Indiana’s state capital — also the second largest city in the Midwest — has long been a favourite amongst motorsport fanatics. As well as being home to Indy Car Racing and the annual Indy 500, Indianapolis is a lovely city for cultural and nature-focused holidays with friends and family. Accommodation options range from simple inns to smart city hotels, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Many of the best places to stay in Indianapolis are clustered close to the city centre, but our recommendations also include attractive hotels in more tranquil surroundings.

Explore the picturesque 8-mile Indianapolis Cultural Trail on foot, Segway or bicycle, taking in the parks, shops and museums of the city centre, or experience the popular Monon Trail on two wheels. There are beautiful riverside paths in White River State Park, too, close to the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians & Western Art, the Indiana State Museum and an IMAX Theatre with a six-storey screen. The Indianapolis Museum of Art, on the 152-acre Newfields campus, is very special. Families should head to Go Ape Treetop Adventure, an obstacle course in Eagle Creek Park, or to the enormous Children's Museum of Indianapolis. Outdoorsy travellers, on the other hand, will adore hiking, running, kayaking, lake swimming in the area.

And if you’re a real petrolhead? The Indy Racing Experience and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum are not to be missed. Book your trip well in advance if travelling in May, when the crowds descend for the Indy 500 — the best places to stay in Indianapolis fill up fast!

The Best Places to Stay in Indianapolis

For an Intimate Inn

• Nestle Inn offers just six cosy rooms in a heritage residence. Now an owner-run inn with plenty of period touches, this is a lovely, low-key spot for a city break. Chef-led cooking classes are a great addition, and the two-bedroom suite works well for families.
• The Looking Glass Inn sits within an elegant, Victorian-era mansion. Rooms feature Empire-style antique, clawfoot tubs and decorative fireplaces. Breakfasts are served in the dining room. Traditional and romantic, close to the Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site.
• Hotel Broad Ripple is a more contemporary choice on the Monon Trail. The 13 well-appointed rooms are individually decorated, and guests can enjoy drinks at the bar before dining at nearby eateries. A good value option for groups and keen cyclists, with a small-town feel.

For a Downtown Hotel

• The Alexander Hotel is an appealing contemporary base in the heart of downtown Indianapolis, just a few minutes' walk from the Cultural Trail. Rooms and public areas boast a plethora of art pieces and expansive city views. There's a fitness suite, two restaurants and a cool cocktail bar. Two-bedroom suites are great for families.
• Le Meridien Indianapolis is a swish downtown hotel with sleek contemporary interiors, modern artwork, a popular restaurant, a fireside lobby lounge and 24-hour gym. Buzzy, stylish and brilliant for business or leisure. Just alongside the Indiana Convention Centre.
• Conrad Indianapolis is an elegant luxury hotel with opulent suites, an impressive array of paintings — including works by Picasso and Dali — as well as a stylish cocktail bar and fine-dining restaurant. Unwind at the spa after big days of exploring. A real treat in a central location.

For Groups

• Ironworks Hotel Indianapolis is a chic, newly built property with three restaurants, a lively rooftop lounge and generous rooms for indulgent business or leisure stays. Think exposed pipes, salvaged barn wood, and huge windows in rooms and suites, some of which also offer great workspaces. Groups will appreciate the sociable buzz, large public spaces and flexible room options. There are cycling trails nearby.

FOR AN APARTMENT

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Indianapolis International Airport and travel into the city by car, bus or shuttle.
• Alternatively, there are daily Amtrak rail links to Indianapolis from Chicago and other big cities.
• Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel between June and September for the warmest weather. Remember that winters are very cold!

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our pick of all the best places to stay in Bloomington.
• Broaden your search to include the best places to stay in Indiana.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Indianapolis