Are you a basketball aficionado? A fan of Larry Bird, perhaps? Well, if you find yourself in Terre Haute, Indiana, then you're in luck! This city holds a special place in the heart of Larry Bird enthusiasts and Indiana basketball history, where the legendary basketball player honed his skills and left an indelible mark on the sport. Join us on a walking tour of Terre Haute, where we'll explore key landmarks associated with Larry and see where the legend got its legs.
Larry Legend Statue
Just a block from the Larry Bird Museum, you'll find the first stop on this Larry Bird pilgrimage - the 15-foot Larry Legend Statue and historic marker. Located in downtown Terre Haute in front of the Hulman Center, this bronze sculpture immortalizes Bird in his iconic pose, capturing his larger-than-life presence on the basketball court. Local sculptor Bill Wolfe, also an ISU alum, depicted Bird in his No. 33 Sycamores jersey taking a shot. Take a moment to grab a selfie with the legend and pay tribute to the man who helped put Terre Haute on the map.
Indiana State University's Hulman Center
No Larry Bird tour would be complete without a visit to the Hulman Center, located at Indiana State University. This arena holds a special significance in Bird's journey, as it was here that he played for the Sycamores, leading them to an unforgettable game against Michigan State in the 1979 NCAA Championship. That historic game, often called the "Magic vs. Bird" showdown, propelled Bird into the national spotlight and cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players in college basketball history.
As you wander through the concourse of the Hulman Center, take a moment to immerse yourself in the rich history of Indiana State University basketball. You'll find an array of memorabilia celebrating Bird's illustrious career and chronicling his remarkable journey, along with his retired No. 33 jersey. ISU officially retired his number in 2004, although no player had worn it since Bird.
Bayh College of Education (Former ISU Lab School)
One block north is the Bayh College of Education. If it looks like an old school building, you are correct, as it is the former Indiana State Lab School, a K-12 school with two gyms. This building, beautifully restored with a picturesque center atrium, is where Larry Bird spent countless hours practicing when he wasn’t in the Hulman Center. You can see a piece of the old gym floor, a tangible reminder of Bird's dedication and determination during his formative years, displayed along the main corridor.
Larry Bird Avenue
As you continue your journey through Terre Haute, be sure to stop along Larry Bird Avenue. Stretching just one block between 8th and 7th streets, this quaint street serves as an excellent photo spot as you imagine Larry walking along this street on his way to become Terre Haute's hometown hero at the Hulman Center.
The Copper Bar
Our last stop brings us back to where we began at The Copper Bar, located next to the Larry Bird Museum. A local hotspot brimming with memorabilia from the former Boston Connection, here, you'll find a treasure trove of artifacts celebrating Bird's time with the Boston Celtics, including many photographs from his Sycamore days. Stop for lunch or grab a drink and some wings on the outdoor patio, where you can experience the impressive two-story mural by local artist Becky Hochholter. The iconic Sports Illustrated cover featuring Bird in his Indiana State University No. 33 jersey is a fitting homage to a basketball legend.
As you conclude your Larry Legend tour, take a moment to reflect on the impact of Larry Bird's legacy. From the hardwood of the Hulman Center to the streets of downtown Terre Haute, his influence is palpable at every turn. Whether you're a die-hard basketball fan or appreciate greatness, a visit to Terre Haute will surely leave you inspired by the legend of Larry Bird.
One More Stop - Off the Beaten Path:
West Vigo High School
For those looking to follow Bird’s footsteps outside of downtown Terre Haute, you might be interested in a lesser-known aspect of his remarkable journey. While his collegiate career at Indiana State University is well-documented, Bird's path to basketball stardom was not without its twists and turns. Dan Shaughnessy wrote in his 2021 book, Wish It Lasted Forever: Life With the Larry Bird Celtics, about how Bird remained true to his promise to his mother to earn his degree, which led him to West Vigo High School in Terre Haute, where he made the NBA wait as he served as a physical education and health teacher, fulfilling his student-teaching obligations. So, as you drive into the gates of West Vigo High School, envision Bird riding along in the passenger seat, giving driving lessons to student drivers, all while preparing for what would become a legendary career with the Boston Celtics.