The best deals on hotels near Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, IN.
Access unmatched hotel rates and frequent flash deals on rooms.
Save up to 70% when booking as a group. Select 9+ rooms to get started.
Top 24 Hotels Near Hinkle Fieldhouse
510 W 49th St Indianapolis, IN 46208
Suburban Studios Indianapolis Northwest - College Parks
In Indianapolis, Suburban Studios Indianapolis Northwest - College Parks is situated an easy drive from Hinkle Fieldhouse, which creates a sense of calm.
At Suburban Studios Indianapolis Northwest - College Parks, arrivals may showcase a no-frills desk, complimentary parking, and modest seating for uncomplicated guest routines. Rooms typically highlight compact layouts, premium bedding, and coffee stations, maintaining balance and convenience across guest visits. Facilities often highlight vending machines, modest lobbies, and laundry areas that emphasize simple and reliable daily guest routines.
Guests may enjoy Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending access, and guest laundry, maintaining clear routines across budget-conscious stays.
Sleep Inn & Suites and Conference Center Downtown
Guests at Sleep Inn & Suites and Conference Center Downtown can rely on Hinkle Fieldhouse being an easy drive to set a relaxed and convenient tone for their stay.
Sleep Inn places seating clusters near reception, giving travelers a spot to pause and regroup before heading to elevators or rooms. Each guest room balances a large workspace, a coffee station, a refrigerator and blackout curtains to support routines and restful sleep. Indoor pools often have family-friendly depths, nearby seating and visible lifeguard policies at select properties for safer short visits.
With free Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, EV charging at select locations, a fitness area, meeting rooms and laundry, trips feel less stressful.
Candlewood Suites Indianapolis Downtown Medical District by IHG
This uncomplicated drive to Hinkle Fieldhouse from Candlewood Suites Indianapolis Downtown Medical District by IHG allows guests to feel more in control of their schedule in Indianapolis.
At check-in, Candlewood Suites clusters small tables and outlet seats, supporting plan checks while room details finalize at the desk. Studio suites highlight open layouts with a recliner, HDTV, and full kitchen, balancing relaxation, entertainment, and simple everyday meals. Elevator sightlines and directory boards appear in one view from reception, shrinking bottlenecks as multiple arrivals reach check-in.
With a meeting room, business corner, and Wi-Fi plus coffee and seating, brief collaboration and print needs resolve on predictable paths.
Executive Inn
In Indianapolis, Executive Inn is situated an easy drive from Hinkle Fieldhouse, which ensures a simple commute.
Guests at Executive Inn may encounter basic front desk help, self-serve coffee, and parking close to the lobby for predictable arrivals. Each guest room often provides hardwood floors, curated décor, and blackout curtains, giving guests a restful and consistent experience. Public areas typically include breakfast counters, vending access, and compact seating that create practical support during visits.
A stay may feature Wi-Fi, laundry rooms, continental breakfast, and parking, reinforcing consistent travel support for visiting guests.
Bottleworks Hotel
For a trip to Indianapolis, Bottleworks Hotel's location a simple cross-town drive from Hinkle Fieldhouse is a core part of its appeal to travelers.
Arrivals at Bottleworks Hotel commonly feature professional staff, refined décor, and complimentary infused water in the reception lounge. Guest rooms may provide stylish décor, plush bedding, and minibars that include refreshments contributing to a polished luxury impression. Amenities typically showcase elegant lounges, stylish bars, and spa-style facilities that enhance a sophisticated guest impression.
A stay may highlight premium bedding, refined dining, wellness services, and Wi-Fi, creating a sophisticated impression of consistency.
Hampton Inn Indianapolis Downtown IUPUI
Located an easy drive of Hinkle Fieldhouse, Hampton Inn Indianapolis Downtown IUPUI offers a convenient base for exploring the area.
Digital Key features at Hampton Inn receptions provide loyalty recognition, helping frequent guests bypass wait times with seamless access. Each suite features closets, luggage benches, and drawer storage, offering practical organization that supports longer guest stays. Business centers with computers, printers, and ergonomic seating allow travelers to complete tasks, keeping productivity steady on the road.
Complimentary internet, laundry service, breakfast buffets, business lounges, and outdoor pools create amenities that suit longer visits.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Indianapolis Downtown IUPUI
A notable advantage of Homewood Suites by Hilton Indianapolis Downtown IUPUI in Indianapolis is the easy drive to Hinkle Fieldhouse, making the hotel a strategic hub for a multi-purpose visit.
Homewood Suites presents its evening social as a brand hallmark, offering light fare and beverages that reinforce consistency each visit. Every suite contains separate living and sleeping areas with sofas and TVs, giving guests space to relax and balance routines easily. In the fitness center, treadmills, bikes, and dumbbells are available, allowing guests to sustain workouts without breaking routines.
Evening socials, Suite Shop®, laundry rooms, and indoor pools deliver comfort and balance, ensuring routines are supported reliably.
Courtyard by Marriott Indianapolis at the Capitol
Reaching Hinkle Fieldhouse from Courtyard by Marriott Indianapolis at the Capitol is an easy drive, a trait that allows guests to ease into their day's schedule.
Guests at Courtyard experience seating clusters and open layouts in the lobby, details that highlight consistency and practical design. Guest rooms feature Courtyard signature beds, blackout curtains, and adjustable thermostats, ensuring restful nights and refreshed mornings. At the lobby lounge, modular seating, bright lighting, and community tables provide inviting hubs for conversation and casual work.
Amenities include indoor pools, valet parking, meeting rooms, and Wi-Fi, ensuring balanced routines for both business and leisure.
Residence Inn by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown on the Canal
This convenient drive to Hinkle Fieldhouse is a central feature of Residence Inn by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown on the Canal, as it makes for a smooth and simple commute.
Lobby coffee zones at Residence Inn offer a simple yet impactful courtesy, helping guests reset physically and emotionally at arrival. Every guest room features blackout curtains, plush bedding, and adjustable climate control, creating restful environments for deeper sleep. Business areas with computer terminals, copy machines, and Wi-Fi provide essential tools that help travelers manage tasks effectively.
Outdoor pools, breakfast service, business centers, pet-friendly options, and complimentary internet ensure comfort for varied guest needs.
Sheraton Indianapolis City Centre Hotel
Hinkle Fieldhouse is a simple cross-town drive from Sheraton Indianapolis City Centre Hotel, a layout that ensures the pre-event journey is always a speedy one.
In Sheraton spaces, Community Tables, modular furniture, and curated décor provide hubs that encourage collaboration and connection. Every suite highlights soaking tubs, upgraded bath products, and bright lighting, refreshing guests with spa-inspired daily routines. The fitness studio with ellipticals, resistance gear, and mats gives wellness-minded guests balance and routine while traveling.
With hot buffets, self-parking, free Wi-Fi, and meeting spaces, travelers enjoy consistent amenities that simplify business trips.
Hilton Indianapolis Hotel & Suites
At Hilton Indianapolis Hotel & Suites, Hinkle Fieldhouse is an uncomplicated drive, a practical aspect that simplifies event-day travel.
Hilton reinforces attentiveness through evening beverage service, showing care that creates rituals easing the shift from travel. Suites feature marble bathrooms, soaking tubs, and stocked toiletries, providing spa-like experiences that refresh guests reliably. In the breakfast lounge, hot buffets, cereals, and pastries provide travelers with reliable options that make mornings simple and smooth.
Guests enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast, fitness rooms, and indoor pools, ensuring routines remain balanced and reliable daily.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Indianapolis Downtown
The hotel's spot an uncomplicated drive to Hinkle Fieldhouse gives Home2 Suites by Hilton Indianapolis Downtown guests a easy way to transition into their day.
Lobby seating clusters at Home2 Suites use modular sofas, tables, and chairs, offering groups a comfortable place to connect casually. Guest rooms highlight blackout curtains, plush bedding, and climate control, ensuring restful sleep tailored to traveler preferences. At the indoor pool, loungers, fresh towels, and soft lighting combine to create a relaxing hub where families can refresh together.
Guests enjoy complimentary breakfast, markets, pools, and Wi-Fi, ensuring extended stays remain convenient and stress-free daily.
Hilton Garden Inn Indianapolis Downtown
For a stay that depends on reliable car travel, Hilton Garden Inn Indianapolis Downtown offers a direct run to Hinkle Fieldhouse, making it a solid foundation for your trip.
Hilton Garden Inn lobby coffee stations show care in small details, giving arrivals comfort through familiar hospitality gestures. Each suite offers large vanities, premium bath products, and bright lighting, giving travelers comfort and ease during morning routines. Outdoor pools with shaded tables, sun loungers, and towel racks provide social hubs where guests can relax or gather during downtime.
Complimentary breakfast, indoor pools, Wi-Fi connectivity, business centers, and parking options provide everyday convenience and balance.
InterContinental Indianapolis by IHG
The hotel's location is ideal for straightforward travel, with Hinkle Fieldhouse a direct run away, allowing for predictable travel times.
InterContinental places umbrellas or mats by doors in wet weather, keeping entries safer while teams regroup and route baggage carts inside quickly. Every guest room places large smart TVs, streaming access, and bedside USB hubs together, making downtime easy and connected after events. Fitness centers combine treadmills, free weights, and stretching mats with towels and water, keeping training routines steady during travel.
From club lounges (club-only) and breakfast venues to Wi-Fi, meeting suites, and bars, eligible stays combine privacy, focus, and unwind.
Courtyard by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown
In Indianapolis, Courtyard by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown provides a location that keeps Hinkle Fieldhouse an easy drive, letting the stay begin on a positive note.
Courtyard emphasizes comfort through beverage rituals and modular furniture, touches that ease arrivals and signal brand dependability. Suites provide walk-in showers, stocked bath amenities, and bright lighting, refreshing travelers with consistent and reliable comfort. In the meeting rooms, ergonomic chairs, AV setups, and flexible layouts allow professionals to stay productive during gatherings.
Guests benefit from Starbucks® coffee, outdoor pools, conference facilities, and free Wi-Fi, daily conveniences that remain dependable.
Conrad Indianapolis
The simple drive from Conrad Indianapolis to Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis renders cross-town travel uncomplicated and efficient.
Guests at Conrad Indianapolis may be welcomed by concierge presence, polished interiors, and courteous staff for a luxury-oriented arrival. Accommodations typically showcase elegant furnishings, refined bedding, and bathrooms with upscale finishes for a sophisticated stay. Shared spaces may offer polished interiors, full-service dining, and wellness services that emphasize a refined and comfortable stay.
Accommodations often feature plush bedding, spa facilities, cocktail bars, and Wi-Fi, reinforcing balance across polished guest routines.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown
At Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown, Hinkle Fieldhouse is within easy reach for visiting families, enhancing the visit.
Fairfield Inn positions tall counters with seating and nearby outlets to support brief collaboration or solo work while waiting for room access. All guest rooms provide entertainment systems, lounge seating, and plush bedding, giving travelers both comfort and relaxation during downtime. Breakfast sections present hot items, cereals, and baked goods with coffee, making mornings predictable and clear for guests of all ages.
Complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi access, fitness facilities, and a 24/7 Market simplify travel, giving guests reliable options at every property.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Indianapolis Downtown
From Embassy Suites by Hilton Indianapolis Downtown, Hinkle Fieldhouse is an easy drive, a choice that makes for an uncomplicated and well-placed stay.
Reception-side seating clusters in Embassy Suites lobbies offer welcoming rest areas, softening arrivals through thoughtful comfort and utility. Suites offer sofa beds, dining tables, and armchairs, creating comfortable zones that support both meals and relaxation. Atrium spaces with glass elevators and soaring ceilings create striking visual hubs, helping arrivals orient while fostering social energy.
Concierge support, EV charging, hot breakfast, complimentary Wi-Fi, and fitness areas create a smooth mix of convenience and care.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown
For a trip where a direct drive is essential, SpringHill Suites by Marriott Indianapolis Downtown offers a direct run to Hinkle Fieldhouse, making it a logical hub for any itinerary.
West elm furnishings integrated into SpringHill Suites lobbies create modern arrival cues that reflect thoughtful detail and stylish comfort. Suites combine ample work desks, ergonomic chairs, and reliable Wi-Fi, supporting business travelers who need productive spaces on the road. The lobby lounge offers flexible seating, open sightlines, and communal tables, serving as a gathering place that supports both work and leisure.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, self-parking, fitness center, and breakfast service combine to simplify travel and help routines continue seamlessly.
JW Marriott Indianapolis
At JW Marriott Indianapolis, Hinkle Fieldhouse is an easy drive, a key feature that elevates the convenience of the stay.
Guests visiting JW Marriott encounter soothing scents and soft music, sensory details that reinforce comfort and wellness on arrival. Suites provide marble bathrooms, soaking tubs, and rainfall showers, offering spa-like rituals that refresh travelers daily with ease. At the fitness studio, treadmills, ellipticals, and stretching zones ensure wellness routines remain intact during all guest stays.
Amenities include wellness spas, valet parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, and fitness centers, ensuring travel feels consistent and stress-free.
The Westin Indianapolis
From The Westin Indianapolis, Hinkle Fieldhouse is an easy drive, a perk that keeps the day's main event easily reachable.
Westin highlights wellness with calming lighting, curated artwork, and natural finishes, producing first impressions of balance. Each guest room offers plush pillows, blackout curtains, and espresso service, helping travelers maintain restful comfort and energy. Guests visiting the pool enjoy shaded cabanas, towel service, and bright lighting, reliable amenities that provide daily relaxation.
With 24/7 markets, complimentary Wi-Fi, wellness spas, and outdoor seating, travelers maintain routines with comfort and flexibility.
Hotel Indy Indianapolis, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
From Hotel Indy Indianapolis, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, the simple drive to Hinkle Fieldhouse is a core principle of accessibility straightforward that defines the beginning of the stay.
In Tribute Portfolio arrivals, community tables, concierge access, and modular seating simplify orientation while supporting connection. Every suite incorporates marble finishes, stocked toiletries, and soaking tubs, refreshing travelers with spa-quality details daily. In the rooftop bar, cocktails, lighting, and lounge seating combine to create premium hubs that balance social connection and style.
With valet parking, cocktail lounges, cultural lounges, and fitness centers, stays remain flexible and consistently comfortable.
Marriott Indianapolis Downtown
Hinkle Fieldhouse is a simple drive of Marriott Indianapolis Downtown, a benefit that allows the hotel to serve as an easy-to-navigate base.
Soft lighting and natural stone finishes in Marriott lobbies foster a warm environment that gently eases travelers into their stay routine. All guest rooms come with coffee makers, mini-fridges, and smart TVs, keeping everyday essentials close at hand for added convenience. The business center has internet-connected terminals and available printers, supporting travelers who need quick document access.
Concierge desks, on-site restaurants, and EV charging align with Wi-Fi and business spaces, streamlining stays for all traveler types.
Hyatt Regency Indianapolis
In Indianapolis, Hyatt Regency Indianapolis offers a accessible location keeping Hinkle Fieldhouse an easy drive, letting guests move with ease.
Communal spaces inside Hyatt Regency lobbies balance long tables and soft seating, supporting groups as well as solo travelers with comfort. Each guest room offers in-room coffee, blackout curtains, and digital thermostats, ensuring routines are supported around the clock. Breakfast dining areas offering hot selections, fruit, and coffee service ensure guests begin mornings with clarity and ease.
Valet parking, breakfast dining, and fitness centers combine with meeting spaces, ensuring travelers can maintain routines without stress.
Book as a group & pay separately.
Lowest Group Rate Guaranteed.
Hinkle Fieldhouse Local Area Guide
Hinkle Fieldhouse is widely considered the "Cathedral of Indiana Basketball," standing as a National Historic Landmark that transcends the sport itself. Home to the Butler University Bulldogs, the arena is perhaps best known globally as the setting for the climactic scene in the movie Hoosiers, cementing its place in sports lore. Built in 1928, it has retained its classic charm—including the sun-drenched windows and exposed steel trusses—while undergoing renovations to improve fan comfort with modern seats and amenities. The atmosphere here is pure and nostalgic, focusing intensely on the game itself rather than sensory overload or pyrotechnics. Located on the picturesque Butler campus in the Butler-Tarkington neighborhood, it offers a distinct collegiate experience surrounded by historic homes and leafy streets. This guide helps you navigate the pilgrimage to this basketball mecca, from finding street parking in the neighborhood to grabbing a pre-game pint on Sunset Avenue.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Hinkle Fieldhouse (Indianapolis, IN)
The Fieldhouse anchors the northeast corner of the Butler University campus, nestled within the quiet, residential Butler-Tarkington neighborhood. Unlike downtown arenas, Hinkle is surrounded by academic buildings, playing fields, and historic single-family homes, creating a relaxed, park-like environment. Access is primarily via Meridian Street or 38th Street, which connect the campus to the broader Indianapolis grid. Parking can be a mix of the Sunset Avenue Parking Garage and street parking in the surrounding neighborhood, though restrictions are strictly enforced on game days. The nearest major travel hub is Indianapolis International Airport (IND), located about 25 to 30 minutes southwest by car. While the immediate vicinity is largely residential, the vibrant cultural districts of Broad Ripple and SoBro (South Broad Ripple) are just a five-minute drive north and south, respectively. The area feels safe and communal, with fans often walking several blocks through the neighborhood to reach the gates. Traffic flows smoothly compared to downtown, but the narrow residential streets can require patience immediately after a sell-out game.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Hinkle Fieldhouse
Unlike downtown venues, Hinkle Fieldhouse does not have a cluster of hotels immediately adjacent to its doors. Most visitors choose to stay in Downtown Indianapolis, about 15 minutes south, where major brands like the JW Marriott and The Alexander offer high-end amenities and walkability to the city center. Alternatively, the Keystone at the Crossing area to the northeast offers upscale options like the Ironworks Hotel Indy and the Sheraton, which are convenient for those who prefer to avoid downtown traffic. For a boutique experience closer to the venue, the Hotel Broad Ripple provides a charming, lodge-like stay just a short drive from campus. Teams often favor the North Meridian corridor for its direct line to the university. Booking in advance is recommended if your visit coincides with a major convention downtown or the Indy 500, as the entire city's inventory can vanish.
View nearby hotels Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Closest airport is Indianapolis International (IND), about 25–30 minutes away by car.
- Park in the Sunset Avenue Garage for the most reliable, legal spot on campus.
- Broad Ripple Village offers a dense strip of bars and dining 10 minutes north.
- Newfields (Indianapolis Museum of Art) is a world-class indoor/outdoor escape nearby.
- Regroup at Chatham Tap on campus for a convenient post-game meal and pint.
Event Day Flow
Arrival & Pre-Event
Plan to arrive on campus about 60 to 90 minutes before tip-off to navigate the residential streets and secure parking without stress. The Sunset Avenue Parking Garage is the primary facility for visitors, located just a short walk from the Fieldhouse entrance, and it prevents the headache of hunting for street spots. Gates typically open 90 minutes prior to the game, giving you ample time to explore the concourse, which serves as a mini-museum of Indiana basketball history. Security protocols include metal detectors and a clear bag policy (12" x 6" x 12"), so pack light to ensure a smooth entry.
During the Event
The concourses at Hinkle are historic and can feel narrow when crowded, but they are packed with memorabilia that is worth seeing. If attending a day game, the sunlight streaming through the massive windows is a signature feature that illuminates the court in a way no other arena matches. Concessions are available throughout the loop, but lines for the "Hinkle Dog" can get long at halftime, so try to go during a timeout. The seating bowl offers excellent sightlines, but legroom in the upper levels (often benches) can be tight, so prepare for a cozy fit with your neighbors.
Post-Event & Departure
Exiting the campus is generally orderly, with traffic filtering out onto 49th Street and Boulevard Place toward the main arteries. If you parked in the garage, expect a 15-to-20-minute wait to clear the structure on sold-out nights as cars merge into the single exit lane. Many fans choose to walk to the nearby Chatham Tap or Starbucks on Sunset Avenue to let the traffic die down before driving. Rideshare pickups are usually best requested near the Parking Garage or the Schrott Center for the Arts to avoid the immediate congestion at the front doors.
Things to Do Near Hinkle Fieldhouse
Walkable
Holcomb Gardens
Located on the Butler University campus just down the hill from the Fieldhouse, this 20-acre garden is a stunning spot for a pre-game walk. It features a poet's corner, a small lake, and a canal towpath that connects to the broader city trail system. It is peaceful and scenic, offering a nice contrast to the high energy of the arena before tip-off. The "Holcomb Carillon" tower often chimes across the grounds, adding to the collegiate atmosphere.
Garden Rd · 0.5 miCentral Canal Towpath
Accessible from the Holcomb Gardens area, this crushed limestone trail runs along the historic canal and is perfect for running or walking. It connects the campus to the Indianapolis Museum of Art and Broad Ripple, making it a great active option if the weather is nice. You will see plenty of students and locals utilizing this path year-round for exercise and commuting. It is a great way to see the "backyard" of the neighborhood without needing a car.
Westfield Blvd · 0.6 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Newfields (Indianapolis Museum of Art)
Just a five-minute drive from campus, this massive cultural campus features a world-class art museum, a historic home (The Lilly House), and extensive gardens. It is one of the top attractions in the city and can easily fill half a day with its indoor galleries and outdoor art park. The "Winterlights" exhibit during the basketball season is a spectacular holiday tradition that sells out nightly. It is a sophisticated, weatherproof option for visitors looking for culture.
4000 Michigan Rd · 1.5 miThe Children's Museum of Indianapolis
Located south on Meridian Street, this is the largest children's museum in the world and a mandatory visit for families. It features a massive dinosaur exhibit, a carousel, and the Riley Children's Health Sports Legends Experience, which lets kids play sports outdoors. It is a short 10-minute drive from Hinkle, making it easy to pair with an afternoon game. Plan to spend at least three to four hours here to even scratch the surface of the exhibits.
3000 N Meridian St · 2.5 miBeyond the Event: If you are looking for nightlife, Broad Ripple Village is just north and offers a dense strip of bars and clubs perfect for post-game celebrations. For racing fans, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is about 20 minutes west and offers tours of the legendary 2.5-mile track and its history.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Hinkle Fieldhouse
Inside & Adjacent
Chatham Tap Butler
Located in the parking garage building on campus, this English-style pub is the premier gathering spot for Butler fans before the game. It serves excellent fish and chips, wings, and a wide selection of beers in a soccer-centric atmosphere that feels cozy and authentic. It is incredibly convenient, allowing you to eat and then walk straight to the game in under five minutes. It gets very busy on game days, so arriving early is highly recommended.
4702 Sunset Ave · 0.3 miHinkle Concessions
The food inside the Fieldhouse is classic and simple, focusing on essentials like hot dogs, popcorn, and pretzels rather than gourmet fare. The "Hinkle Dog" is a standard but beloved part of the experience for many regulars who wouldn't dream of watching a game without one. While not culinary innovation, the prices are generally more reasonable than professional venues, making it family-friendly. Alcohol is available, with local craft beers from Sun King often on tap at designated stands.
510 W 49th St · On siteNearby Gathering Spots
Aristocrat Pub & Restaurant
A short drive to the SoBro neighborhood, this gastropub is a local institution with a cozy, historic vibe that has served the area since 1933. It offers elevated pub grub like their famous breaded tenderloin sandwiches and a great beer list. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, perfect for a cold Indiana night after leaving the arena. It is a favorite for locals who want to avoid the direct campus congestion but stay in the neighborhood.
5212 N College Ave · 1.2 miDelicia
Located across the street from the Aristocrat, Delicia serves upscale Latin American, Spanish, and Caribbean cuisine in a vibrant setting. It is a sleek, stylish spot with excellent cocktails like the "Fire & Ice" and dishes like tamal cakes and churrasco steak. It is a great choice for a "nice" dinner before the game if you want something more refined than pub food. Reservations are recommended as it is popular with the neighborhood crowd on weekends.
5215 N College Ave · 1.2 miLocal & Elevated Picks
St. Elmo Steak House
If you are willing to drive downtown, St. Elmo is the most famous restaurant in Indianapolis and a true culinary landmark. Known for its spicy shrimp cocktail and massive dry-aged steaks, it captures the old-school steakhouse vibe perfectly. It is where visiting teams, broadcasters, and VIPs often dine, so the people-watching is top-tier. The upstairs "1933 Lounge" offers a speakeasy vibe with the same great food if you can't get a table in the main dining room.
127 S Illinois St · 5.5 miTwenty Tap
Located in SoBro, this casual spot is famous for its extensive beer list and unique bar food, including house-brewed beers. It has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere that is great for groups looking for a low-key meal near the stadium. The menu features standout items like cheese curds and the "Banh Mi" burger, catering to both meat-eaters and vegans. It is a short drive from the Fieldhouse and offers a true taste of the local craft beer scene.
5406 N College Ave · 1.5 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Parking in the Sunset Ave Garage is the safest bet to avoid towing.
- Day games are special; the sun streaming in is iconic.
- The "War Song" is Butler's fight song; expect to hear it often.
- Legroom in the upper deck benches is tight; stretch before sitting.
- Campus police are strict about street parking permits; check signs carefully.
Weather & Seasons at Hinkle Fieldhouse
- Winter: This is prime basketball season, and Indianapolis can be frigid. Temperatures often stay below freezing, and snow accumulation is common. The short walk from the garage is usually well-salted, but dress in a warm coat and boots.
- Spring & early summer: March can be volatile, swinging from snow to 60-degree sunshine. By late spring, the campus is beautiful for walking. Rain is frequent, so an umbrella is helpful for the trek from the car.
- Mid-summer: The arena is mostly quiet for games but hosts camps. It is hot and humid in Indy, with highs in the 80s. The Fieldhouse can get warm if the A/C isn't cranking for a full house.
- Fall season: November offers perfect basketball weather—cool, crisp, and autumnal. It is a great time to explore the canal path before an evening game. A light jacket or hoodie is sufficient.
- Rain & snow: Winter storms can impact travel on I-465 and city streets. Allow extra time if snow is in the forecast, as neighborhood streets are plowed last. The Fieldhouse is a cozy escape from the elements.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: Butler Bulldogs (NCAA).
- Neighborhood: Butler-Tarkington.
- Nearest airport: Indianapolis International (IND).
- Parking: Sunset Avenue Garage.
- Walkable district: Campus / SoBro (Short drive).
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Kroger (N College Ave).
- Pharmacy: CVS (N Meridian St).
- Urgent care: IU Health Urgent Care (Broad Ripple).
- Downtime: Newfields or Holcomb Gardens.
- Pro tip: Visit for a day game.

