InterContinental Hotels and Resorts recently opened the stunning InterContinental Indianapolis and the hotel has quickly become a standout in Indiana.

Located in the city’s downtown at 17 West Market Street, InterContinental Indianapolis is steps from the iconic Monument Circle and the Indiana State Capitol.

The destination’s first luxury hotel to open in two decades features 170 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites complemented by two new dining concepts helmed by award-winning Chef Craig Baker, including the first rooftop bar of its kind for the city, an existing upscale steakhouse Hyde Park, 5,000 square feet of meeting and event space, and the city’s only Penthouse Suite on a private floor featuring spectacular views of Monument Circle.

Housed in the historic 100-year-old Illinois Building, the property was listed as one of Indiana’s 10 most endangered landmarks before it was purchased by locally based owner and developer Keystone Group.

Construction was substantially completed by Keystone Group in 2024 before making a grand debut on February 20, 2025.

Keystone Group Owner and Developer, Ersal Ozdemir, said the new hotel is redefining the city’s hospitality landscape and providing an urban respite for visitors to Indianapolis and local guests.

“The opening of InterContinental Indianapolis signifies an elevation of the hospitality and tourism industries to include true luxury in one of America’s most vibrant cities,” he said.

“Keystone Group, with the distinguished InterContinental brand, has transformed the historic Illinois Building into the only luxury accommodation of its kind.

“With classic contemporary design, luxury finishes, and state-of-the-art amenities all absent from the market, InterContinental Indianapolis is a beacon of elegance, style, and engineering excellence.”

Upon arrival, guests are welcomed into the hotel through opulent brass doors accentuated by intricate grillwork set against alabaster panels.

The original ornate elements designed by architect Robush and Hunter in 1925 remain intact but refurbished with a modern colorway.

With the addition of an entire rooftop floor as part of the US$120 million restoration, the now 11-story hotel includes the preserved historic entry with facets of the building’s lavishly detailed craftsmanship of the past, seamlessly blending in with a new contemporary canopy to welcome guests in the most elevated manner.

The hotel’s exterior, much of which is the Illinois Building’s original architecture, is comprised of granite and limestone with Moderne bas relief panels and topped with gold-glazed terra cotta cornice.

Additional stand-out interior design details include bespoke Murano chandeliers and a hand-blown glass chandelier that suspends three stories with ethereal grace from the second-floor lobby, a robust art program that exclusively features pieces throughout the hotel that were commissioned by artists with strong Indiana ties, and Italian marble located throughout the public spaces.

Each of the hotel’s 170 guestrooms and suites evoke a sense of sophistication through interiors that harmoniously blend luxurious soft furnishings, 300 thread count linens and sumptuous Black Label BeautyRest mattresses.

All guestrooms feature a walk-in shower, with select suites offering soothing soaking tubs.

Ensuite bathrooms include double vanities for a glamourous way to prepare for a night out, while a full wet bar entices guests to spend an enjoyable evening in.

Additional in-room amenities include Nespresso Machines, curated mini bars and Bal D’Afrique scented bath amenities by BYREDO.

InterContinental Indianapolis also boasts the only Penthouse Suite in the city with floor-to-ceiling views of the city skyline.

“We are proud to bring elevated experiences and create a sense of discovery for the modern luxury traveler while setting a new standard for hospitality in the region,” said IHG Hotels and Resorts SVP and Managing Director of Luxury and Lifestyle Americas, Leanne Harwood.

“This stunning hotel embodies the vibrant culture and rich heritage of Indianapolis, so whether you’re a visitor exploring the destination for the first time or a local seeking to savor a perfectly crafted cocktail on the rooftop, there is something for all to enjoy.”

Award-winning Indiana Chef Craig Baker serves as the hotel’s Executive Chef, overseeing all food and beverage offerings, including the new Astrea Rooftop Bar and Serliana. Astrea, the city’s first rooftop bar overlooking Monument Circle, is a polished all-season cocktail destination featuring both indoor and outdoor space.

A refreshing cocktail-forward beverage menu includes the aptly named Monument G&T and the Cardinal Crown honoring Indiana’s majestic state bird all among a stunning never-before-seen view of the circle below and the Indiana State Capitol in the cosmopolitan center of the city.

Serliana, located on the hotel’s second floor, is a fashionable social hub serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Chef Craig Baker drew inspiration from local favorites as well as the building itself to create a menu of elevated classics.

Highlights include Chef’s Housemade Biscuit Sandwich for breakfast as well as an indulgent Lobster Roll for lunch or dinner.

The famous Indiana Pork Tenderloin Sandwich has also undergone a transformation of its own, promising to induct new fans to the local staple.

Guests can also enjoy prime fare at the existing Hyde Park Steakhouse, located on the ground floor of the hotel.

At the hotel, additional amenities include 24-hour fitness center, offering state-of-the-art equipment including Peloton Bikes and Row, free weights and more.

ESSENTIALS: GETTING TO INDIANAPOLIS

The best way of getting to Indianapolis in comfort and style.

United’s brilliant Polaris Business Class cabin

WAYFARER recommends flying to Indianapolis on United Airlines, which offers direct flights to the destination from across America and around the world via key hubs in Denver, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston and more.

Book a ticket on the long-haul sector in United’s Polaris Business Class cabin, which features flatbed seats, pyjamas (on flights over 12 hours), all-new Saks Fifth Avenue bedding and onboard amenities from Therabody – including a kit that features an eye serum, face spray, hand cream and cleansing towelette exclusive to United customers – alongside fantastic inflight food and drinks (including a new, brilliant wine menu), premium noise-reducing headphones and fantastic inflight hospitality.