How to Have a Romantic Weekend at Indianapolis' Canterbury Hotel

Fellows, it's winter time, and you'd really like to treat your partner to a special weekend away from the cold and dreariness of a Hoosier winter. You are pretty sure that her idea of a romance doesn't include a fishing pole or camouflage or pigskin. But really, what else qualifies? Take it from me, you don't have to wait for Valentine's Day to plan a weekend in Indiana, and what could be more romantic than to treat yourselves to a weekend at a luxurious yet cozy boutique hotel?

Indiana's finest get-away-from-it-all spot is The Canterbury Hotel in downtown Indianapolis. Once through the double doors, the world is left behind and you enter a serene and tastefully appointed boutique hotel in the best European tradition. To the left is Danielli, Indianapolis's only AAA 4 Diamond restaurant; to the right a light and inviting sitting room; and, straight ahead, a grand piano beckons you into the atrium. Check-in is seamless and at once, you and your partner are whisked up to one of the hotel's 99 guest rooms.

The history of The Canterbury dates back to 1858 when a prominent local architect, Francis Costigan, built a four-storey hotel on the site. In the 1920s, the original structure was torn down and a 12-storey hotel took its place. Renovated in 1983 "to reflect the charm and historical quality of Canterbury, England," The Canterbury Hotel opened its doors to a new era.

Guestrooms are furnished with Chippendale beds, comfortable seating, good lighting; television is discretely housed in an armoire, and the overall décor is French country. Marble vanities, gold-plated fixtures, comfy terry robes and luxurious Gilchrist Soames amenities welcome you in the restrooms. Some guestrooms include a bidet and dressing room, others Jacuzzi jets in the bathtubs. A nice added touch is the turndown service with chocolate truffles placed on pillows. The Canterbury offers a range of room types from standard queen up to the presidential suite and though the suites are much larger in size, even the basic rooms are beautiful. Prices range from $169 - $299/ night (not including the Presidential suite-call the hotel for prices).

My partner and I usually choose a Superior King. On our last trip we were upgraded to a penthouse suite, and although we felt like royalty, the Superior King is cozier and our preference. It is very tempting to remain ensconced in our guest room, but we recommend venturing out. Make reservations for Afternoon Tea served in the atrium. While this afternoon meal has all the trappings of the traditional British tea, the fare is Americanized. Flavored black tea is served with rock sugar stick, milk, lemon and honey and the first course follows: this day our dainty sandwiches ranged from basil and tomato; cream cheese, walnut and cucumber; smoked salmon and dill; and salami. The sweet course included spice cake with lemon cream cheese icing, walnut squares, and chocolate tarts. To finish off, white chocolate scones and berry scones were served with whipped cream and a selection of jams.

After tea, we like to explore and The Canterbury's central location is perfect for this. A five-minute walk will get you to the Indianapolis Convention Centre, Conseco Fieldhouse, and the RCA Dome. Galleries, boutiques, bookstores, museums, and theater can be reached in a ten minute stroll. A private entrance to Circle Center Mall is located on the mezzanine level of The Canterbury and in the early evening we often take in a movie at the United Artists Theater.

Once dinner hour comes around the choices are endless and all within walking distance. However, you need not leave the hotel-the Danielli Restaurant serves continental cuisine and some American favorites. Because we like to eat at a later hour, room service is perfect for our needs. The Old English Scallop chowder is rich and flavorful, and the Heirloom Tomato salad, served with bocconcini, goat's cheese and balsamic vinegar is a refreshing choice. If you prefer a comfort dish, the omelet with boursin cheese is served alongside fried red-skin potatoes, bacon and toast.

After a light or hearty breakfast served in the room or in the restaurant, there is still time for a quiet stroll around the hotel. For the health-conscious, a small exercise room is located on the mezzanine. How about perusing a complimentary newspaper while seated on the elegant sofas in the atrium or the light-filled sitting room? Topped off with a pot of Earl Grey tea or Canterbury Blend coffee, it is a relaxing start to the day.

The Canterbury has become our weekend get-away hotel of choice in Indiana. It isn't cheap by any means; the weekend described above, including meals will set you back about $350. However, this is less expensive than the famous Indiana casino and spa hotels, plus, the service, accommodations and amenities far outpace these other places. Consider it an investment in your relationship, in your peace of mind, and all the while you will be storing up romance points!

The Canterbury Hotel is located at 123 South Illinois Street, Indianapolis, IN 46225
Phone (317) 634-3000
Fax (317) 685-2519
Email: info@canterburyhotel.com
You can book reservations on line, or by calling the toll-free number: (800) 538-8186