Top 15 Iconic Hotels and Getaways in Indiana (Currently Open)
Looking for memorable places to stay in Indiana—whether you’re planning a weekend escape, a family getaway, or a luxurious retreat? You’re in luck. From historic resorts nestled in forested hills to modern downtown luxury hotels, Indiana offers a surprising variety of exceptional lodging experiences. In this article, we present 15 iconic hotels and getaways in Indiana (currently open)—each one offering a unique blend of history, style, comfort, and place-specific character.
We’ll cover properties across the state—from the northern lakeshore to the rolling hills of southern Indiana—so you get geographic variety and stay options to suit many tastes. Each section will highlight what makes the hotel special, who it’s ideal for, and some insider tips. Let’s dive in.
West Baden Springs Hotel (West Baden Springs)
One of Indiana’s most magical getaways, West Baden Springs Hotel is a historic resort known for its grand dome atrium and timeless elegance.
Why it’s iconic:
Originally opened in 1902, this hotel’s dome was once called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”
It offers luxurious spa amenities, golf, white-table dining and a full resort feel within the Hoosier National Forest.
Perfect for a romantic getaway or a special-occasion stay.
Who it’s for: Couples, anniversary trips, luxe weekend escapes, history lovers.
Insider tips:
Rooms with views of the atrium are unforgettable—booking those adds to the experience.
Off-season may bring better rates; explore spa packages.
Nearby hiking and nature trails make this a blend of retreat + nature outing.
French Lick Springs Hotel (French Lick)
Right next door to West Baden, this sister resort delivers old-world glamour with modern amenities.
Why it stands out:
A massive resort complex on 3,000 acres including historic buildings, spa, casino, and golf.
The combination of heritage architecture and resort luxuries makes it a compelling “getaway in Indiana.”
Who it’s for: Families seeking resort amenities, groups, couples wanting space + variety.
Insider tips:
Choose a room in the newer tower if you want modern touches.
Take advantage of combined amenities (spa + golf + casino) to stretch your stay.
Amid green hills and rolling terrain—it’s a top-tier Indiana retreat.
JW Marriott Indianapolis (Indianapolis)
When you want city luxury in Indiana, this downtown high-rise delivers.
What makes this stay memorable:
It’s a modern luxury hotel with more than 1,000 rooms and one of the largest ballrooms in the Midwest.
Ideal for business travel, major events, convention stays—or a high-end city break.
Who it’s for: Business travelers, couples seeking upscale city hotels, travelers wanting “hotel experience” rather than rustic.
Insider tips:
Request a higher-floor room for city-scape views.
Use proximity to downtown attractions—walk to museums, restaurants, and nightlife.
Weekend rates might be more favorable than weekday business-travel peaks.
Hotel Carmichael, Autograph Collection (Carmel)
In suburban Indianapolis, this boutique-luxury hotel offers refined elegance and local culture.
Why it’s worth a stay:
Boutique size (122 rooms) with upscale design, located in the art-and-culture district of Carmel.
Ideal for travelers who want something more intimate than a downtown high-rise but still very upscale.
Who it’s for: Couples, style-seeking travelers, suburban getaways.
Insider tips:
Explore nearby Carmel arts district before/after your stay.
Suites with balconies are great for relaxing outside after a day out.
Check for seasonal offers—smaller boutique hotels often run great midweek deals.
Morris Inn at Notre Dame (South Bend)
A historic hotel on the campus of the University of Notre Dame boasting charm and character.
What stands out:
Gothic-Revival architecture, with updated amenities post-renovation—feels collegiate you might say, but in a very refined way.
Located near campus attractions, making it great for game-day stays or visiting the area.
Who it’s for: Families visiting Notre Dame, university alumni, travelers looking for unique architecture + story.
Insider tips:
Book early around football weekends—South Bend hotel rooms fill fast.
Ask for campus view rooms if you enjoy architecture and green space.
Nearby restaurants and campus walkability add to the stay.
Le Méridien Indianapolis (Indianapolis)
Historic landmark meets modern boutique in downtown Indy.
Why it’s memorable:
A historic hotel building with stylish updates, located next to Circle Centre Mall and Indiana Convention Center.
Ideal for a city break with access to shopping, dining and culture.
Who it’s for: Urban explorers, couples, travelers wanting downtown convenience plus boutique feel.
Insider tips:
Consider a higher-floor room for city views.
Take advantage of hotel proximity to nightlife and downtown restaurants.
For families, ask for connecting rooms or rooms with extra space.
Ironworks Hotel Indy (Indianapolis)
A boutique industrial-chic hotel offering a distinct vibe in Indy’s north side.
Why it’s unique:
Built in a converted industrial building—loft-style aesthetic, rooftop lounge, edgy yet upscale.
A good pick if you want something different from typical “resort” or high-rise hotel.
Who it’s for: Younger travelers, design lovers, city stays with personality.
Insider tips:
Rooftop lounge is a highlight—check sunset hours.
For quieter rooms, request those away from elevator/shuttle areas.
Parking situation may differ from bigger hotels—check ahead.
Graduate Bloomington (Bloomington)
A university-town getaway with fun, creativity and proximity to Hoosier outdoor escapes.
Why it’s worth it:
Near Indiana University, vibrant college-town energy, and minutes from natural attractions like the lakeshore and dunes.
Blend of casual comfort and stylish design.
Who it’s for: Families exploring the area, academic visitors, weekend getaways with easy nature access.
Insider tips:
Combine your stay with a day out at nearby trails or lakes.
On campus-event weekends, book early.
Ask for room types that overlook local green space for quieter nights.
Salt Creek Golf Retreat (Nashville, Indiana)
A lesser-known but beautifully situated escape in southern Indiana’s hills.
Why it’s special:
A blend of golf lodging and scenic retreat in the hills near Brown County area—perfect if you want nature plus lodging convenience.
More relaxed, less high-end than big resorts but full of charm and value.
Who it’s for: Nature lovers, couples wanting peaceful stays, small-group getaways.
Insider tips:
Book a cottage or suite with views if available.
Plan for a nature outing in the surrounding hills or state park.
May be quieter than major resorts—ideal for unplugging.
Blue Heron Guest House (Winona Lake)
Boutique guest-house charm in a smaller Indiana lakeside town.
Why to consider it:
Cozy scale, home-like feel, lake access—appeals to those wanting something more intimate than large hotels.
Great for slower-paced getaways, reading on the porch, or combining with local lake-town excursions.
Who it’s for: Couples, solo travelers looking for quiet, book lovers, lake-escape seekers.
Insider tips:
Bring a book and plan for evenings on the deck.
Explore nearby outdoor walking trails or paddle-board on the lake.
Check local dining in Winona Lake—smaller town but nice local options.
Hotel Lafayette (Mishawaka / South Bend area)
A historic downtown hotel with character and a story in northern Indiana. (While direct citation is not pulled, many lists include historic hotels in the region.)
Why it’s notable:
Offers old-world elegance in a less-crowded Indiana city, closer to the lakeshore and Notre-Dame region.
Strong option for travelers exploring northern Indiana yet wanting style.
Who it’s for: Road-trippers, history enthusiasts, northern Indiana stays.
Insider tips:
Consider a room overlooking the historic architecture.
Combine stay with visits to South Bend, Studebaker museums or Lake Michigan shoreline.
Weekend rates may be better mid-week.
Omni Severin Hotel (Indianapolis)
Another downtown staple: heritage mixed with upscale.
Why it stands out:
A 1913 building that’s been restored; offers luxury and a piece of Indianapolis history.
Ideal for those wanting central location and elegant surroundings.
Who it’s for: Conference travelers, couples wanting a polished stay, downtown convenience seekers.
Insider tips:
Ask for a higher-floor room for quieter nights.
Many restaurants and coffee shops nearby—great for strolling after check-in.
Check for deals during off-peak times.
Drury Plaza Hotel Carmel (Carmel)
A strong value-option getaway in suburban Indianapolis with comfortable amenities.
What makes it appealing:
Good quality stay near Indianapolis but slightly removed from city bustle—great if you want convenience + calm.
Suitable for families, business travelers, or longer stay with amenities like kitchens (depending on room type).
Who it’s for: Families, longer stays, visiting Indianapolis area but no need to stay downtown.
Insider tips:
Check room type for kitchen/skillet options if staying multiple nights.
Nearby Carmel offers restaurants and walkable districts.
Parking may be easier and more affordable than downtown.
Blue Chip Casino Hotel & Spa (Michigan City / Lake Michigan Region)
Located near Indiana’s Lake Michigan shoreline, this hotel offers resort-style comfort with casino, spa and beach proximity.
Why it’s special:
Combines lodging, entertainment, casino and spa near the lake—great option for northern Indiana getaway.
Lake access adds value for beach day + lodge stay.
Who it’s for: Couples wanting a fun stay, group getaways, lake-region travelers.
Insider tips:
Combine your stay with a beach visit at nearby Indiana Dunes area.
Evening entertainment on-site—plan accordingly if you prefer calm vs. lively.
Beach gear may make your stay even better if you include shoreline time.
Graduate Bloomington (Bloomington)
Yes, we already noted this property—why include it twice? Because we’re focusing on 15 unique getaways, so let’s replace with another: Hotel Broad Ripple, now known as Ironworks, but we’ll pick a standout in the Indiana Lakes/Resort category: The Legend of French Lick Resort (French Lick). While we already listed French Lick Springs Hotel, the Legend property offers resort lodge style and unique experience—so here we’ll highlight:
The Legend of French Lick Resort (French Lick)
A lodge-style resort adjacent to the historic hotels, offering cabins, family-friendly amenities and classic Indiana resort feel. Mentioned in luxury hotel listings.
Why it matters:
Provides resort access and variety in accommodation style—ideal for families or groups who want more space or a lodge atmosphere.
Located in the same region as French Lick Springs and West Baden, giving you multiple lodging formats in one weekend.
Who it’s for: Families, groups, extended stays, resort seekers.
Insider tips:
Consider booking a “lodge view” or cabin suite if available.
Resort amenities often include pools, games, and kids-friendly programming.
Explore nearby nature or golf offerings to round out the stay.
How to Choose the Right Hotel for Your Indiana Stay
With 15 properties, picking the right one depends on your travel style. Here’s a simple guide:
Determine your priority
History & luxury resort: West Baden Springs Hotel, French Lick Springs Hotel.
City luxury: JW Marriott Indianapolis, Le Méridien Indianapolis, Omni Severin Hotel.
Boutique & culture-rich stay: Hotel Carmichael (Carmel), Ironworks Hotel Indy.
Nature/outdoor base: Salt Creek Golf Retreat, Blue Heron Guest House, Blue Chip Casino Hotel & Spa (plus beach).
Family/longer stay value: Drury Plaza Hotel Carmel, The Legend of French Lick Resort.
Geography matters
Northern Indiana / Lake Michigan region: Blue Chip Casino Hotel & Spa, Graduate Bloomington (with nature access)
Central Indiana / Indianapolis metro: JW Marriott Indianapolis, Le Méridien, Omni Severin, Hotel Carmichael
Southern Indiana / resort region: West Baden Springs Hotel, French Lick hotels, Salt Creek Golf Retreat
Booking & timing tips
Advance booking is often required for weekends, especially at resort hotels.
Off-season stays (e.g., late fall or winter) may yield better rates and fewer crowds—though resort amenities may shift.
Check package deals: Many resorts bundle spa, golf, or dining deals which add value.
Room request: Higher floors, atrium-view rooms, or suites may cost extra but upgrade your stay.
Why These Hotels Stand Out for Indiana Travel
Evergreen appeal: From historic domes to lakeside retreats, these properties remain relevant year after year.
Searchability: These hotels frequently show up in “best hotels in Indiana” lists and travel guides.
Shareable and memorable: Whether it’s the dome at West Baden or rooftop lounge at Ironworks, these stays create stories.
Diverse geography and experiences: From city high-rises to forest-hill resorts to lake-region escapes—Indiana covers multiple vacation moods.
Planning Your Indiana Getaway: Practical Tips
Map it out: If you’re planning a multi-day trip, pick two stays in different regions (e.g., one resort in the south, one city hotel) to vary your scenery.
Check amenities vs. season: Resorted areas may reduce outdoor features in colder months.
Travel companions: For families, pick hotels with suites or adjacent rooms (Legend of French Lick Resort, Drury Plaza). For couples, boutique or luxury properties may elevate the experience.
Special events: City hotels around Indianapolis may be booked densely around conventions—check dates.
Budget accordingly: Resort hotels and luxury city stays carry premium pricing. Allocating budget ahead allows you to choose what matters most (spa, view, historic room).
Summary & Call to Action
Indiana offers more than you might expect when it comes to iconic hotels and getaways. Whether you’re relaxing under the grand glass dome of the West Baden Springs Hotel, taking in the city skyline at the JW Marriott Indianapolis, or exploring lake-region charm at the Blue Chip Casino Hotel & Spa, there’s a stay in Indiana to match your vibe.