield, dwarfed only by the courthouse.
This grain elevator became a historical landmark and a symbol of childhood memories for many, but it sat empty for nearly twenty years before the city considered demolition.
But in April 2020, a company called Depot Street Investments bought the property.
Now mind you, this is a town proud of its history and serenity. The people are very vocal about preserving historical buildings and keeping Greenfield green. They’ve even petitioned against the construction of a data center until the proposal was withdrawn. This is a community in tune with local happenings, and they won’t sit idle if they don’t approve.
So naturally, through the entirety of this 18-month reno project, locals peeked through the windows and the owners even reported receiving calls from people who wanted to know what was going on.
Turns out these two businessmen involved, Thomas Moore and Ronnie Riggs, were not part of some grubby investment firm. They too were Greenfield natives. And they hated the thought of losing such a beloved piece of local history. Their mission was to give it a new life as a restaurant.
While renovating, they kept as much of the original structure as possible and integrated donated lumber from across the county into the building’s new framework. Tons of love went into this project.
Finally, on September 3rd, 2021, The Depot was open for business, transforming into the community gathering place Greenfield had been missing.
The Depot Today
The original concrete structure still towers above the surrounding mini-district that includes Libby’s Ice Cream Shop, Organic Robot Designs (a local t-shirt printing operation), Three Bears Bakery, and even an electric bike rental station for those wanting to explore Pennsy Trail.
Inside, the building makes good use of its unusual layout. The main dining area occupies the ground floor, while additional seating spreads across upper levels. The high ceilings and overhead air ducts give it that old, industrial feeling, but the added wood touches and warm lighting makes it feel more cozy.
And you can see the basement from above through the glass floor, the same basement that once had 60,000 gallons of water drained out during renovation.
The Grub
The Depot’s menu has something for every palette: burgers, wings, steaks, flatbread pizzas, sandwiches, and wraps.
Here are just a few local favorites:
- The Mac-n-Cheese Smash Burger: the fusion of two American faves.
- Tater Kegs: Thick & crispy jumbo-sized tater tots
- Depot BBQ Ribs: Signature blend of Depot BBQ sauce on slow cooked pork rib
And don’t you worry, my gluten-free friends. They have gluten-free buns and cauliflower crusts!
Whatever you pick from the menu, I highly recommend dining out on the patio. You’ll have the perfect view of the amphitheater.
If you’ve got little ones that aren’t ready for concerts yet, The Depot also has summertime movie nights for family time, sitting with a picnic blanket and some popcorn as the sun sets in the evening.
Even when summer’s over, there’s still plenty going on during the off-season.
Seasonal Events
Greenfield has its share of Trunk-or-treats, Turkey runs, and other holiday events. Namely, the Lights at The Depot, where you can walk through the 1.8 acres of land and see all the pretty holiday lights.
On New Years Eve, head to The Depot and share a countdown smooch with your sweetheart as the fireworks blast overhead. Just like how they do in Times Square, but with way less traffic.
Support Local Businesses & Reconnect with What Truly Matters
Local small businesses like The Depot create a sense of community in a way that big box chains can never replicate. You can personally meet the owner of a local business. Oftentimes, they’ll have an attachment to the location where they’ve planted their roots.
Large corporate companies only look to expand where it’s most profitable for business, not necessarily considering what’s good for the community.
If you take anything away from reading this, remember that The Depot was a passion project. It’s come a long way since its original purpose. And yet, this old grain elevator still brings the community joy.
lt’s still a place where you can create memories, just like it did back in the early 1900’s. With a refreshing, modern look that still respects its story. For Greenfield, this was the perfect addition to a town that likes things a little quieter and simpler.
Sure, you could in theory find quicker, more convenient ways to entertain yourself from the comfort of your couch. And you can always find cheaper food elsewhere.
But life has so much to offer, and it doesn’t always have to come at a premium. As they say, the best things in life are free.
As an introvert who is also quite shy, a trip to The Depot for a free concert is far less stressful than driving to a more known, crowded venue like The Fieldhouse located in downtown Indianapolis. No shade to Indy — love you!
Beyond that, The Depot is a local landmark that encourages you to get out in the fresh air, slow down and appreciate the outdoors and the arts.
Maybe take a nice weekend stroll.
Read all the plaques and bits of poetry you find along the walking paths.
Or just sit on a bench in front of the iconic bronze Will Vawter statue, and pretend he’s painting your portrait!
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