Indianapolis during the NFL Football Kick-off

I am what some might call the anti-football fan. I don’t like to watch it on TV and will go to the live game, not to watch the game, but to cheer along with friends.  So what a surprise when I arrived in Indianapolis in what was the second biggest celebration for this town’s football fans. The NFL Kick-off! After winning the Superbowl last year, Indianapolis Colts fans were excited to cheer their team into another season. They were playing the New Orleans Saints days after the second anniversary of Katrina. Saints fans were in town not only representing their team but all that is New Orleans. Don’t I know how to pick em…

I should have known something was going on when this normally affordable hotel city had sky high hotels rates. One of my favorite places to stay is the Embassy Suites Downtown on Washington Street. This large high rise hotel is connected to a shopping mall and surrounded by places to eat.

It is centrally located downtown and offers easy access to the highway. With its cooked to order breakfast and nightly manager’s reception of cocktails and snacks, it is perfect for people looking for an affordable place to stay with some of the comforts of home included in the price. The extra large rooms have a separate sitting and sleeping area with a small table and pull-out couch.

This makes it a perfect for groups of travelers and families. For business travelers the table area allow you to separate your work and rest areas. Each room also has a small fridge, microwave, two televisions, three mirrors and two vanity areas. The vanity in the sleeping area has a full mirror and sink which allows someone else to do their hair or make-up while someone else is in the bathrooms. Perfect for groups of women traveling together and trying to get ready all at once.

I have always received amazing service at the hotel and it is usually a first pick when staying in Indianapolis. The front desk staff are knowledgeable about the area and very friendly. Even though I arrived close to Midnight after tons of travel drama, I was greeted with warm smiles and quick service.

The one downfall for this property is the parking garage and entrance. With its sharp corners and distance from the actual hotel, parking  is a less than pleasant experience. The garage is connected to the building where the hotel is located but has a separate entrance and elevator. When bringing your luggage you have to cross the driveway area and then enter the hotel. From there you take an escalator to the check-in area. Unfortunately though there are ramps and other measures to make it accessible it is not the best set up for people with wheelchairs or even large luggage. The escalator is also very narrow. If you can get past this part the other amenities and space in the rooms make it a great place to stay in Indy.

By the way, the Colts won the game though I spent my time in the mall!

Embassy Suites Indianapolis - Downtown
110 West Washington Street
Indianapolis, IN 46204
317-236-1800