Where Is Sondra

Tag: travel-tips

Best Hotels in Indianapolis: Where I Would Stay Again and Again

There are many reasons to visit Indy, and whatever brings you to town, I am so happy you’re here! If you’re searching for where to stay in Indianapolis, here is a list of a few top hotels in Indy (and one in Carmel 😉) that I would stay at again and again.

And if you’re an Indianapolis local looking for a weekend getaway idea, I’ve got you too!

Indianapolis has seen a large increase in tourism over the years. I attended the Visit Indy State of Tourism event at the beginning of this year, and was blown away by the numbers 2025 brought in for the Circle City. There are many things we can thank for that, including our fantastic sports teams, big-name events and concerts, and most importantly… conventions, conventions, conventions!

What brings you to Indy? Let me know here!

Quick Picks: My Favorite Indianapolis Hotels

Best overall: Bottleworks Hotel
Best for a Carmel getaway: Hotel Carmichael
Best for a staycation: Ironworks Hotel Indy
Best downtown location: Embassy Suites by Hilton Indianapolis Downtown
Best for couples: Bottleworks Hotel or Ironworks Hotel Indy
Best for conventions and Colts games: Embassy Suites
Best for a luxury getaway: Bottleworks Hotel

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you book a hotel through one of my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend places I’ve personally stayed at or would genuinely recommend to my audience.

Keep scrolling for my full reviews and why I’d stay at each of these Indianapolis hotels again.

The following hotels are ~roughly~ listed in order of price (descending). Obviously, depending on the weekend, this could change!

Bottleworks Hotel

📍850 Massachusetts Ave Ste 100, Indianapolis, Indiana 46204

If you’re visiting Indianapolis for the first time, this is one of the hotels I’d recommend most. The location makes it incredibly easy to explore some of the best things to do in downtown Indianapolis without getting back in your car. Bottleworks Hotel is THAT GIRL!! Swanky, eclectic, stunning, perfect. it’s right inside Indianapolis’ hottest hangout spot: The Bottleworks District, home to PINS Mechanical, The Garage Food Hall, and some of Indy’s best restaurants. Plus, it’s downtown on Mass Ave. Perfect for out-of-town visitors coming to Indy for a vacation, a girls’ trip, or a couples getaway.

🚗 Parking: Valet $48 / Garage rates vary

HIGHLIGHTS:

Room service for breakfast + dinner

Proximity to Indianapolis hot spots like The Garage Food Hall, PINS Mechanical, Blue Collar Coffee, Good Neighbor, The Fountain Room, and so much more

Luxurious Robes

Hotel Carmichael

📍1 Carmichael Square, Carmel, Indiana 46032

Looking for a hotel near Indianapolis with more of a small town vibe? This gorgeous hotel is right in the heart of charming Carmel, Indiana. I know I am cheating a bit because this hotel is in Carmel rather than Indianapolis, but it would be truly criminal to leave them off this list! Hotel Carmichael is walkable to iconic restaurants, the Monon Trail, and the best local boutiques in Carmel, Indiana. Don’t miss a show at Feinstein’s downstairs! This is a live music lounge inside the hotel with dinner + shows that are always a good time. They also have a French-inspired restaurant called Vivante that you can check out for brunch, lunch and dinner.

Full disclosure: I have never actually stayed the night at Hotel Carmichael (any Hotel Carmichael execs want to hit me up?👀), but my sister stayed here for her wedding night and still RAVES about it to this day. I have attended several events at the hotel and they are always fabulous!

🚗 Parking: Valet $30 / Self-parking free

HIGHLIGHTS:

Proximity to the Monon Trail, several restaurants, bars, and boutiques

Feinstein’s for live entertainment

4PM Champagne toast

Ironworks Hotel Indy

📍2721 E 86th St, Indianapolis, Indiana 46240

Ironworks Hotel Indy is a rustic, moody, and stunning hotel on the north side of Indianapolis. Perfect for local couples looking for a weekend getaway, or visitors who refuse to settle for “boring” hotels. BONUS: My favorite Indy sushi spot and brunch spot are both right downstairs! We went to the Ironworks Hotel for a Valentine’s Day getaway (hint, hint: it’s never too early to start planning for V-day 2027). This hotel is perfect for a local getaway because once you arrive, you never have to leave! There are plenty of restaurants and bars surrounding the Ironworks property. Plus, a spa and a gym inside the hotel.

🚗 Parking: Valet $10 / Self-parking free

HIGHLIGHTS:

Proximity to some Indy restaurant favorites: Blue Sushi, RIZE, Ruth’s Chris, Daredevil Brewing

Vintage-style Photobooth

Luxurious Robes

Embassy Suites by Hilton Indianapolis Downtown

📍110 W Washington St, Indianapolis, Indiana 46204

Affordable hotel in downtown Indianapolis with a pool, gym, and the best hotel breakfast I’ve ever had! If you’re coming to Indianapolis for a convention, Colts game, Pacers game, concert, or another downtown event, this is one of the more convenient hotels to consider. It’s also a good option if you want a downtown location without paying the luxury-hotel price. Parking was $48 a night when we stayed there, but there are several other garages you can check out instead.If I could’ve stayed here longer, I definitely would’ve spent more time checking out their pool and hot tub area. It looked clean and luxurious!

🚗 Parking: Garage $48

HIGHLIGHTS:

Best hotel breakfast ever with a made-to-order omelet station

Pool and Hot Tub

Best hotel location for Colts Games and Indy conventions

If you’re coming to Indianapolis and looking for the best places to stay, I hope this Indy hotel guide has given you some inspiration! Don’t forget to check out my other guides to the best restaurants in Indy, things to do in Indy, Indy coffee shops, and Indy date night ideas. I hope you enjoy your time in the Circle City!

My local friends looking for a romantic weekend getaway close to home, welcome! You really can’t go wrong with any of the above hotels.

Whatever it is you’re looking for, Where Is Sondra has tons of local guides and lists, so you never have to spend hours searching for the perfect things to do in Indianapolis (and beyond!)

Subscribe to this blog below, and don’t forget to check your junk/other folder to add me as a contact. That way, future blogs and lists like this will get delivered directly to your inbox:

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Where Should You Stay in Indianapolis?

Bottleworks District: Best for restaurants, nightlife, entertainment, and a fun weekend getaway.

Carmel: Best for a quieter luxury getaway with walkable restaurants, boutiques, and the Monon Trail.

North Indianapolis: Best for couples, staycations, shopping, restaurants, and travelers who don’t necessarily need to be downtown.

Downtown Indianapolis: Best for conventions, sports, concerts, and exploring the city without driving everywhere.

What is the best area to stay in downtown Indianapolis?

Downtown Indianapolis is one of the most convenient areas for first-time visitors because you’re close to attractions, restaurants, sports venues, conventions, and entertainment. The Bottleworks District and Mass Ave are especially fun for a weekend getaway.

What is the best hotel in Indianapolis for couples?

For a romantic Indianapolis getaway, I’d personally choose Bottleworks Hotel or Ironworks Hotel Indy. Both have great restaurants and entertainment nearby, so you can park your car and enjoy a walkable staycation.

Where should I stay in Indianapolis for a Colts game?

If you’re visiting Indianapolis for a Colts game, look for a downtown hotel within walking distance to Lucas Oil Stadium. Parking and driving is a MESS on game days!! Embassy Suites by Hilton Indianapolis Downtown is one option I’ve personally enjoyed.

Is Indianapolis a good weekend getaway?

Absolutely! Indianapolis has enough restaurants, sports, entertainment, museums, shopping, and local attractions to make a great weekend trip, whether you’re visiting from out of town or planning a staycation as an Indiana local. If you’re more of a small-town, low-key person (like me) Carmel, Indiana is the perfect place to stay away from the downtown hustle and bustle.

August 26, 2026
Check Out This Luxury Spa Resort Just 5 Hours from Indy

Looking for your next couples getaway within driving distance from Indianapolis? Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa is a Tuscan-inspired luxury resort in Canton, Ohio just under 5 hours away from Indianapolis.

Picture this: You wake up in the most beautiful hotel room to birds chirping and don a plush spa robe. You brew coffee to sip and sit out on your private veranda overlooking waterfront views. Italian-style breakfast is delivered to your room, and you enjoy it before walking steps away to a spa for a couples massage with the love of your life. After you’re fully relaxed and rejuvenated, you venture just below the spa and into a cave to learn how certain wines pair with certain cheeses. Finally, you enjoy a lobster roll on a patio while sipping on a craft cocktail. A local band plays Stevie Nicks in the background.

This dream scenario was my reality just weeks ago when I visited Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa in Canton, Ohio.

This post is sponsored by Gervasi Vineyard, but all thoughts and opinions are my own.

The Casa

We stayed at The Casa which is the main lodging accommodation at Gervasi. Our favorite parts of The Casa were the private veranda overlooking the water where we enjoyed (many) glasses of wine and complimentary breakfast delivery. Also, the heated towel bars. I mean, where have these been all my life?!

We especially enjoyed the courtyard at night for fire pit conversations. We met several lovely couples and enjoyed sharing stories and sipping wine together while the sun went down.

Other lodging accommodations include The Villas and The Farmhouse. Side note, that The Farmhouse would also be perfect for group trips. So, if you’re searching for bachelorette party ideas within driving distance from Indianapolis, definitely look into The Farmhouse at Gervasi!

Dining

The Bistro – Upscale, Italian dining in a historic, restored barn. If you plan on coming to Gervasi, The Bistro is a must! Definitely make reservations and consider a more formal outfit choice for this dining experience. We got the ricotta spread, pierogies (get these – trust me!), short ribs, roasted salmon, and peanut butter, banana mousse trifle. The vibes, the food, the wine… all a 10/10!

The Crush House – Lunch & dinner with happy hour specials, wine tastings, and patio dining. We weren’t able to try this one during our stay, but I really wish we did! Their menu consists of soups, salads, pasta, and sandwiches. A couple things that stand out to me are the deviled eggs (my jam!), seared sea scallops, and the chocolate tiramisu martini. Umm… YES PLEASE! Happy Hour is Monday – Friday 2-6pm. Just another reason to make this your mid-week getaway destination!

The Piazza – Outdoor dining with lake views and live music. They don’t accept reservations at The Piazza, so come early and stay awhile! They have pizzas, cocktails, sandwiches, and Italian-American plates. We got the nachos as an appetizer (which I highly recommend!), the lobster rolls, and the meatball sub. Don’t miss the ice cream sandwich for dessert!

The Still House – Coffee to cocktails with small bites, breakfast options, and live music. This is where I would get my coffee fix every morning. This is also where I tried the viral dot cake which is in fact, a cake with sprinkles all over it. Right up my alley, LOL! You can come here at night for cocktails and live music on select nights.

Gervasi Destinations also has two offsite restaurants, The Twisted Olive and OLINDA, in case you want to venture off the resort!

The Cave

The Cave is where you can do a guided tasting tour of the delicious wines made at Gervasi Vineyard. My husband and I agreed that this was the best wine tasting we’ve ever done (and we just got back from Italy!). The reason being that the guides really value education. They taught us the proper way to taste, why certain notes come through, and why the wine changes with certain food pairings. We learned so much from the Gervasi Vineyard team!

The Spa

The Spa at Gervasi Vineyard is right above The Cave and just steps away from The Casa. They offer massages, skin care, nail care, and even makeup applications! I got a pedicure while I was there and they truly made me feel like royalty with a warm shoulder compress, complimentary beverage and snacks, and, of course, excellent nail care service! If you are wanting to experience The Spa as a couple, I recommend calling and asking about their couples packages. They looked heavenly!

Live Music & Concerts

The Musica Concert Series at Gervasi Vineyard is located in The Pavilion at the resort. This is a summer concert series taking place every Thursday with tributes to Prince, Abba, Morgan Wallen, and more. We went to the ELO tribute concert and it was a smash! People were out of their seats, dancing, laughing, and having a good time. You must buy tickets for this in advance!

Ready to Roadtrip to Canton, Ohio?

This is just a taste of the luxury offered at Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa. Check out their website to learn more and to book your next couples getaway!

P.S. If you’re coming from Indianapolis, there is now a Buc-ee’s on the route! Did we stop both to and from Gervasi? … Yes. Yes, we did.

This post is sponsored by Gervasi Vineyard, but all thoughts and opinions are my own.

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June 18, 2026
Date Night Ideas in Indy (That Aren’t Dinner)

I hear ya. You and your honey are sick of the typical dinner and a movie date night and you want to spice it up a bit. Well, you’ve come to the right place. If you’re looking for the best activities in Indianapolis for your next date night, then welcome to the only list you’ll ever need!

Okay, maybe not the only list, but these Indy date night ideas range from active to laid back, from crafty to sporty, from free to … not cheap. If you’re searching for date night ideas in Indianapolis that go beyond dinner reservations, this list is packed with fun, unique, and active experiences for couples. Once you’ve worked your way through this list, give me a shout!

PINS Mechanical

This is my go-to spot for out-of-town guests visiting Indy, but I also enjoy it as a local! We LOVE hanging out at PINS playing duckpin bowling and bocce ball, sipping seasonal cocktails on their rooftop patio, and wandering around the Bottleworks district of Indy. Make an evening of it and visit The Garage Food Hall for dinner and The Living Room for a movie.

📍 Downtown Indianapolis Bottleworks District

💸 Duckpin bowling is $7/person Monday – Thursday and $9/person Friday – Sunday.

Back9 Golf & Entertainment

A local version of Topgolf (and you know we love supporting local businesses on Where Is Sondra!). Plus, they have some really great food + drinks and occasional events.

📍 Downtown Indy (but with a free parking lot 🙌)

💸 Bay Rentals: $45/hour Sunday – Thursday and $55/hour Friday – Saturday. Mondays are $35/hour.

Butler Arts & Events Center

Sit back, relax, and enjoy one of the many performances coming to the stage at Butler Arts & Events Center! If you and your date enjoy comedy shows, live music, ballet, and the many performing arts, this should be on your Indy date night list!

📍 Clowes Memorial Hall on Butler University’s Campus

💸 Ticket pricing depends on the show, but they do have a free summer movie series!

8 Seconds Saloon

Cheap drinks, line dancing, and a mechanical bull. If your date has cowboy boots in their closet, take them here! Catch some live music from up-and-coming artists and even some bigger names! This is one of the most fun things to do in Indianapolis for couples AND for group hangs.

📍 West Indianapolis

💸 $3-5 Cover charge on regular nights. Check their website for event tickets.

Indianapolis Indians

A summer tradition in Indianapolis. Going to an Indianapolis Indians game on warm summer nights is what summer is all about!

📍 Downtown Indianapolis

💸 Tickets start around $15, but AAA members get free tickets to Monday – Thursday games! On Tuesdays they have $1 concessions, so you can really make it a cheap date! Thursdays are also a good day to go and get $3 beers.

Stroll on Mass Ave

Do some window shopping, grab a coffee + a bite at a local restaurant, and enjoy one of the liveliest areas of Indy. Some stops I recommend are 16-bit for some free arcade games (21+), Coat Check coffee, and Good Neighbor for women and men’s clothing.

📍 Downtown Indianapolis

💸 FREE! (Minus parking.) Sundays are free street parking in downtown Indy!

Explore Indianapolis Museums

Indianapolis is home to some wonderful museums. If you and your date enjoy art, I recommend Newfields. For history, Eiteljorg. For a bit of everything, the Indiana State Museum!

NOTE: The photo above was taken at Symphony on the Prairie at Conner Prairie which I highly recommend as a summer date night!

📍 Newfields, Indiana State Museum, Conner Prairie

💸 Each of these museums is available on the 3-Day Indy Attraction Pass starting at $75! Use code WHEREISSONDRA5 for a discount!

Classes at Indy Art Center

Looking for unique date night ideas in Indianapolis? The Indy Art Center has “Make it Take it” classes that are perfect for a date night where you can try something new and take a souvenir home to remember the best date night ever. Maybe have a little romantic Ghost moment? There are pottery classes available. 👀

📍 Broad Ripple Indianapolis

💸 $30 – 80

I hope you’ve enjoyed this list of date night ideas in Indianapolis that aren’t dinner! I hope you and your date have a blast checking out these activities around the city. If you are looking to pair one of these activities with a sexy Indy restaurant for dinner, then check out this list!

If you didn’t see your favorite Indy date night spot, let me know what I should try next by leaving a comment on this post or on my Instagram.

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April 4, 2026
Best Places for Solo Dates in Central Indiana

Searching for things to do alone in Indianapolis? Well, put away the box of chocolates you got on clearance at CVS (or just save it for later) because you are going out, my friend! Here are some of the best places to take yourself on a solo date in Central Indiana.

I have personally dined at or visited these Indiana establishments alone, and I am a self-proclaimed introvert who used to break out in hives at the idea of going to a restaurant by herself. So, I promise it’s only awkward if you make it that way. These are places in Indiana that are welcoming, comfortable, and relaxed, so you can sit in peace with a good book or just with your own company. Because if you’re here, reading this, I know you are cool and you should want to hang out with yourself!

The key to going on a solo date is knowing that everyone else is so wrapped up in their own world and insecurities that they don’t really pay attention to you. It sounds harsh, but I promise that thought will break down the Spotlight Effect we all wrestle with and give you so much mental freedom. In fact, if you are worried about looking lame or lonely to onlookers, I’m here to personally tell you that the opposite is true. The reason I started getting out of my own way and going to places alone was because I once saw a girl reading a book at the bar of a restaurant I was at and thought, “Wow, she is so cool and confident. I want to do that one day.” Alas, here we are! Just a couple cool, confident Indiana baddies who want to enjoy their own company.

Hint: Click the locations below for video guides to each place!

Relax + Unwind at Something Splendid

📍 217 Mill St, Westfield, Indiana 46074

This Westfield, Indiana hidden gem is a wine bar and gift shop all in one! I brought my Kindle, sat in their heated patio, and had myself a wonderful evening! They have some yummy food options as well, so you can grab a snack and possibly catch some live music while you’re here.

Make it a You-Day in Zionsville, IN

Order an Extra Sushi Roll at Noah Grant’s 📍 91 S Main St, Zionsville, Indiana 46077

Relax on the patio or bar area at this Zionsville seafood spot with a yummy cocktail, sushi roll, oysters (if that’s your thing), and more! They have an amazing happy hour menu, so if you have the whole day to yourself, as you should, Queen, visit from 4-5pm between Tuesday-Friday for $10 drinks, sushi rolls, and oyster specials!

Get some Retail Therapy at these Zionsville Shops 📍 N Main St, Zionsville, IN 46077

My Shopping Recommendations in Zionsville (though I obviously encourage you to explore the whole Main Street!) Southern Fancy, Vintage Charm, Zionsville Olive Oil, Black Dog Books, FiveThirty Home

Buy Yourself Flowers at Blooms by Dragonfly 📍 176 S Main St, Zionsville, IN 46077

Grab a vase before you leave the house, and Blooms by Dragonfly will fill it with fresh cut blooms that are sure to impress your date (yourself, obvi). They also have the cutest gifts for brides, babies, and more inside their shop!

Stay a While at a Local Coffee Shop

Tried, true, and solo date approved! These coffee shops in Indy have all the right vibes to get some work done, enjoy a good book, or just soak in the adorable decor while enjoying a seasonal latte. There’s plenty of seating, so you can pull up a chair, enjoy your own company, and grab a pastry (you deserve it!).

Milk & Honey Coffeehouse 📍 8505 Southeastern Ave, Indianapolis, Indiana 46239

Bovaconti 📍 2 W Main St, Carmel, Indiana 46032 (P.S. they also have a Fountain Square location!)

Parlor Public House 📍 600 E Ohio St Suite B, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202

Need other ideas for coffee shops in Indianapolis? Click here for a blog post on every local coffee shop I tried in 2025.

Treat Yourself to a Little Self-Care Day on Indy’s Northside

PUR Nail Spa 📍 350 Monon Blvd SUITE 14, Carmel, Indiana 46032 (P.S. They also have a Keystone location!)

If you’re looking for manicures, pedicures, and head spas in Indianapolis, let me introduce you to PUR Nail Spa. I also love that they give a welcome beverage while getting your treatment done. A little luxury never hurt anybody 😉

Le Nid Esthetics 📍 10992 Allisonville Office Dr, Fishers, Indiana 46038

Your skin called. It said it wants a facial with the best esthetician in Central Indiana. Wendy at Le Nid Esthetics is in Fishers, IN. If you’re looking to experience a little slice of heaven during your solo date day, then I cannot recommend Le Nid enough!

Create a Scent that’s all Yours at The Aroma Labs

📍 850 Massachusetts Ave Suite 120, Indianapolis, Indiana 46204

Scents are sooooo personal. That’s why taking your time creating a candle, hand soap, or room spray at The Aroma Labs in the Bottleworks District would make the perfect solo date activity in Indianapolis. I created a signature perfume while I was here and I still wear it every day!

Take an Adult Dance Class at Dance Fam

📍 468 Gradle Dr Suite 110, Carmel, Indiana 46032

Now, this one might seem intimidating, but it was seriously the most empowering thing I did for myself in 2025. I took Dance Fam’s Heels class where we brought our own pair of high heels and learned a burlesque-style dance to a Sabrina Carpenter song. I had a blast! Plus, I believe everyone in my class showed up alone, so it does make for a wonderful solo date night out in Carmel, IN. If heels aren’t your thing, they also have hip-hop, jazz, contemporary, and more!

Eat + Learn with a Charcuterie Tour at Smoking Goose

📍 407 Dorman St, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202

This Indianapolis tour + tasting is a MUST-TRY! I linked the video I did for this in the title above, but I’m going to go ahead and put the link for tickets HERE too. Tickets are only $20 and include the tour, a charcuterie tasting, AND a package of meat to take home! They do this tour every Saturday (yes, including Valentine’s Day). I did this tour by myself a while back, and had such a great time!

I hope you enjoy this list of things to do alone in Central Indiana! If you are considering a solo date in Indianapolis this season, I would love to hear about it! Leave me a comment letting me know which Indy date you tried.

For those of us who have significant others and are looking for date night spots in Indy and Central Indiana, click here for my Indiana Valentine’s Day round-up.

And for my gal pals looking for things to do with your friends for Galentine’s Day or an Indianapolis Girls Trip, click here.

Subscribe to this blog below, and don’t forget to check your junk/other folder to add me as a contact. That way, future blogs and lists like this will get delivered directly to your inbox:

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February 12, 2026