TEXTILES.ORG
When: Nov. 5–7, 2025
Where: Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, IN
Heading to Advanced Textiles Expo® in Indianapolis this fall? We’ve got you covered. Whether you’re flying in, driving, or figuring out where to grab dinner after a long day on the show floor, Indy makes it easy to get around and enjoy yourself. Here’s a quick guide to help you plan your trip—and make the most of your time at expo .
Getting to Indianapolis
Flying in?
Indianapolis International Airport (IND) is only about 15 minutes from downtown. It’s won “Best Airport in North America” for more than a decade, so chances are your trip through will be smooth.
Driving instead?
Indy is called the “Crossroads of America” for a reason. It’s within a day’s drive of more than half the U.S. population, and once you’re downtown, there are over 70,000 parking spots nearby.
📥 Grab our Transportation from the Airport Guide (PDF) for more details.
Getting Around Once You’re There
Here’s one of the best parts about Indy: you don’t really need a car once you’re downtown. The Indiana Convention Center connects to hotels, restaurants, and shops through climate-controlled skywalks. Want some fresh air? The Indianapolis Cultural Trail is a pedestrian- and bike-friendly path that links you to neighborhoods, restaurants, and attractions.
Scooters, rideshares, taxis, and buses are also easy to find if you’d rather not walk.
📥 Check out the Downtown Map (PDF) to see how close everything really is.
Where to Eat
If you love food, you’re in luck. Indy has over 300 restaurants downtown. Want something classic? Try the legendary St. Elmo Steak House (their shrimp cocktail is famous—and seriously spicy). Prefer something casual? You’ll find everything from craft breweries to international flavors within walking distance.
📥 Download our Downtown Restaurant Map (PDF) to start your food tour.
Prepare for Expo Like a Pro
Whether it’s your first expo or your tenth, a little prep goes a long way. Here are a few tried-and-true tips for surviving (and thriving at) a convention:
👟 Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll walk more than you think—on the show floor, between sessions, and around downtown.
💧 Stay hydrated. Bring a refillable water bottle and keep it handy. There are plenty of refill stations in the Convention Center.
🎒 Pack smart. Bring:
- A small backpack or tote for brochures and business cards
- A portable charger for your phone
- A light jacket or sweater (convention centers can be chilly!)
- Extra pens and a notebook for quick notes
- Breath mints, hand sanitizer, and snacks (trust us)
🗓️ Plan your days. Review the education sessions, networking events, and show floor map before you arrive. Highlight the booths or sessions you don’t want to miss.
🤝 Network intentionally. Bring business cards or make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date. You never know who you’ll meet at a session or coffee line.
😴 Rest and recharge. Expo days are busy—schedule downtime or short breaks so you can make the most of every conversation and connection.
Things to Do Between Sessions
Have a little extra time before or after expo hours? Here are a few spots worth checking out:
- Canal Walk & White River State Park–perfect for a quick stroll or bike ride.
- Monument Circle–climb to the top for a killer view of downtown.
- Mass Ave–theaters, nightlife, and boutique shopping.
- Lucas Oil Stadium or the Speedway Museum–for the sports fans.
It’s easy to squeeze in some fun without going far.
See You in Indy!
Advanced Textiles Expo 2025 isn’t just about the sessions and show floor (though those are can’t-miss). It’s also about being part of the energy, the connections, and yes—even the shrimp cocktail—in one of the most walkable cities in the country.
👉 Register now and start planning your trip