The Indiana Roof Ballroom: Venue Features

A Historic Showstopper for Elegant, Impactful Events

Some venues make an impression. Others leave a legacy. The Indiana Roof Ballroom is unapologetically the latter. With its grand architecture, rich history, and cinematic ambiance, this iconic downtown Indianapolis venue delivers timeless beauty with modern capability. Equal parts grand and theatrical, classic and customizable, the Indiana Roof is the gold standard for elegant galas, unforgettable weddings, and large-scale corporate events that demand attention.

Undergoing its first comprehensive renovation in more than 35 years—totaling over $2.5 million and slated for completion in Summer 2025—the Indiana Roof will soon unveil refreshed carpet, chandeliers, lighting, lounge seating, paint, tile, hardware, and bars, ensuring the experience remains as exceptional as its reputation.

If you’re looking to create a “wow” moment that begins the second your guests walk in, you’ve found your stage.

A Venue That Transports and Transforms

The Indiana Roof Ballroom, affectionately known as “The Roof,” has been a cherished part of downtown Indianapolis since 1927. Perched above the Indiana Repertory Theatre, this iconic venue was designed to resemble a romantic European village, complete with grapevine-covered columns, ornate balconies, and a domed ceiling that mimics a starry night sky. With its legendary 100-foot circular dance floor—once dubbed “the most comfortable dancing surface in the world”—the Roof has hosted everything from glamorous big band dances to celebrity-filled galas, corporate events, and weddings. Steeped in nearly a century of history and charm, The Roof remains one of the Midwest’s most unforgettable and sought-after event spaces.

It’s not just a venue—it’s an experience. Theatrical, immersive, and unmatched in character, the Indiana Roof Ballroom sets the perfect scene for your most important celebrations. Tour the space to see why so many events become lifelong memories here.

Full-Service Support with Unmatched Experience

Planning a grand celebration shouldn’t feel overwhelming—and at the Indiana Roof Ballroom, it never does. With an expert in-house team backed by Crystal Signature Events, you’ll receive personalized planning support from the moment you book until the final guest leaves the dance floor. Our professionals are here to take the stress out of planning and help bring your unique vision to life with clarity and ease. Included services cover every detail you need to execute a polished, smooth, and unforgettable event:

• Timeline and Itinerary Planning
• Custom Layout Design
• Décor and Style Consultation
• Curated Food and Beverage Menus
• Coordination of Linens, Rentals, and Furnishings
• Audio-Visual Support and Enhancements
• Vendor Liaison and Management
• Rehearsal, Ceremony, and Reception Support
• Day-of On-Site Execution

We’re not just coordinating an event—we’re curating an experience. With almost 40 years of expertise, our team helps ensure your gathering is seamless, stylish, and perfectly you.

Classic Cuisine with Contemporary Flair

As an exclusive Crystal Signature Events venue, the Indiana Roof Ballroom is proud to offer elevated catering with an impeccable track record. Unlike traditional venue catering, our menus are crafted in-house by culinary artists who blend seasonal ingredients with personalized service for a restaurant-quality experience—tailored to your event. Our culinary team combines innovation with tradition to craft custom menus that reflect your taste, theme, and guest preferences. 

• From refined plated dinners to stylish cocktail reception or interactive food stations, each element is designed to delight and impress.
• Personalized menu creation with accommodations for all dietary needs
• Elegant presentation using fine china, polished flatware, and crystal-clear glassware
• Black, white, or ivory linens to match your palette and aesthetic
• Variety of colored cloth napkins
• Sophisticated tabletop décor including candles and framed table numbers
• Experienced, attentive service staff to maintain the highest level of hospitality
• Synchronized salad or dessert parade

Built-In Beauty Meets Big-City Convenience

What makes the Indiana Roof Ballroom a client’s dream? It’s not just the atmosphere—it’s the efficiency. With countless built-in elements and a flexible floor plan, the space adapts to your unique needs without the usual long list of rentals. All the grandeur. None of the guesswork.

• 15,700 square feet of open, unobstructed space
• Accommodates up to 1,500 guests, with flexible configurations for events both intimate and grand.
• Grand illuminated bar and satellite bars
• Cocktail tables
• 4 soft seating sets
• (6) 6ft and (10) 8ft rectangle tables | 4 kings tables
• (80) ft and (30) 6ft round tables
• 900 house banquet chairs
• Built-in coat check and guest services area for streamlined arrivals

Flexible Layout, Signature Style

Despite its historical bones, the Indiana Roof Ballroom is one of the most versatile venues in the Midwest. Its neutral tones, adaptable layout, and stunning ceiling detail allow for total creative control without overpowering your vision. Whether you're leaning into a stylish gala, a black-tie wedding, or a modern awards night, the Indiana Roof Ballroom transforms to fit your concept—never the other way around.

• Large built-in elevated stage ideal for performances, speakers, or head tables
• Use the sweeping floor space for dining, dancing, activations, or lounge areas
• Add chandeliers, hanging installations, or custom gobos for elevated impact
• Balcony overlooking ballroom with lounge seating and bar
• Ability to rig from the ceiling for show-stopping elements like aerial performances or custom lighting without sacrificing floor space.

Lights. Sound. Spectacle.

From dramatic lighting to immersive sound, The Indiana Roof Ballroom is fully equipped to support a wide range of entertainment and production needs. Our in-house AV and lighting support—powered by Markey’s Rental & Staging—ensures your entertainment, speeches, and visuals shine as brilliantly as the ballroom itself. Whether you're planning a sophisticated presentation, live performance, or high-energy celebration, our in-house AV has the capability and theatrical infrastructure to bring your vision to life with ease and impact.

• Whether you choose live music, DJs, or multimedia entertainment—it’s all supported in-house
• Integrate branded visuals, motion graphics, or sponsor loops via projection
• Wireless mics and podiums
• Grand piano
• Intelligent lighting, including built-in theatrical lighting and customizable hues
• Simulated thunderstorm effect sure to delight and surprise your guests

The Details That Make the Difference

It’s the little things that turn a great event into a legendary one—and the Indiana Roof Ballroom has them all built in. From back-of-house convenience to unforgettable guest experiences, every inch of this venue was designed with events in mind. At the Roof, elegance isn’t an upgrade—it’s expected.

• A stunning wrap-around Grand Bar serves as a striking centerpiece that not only sets the tone for your event but also keeps lines moving and cameras clicking.
• Newly renovated promenade and balcony areas blend modern updates with timeless charm, featuring enhanced lighting, stylish new furnishings, and refreshed finishes.
• Private VIP suite for wedding parties, green room use, or speaker prep.
• Dramatic chandeliers deliver an instant wow factor, effortlessly transforming the ambiance of the room—and since they’re rented directly through us, it’s one less vendor on your list.
• Dual-level setup ideal for grand entrances, group photos, or balcony toasts.
• Conveniently attached parking garage
• Convenient downtown location connected to hotels and steps from shopping, dining, nightlife, the convention center and Lucas Oil Stadium.

Why Clients Love the Indiana Roof Ballroom

For decades, the Indiana Roof Ballroom has hosted Indianapolis’ most prestigious events—from nonprofit galas and corporate celebrations to romantic weddings and iconic social gatherings. Clients return year after year not just because of the stunning atmosphere, but because of the ease, professionalism, and peace of mind that comes with hosting here.

When you combine the venue’s breathtaking design with full-service planning and award-winning catering, the result is a signature experience that’s as flawless as it is unforgettable.

Ready to Take Center Stage?

Timeless. Romantic. Effortless. The Indiana Roof Ballroom is more than a venue—it’s a moment waiting to happen. Contact our events team to schedule your personal tour or fill out our Proposal Questionnaire to receive a tailored quote. Let us help you craft an event worthy of the spotlight.

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