What Makes a Boutique Hotel the Best in America?

Last year, something remarkable happened. Bottleworks Hotel was named Best Boutique Hotel in America by USA TODAY's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards.

It was an honor we celebrated with our team, our community, and every guest who helped make it possible. This year, we're honored to be nominated once again. (Voting is officially open, by the way, and we'd be grateful for yours.)

As one of the most recognized boutique hotels in Indianapolis, receiving that recognition made us stop and ask a simple question... What actually makes a boutique hotel the best?

We don't think it's one thing. It's dozens of thoughtful details, carefully layered together until a stay becomes something guests remember long after they've gone home.

The Details You Notice... and the Ones You Don't

Some things stand out the moment you arrive. The signature scent that greets you in the lobby. The Parisian light fixtures overhead. Original terrazzo floors beneath your feet. The Art Deco architecture that reminds you this building has been part of Indianapolis for nearly a century.

Others reveal themselves more slowly. The bright red guest room doors, a quiet nod to the building's Coca-Cola history. Sparkling water waiting at the drinking fountains. Hunter Lab bath amenities chosen for their thoughtful simplicity. Bottleworks leather goods handcrafted by Indianapolis-based Howl + Hide.

None of these details tell the whole story. Together, they make Bottleworks Hotel what it is.

No Two Stays Are Exactly Alike

This building was never meant to fit neatly into a blueprint. Adapted from the historic Coca-Cola Bottling Company headquarters, many guest rooms feature layouts and architectural details unique to their place within the building. Some overlook Carrollton Avenue as Bottleworks District comes alive after dark. Others reveal unexpected angles or oversized windows shaped by the building's original design.

Every stay offers something a little different.

Moments You Didn't Plan For

Some of the best memories happen between the plans. A cocktail at Sundry & Vice before heading upstairs. Celebrating beneath the twinkling lights of the Gallery Courtyard. Discovering the stunning, all-pink vintage powder room. Looking up at the glowing HOTEL sign as you arrive, then watching Carrollton Avenue come alive from your room later that evening. Those are the moments that stay with you.

The People Who Bring It All Together

Beautiful buildings get people through the front door. It's the people who make you want to come back. Whether it's sharing a favorite local recommendation or creating the perfect escape without ever leaving your room, every member of our team is here to make your stay feel personal.

Whatever your version of the perfect stay looks like, we're here to make it happen.

Why We'd Love Your Vote Again

Being named USA TODAY's Best Boutique Hotel in America last year reminded us that the details people remember are often the ones they never expected.

If Bottleworks Hotel has become one of your favorite places to stay, we'd be honored to have your vote once again in this year's USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards.

Click here to vote and help keep the #1 spot right here in Indianapolis. Vote once per day now through August 3, 2026.