I was so happy to hear that the NFL owners and players ended their lockout earlier this week. I’m a huge Indianapolis Colts fan, and I just couldn’t imagine surviving an Indiana winter without the boys in blue to cheer on each weekend. Because Colts games are extremely popular, it’s best to start planning ahead if you want to make your gameday experience special.
I’ve been lucky enough to attend a handful of games myself, but the game always ended with a car ride or walk back home. This spring and summer, I had a chance to spend some time in two hotels within a quick walk of Lucas Oil Stadium (home of the Indianapolis Colts), and they both would make fine post-game celebratory and relaxation destinations.
Let’s start high-end with the new JW Marriott. No other building dominates the skyline (and screams “Go Colts!”) quite like the royal blue windows of this property. Just a walk through the lobby and you know you’re someplace pretty unique… it seems to stretch on for days. With 1,0005 rooms on 33 floors, it’s not just the lobby that’s big. I found the rooms really comfortable, cheery, and bright, with floor-to-ceiling windows. My view of the city from the 25th floor was breathtaking. I would imagine that High Velocity, the hotel sports bar, will offer lots of gameday revelry.
If the JW Marriott doesn’t quite meet your budget (especially when you’re already splurging on tickets to the game), I suggest a stay at Staybridge Suites. It’s right across the street from the stadium at 535 South West Street. In fact, if the roof’s open, you could probably scream during a third down right from the parking lot and Dwight Freeney might hear you! The rooms at this hotel are spacious and relaxing. I also appreciated some of the other amenities found on the property, like a theatre room with plenty of seating and a large screen TV. It would be a great gathering place to watch some of the other games being played that day. And don’t miss the free breakfast, you’ll need to refuel before heading home after celebrating another Colts victory.
Many downtown Indianapolis hotels offer Colts game packages. The Indianapolis Convention and Visitors Bureau has a great list of hotel options in the city. Or Lucas Oil Stadium has put together this list of hotels and their proximity to the stadium. Rooms will book quickly on weekends when the Colts play at home, so be sure to reserve well in advance. (A schedule for the 2011 season is available here.) Enjoy your stay and be sure to cheer loud and proud for me!
Photo courtesy of the JW Marriott.
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