Omni Severin Hotel

The Omni Severin is the historic choice downtown, a grand hotel built in 1913 and carefully restored, standing on Jackson Place opposite the old Union Station on the south side of downtown. It was built for the railway age, when travellers arrived at the station across the street, and it still has the feel of a classic city hotel, with a handsome lobby and an old-fashioned sense of occasion, updated with modern rooms and facilities. The Amtrak station and the intercity bus station are each about a block away, which makes it one of the easiest hotels in the city to reach without a car. Dining options include Bar Cardinale for drinks, the 8th Notch Café and Market for coffee and quick bites, and Blitzen's, plus in-room dining. There is an indoor pool, a rarity downtown and a real plus for families in winter, and a 24-hour fitness center. The location suits convention-goers and sports fans, with the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium a short walk away, and Monument Circle about ten minutes north on foot.

Location and getting around: Jackson Place is on the south side of the Mile Square, close to the convention center, Lucas Oil Stadium and Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Monument Circle and the starting points of the walking and ghost tours are about ten minutes away on foot, and the Indiana State Museum and the zoo in White River State Park are a twenty-five-minute walk west, or a short taxi ride. For the Speedway, The Children's Museum or Newfields, take a taxi or rideshare.

Rooms and who it suits: the Omni suits history lovers, families who want a pool, and convention and game-day visitors who want to walk to the venue. It is also the most practical choice if you are arriving or leaving by train or intercity bus.

Good to know: parking is by valet, so check the current rate when you book. Pets under 25 pounds are allowed for a non-refundable cleaning fee of about $125. Rooms can sell out and prices rise on major convention dates and Colts home game weekends, so book early for those.