10 Things You Need to Know About the 2026 ASAE Annual Meeting Host City
Indianapolis has always delivered for major events—and with new hotels, green spaces, and expanded air service, it's even more ready to impress.
The 2026 ASAE Annual Meeting & Exposition takes place August 15–18, and there's never been a better time to experience this year’s host city. From $3 billion in new development to a nationally recognized convention campus, here are 10 ways Indianapolis continues to raise the bar for meetings and events.
1. America’s Number-One Convention City
Indianapolis was named the number-one convention city in the U.S. by USA Today, and it's easy to see why.
This December, the opening of the 803-room Signia Hilton Indianapolis will expand the connected convention campus to more than 5,200 hotel rooms linked by skywalk to the Indiana Convention Center— the most integrated climate-controlled convention campus in the country.
2. Signia Hilton Indianapolis Joins the Skyline
The new Signia Hilton Indianapolis is set to elevate Indy’s hospitality scene. While the hotel officially opens later in 2026, ASAE Annual Meeting & Exposition attendees will be among the first to get a sneak peek inside this state-of-the-art property.
Designed with conventions in mind, the Signia will feature direct access to the expanded convention center and bring a new level of luxury and functionality to future events in Indy.
3. Luxury Is Having a Moment
Indianapolis' luxury hotel portfolio is growing fast. The Signia Hilton Indianapolis joins the recently opened InterContinental Indianapolis, with a boutique Kimpton and a Ritz-Carlton connected to the Fieldhouse District on the horizon.
For meeting planners and attendees, it means more premium accommodations than ever before—all within an easy walk of downtown attractions, dining, and entertainment.
4. Georgia Street Goes Green
Downtown’s signature event promenade is being transformed into a vibrant, parklike green space as part of the reimagined convention campus. The new Georgia Street will provide a versatile setting for outdoor receptions, activations, and informal meetups in the heart of the action.
5. Easy to Get Here, Easier to Stay
Indy's air connectivity continues to grow, including transatlantic service via Aer Lingus and expanded domestic routes. Indianapolis International Airport, ranked number one in North America for its size by Airports Council International, will become even more convenient in 2027 with the addition of a new Westin connected directly to the terminal. It's one more way Indy makes travel easy from touchdown to check-in.
6. A Walkable Downtown That Works
With hotels, restaurants, venues, and attractions all within a 15-minute walk, Indy’s convention campus makes getting around effortless. Add in skywalks for all-weather connectivity, and your attendees will spend more time engaging—and less time commuting.
7. A City on the Move
Indy is investing more than $190 million in trails and greenways, making it easier and greener to get around. From the scenic Cultural Trail to the expanding Greater Indy Trailways, the city invites attendees to explore on foot, by bike, or by scooter.
8. Close to Home for Most
Located in the heart of the country, Indy is within a day’s drive for 70 percent of the U.S. population. That accessibility translates to stronger attendance and fewer travel headaches—another reason major events keep choosing Indy.
9. Proven on the Big Stage
Indy has hosted it all: Super Bowl XLVI, NBA and WNBA All-Star Games, Final Fours, and the College Football Playoff National Championship. The city delivers high-impact, high-attendance events with ease—because big moments are built into its DNA.
10. Hoosier Hospitality Comes Standard
What truly sets Indy apart? The people. From airport and hotel staff to volunteer greeters, Hoosier hospitality is real—and it’s the reason visitors return again and again. Friendly, genuine, and deeply invested in their city, Indy locals take pride in making you feel at home.
Learn more about Indy’s growing convention campus here.
