This home was once the residence of David Letterman, who grew up in Broad Ripple before rising to fame as a late-night TV host.
INDIANAPOLIS — A piece of television history is now available for rent on the north side of Indianapolis.
David Letterman’s childhood home, located at 5520 Indianola Ave. in Broad Ripple, is now listed on Airbnb, offering a unique opportunity to stay in a house with deep ties to one of television’s most iconic late-night hosts.
Familiar sight with an extraordinary backstory
On the outside, 5520 Indianola Ave. looks like any other bungalow in the neighborhood. It’s a well-loved family home — modestly tucked among the other homes on the street. But step through the front door and you’ll soon discover this house has a story like no other.
“It’s just the normal family bungalow that was well lived in and loved,” said Krystin Wiggs, the current owner.
But inside, you’ll soon see there is nothing normal about the story here.
The home where David Letterman grew up
This home was once the residence of Letterman, who grew up here before rising to fame as the host of “Late Night with David Letterman” and “The Late Show with David Letterman.” When Wiggs learned the house was up for sale, she jumped at the chance to own it.
“He is a part of our history,” Wiggs said, reflecting on Letterman’s influence on Indianapolis and the broader television landscape. “We’re really proud of him. He made it to the big time and hosted a really amazing show that people enjoyed for so many years.”
Creating a museum-style experience
With a passion for preserving the home’s rich history, Wiggs turned the property into more than just a place to stay the night. She wanted to give guests a glimpse into Letterman’s life growing up in Broad Ripple.
“I would love for it to feel like a museum,” Wiggs said.
The main living room is decorated with memorabilia, including pictures of celebrities appearing on “The Late Show.” Wiggs said she aimed to recreate the feeling of the Ed Sullivan Theater, where Letterman filmed his famous late-night show.
“I want it to feel like you’re sitting in there,” Wiggs said.
Local artists feature Letterman’s interests
Throughout the house, Wiggs hired local artists to help showcase Letterman’s interests outside of work. In the basement, a wall-sized mural by Leah Pinney highlights Letterman’s connection to Ball State University, with an image of the bell tower and the David Letterman Building, along with brightly colored cardinals.
On the porch, a mural by Amiah Mims showcases Letterman’s love of racing, depicting a racing version of him as the team owner.
The first guest’s experience
Mike Griffith is the first guest to stay in the house. He lives in Washington, D.C.
“The mural on the back was pretty cool,” Griffith recalled. “It was cool to be in the kitchen knowing that his mom was probably making him lunch or dinner, or something like that when he was a kid.”
The home also features memorabilia from Letterman’s family, such as black-and-white photos of Letterman playing in the yard as a child, and Dorothy Letterman’s bestselling cookbook, which guests can browse through.
Staying in a piece of television history
The home is a charming three-bedroom, two-bath bungalow that can accommodate up to six guests. It’s available for $200 a night on Airbnb, with a two-night minimum. Pets are welcome.
Wiggs reflected on the impact of the property, saying, “I think David is an example of someone who came from a normal background and went on to create a really special career and legacy for himself. I think he represents what’s special about Indiana and showing the rest of the world that, you know, Hoosiers are nice, humble people, but we do cool things, too.”
So, whether you’re a fan of Letterman or just looking for a one-of-a-kind stay, David Letterman’s childhood home offers a unique opportunity to connect with television history while experiencing life in Broad Ripple.
Ready to book your stay? Visit Airbnb to reserve your spot in this unforgettable slice of American TV history.
