InterContinental Indianapolis by IHG

InterContinental Indianapolis by IHG: A Michelin Key Selected Luxury Experience

The InterContinental Indianapolis by IHG, a distinguished Michelin Key Selected property, offers a refreshing sense of luxury in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. Housed in a beautifully restored 11-story landmark, the hotel seamlessly blends 1920s elegance with modern sophistication, making it a highly regarded choice for both leisure and business travelers.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for the InterContinental Indianapolis is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently praising its stunning aesthetics and excellent service. On one review platform, the hotel boasts an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 149 reviews, with high scores across various categories: Location (9.8), Cleanliness (9.7), Comfort (9.7), and Staff (9.6). Another source rates it as a 4-star hotel with a "Superb" 9.2/10 on Booking.com. Guests often describe their stays as a "Great experience" and "Perfect Stay," highlighting the enjoyable atmosphere and accessibility.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently love several aspects of the InterContinental Indianapolis:

• Design & Ambiance: The hotel's interior, a result of a $120 million restoration, features Italian marble, Indiana-inspired artwork, and an opulent three-story chandelier, creating a refined and luxurious atmosphere. The rooftop bar is also noted for its exquisite ambiance.
• Location: Its central downtown location, just steps from Monument Circle, is a major draw, providing easy access to key attractions.
• Amenities: The 24-hour gym, in-room Nespresso machines, and hydration stations on each floor providing still or sparkling water are frequently appreciated. The presence of motorized shades in rooms also adds a touch of modern convenience.
• Service: Attentive and friendly staff are a recurring theme in positive reviews.

3. Room Quality

The rooms and suites at the InterContinental Indianapolis are consistently described as generous, plush, and well-detailed. They feature comfortable Black Label Beautyrest mattresses, ensuring a good night's sleep. Guests appreciate the Byredo bath products, wet bars, and often enjoy skyline or Monument Circle views. Rooms also come equipped with 55-inch Smart TVs, complimentary WiFi with speeds over 250 Mbps, and tea/coffee makers. Bathrooms are spacious, with walk-in showers and some suites offering separate soaking tubs and dual sinks. Motorized shades in the rooms are a highlight for many.

4. Dining Experience

The hotel offers several dining options. Serliana, the on-site restaurant, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, providing American cuisine and light fare. Breakfast options include continental and American choices, which guests have rated highly. The Astrea Rooftop Bar on the 11th floor is a popular spot, offering craft cocktails, small plates, and stunning views of Monument Circle, with an upscale ambiance featuring velvet, leather, and marble accents. In-room dining is also available 24 hours a day with a limited menu during late-night hours.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff at the InterContinental Indianapolis receive high praise, with a staff rating of 9.6 out of 10. Guests frequently highlight the staff as "incredibly friendly and helpful" and "quite kind." Specific mentions include attentive and quick service from valets, with cars ready upon request, and friendly receptionists who follow up after check-in to ensure satisfaction. Early check-in has also been accommodated, which guests found to be a significant benefit.

6. Location & Accessibility

The hotel's prime location in downtown Indianapolis is a significant advantage. It is situated just steps from Monument Circle, the Indiana State Capitol, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, and Lucas Oil Stadium. The Indiana Convention Center is also within an 8-minute walk. While the hotel does not directly connect to the Sky Walk for convention-goers, several nearby options offer convenient access. For accessibility, the hotel offers four ADA-compliant guest rooms that are wheelchair accessible, featuring accessible door locks, roll-in showers with handrails, and built-in transfer seats. Public areas are also designed with accessibility in mind, including entrances, elevators, the registration desk, restaurant, public restrooms, and the fitness center.

7. Value & Pricing

The InterContinental Indianapolis is considered a luxury hotel, and its pricing reflects this. Room rates can start from approximately $213 or 32,300 IHG One Reward points per night for a classic room. While some guests note it is "on the expensive side," many feel it is "definitely worth a stay" given the luxury experience. Valet parking is available for an additional charge of USD 65 per day, which includes in/out privileges. Despite the cost, guests find the overall benefits, such as comfortable rooms and amenities like the hydration station, to outweigh the price.

8. Common Complaints

While overwhelmingly positive, some minor points have been noted by guests:

• Mini-fridge space: Some guests found the in-room mini-fridges to be primarily stocked with items for purchase, leaving limited space for personal items.
• Elevator system: One guest mentioned that the "select a floor first" elevator system took some getting used to.
• Convention Center Connection: For convention attendees, the lack of a direct Sky Walk connection to the Indiana Convention Center means a brief walk outside.
• No Pool or Spa: The hotel does not feature an on-site pool or spa.
• Carpet in Rooms/Hallways: One reviewer noted that the patterned carpet in some guest rooms and hallways slightly detracted from the property's otherwise upscale vibe, though they also commented positively on sound insulation.

Sources

1. booking.com
2. thepointsguy.com
3. ihg.com
4. hawthornepub.com
5. expedia.com
6. youtube.com
7. liveluxetravelco.com
8. moneyat30.com
9. visitindy.com
10. reddit.com