Ross Hall on Butler’s Campus to Be Transformed into Hotel

Source: Butler University

INDIANAPOLIS–Ross Hall on Butler University’s campus is being transformed into a boutique hotel within the Curio Collection by Hilton.

At a news conference Friday morning, Butler President James Danko says this allows them to blend Butler University’s rich history with Hilton’s world-class hospitality to provide a one-of-a-kind guest experience.

Danko said Ross Hall has served as a campus landmark for nearly 70 years, but it was time for a change.

“If these walls could talk, you would likely hear stories about a 20 foot boa constrictor that found its way into the basement, hallways turned into bowling alleys, steaks being grilled on the roof, and fire alarms being pulled way too early in the morning,” said Danko in a Friday morning news conference.

Danko said the new Curio Collection hotel will preserve the legacy of Ross Hall. It’s been closed since 2019 and Danko believes this will revitalize things on campus.

“This Curio Collection by Hilton hotel will be a welcome addition for anyone traveling to Indianapolis, not just those traveling to our campus,” Danko continued.

Purpose Lodging is the developer and operator of the hotel, per terms of the agreement. Butler will lease Ross Hall and the surrounding land to the developer.  It is supposed to open in the 2026-27 academic year and offer 105 “elegantly designed” rooms and suites, a restaurant, and meeting spaces.

This hotel is also a key component of the Butler Gateway Project, which is part of Danko’s broader vision.

“Our vision is to create a vibrant, interconnected community between Butler University and midtown Indianapolis,” Danko said.

Earlier this month, Butler announced a collaboration with key community partners, including the Martin Luther King Community Center (MLK Center), Tarkington Park, and Midtown Indy, Inc., all located within a few miles of Butler’s campus. They also announced pending construction of a new Parking, Safety, and Transit Hub, which will serve the surrounding neighborhood.