Indianapolis has some very good hotel options to choose from. I recommend staying close to downtown in order to take advantage of all that is happening there and in the surrounding/emerging neighborhoods, where you will find some of the hot new restaurants, craft breweries, distilleries and things to do.
The Alexander: At 333 S. Indiana, The Alexander is a stylish, contemporary boutique property with 157 guest rooms and 52 extended stay units. It is decorated with contemporary works of art commissioned by the hotel. In addition to the sleek rooms, on the second floor you will find their Market Table Restaurant for breakfast and attractive Plat 99 Coffee + Cocktails which offers small plates and creative cocktails. On the first floor, the Cerulean Indianapolis has closed and has been replaced by Nesso Italian Kitchen.
Hotel Broad Ripple: This is a small, charming Inn at 6520 E. Westfield Blvd., in the heart of Broad Ripple Village. It offers nine rooms in the lodge and 4 rooms in the cottage next door that are being added. It is located right on the Monon Trail, the eighteen mile walking and biking trail that was a former railroad that connects Westfield to the North to the Cultural Trail in downtown. The hotel also offers the on-site Bunkhouse Lounge. You can easily walk to the many bars, restaurants and shops in the Village. Breakfast is provided in-house on weekends and a coupon is given during the week for a restaurant nearby. I can’t wait to stay there on my next trip.
Le Meridien Indianapolis: Located at 123 S. Illinois St. in the heart of downtown, Starwood has totally transformed the historic Canterbury Hotel, where I stayed many years ago, into a contemporary, boutique property. The $10 million renovation included guestrooms, public spaces and a new restaurant. It is next to the Indianapolis Convention Center and The Circle Centre Mall.
JW Marriott: This is a large, luxury hotel on the west edge of downtown Indianapolis. The 33 story hotel has over 1,000 rooms and is one of five Marriott hotel brands connected to the Indiana Convention Center. It has received a number of Condé Nast Traveler awards including being named #25 of the 50 best hotels in the world and #5 in the US. It has two restaurants including Osteria Pronto, where I enjoyed a very good lunch, plus a Starbucks on the second floor. It is a good location if you need to be in town for a convention or want to be near the Zoo, White River State Park, The Indianapolis Cultural Trail, Indiana State Museum or the Eiteljorg Museum. The rooms were very comfortable and the views of downtown really outstanding. Just be prepared for large crowds. 10 S. West St.
I also just read about the Nestle Inn. Located just off of Mass Ave. at 637 N. East St. They have six contemporary rooms. ” We don’t do doilies. Our decor is modern, eclectic and comfortable.” It is a great alternative for the business traveler as well as for those exploring the city. The inn provides breakfast vouchers for partnering Massachusetts Avenue restaurants. It also offers chef-led cooking classes Friday through Sunday.