Where to Stay in Indianapolis, Indiana: The Best Hotels & Areas

Known for its car culture, historic districts, and public art, Indianapolis, the state capital of Indiana, should be on every American city break bucket list. But with a barrage of hotels and lodgings set in a diverse array of unique areas and neighborhoods, deciding where to stay in Indianapolis can be overwhelming.

Each area of Indianapolis has its own vibrant personality, so you can have a different experience every time you visit. For tourists, most of the best hotels in Indianapolis lie within areas like Mile Square, Wholesale District, Lockerbie Square, Fountain Square, and Speedway. These areas and districts are home not just to the city’s top lodgings but within reach of many of Indy’s main attractions.

No idea where to start your hotel search? Find your perfect accommodation with this in-depth guide to the best places to stay in Indianapolis, IN!

Best places to stay in Indianapolis, IN

Wherever you choose to base yourself, you’ll find the people of Indy to be friendly and welcoming. Most newcomers choose to stay in Mile Square in the heart of Downtown Indianapolis. This compact area will throw you into the life and history of the city. From here, many of the most popular Indianapolis attractions and great nightlife are within walking distance.

For a livelier nightlife scene, settle down in the Wholesale District. The area has a fantastic theatre and live music scene, with fun bars and restaurants for your pre-show dinners. The funky Fountain Square area has a more alternative scene. Creatives will love the vibrant art scene and quirky businesses.

Lockerbie Square is a quiet and romantic part of Indianapolis. Couples will relish strolling the idyllic cobblestone streets. Another relaxed area is Speedway, located outside of the city center. Large private homes and car-themed fun make the district a great spot to stay in Indianapolis for families.

The best areas to stay in Indianapolis, IN, are:

• Mile Square (Downtown)
• Wholesale District
• Lockerbie Square
• Fountain Square
• Speedway

Mile Square (Downtown)

The original bones of the city, Mile Square is the political, economic, and cultural hub of Indianapolis. As you’ve probably guessed, the area sprawls one square mile. When Indianapolis was first planned, nobody thought it would grow any bigger. Today, the Mile Square area has evolved into a bustling Downtown district and is the city’s top choice for first-time visitors.

Throughout Mile Square, you’ll find interesting 20th-century architecture and some of the city’s most important monuments. Catch a show at the iconic Old National Center or marvel at the spires of the St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church.

Honor the veterans of World War One at the Indiana World War Memorial before heading to the collection of monuments at Monument Circle. At night, Monument Circle is bustling with friends meeting at the surrounding bars and restaurants.

As the name suggests, Mile Square has limited space, and property here is at a premium. It might be difficult to snag a private apartment here, but there’s a ready choice of trendy hotels to choose from around Mile Square.

Wholesale District

The Wholesale District was once the birthplace of hundreds of businesses in the 1960s. To this day, the area has the highest concentration of 19th-century commercial buildings in Indianapolis. Just south of Mile Square, the district is home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and close to many of the top-rated things to do in Indianapolis.

Located in the heart of Downtown Indianapolis, the Wholesale District is a walkable area with great public transport links. Start at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse, home to the Indiana Pacers. Not just for sports fans, the venue hosts events year-round, including rodeos, ice skating, and parties.

This area is the perfect blend of old and new. Stunning 19th- and 20th-century buildings like the Union Railroad Station and Indiana Repertory Theatre are perfect for architecture lovers. Emerging from historical traces are modern skyscrapers stretching into the future.

You’ll find plenty of variety in the Wholesale District’s nightlife scene, too. Start at popular theaters and concert halls, then finish at buzzing bars like Howl at the Moon and the iconic Slippery Noodle Inn.

Foodies can get stuck into fabulous restaurants. Feast in stylish steakhouses, friendly Italian restaurants, and plenty of seafood bars.

The uber-cool style carries into the neighborhood’s accommodation. Social hotels and trustworthy names are scattered throughout the area.

Lockerbie Square

The charismatic Lockerbie Square is celebrated for its mix of architectural styles and idyllic streets. Restored 19th-century homes, small shops, and lush trees line the cobblestone roads. The quaint area is alive with art galleries, artisan stores, and local markets.

Lockerbie Square is a short walk from Downtown but has a quiet and romantic atmosphere if you don’t want to be in the chaos of the city center. Throw yourself into the life of a renowned poet at the James Whitcomb Riley House or rummage for hidden gems in the Midland Arts and Antiques Market.

The buzzing gastronomy scene of the Downtown area isn’t far away. There’s a smaller selection of restaurants around Lockerbie Square, but they embrace a friendly and creative atmosphere.

Enjoy funky courtyard dining at the family-owned Great Divide or casual seafood dishes among the neon lights of Slapfish. Sample an aperitif or two at the Easley Winery, offering laid-back wine tastings on their pretty patio.

Compared to the city center areas, lodgings around Lockerbie Square are more limited. Expect to find most bed & breakfast-style accommodations, inns, and vacation rentals here.

Fountain Square

In Fountain Square, you won’t be just another tourist: You’ll become part of a community. The welcoming neighborhood is a haven for small businesses and has a thriving arts and music scene. It seems far away from the hustle and bustle of the city, but you’re only a mile and a half from Downtown. A great selection of private homes will make you one of the hippest tourists in Indianapolis.

Named after the fountains installed on the Virginia Avenue intersection, you can’t help but feel relaxed walking among the sounds of trickling water. You’ll feel the creative energy of the retro buildings mixed with modern cool. Adorable art installations are scattered throughout the neighborhood. See if you can spot the fairy houses!

Wander through friendly local businesses, including quirky coffee shops, bakeries, and flower shops. Find your new favorite bottle at the Wine Market. In the evenings, dine at friendly local restaurants, drink at the Tappers arcade bar, and catch a burlesque show at the White Rabbit Cabaret. 

Fountain Square is also a neighborhood for the environmentally conscious. The eco-friendly area includes a bike share program and free book exchanges.

Speedway

Just west of Indianapolis is the small town of Speedway. Every year it plays host to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, one of the largest sporting events in the world. But there’s much more to this small suburb than just racing.

With over 25 acres of public parks, Speedway is a great place to stay if you love being outdoors. Browse the farmer’s market at Meadowood Park, then have your purchases as a picnic on the pavilion.

Racing fans will want to visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum. Try out some moves for yourself at the Speedway Indoor Karting. But don’t worry if racing isn’t your thing. The lively main street is lined with breweries and restaurants with pretty patios.

Speedway might be the racing capital of the world but for most of the year, it’s a quiet, residential neighborhood. It’s ideal for visitors looking to relax in one of the large private homes.