Indianapolis is a sprawling, car-oriented city on the central Indiana plain, built around a one-square-mile original grid that still forms the core of downtown. Its identity as the "Crossroads of America" comes from its history as a road and rail hub, and that legacy shapes how you move around it today: the centre is compact and walkable, while much of the wider city spreads out along highways and arterial roads.
For a visitor, the practical split is between staying downtown — close to the Statehouse, the convention centre, the mall and the major sports and cultural venues — and staying in the surrounding districts and suburbs, where you trade walkability for quieter surroundings or easier parking. This guide covers which areas to base yourself in, what each suits, and roughly what kind of accommodation you will find at each budget level.
Best areas to stay in Indianapolis
1. Downtown Indianapolis
Downtown is the most practical base for a first visit. It is where the city's core sights cluster, and it is well served by the major hotel chains as well as a number of distinctive, locally run places. Several downtown properties sit in historic buildings or connect directly to the Indiana Convention Center and Circle Center Mall via enclosed skywalks, which matters in bad weather.
This area suits first-time visitors, convention attendees and anyone who wants to walk to restaurants and venues rather than drive. Note that downtown also contains Union Station, where one hotel occupies authentic Pullman train cars; light sleepers there are advised to ask for a room on the quiet side, as passing trains can be heard.
2. The Historic North Side and Old Northside
Just north of the centre, this area is characterised by historic residential streets and Victorian-era architecture. Accommodation here tends to be in converted historic homes rather than large hotels, including bed-and-breakfast style properties with period interiors, off-street parking and breakfast included.
It suits travellers who prefer a quieter, residential feel while staying within easy reach of downtown. If you want character over convenience and do not mind a short trip into the centre, this is a good alternative to a standard downtown room.
3. Zionsville
Zionsville is a village-style arts and food district north of Indianapolis, known for antique shops and art galleries. Lodging here is small-scale and locally operated, including a family-run inn with a restaurant and gift shop and a handful of individually styled rooms.
It suits visitors with a car who want a slower pace and are happy to base themselves outside the city proper, treating Indianapolis as a day-trip destination. It is not the choice for anyone who wants to walk to downtown sights.
4. Near the airport, on the west and south sides
The area around Indianapolis International Airport, on the west side, and the southern approach along Harding Street offer practical, chain-style accommodation. Properties here typically include suites with fully equipped kitchens or standard rooms with breakfast, fitness facilities and parking, and some are pet-friendly.
This suits travellers with early flights, those driving through, or anyone prioritising value and parking over proximity to the centre. Be aware that the southern options sit roughly five miles from downtown, so you will need a car or a ride to reach the sights.
5. The northeast side
The northeast side, around Bash Street, is another chain-hotel corridor, with pet-friendly properties offering standard amenities such as internet access and a pool. It is a functional base rather than a scenic one.
It suits budget-conscious travellers and those arriving by car who want straightforward accommodation and easy road access, rather than a walkable location.
6. Fort Harrison State Park, east side
On the east side of town, Fort Harrison State Park contains a locally owned inn in a historic building on former military grounds, set in extensive grounds with individually decorated rooms. This is the most removed option from the city centre.
It suits travellers who want green surroundings, quiet and space, and who have a car. It is not convenient for walking to downtown attractions.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: Chain hotels and motels on the outer corridors and near the airport, with basic rooms, free internet and breakfast, and parking; often pet-friendly.
- Mid-range: Comfort-oriented chain suites and smaller independent inns, including bed-and-breakfast style properties in historic buildings; expect breakfast, pools or fitness facilities, and sometimes kitchenettes.
- Splurge: Full-service downtown hotels, including large convention-connected properties, historic landmark hotels and luxury inns; expect restaurants, bars, spas, and in some cases suites in converted historic structures.
Best area for a first visit
Downtown Indianapolis is the best base for a first visit. It puts you within walking distance of the city's principal sights and gives you the widest choice of accommodation, from chain hotels to historic properties. It also connects easily to the convention centre and mall, which is useful if the weather turns.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a car if I stay downtown?
Downtown is compact and walkable, and some hotels connect to the convention centre and mall by enclosed skywalk, so a car is not essential for the core sights. You will want one for outlying areas such as Zionsville or Fort Harrison State Park.
Which areas are best for budget travellers?
The chain-hotel corridors on the northeast side, near the airport on the west, and along Harding Street south of downtown offer the most straightforward budget and value options, though the southern ones sit about five miles from the centre.
Where should I stay if I want a quiet night's sleep?
Avoid rooms close to active rail lines; at the hotel in historic Union Station, light sleepers should ask for a room on the quiet side. Quieter alternatives include the historic residential districts north of downtown and the park setting on the east side.
Are there pet-friendly places to stay?
Yes. Several properties across the budget and mid-range categories are pet-friendly, including ones near the zoo and on the south side, though some charge additional fees.
Compare live prices for your dates using the booking tools on this page before you decide.