Located at North and New Jersey streets in Indianapolis, Indiana, the historic Old National Centre is a striking landmark owned by the Murat Shriners. Originally built in 1909 and expanded over the years, this unique venue holds the title of the largest Shrine Center in North America and is the only one in the world carrying a name of French origin.
As you approach the building, you will immediately notice its Middle Eastern and Egyptian stylings inspired by Moorish mosques, complete with minarets, terra cotta trim, stained-glass windows, brown and yellow brick banding, and an impressive 208-foot tower rising at the southeast corner. Inside, you will discover nine distinct event areas, including the famous Murat Theatre—home to the oldest extant stage house in downtown Indianapolis—which has hosted Broadway plays, Winston Churchill, and the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.
Today, you can catch live performances in the 2,500-seat performing arts theater, enjoy events in the 2,000-seat concert hall, or explore spaces like the Egyptian Room auditorium, designed with ancient motifs just as King Tut's tomb was discovered. Whether visiting for a concert or taking in its storied architecture, this iconic venue offers a fascinating slice of local history.
What to see at Old National Centre
- The oldest extant stage house in downtown Indianapolis located within the Murat Theatre
- Striking Moorish mosque architecture featuring minarets, stained-glass windows, and a 208-foot tower
- An Egyptian-themed auditorium opened right around the discovery of King Tutankhamun's tomb
- Nine event hosting areas including a 2,500-seat performing arts theater and 2,000-seat concert hall
Visiting tips
Take time to admire the exterior brick banding, minarets, and 208-foot tower at the corner before entering for your event.
How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Evening showtime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Old National Centre is easy to reach on Indianapolis’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Indianapolis Zoo and Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Indianapolis travel guide.
See the full Indianapolis travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.