University Place Conference Center Hotel

It is hard to judge a hotel on a single visit because you have no idea whether your experience is typical. I stay at this hotel every Wednesday evening and have been on nearly every floor (I prefer the 8th and above for the view) and the experience is nearly always excellent. After staying there only a few weeks in a row, one of the attendants (concierge?) behind the desk recognized me. The week previous, I had requested a particular flavor of herbal tea (they used to stock Mighty Leaf tea) and she remembered the flavor (!) and had some sent to my room w/o being asked. When they switched to another brand, (again, w/o being asked) they sent up two bags of EVERY flavor for me to sample. I mean, come on! All the staff are friendly and efficient. I had to stay on a night other than a Wed. due to a snow storm and one of the clerks commented, "It isn't Wednesday. What are you doing here!" They really have made me feel at home there.

My room is always clean and the room service is excellent (leaving diet and health aside - the black angus burger is delicious and very reasonable.) I've stayed at the Omni and the Hyatt and while both are special in their own right, this has become my favorite. Be sure to take a stroll through the building's first and second floor if you visit. I love the design and some of the sitting areas are very inviting.

I read the very long post by the guest who had difficulty with his key card working in the door. I had that experience one time. I went back and forth to the desk a couple of times. To be fair however, the staff did offer to bring new keys up to me after the first time had I used the courtesy phone. I decided to hoof it myself. My 16 yo son happened to be with me this time and "fixed" the problem by blowing into door slot. From then on it was fine and it was the only time I had this problem. Had this been my one and only stay, I too would have had a pretty low opinion of the place.

$ Saving TIP 1: Deals on room can be had through bidding sites. (well under $100 per night!)

$ Saving TIP 2: Park in the IU Med center parking garage and save about $14.

I loved the restaurant. Everyone who served us had the attitude of the owner of the establishment, who know the value of client referrals. My 13 year old daughter tried, but failed to eat the most delicious "pot roast" ever. My dish was equally as elegant and delicious, but I ate all of mine! The service and food were as if I were in Manhattan. This made our stay one of the lifetime memories for my daughter and me.

The room was very, very clean with a mini fridge, excellent fresh smelling linens, and a fantastic view of the city. I would compare these rooms to Hilton Palmer House, yet with a modern, metro decor.

Free access to an amazing athletic and aquatic center, and sports museum; however, bring your coat and walking shoes as the covered, elevated walkways are not heated in winter.

Free Shuttle service was timely, and very well mannered with Sir and Ma'am hospitality. Amazingly close to hospitals. Shuttle drove us to Capitol buildings in about 8 minutes. Parking was right at the elevator door in garage. Bell service fast and funny!

I booked this hotel with an online reservation, so the price was fantastic; however, I would again pay the going rates to stay here the next time I'm in town.

The restaurant stops serving breakfast at 9:30AM, far too early especially for a Sunday when guests might be out late the previous night. The televised hotel tour indicates that breakfast is available until 10AM. After 9:30AM, guests have to drive somewhere to get breakfast, as there is nothing within walking distance. The food court in the nearby Circle Center Mall isn't a practical alternative for breakfast since it doesn't open until 10AM during the week and noon on Sundays. Plus you have to pay for parking.

Check-in time (4PM) is later and check-out time (11AM) is earlier than most hotels, especially true 4-star hotels.

The location is not really in downtown Indy. If you are seeing a game or performance in the downtown area, don't expect to be able to walk from the hotel.

The hotel is probably fine for business travelers who just want to get in and out quickly. If you're traveling on vacation and want a leisurely, relaxing stay, don't book a room at the University Place Conference Center & Hotel Indianapolis.

From the wonderfully professional front desk and the quiet lobby to the well appointed, comfortable rooms, this was one of the most enjoyable hotel stays I have experienced in a while.

This hotel made me feel welcome: The lobby was large, professional and quiet. The receptionist checked me into my room very speedily and I was in my room and getting ready for my meeting within a few minutes. The room itself was so comfortable and inviting I could happily have passed

The hotel was near the track and the field facilities and all the accommodations were good.