Bid fund could strengthen Indiana’s hand in securing events
The Legislature is considering a bill that could give tourism groups statewide another tool in trying to lure dozens of additional events every year.
Tourism & Hospitality
Articles
CIB dips into reserves to manage through pandemic
Nearly two years into the pandemic, the agency that oversees the convention center, Lucas Oil Stadium and other sports venues has been able to pay its bills without layoffs or long-term facilities closures.
Shipping container boutique hotel planned for Haughville neighborhood
An Indianapolis company is building a boutique hotel using repurposed shipping containers to accommodate guests seeking unusual experiences in the heart of the city.
State lawmakers propose fund aimed at attracting more major sporting events, conventions
The Indiana Sports Corp. would be responsible for administering a grant program to disperse the funds, with the organization giving money to groups across the state as well as using a portion of the funding for its own bidding efforts.
Catching COVID on a business trip can get complicated
Not only do you have to rearrange plans to visit customers or attend conferences, but you suddenly need to isolate in a hotel room, find restaurants that deliver, and perhaps reschedule flight and hotel plans.
Crackers closes, ending 40-year run as local stand-up comedy destination
Owner Ruth-Anne Herber said the club, which presented early-career performances by Jay Leno, Garry Shandling and Bob Saget, can’t overcome financial challenges.
Westfield names new director for Grand Park Sports Campus
Matt Trnian has worked in various management positions at Grand Park Sports Campus since its opening in 2014.
Lopresti: With national football crown, Georgia’s not complaining about Indy’s cold weather
Georgia’s 33-18 victory over Alabama in the College Football Playoff National Championship had to mean so much to Bulldogs everywhere, even Butler’s Blue was probably cheering.
Championship updates: More than 68,000 attend college football title game
Check back here often for updates about the College Football Playoff National Championship game on Jan. 10 and the accompanying concerts and other events leading up to the game.
CFP leader impressed by Indy effort, but said it’s ‘too soon’ to know if game will return
Indianapolis Host Committee Chairman Mark Howell said he’d like to see the city in a regular rotation of College Football Playoff National Championship games.
PRI Trade Show producer acquires building in Speedway
The organization behind the world’s largest racing trade show has purchased an office/industrial building in Speedway where it plans to open a headquarters for its new membership program.
Photos: Twenty One Pilots, Ava Max play on Circle; dancers dangle from Salesforce Tower
Better weather meant that aerial dance group Bandaloop was able to perform off the corner of Salesforce Tower in a spot visible to fans gathered for the concert. The group’s performance had been canceled on Saturday when freezing rain hit the region.
Fan Central is hub for those looking for ‘unique vibe,’ shelter from cold
The convention center is home to Playoff Fan Central—a free event featuring obstacle courses, photo opportunities, a store, food and drink and various other activities.
Video: JW Marriott will wash 7,000 sheets per day this weekend
What does it take for a hotel to get ready to handle thousands of football fans? The JW Marriott’s Phil Ray explains.
Playoff Fan Central open Saturday through Monday at convention center
The free Playoff Fan Central will feature a plethora of sponsor booths and fan areas ranging from a custom trading card creation area by Panini to multiple obstacle courses and football drill areas from the likes of USA Football and Chick-Fil-A. ESPN will also broadcast live from the convention center on multiple occasions as part of its College GameDay programming.
College title game is important test of Indianapolis’ hospitality
Local organizers of the College Football Playoff National Championship say Monday’s title game can help solidify the city’s reputation as a place where big events shine.
Cold won’t stop Monument Circle shows for championship weekend
Although the game will be played indoors, many big fan events will be outside—including concerts on Monument Circle, an aerial dance troupe, a zipline, and a “Touchdown Bag Jump.”
Cunningham Restaurant Group plans bar for members only
The Bemberg, a members-only concept, will join Cunningham Restaurant Group’s stronghold in the Mass Ave cultural district.
Ticket prices high for football title game, but lots of seats still available
Hundreds of tickets to Monday’s College Football Playoff National Championship game in Indianapolis are available for purchase on the secondary market.
Hotels, restaurants ramping up for busy football championship weekend
Most of the more than 7,400 hotel rooms in downtown’s inventory are expected to be occupied on Sunday and Monday nights. And a few remaining rooms available on Friday and Saturday are being offered at astronomical prices.