As the largest city in Indiana and the second-largest city in the Midwest, there’s always something exciting happening in Indianapolis! It’s no secret that the city is best known for being a world-class sports hub but there’s so much more to Indy than sports. 

Each year visitors from all around the world flock to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the famed Indianapolis 500, the world’s biggest single-day sporting event! Plus, sports fans will definitely want to catch a Colts game at Lucas Oil Stadium and a Pacers game at Bankers Life Fieldhouse.

Nestled along the scenic White River, nature enthusiasts will love kayaking along Central Canal, exploring Eagle Creek Park and Nature Preserve, and picnicking in White River State Park. First-time visitors will definitely want to learn about the city’s history in Monument Circle, peruse iconic works of art at the Indianapolis Museum of Art, and check out the animals at the Indianapolis Zoo.

Condé Nast Traveler also named Indy the most “Underrated Food City in America.” When it comes to eating and drinking your way through the city, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Plus, no trip to Indianapolis is complete without trying one of their famous Hoosier pork tenderloin sandwiches!

Indianapolis is also home to some truly iconic historic hotels, art-filled boutique hotels, and charming bed and breakfasts. So many, in fact, that you might have a hard time choosing the perfect one. So we’ve created a list of the 12 best hotels in Indianapolis to help you plan your perfect getaway!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 12 Best Boutique Hotels in Indianapolis, Indiana

Where to Stay in Indianapolis

It’s no surprise that the best hotels in Indianapolis are clustered around the historic Mile Square. If this is your first visit to Indy, this is the best place to base yourself. Not only will you be right in the heart of downtown but most of the city’s main attractions are within walking distance.

History buffs will love staying in the Lockerbie Square area. It stands proud as the oldest surviving neighborhood in Indy and still boasts cobblestone streets and beautiful 19th-century homes. Many of the homes have been transformed into amazing boutique hotels and B&Bs! 

If you want to stay in the coolest part of town, look no further than Fountain Square. Not only will you find all sorts of hip hotels here but you’ll love being able to walk to all of the cool galleries, bars, and restaurants. 

For those wanting to be a bit removed from the hustle and bustle of downtown, Broad Ripple is the perfect pick. Located a 25-minute drive from downtown, the peaceful neighborhood is nestled right on the scenic White River. 

The 12 Best Boutique Hotels in Indianapolis, Indiana 

1. Ironworks Hotel Indy

If you want to stay in the coolest boutique hotel in Indianapolis, look no further than the Ironworks Hotel. True to its name, the hotel’s design was inspired by the Industrial Revolution. So expect to find exposed pipes, wooden beams, and metal throughout this industrial-chic space. 

The stylish rooms are outfitted with plush beds, luxury bedding, leather sofas, and beautiful wood and iron trimmings. You’ll love the thoughtful extras, including the 60-inch smart TVs, Keurig coffeemakers, and comfy bathrobes. If you want to go all out, the Founder’s Suite boasts a private rooftop terrace with a fire pit, plenty of patio furniture, and outdoor speakers perfect for an intimate gathering. 

The nearby Fashion Mall at Keystone is home to all sorts of excellent restaurants, but you’ll have plenty to choose from at Ironworks if you don’t feel like going out. You can enjoy locally sourced dishes on Provision’s outdoor terrace, dine on innovative Japanese fare at Blue Sushi Sake Grill, or order up organic breakfast and lunch dishes at Rize. There’s also an on-site gym in case you want to keep up with your workout routine during your visit.

2. Bottleworks Hotel 

This luxury boutique hotel is housed in what was part of the largest Coca-Cola bottling plant in the world from the 1920s until the 1960s. The entire building received a meticulous makeover and opened its doors to guests in December 2020. Expect the perfect blend of modern amenities, historic throwbacks, and original architectural details.

Explore the hotel, and you’ll find all sorts of offbeat amenities, including a vintage photo booth, sparkling water stations, and pet welcome packages. There’s also a fully outfitted, 24-hour gym and a lounge with a pool table. 

You’ll love the sleek rooms, which have comfy pillow top beds, 65-inch smart TVs, and art deco decor. You can luxuriate with the free Gilchrist & Soames bath products, brew your morning coffee with the Keurig coffeemaker, and snack on local goodies from the carefully curated minibar. 

If you’re on the go, you can order handcrafted coffee drinks at Blue Collar Coffee Co. In the evenings, Modita serves up creative Asian-inspired dishes – from dim sum to sushi. The trendy Garage Food Hall is just steps away if you feel like dining at one of Indy’s coolest spots.

3. The Alexander

Art lovers will definitely want to book a stay at The Alexander. Every room in this unique boutique hotel boasts curated artwork commissioned from local and international artists. You’ll feel like you’re staying in a museum!

In addition to custom artwork, the rooms are outfitted with mid-century furnishings, spacious workstations and complimentary wifi, and luxe bathrooms with Aveda bath products. If you need more space or are planning on an extended stay, the Presidential Suite boasts a luxurious bathroom with a deep soaking tub, a fully stocked kitchen, and a spacious living room.

The hotel is located right in the heart of town, so you can easily walk to some of Indianapolis’ best bars and restaurants. If you don’t want to look for a restaurant, the hotel has an excellent Italian eatery and a coffee and cocktail bar. You can always order room service if you’re feeling ultra-lazy!

4. Conrad Indianapolis

If you’re looking for a luxury 5-star hotel, Conrad is hands down the best hotel in Indianapolis. You know a hotel is something special when it has an art collection with original works by Dalí, Picasso, Warhol, and more! Plus, you’ll be connected to Circle Centre Mall via a skywalk, so the location can’t be beat.

When you’re not on the town, you can easily spend your days getting pampered at the spa and wellness center, swimming laps in the indoor pool, or working out in the state-of-the-art fitness center. If you want to treat yourself, Conrad just happens to be home to the best wine bar in the city!

The menu at Tastings boasts the largest by-the-glass wine list in Indianapolis and an excellent selection of cheese platters and small plates. It’s the perfect place to socialize with friends. For a fine dining experience, The Capital Grille serves up dry aged steaks and fresh seafood dishes. 

After a long day, you’ll love relaxing in the luxurious rooms. All rooms and suites feature comfy beds with pillow menus, 49-inch flat-screens, and marble ensuites with TVs built into the mirror.

5. Hotel Carmichael

Hotel Carmichael is located in the heart of Carmel City Center near the Arts & Design District. The Palladium at the Center for Performing Arts is just steps away, so there’s always something exciting going on just outside your door! The hotel is also nestled along the Monon Trail, a bustling walking and cycling path.

Step inside this elegant boutique hotel and you’ll immediately be impressed by the polished black-and-white tile floors, sparkling chandeliers, and framed paintings. You’re sure to love all of the hotel’s unique amenities. Catch a world-class cabaret show at Feinstein’s, enjoy refined French fare at Vivante, and grab after-dinner drinks and listen to live piano music in the lobby lounge. 

The rooms and suites are the perfect blend of luxurious amenities and modern technology. You’ll love the extra features, including the Alexa Personal Assistant, BeyondTV streaming service, and complimentary designer toiletries. The suites are well worth the splurge for their deep soaking tubs and private balconies overlooking Carmel City Center.

6. Le Meridien Indianapolis

Le Méridien is the perfect pick if you want to be right in the heart of downtown Indy. Circle Centre Mall, Lucas Oil Stadium, and Bankers Life Fieldhouse are all a short stroll away. And when it comes to sampling the city’s food and drink scene, you’ll be spoiled for choice!

After an action-packed day, you’ll love unwinding in the contemporary rooms. All rooms boast oversized beds, ergonomic workstations, and deluxe ensuites with TVs built into the mirrors. Upgrade to the 1-bedroom suite and you’ll get a well-appointed living room perfect for a lazy movie night and comfy bedrooms where you can rest up for the next day’s adventure. 

The hotel also has a state-of-the-art gym if you want to keep up with your routine. For an unforgettable meal, Spoke & Steele specializes in modern, locally sourced dishes and bespoke dining experiences. The restaurant is also home to one of the best craft cocktail bars in the city.

7. Indianapolis Marriott Downtown

Whether you’re in town for work or play, Indianapolis Marriott Downtown is the perfect pick! The Convention Center is right next door if you’re attending a conference or event. Plus, you’ll be surrounded by a range of excellent bars, restaurants, and museums. 

All rooms are outfitted with comfy beds, spacious ergonomic workstations, plush chaise lounges, and large flat-screens. It’s well worth upgrading to one of the top-floor Skyline View Rooms for sweeping views of the city. Or, if you want to go all out, the Presidential Suite boasts a separate living and dining room and a luxe bathroom with a soaking tub. 

In the mornings, head down to Loaf + Vine market for fresh coffee and grab-and-go pastries. In the evenings, you can sip whiskey-infused beverages at Rye Bar and dine on elevated comfort food at Conner’s Kitchen + Bar. If you want to work off all those calories, the hotel also boasts a state-of-the-art gym.

8. Crowne Plaza Indianapolis Downtown (Union Station)

If you want to stay in a piece of history, look no further than the Crowne Plaza. The hotel is housed in America’s first Union Station, which is still an active train station to this day! This architectural gem is also listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Crowne Plaza is best known for its 26 authentic Pullman train car guestrooms, which are brimming with historical throwbacks. Each of these unique rooms is themed around a different 1920s celebrity and boasts whimsical celebrity-themed decor. You can also opt for a more traditional modern room if you prefer. 

Explore the property and you’ll find a fully outfitted gym and a large indoor pool where you can fit a workout in. If you want to dine at the hotel, 123 West & Taggart’s Restaurant serves up excellent American fare. 

Avid sports fans will love watching Colts and Pacers games at the hotel’s sports-themed lounge. Or if you want to go to a game, Lucas Oil Stadium and Bankers Life Fieldhouse is just a few blocks away!

9. Sheraton Indianapolis Hotel at Keystone Crossing

The Sheraton is an excellent option if shopping is on your to-do list during your visit to Indy. Tucked away in one of the city’s most affluent neighborhoods, the hotel is directly connected to The Fashion Mall. Not only will you have easy access to a range of shops but the Keystone Museum of Art and iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway are both a stone’s throw away. 

After an action-packed day on the town, you’ll love crashing out in the contemporary rooms. All rooms boast plush beds, designated workstations, and large picture windows with stunning city views. Upgrade a Club Room and you’ll get access to an exclusive lounge where you can enjoy complimentary continental breakfasts and evening appetizers.

When you’re not out on the town, you can swim laps in the indoor pool, soak in the hot tub, or work out in the exercise room. In the mornings, fill up on hearty American breakfasts at Keystone Café. At night, head over to Keystone Lounge for drinks and move on to Patio Keystone Crossings for an alfresco dinner. 

10. Hotel Broad Ripple

If big hotel chains aren’t your thing, Hotel Broad Ripple is one of the best boutique hotels in Indianapolis. Hotel Broad Ripple is located in the suburbs of Indianapolis, so you’ll be a bit removed from the hustle and bustle of the city center. 

Downtown is an easy 25-minute drive away. But there are plenty of quaint eateries, shops, and hiking trails right outside your door.

Each of the 13 rooms of this charming bed and breakfast is individually decorated and completely unique. Some rooms, like Lodge Room 7, boast private balconies overlooking the Monon Trail and the White River. Whether you’re in town on business, for a romantic getaway, or for a fun weekend away, you’ll find a room that’s perfect for you!

Before heading out for the day, be sure to fill up on the lavish continental breakfast spread. In the evenings, you can mingle with your fellow guests over drinks at the hotel’s Bunkhouse Lounge. There’s also a lovely yard dotted with Adirondack chairs where you can sip your morning coffee or evening glass of wine. 

11. JW Marriott Indianapolis

JW Marriott is yet another excellent hotel that’s connected to both the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium via an indoor walkway bridge. With stylish rooms and all sorts of awesome amenities, this is the perfect pick if you want to be right in the heart of the action.

One thing that makes the rooms and suites at JW Marriott stand out from the rest is that they all boast floor-to-ceiling windows offering incredible views of the city. You’ll also love the plush beds with oversized patterned headboards, the ergonomic workstations, and the modern ensuites. Snag one of the corner rooms for even better views of the city or White River State Park! 

When it comes to food and drink, you’ll be spoiled for choice. You can sip your morning coffee at the hotel’s very own Starbucks, grab a snack at the on-site convenience store, watch the big game at the sports bar, and dine on Neapolitan-style pizza at OP Italian. The hotel also boasts a state-of-the-art gym if you want to keep up with your workout routine.

12. Omni Severin Hotel

The Omni Severin is housed in a 100-year-old building that stands proud as the longest-running luxury hotel in downtown Indianapolis! So expect the perfect blend of historic charm and modern amenities. 

The hotel is connected to both the Circle Centre Mall and the Indianapolis Convention Center, and Lucas Oil Stadium and Bankers Life Fieldhouse are both a short stroll away. From shopping to dining to sports, this area has it all!

Explore the building, and you’ll find a heated indoor pool, a business center, and a fully outfitted fitness center. If you want to work out in your room, the staff at the front desk will give you a complimentary in-room fitness kit. They’ll also offer you a jogging map if you want to go for a run!

The Omni also boasts a Starbucks coffee, the farm-to-table 1913 Restaurant, a hip sports bar, and a chic wine bar. If you’re feeling lazy, wrap yourself in the plush bathrobe, get cozy on the ultra-comfy bed, and order dinner to your luxurious room! 

Thatis it – 12 of the best Indianapolis hotels! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in Indianapolis? Comment below so we can add them to the list!

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