The Best Cheap Hotels to Book in Indianapolis, Indiana

Sports fanatic traveling on a budget? Stay in a great but cheap hotel in Indianapolis, Indiana
Sports fanatic traveling on a budget? Stay in a great but cheap hotel in Indianapolis, Indiana | © Ian Dagnall / Alamy Stock Photo
Matt Charlton

Indianapolis offers the buzz of the big city with the homeliness and welcome of a small town. There’s always an added air of excitement when the Indy 500, the Indianapolis Colts NFL team, or the Indiana Pacers basketball team are in town – but if sports aren’t your thing, you’ll find entertainment in the world-class museums, canalside restaurants and cool bars. Traveling on a budget? Check out our lineup of the best cheap hotels in Indianapolis, Indiana – bookable on Culture Trip.

1. Hyatt Place Indianapolis/Keystone, for a pet-friendly shopping excursion

Chain Hotel

The outdoor pool area at Hyatt Place Indianapolis/Keystone
Courtesy of Hyatt Place Indianapolis/Keystone / Expedia

Located within the Keystone Crossing Area – home to several upscale malls, including the Fashion Mall, and many dining and boozing options – this modern hotel is the ideal base for your Indianapolis adventure. The sleek and contemporary rooms feature separate living areas and work spaces so you can earn on the go. Breakfast is complimentary – and there’s a bar, gym and mini-mart on-site. You can even bring your furry friend along.

2. Sonesta Select Indianapolis, for modern comfort north of the city

Hotel

The lounge area at Sonesta Select Indianapolis Carmel
Courtesy of Sonesta Select Indianapolis Carmel / Expedia

Just under 13mi (21km) from downtown and within easy reach of Butler University, this simple yet classy stay off Interstate 465 is one of the best cheap hotels in Indianapolis. It offers an American restaurant that serves breakfast, dinner and Starbucks coffee, an indoor pool with a whirlpool and sun loungers, a well-equipped fitness center – along with bright and contemporary rooms and suites.

3. Courtyard Indianapolis Castleton, for cocktails by the fire pit

Chain Hotel

A double room at the Courtyard Indianapolis Castleton
Courtesy of Courtyard Indianapolis Castleton / Expedia

This modern offering from Marriott is located in Castleton – northeast of downtown Indianapolis – meaning vibrant attractions, like Ruoff Music Center, the Indiana State Fairgrounds and Event Center and Castleton Square mall are within reach. When you’re not out exploring, the hotel provides plenty of places to chill – from the indoor pool and conservatory to the relaxing courtyard with a fire pit to the cool bistro serving breakfast, dinner and craft cocktails.

5. Holiday Inn Express and Suites Indianapolis West, for the free airport shuttle

Chain Hotel

The indoor pool area at Holiday Inn Express and Suites Indianapolis West
Courtesy of Holiday Inn Express and Suites Indianapolis West / Expedia

Solid and dependable, this Holiday Inn Express is only a 13-minute drive from Indianapolis International Airport and offers a complimentary airport shuttle from 4am right through to midnight. Indianapolis Motor Speedway is a similar distance away if you want to catch a Nascar race – while Circle Centre Mall, Lucas Oil Stadium and downtown are all within walking distance. Along with the shuttle, the free breakfast and inviting indoor pool should help you save a few bucks during your stay.

6. Hampton Inn Indianapolis Downtown Across from Circle Centre, for wandering downtown

Chain Hotel

A double room at the Hampton Inn Indianapolis Downtown
Courtesy of Hampton Inn Indianapolis Downtown / Expedia

A five-minute walk from the shops, dining and entertainment of Circle Centre Mall – and a short sojourn from Lucas Oil Stadium, Gainbridge Fieldhouse and Indiana State Museum – this homely yet contemporary hotel is a solid bet for your Indianapolis stay. The accommodation is bright and spacious, with a few tasteful mid-century modern flourishes. There’s a complimentary hot breakfast and weekend bags-to-go if you’re off to a game – plus a fitness center and mini-mart on-site.

7. Residence Inn by Marriott Indianapolis Fishers, for long stays and concert-goers

Chain Hotel

A large suite at the Residence Inn by Marriott Indianapolis Fishers
Courtesy of Residence Inn by Marriott Indianapolis Fishers / Expedia

If you’re after a comfortable room for a long stay, Residence Inn is a great option. Use the free grocery shopping service to help you whip up cheap meals in your suite’s full kitchen and spend days lounging by the indoor pool. If you’re feeling social, there’s even a weekday evening wine mixer. Located along Interstate 69, the hotel is closer to the Ruoff Music Center – just 10mi (16km) away – than downtown Indianapolis, making it ideal for concert-goers.

8. Courtyard by Marriott Indianapolis at the Capitol, for the central location

Chain Hotel

A family room at the Courtyard by Marriott Indianapolis at the Capitol
Courtesy of Courtyard by Marriott Indianapolis at the Capitol / Expedia

Right in the heart of downtown on Senate Avenue, this modern yet cheap hotel is a stone’s throw from the Indiana State Capitol Building and Indiana Government Center – within walking distance of the Convention Center, Circle Centre Mall and the Gainbridge Fieldhouse Arena. Alongside the usual amenities – bistro, indoor pool and fitness center – you’ll also find a barbershop to keep you looking fresh.

9. Residence Inn by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown on the Canal, for canalside living

Chain Hotel

A large suite at the Residence Inn by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown
Courtesy of Residence Inn by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown / Expedia

In case you hadn’t guessed it from the name, this extended-stay hotel is located by the canal, putting waterside walks and dining on your doorstep. You’ll also be in the heart of downtown, steps from the State Capitol Building and White River State Park and a 12-minute drive from the action at Indianapolis Motor Speedway – just be sure to stop driving once you reach the track. Perks include free breakfast, valet dry cleaning, an indoor pool and an on-site convenience store.

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