Traditions at the Golden Ace Inn

The oldest Irish pub in Indianapolis sits on East Washington Street. On March 1, 1934, The Golden Ace was established by Irish immigrants, Ann and John McGinley. Every year on March 1st, the pub holds an anniversary party, rolling prices back to 1934! They hold many other traditional events such as Irish music nights, blue grass or folk, and pub trivia. Perhaps the best is a Notre Dame football game. Pictured is a handwritten sign which holds the spot for best mates, second generation Jim McGinley, and Carl Meisberger. The Notre Dame fight song is played with every Irish touchdown. Uncle Chuck McGinley mans the kitchen, serving free coneys at half-time. On a regular day, you can enjoy their award-winning cheeseburger cooked in a seasoned iron skillet. The clam chowder is quite tasty as well! 

Now operated by the third generation of McGinley’s, the pub has had several upgrades, such as the outdoor patio, which happened during COVID. Deep in the vault of traditions, Jim McGinley recalls his childhood Sundays of cleaning the pub. It was a two-part tradition to leave mother with some alone time and learn the responsibilities of operation. Some chores included dusting bar stools and polishing. They even cleaned the floor vents. Jim states that as they grew older, the chores became more involved. Regular patrons would throw change in the floor vents for the children to discover while cleaning. Nostalgia is visible with many items, such as the antique cash register which holds the daily cash. Notre Dame football games were aired on the vintage radio, which still works. Take a step inside and relish the treasures yourself. 

Their St Patrick’s Day celebrations have been named one of the ten best parties in the United States. There is one day left to catch the Irish Spirit on the actual St Patrick’s Day, March 17th. Featuring three bands of Irish music, the party starts at 11am. The cost is a lot of Irish fun, people, music, spirits, food, and culture ($10 cash). The Golden Ace is a cash only establishment. 

For a calendar of events and line ups, please visit the website: the goldenaceinn.com

On Facebook; I love the Golden Ace Inn

The Golden Ace Inn

2533 E Washington St (on the old trolley line)

317-632-0696