Last month, a high profile college basketball game between Arizona and Purdue brought Annie and me to Indianapolis. We wanted to enjoy the game and evening with a few drinks, so we decided to stay overnight, instead of driving back to Chicago. Having manufactured a free night from of a recent Marriott promotion, I chose to use that free night certificate and 7,000 Marriott points to stay at the Hotel Indy, Indianapolis, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel.

History

The hotel was originally constructed in 1969 as the State Life Insurance building. Back then it was a concrete cube, made up of large panes of glass, concrete and metal. During that midcentury-modern period, this type of architecture was known as Brutalist architecture. The building served as office space for 50 years.

Then in 2019, after the building’s sale, the new owners began developing it into a hotel. The original building was five-stories, but a sixth floor was added to accommodate more guest rooms and a rooftop lounge with skyline views. After a two years of construction, the hotel opened for business in October 2021.

Marriott calls their Tribute Portfolio brand a “family of independent boutique hotels”. That means every hotel in this brand is unique and in many cases pays homage to the local culture and history.

Location

I chose this hotel for its proximity to the Gainbridge Fieldhouse, where the game was being played. The property is located downtown, in the city’s Wholesale District. It’s just one block from the arena, but also a short walk to Lucas Oil Stadium and the Indiana Convention Center.

My only gripe about the location is that it’s across the street from the bus terminal and county corrections office. While I didn’t feel unsafe, some of the people walking around the area seemed a bit shady.

Parking

The hotel offers valet parking for $45 per night, but I decided to use Spot Hero to book a much cheaper spot only a block from the hotel.

Lobby

The lobby isn’t the biggest, but it’s new and styled with clean lines and colorful furniture. The lobby, as well as our room, had an exposed concrete ceiling, which was obviously something kept from the original architecture. The look reminded me of loft apartments that keep exposed walls.

The Room

Our room was located on the 5th floor. In the elevator bank there was another cutout in the ceiling to expose the old concrete. I particularly liked the styling of the carpet, with the geometric shapes and pops of color.

The open space right as we walked in the room made it feel larger than it was. The hotel designers kept with the theme, but in this case the entire ceiling was old concrete. I wish they hadn’t kept the concrete ceiling theme in the room itself. To me, it made the room feel a little cold and unwelcoming.

However, the room had everything you’d need, including a king bed, a small chaise lounge, a small table, a smart TV and a coffee station with refrigerator. Plus, as you’d expect with a newer hotel, there were plenty of outlets and USB ports.

The Bathroom

The bathroom was clean and modern and I particularly liked the lighted circle mirror.

Hotel Amenities

Dining

There are multiple dining options within the hotel. Around the corner from the front desk is The Brandon coffee bar which is open until 2 p.m. The Hulman, a full service restaurant, is also located on the first floor near the lobby. The third option is The Cannon Ball Lounge on the 6th floor.

The Hulman

The Hulman offers Indy-inspired American fare. While the restaurant has a nice look to it, the reviews seem to be hit or miss.

The Cannonball Lounge

The Cannonball Lounge is located on the hotel’s 6th floor. It’s one of Indianapolis’ only rooftop lounges, where guests can enjoy craft cocktails, small bites, and local beers. The lounge has floor-to-ceiling windows to gaze at the cityscape while sipping on drinks. It also has an outdoor rooftop with terrific views of downtown Indianapolis.

Fitness Center

There is no spa or pool, but they do have a 24-hour fitness center equipped with cardio machines, free weights, yoga mats, and more.

Bottom Line

I always prefer newly renovated hotels. They’re clean, modern and usually there’s no “ick” factor. The Hotel Indy fits those adjectives but I think the style may not appeal to everyone. For me, I didn’t love the exposed concrete ceilings in the room itself. It was a nice touch in the lobby and common areas, but I prefer my room to be more traditional.

That being said it is really close for people attending nearby concerts or sporting events.

Trip Report Index

1. Manufacturing a “Free” Hotel Night in Indianapolis
2. Hotel Indy, Indianapolis, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel