Indianapolis: Exploring The City That Never Sleeps

Indianapolis, Indiana, offers a variety of options for travellers seeking a place to rest, whether it's a quick nap or an overnight stay. The city's international airport, Indianapolis International Airport (IND), provides different sleeping spots depending on the duration of your layover. For short layovers, staying close to your gate or utilising the padded chairs at the departure gate's waiting areas are good options. For longer layovers, the Terminal Lounge (Pre-Security) offers a darker, quieter atmosphere with couches, armchairs, and benches. The Baggage Claim Area (Landside) also has long, cushioned benches perfect for napping. If you have access, the Delta Sky Club provides a great extended layover experience with comfortable seating, snacks, Wi-Fi, and charging stations.

For those seeking an actual hotel, Indianapolis has a range of options, including the Sleep Inn, which offers clean and comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, free breakfast, and friendly staff. The Hilton Garden Inn and Hampton Inn & Suites near the airport provide convenient access, comfortable rooms, and excellent amenities for both work and relaxation. Budget-friendly choices include La Quinta Inn by Wyndham and Red Roof Inn & Suites, which still offer essential amenities and airport proximity.

Additionally, if you're looking for a unique experience, some travellers have resorted to sleeping in their cars or even at the airport, although this may not be the most comfortable or safe option.

Sleeping in the Indianapolis Airport

Sleeping in airports is never ideal, but if you're thinking of spending the night in Indianapolis Airport, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, the airport is open 24 hours, so you won't have to remain standing once the security checkpoints close for the night. However, you will be restricted to the landside area.

The airport has two modern concourses connected by a central ticketing/check-in area. Comfortable couches are located throughout the terminal, and the terminal lounge and baggage claim are recommended due to their comfy seating. However, the terminal can get cold and noisy, so it's advisable to bring earplugs/noise-cancelling headphones and warm clothes/travel blankets. There are also two sensory rooms located in each terminal concourse, which are intended as a calming, quiet space for passengers to retreat to as needed. These rooms offer a variety of seating options and variable lighting, but they are primarily intended for passengers with disabilities such as autism.

If you want to sleep in more comfort, you can pay to use one of the first-class airport lounges. However, these lounges usually close at night and generally don't allow people to sleep in them. There is no onsite hotel, but there are several within a quick shuttle ride away.

Sleeping spots for short layovers

When you're on a short layover, finding a place to rest can be a challenge, but Indianapolis International Airport (IND) offers several spots to catch some shut-eye. Here are some sleeping spots to consider:

Short Layover (30 minutes to 1 hour):

• Waiting areas at your departure gate: These areas have padded chairs where you can sit and relax until your next flight.
• Main terminal area before security: This area offers a variety of soft couches and padded benches, perfect for a quick power nap.

Standard Layover (1 to 3 hours):

• Terminal Lounge (Pre-Security): A darker and more restful spot at night, furnished with couches, armchairs, and benches for a comfortable nap.
• Concourse B (Airside): Head over to the food court or Starbucks for a coffee and relax on the comfortable couches nearby.

Extended Layover (3 to 6 hours):

• Baggage Claim Area (Landside): Located on either side of the main entrance, this area has long, cushioned benches ideal for a longer nap. There are also outlets available for charging your devices.
• Delta Sky Club (Airside, Concourse A): If you have access, the Delta Sky Club provides comfortable seating, complimentary snacks, Wi-Fi, and charging stations—perfect for unwinding during your layover.

Long Layover (6 to 12 hours):

• Civic Plaza (Pre-Security): The food court in Civic Plaza offers numerous couches and benches, providing ample space to stretch out and rest.
• Terminal A (Airside): You'll find long couches near the security checkpoint that are relatively quiet and comfortable. However, it can get cool, so bring a sweater or blanket.

For even longer layovers or overnight stays, the Terminal Lounge (Pre-Security) and the Baggage Claim Area (Landside) continue to be good options, as they remain quiet and comfortable throughout the night. Additionally, the Atrium/Food Area (Landside) offers comfortable couches, but it can be noisier due to frequent announcements and cleaning activities.

Some general tips for sleeping in airports include using earplugs or noise-canceling headphones to block out noise, bringing warm clothing or a travel blanket to stay cozy, and always keeping your belongings secure and staying in well-lit, populated areas.

Sleeping spots for standard layovers

If you have a standard layover of 1 to 3 hours at Indianapolis International Airport, there are several spots within the airport where you can get some rest. Here are some options to consider:

Terminal Lounge (Pre-Security)

This lounge area is darker at night, creating a restful atmosphere. It is furnished with a variety of couches, armchairs, and benches where you can take a comfortable nap. The minimal foot traffic in this area also makes it ideal for a quiet rest.

Concourse B (Airside)

Near the food court and Starbucks, you will find a selection of comfortable couches. While there may be some noise from announcements and cleaning activities, this spot allows you to relax and grab a coffee during your layover.

Baggage Claim Area (Landside)

Located on either side of the main entrance, the baggage claim area features long, cushioned benches perfect for a quick nap. These benches are known for being soft, and there are outlets available to charge your devices while you rest.

Civic Plaza (Pre-Security)

If you're looking for a longer rest, the food court area in Civic Plaza offers numerous couches and benches, providing ample space to stretch out. However, please be aware that there might be some background noise.

Terminal A (Airside)

For a quieter experience, head to Terminal A near the security checkpoint. You will find long couches that offer relative peace and comfort. Do remember to bring a sweater or a blanket as the temperature in this area can be cooler.

Additionally, here are some general tips for sleeping in the airport:

• Earplugs or noise-canceling headphones are recommended to block out any unwanted noise.
• Airports tend to be chilly, so bring warm clothing or a travel blanket to stay cozy.
• Always keep your belongings secure and stay in well-lit, populated areas for your safety.
• Take advantage of airport facilities like meditation rooms or 24-hour eateries to enhance your comfort during your layover.

Sleeping spots for extended layovers

If you have a long layover at Indianapolis International Airport, there are several spots where you can get some rest. The key is to choose a location that suits the duration of your layover. Here are some sleeping spots for extended layovers:

Extended Layover (3–6 hours)

• Baggage Claim Area (Landside): This area features long, cushioned benches that are perfect for a nap. These benches are known for being soft, and there are outlets available for charging your devices. It's located on either side of the main entrance.
• Delta Sky Club (Airside, Concourse A): If you have access, the Delta Sky Club offers comfortable seating, complimentary snacks, Wi-Fi, and charging stations. It's an excellent place to relax and unwind during a longer layover.

Long Layover (6–12 hours)

• Civic Plaza (Pre-Security): The food court area in Civic Plaza has numerous couches and benches, providing ample space to stretch out and rest. Although there may be some noise, it's generally suitable for longer breaks.
• Terminal A (Airside): Near the security checkpoint, you'll find long couches that are relatively quiet and comfortable. However, the temperature can be cool, so bring a sweater or blanket to stay warm.

Overnight Layover (12–24 hours)

• Terminal Lounge (Pre-Security): This area is darker and quieter at night, with minimal foot traffic. It offers plenty of couches, armchairs, and benches for a restful sleep.
• Baggage Claim Area (Landside): The cushioned benches in this area are highly recommended for overnight stays. They are located away from the main entrance, offering a quieter environment for uninterrupted sleep.
• Atrium/Food Area (Landside): The couches here are comfortable, but be prepared for frequent announcements and some noise from cleaning activities. Earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones are recommended for a better rest.

Some general tips for sleeping in the airport include using earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones to block out noise, staying warm with layers or a travel blanket, and keeping your belongings secure in well-lit and populated areas. Additionally, take advantage of airport facilities like meditation rooms or 24-hour eateries to enhance your comfort during your layover.

Sleeping spots for long layovers

If you're facing a long layover at Indianapolis International Airport, there are several spots where you can catch some sleep, depending on the duration of your layover.

For a standard layover of 1 to 3 hours, you can head to the Terminal Lounge (Pre-Security), which is darker at night and offers a range of couches, armchairs, and benches for a comfortable nap. Alternatively, near the food court and Starbucks in Concourse B (Airside), you'll find some cosy couches, although you might experience some noise from announcements and cleaning.

If your layover is extended, lasting 3 to 6 hours, you might want to consider the Baggage Claim Area (Landside). This area has long, cushioned benches that are perfect for a nap, and there are outlets available for charging your devices. Another option is the Delta Sky Club (Airside, Concourse A), which offers comfortable seating, complimentary snacks, Wi-Fi, and charging stations, but access to this lounge may be restricted.

When your layover stretches to half a day (6 to 12 hours), finding a quiet spot becomes crucial. Try the Terminal A (Airside) near the security checkpoint, where you'll find long couches that are relatively quiet. Do bring a sweater or blanket, though, as it can get quite cool.

For an overnight layover of 12 to 24 hours, your best options are the Terminal Lounge (Pre-Security) and the Baggage Claim Area (Landside). The Terminal Lounge remains darker and quieter at night, while the Baggage Claim Area offers cushioned benches away from the main entrance, providing a quieter environment for uninterrupted sleep.

Some general tips for sleeping in the airport include using earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones to block out the noise, bringing warm clothing or a travel blanket to stay cosy, and staying in well-lit, populated areas to ensure your safety. Additionally, make use of the airport facilities like meditation rooms or 24-hour eateries to enhance your comfort during your long layover.

While Indianapolis International Airport doesn't have hotels inside the terminal, there are nearby options like the Hilton Garden Inn Indianapolis Airport and the Hampton Inn & Suites Indianapolis-Airport, both located 3 miles from the airport and offering complimentary 24-hour shuttle services.

So, if you're facing a long layover in Indianapolis, rest assured that there are spots where you can catch some sleep and make your transit more bearable.

Frequently asked questions