City breaks ground on convention center expansion and new hotel
This expansion will bring the total number of hotel rooms connected via climate-controlled skywalks in Indianapolis to more than 5,500 — more than any other city in the country. | Rendering by RATIO Architects via Indiana Convention Center
It’s official. The construction phase of the Pan Am Plaza redevelopment project has begun.
Yesterday, Aug. 1, the City of Indianapolis and community leaders celebrated the groundbreaking of the sixth expansion of the Indiana Convention Center and the construction of a new headquarters hotel.
Mayor Joe Hogsett called this a “legacy extending project,” which has already yielded $9 billion in investments in our city.
This expansion project and construction of a new Signia by Hilton hotel downtown will help the city maintain the relationships with its largest tourism and economic development partners (like Gen Con, which is in town this week) and also bring in new opportunities.
The ICC expansion project also includes a rooftop pool.
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Rendering via Indiana Convention Center
“This expansion and new headquarter hotel not only enhance our city’s skyline, but help us keep our largest annual customers, allow us to more effectively host multiple major events simultaneously, draw new four-and five-star event business, and drive more Hilton-loyal groups to the city,” said Leonard Hoops, Visit Indy President and CEO.
We’ve told you all about this development, but in case you need a refresher — this project includes:
A 40-story, 800 room Signia by Hilton hotel tower, which will transform the southwest Indianapolis skyline + become the tallest hotel.
A 143,500-sqft convention center expansion, which will house one of the top 10 largest convention center ballrooms in the US + a skywalk over Capitol Avenue that will connect the expansion to the existing convention center.
This project is anticipated to be completed in the summer of 2026.
Events
Wednesday, Aug. 2
Original Farmers’ Market | Wednesday, Aug. 2-Wednesday, Oct. 4 | 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | Indianapolis City Market, 222 E. Market St., Indianapolis | Cost of purchase | From fruits and vegetables to meats and cheeses — you can find in-season, fresh foods from locals.
Thursday, Aug. 3
Oppenheimer: The IMAX Experience in IMAX 70mm | Thursday, Aug. 3-Thursday, Aug. 10 | 11:30 a.m., 3:15 p.m. + 7 p.m. | IMAX Theater in the Indiana State Museum, 650 W. Washington St., Indianapolis | $20 | Don’t miss the story of American scientist J. Robert Oppenheimer and his role in developing the atomic bomb on the state’s largest screen.
Friday, Aug. 4
Trey Kennedy: Grow Up | Friday, Aug. 4 | 8 p.m. | Old National Centre, 502 N. New Jersey St., Indianapolis | $29-$35 | See comedian and actor Thomas “Trey” Kennedy III, known for his YouTube and TikTok videos, live on stage.
Saturday, Aug. 5
Young Explorers: Art in Nature | Saturday, Aug. 5 | 1-2:30 p.m. | Indiana State Museum, 650 W. Washington St., Indianapolis | $14 | Young Explorers will have the chance to investigate artwork inspired by nature and create their own using natural materials.
Sunday, Aug. 6
Be an Icon Fashion Show | Sunday, Aug. 6 | 1-3 p.m. | Half Liter BBQ, 5301 Winthrop Ave. Ste. B, Indianapolis | Free | An afternoon of fashion + learning about sustainable fashion trends with guest speakers about different environmental causes, special guest appearances, and a raffle.
Saturday, Sept. 9
Indiana Sports Corp’s Indy Ultimate | Saturday, Sept. 9 | 8 a.m.-12 p.m. | Gainbridge Fieldhouse, 125 S. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis | $35 | Discover downtown through a three-mile run/walk — participants will receive a t-shirt, medal, and access to the post-race party for $35 (save $5 with code INDYTODAY).*
Another new Stutz tenant is ready for business. Nashville-based Barista Parlor is ready to pour you a cup of coffee during its current soft-opening hours — Monday through Sunday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Sports
Until 11:59 p.m. tonight, Colts fans have the opportunity to get their hands on discounted $40 tickets to 2023 home games for selected seats, while available. See the full Colts schedule. (WRTV)
Open
Vegan gourmet bakery Cinnaholic opened up another location in central Indiana. Now, you can cure your sweet cravings at Hamilton Town Center in Noblesville.
Development
A $460 million, 200-acre mixed-use development is planned near the Indianapolis Regional Airport in Greenfield. Hancock Gateway Park will complement Hancock Regional Hospital with residential + commercial space — including a hotel, conference center, offices, restaurants, retail, and senior living. It’s expected to break ground by September. (IndyStar)
Biz
Illinois-based Camping World plans to acquire Mount Comfort RV in Greenfield. The deal would make that location the third Camping World location in Indiana. The deal is expected to close by the end of the year. (IBJ)
Pets
If you also happen to be in the market for a new fluffy friend, IndyHumane is hosting a free adoption event in conjunction with Gen Con. Stop by 7929 N. Michigan Rd. on Sunday, Aug. 6 from 12to 6 p.m. Just one catch — all dogs will be renamed Karen in honor of the Karen board game. Woof at your own risk.
Giveaway
We’re back with another ticket giveaway in partnership with Live Nation + Old National Centre. This time, we’re giving away a pair of tickets to see singer-songwriter Chloe live on Friday, Sept. 1 at 8 p.m. Check out our Instagram post to enter. The giveaway closes on Monday, Aug. 21.
Event
🎶 Beats, beers, and burgers outside Gen Con
Get the Gen Con experience without the convention center
Last year, the convention held a block party on Georgia Street. | Photo by Gen Con LLC
Want to get a piece of the Gen Con action without setting foot inside the convention center?
Starting today, you can head downtown to get a literal taste of the action — no ticket required. Here are a few highlights coming to this year’s Gen Con Block Party on South Street.
From Harry & Izzy’s Frito Baggins burger to Prime 47’s Critical Hit Cheesesteak, the street will be lined with local restaurants serving up specially curated menu items.
Thirsty? Visit Sun King’s pop-up beer garden for a glass of their new Hive Mind honey ale or swing by the Daniel’s Vineyard tent to try their new Dragon’s Blood blend.
No block party is complete without a DJ — this one will showcase sounds from Indy-based artists A-Squared and DJ Little Town.
Going to Gen Con? Make sure you’re prepared with our full guide to the convention.
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Wellness
Four Sigmatic’s organic protein powder is the ultimate smoothie booster. It contains 18 grams of protein and 1500 milligrams of adaptogens per serving — nourishing your mind + body.
Travel
Searching for the perfect luggage set that’s both lightweight + durable? We love this set for its polycarbonate shell and quiet double spinner wheels.
Eat
Slice and serve your favorite meats + cheeses on this sleek yet durable maple wood cutting board. Bonus: It’s preconditioned with beeswax, linseed, and lemon oil.
Pets
It’s time to treat your fur baby with a product worth barking about. Check out the Martingale Collar in peach + gold from Major Darling.
I’m excited to hear that another business is open at The Stutz. From Amelia’s to Julieta’s Taco Shop to Barista Parlor, and Cafe Patachou coming soon — I know where I’ll be spending a lot of time.
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