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A prodigious convention business puts downtown rooms in demand year-round, although prices are lower than in most major cities and many hotels offer family-fun packages; expect to pay between $100 and $200 a night. Farther afield, prices drop. Prices soar on race weekends-if you can find a room.

• Crowne Plaza at Historic Union Station. As downtown locations go, it's not perfect, but you can stay in a train car for less than $200.


• Embassy Suites Downtown. No pool but a great location, next door to the Indiana Repertory Theatre and connected to ArtsGarden and Circle Centre Mall. Park elsewhere to avoid the $18 a night garage charge. Be proud if you can find a room for $200.


• Embassy Suites North. Rooms range between $129 and $179, full breakfast included; pool.


• Hilton Indianapolis. Ask about packages; bring Spot; small pets are allowed.


• Holiday Inn Select North. With its Caribbean Cover indoor watermark, this is number-one place for families. Compared with other watermark hotels, this one is a bargain, beginning at $179 a night. For about $30 more, you can get a package that includes admission tickets to The Children's Museum.


• Indianapolis Marriott Downtown. A perfect location; ask for White River Park package.


• Omni Severin Hotel. Ask about packages; kids get a backpack of goodies at check-in.