With its longstanding ties to the auto racing world via the Indy 500 race and its location near many regional attractions, Indianapolis has long been a great destination in the central United States. Indianapolis sprung from a humble beginning to become one of America's great cities, but here are 7 things you don't know about Indianapolis.

1. With over 250,000 fans in attendance at each event, hosting the Indianapolis 500 as well as the Allstate 400 makes Indianapolis home to the two largest single day sporting events that take place anywhere in the world.

2. Though Indianapolis is the 13th most populous city in America, it is second only to Phoenix in terms of the largest populated state capitals.

3. In the late 1960s, Indianapolis was the only major United States city that did not riot on the night that Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated.

4. Until 12, the highest structure in the city of Indianapolis was the 284 foot tall Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument which was built in 1888.

5. The headquarters for the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) which governs most of United States collegiate sports, is located in Indianapolis.

6. Indianapolis was founded on the White River under the assumption that it would grow to be a major transportation artery, this assumption would prove false as the river was far too sandy to be of use to trading vessels.

7. The city's two major sports teams began play under different circumstances. The Indianapolis Colts were originally the Baltimore Colts and were moved to Indianapolis in 1984. The Indiana Pacers of the NBA have always been located in Indianapolis, but begas as a franchise in the old American Basketball Association (ABA).

Indianapolis is known as the Crossroads of America, and for good reason. Traveling from or to Indianapolis is extremely easy and enjoyable. Indianapolis will remain one of the most traveled to destinations in the American midwest.