Concert season drives business to Klipsch Music Center neighbors

When crowds flock to Klipsch Music Center in Noblesville, nearby businesses notice—and hope to cash in.

Cambria Suites’ Tegler Drive hotel had a record-breaking 2013 due in large part to a successful season at the nearby concert venue, General Manager Jeremy Geisendorff told IBJ. And its suites already are in short supply this summer.

“We count on Klipsch,” Geisendorff said. “Between concerts, Grand Park [Sports Campus in Westfield] and weddings, our weekends are pretty much sold out.”

That’s a good problem to have, he said, since special-event rates are about 30 percent higher than the norm. Cambria’s 132 suites rent for about $180-$300 on concert nights.

The hotel strives to enhance visitors’ concert-going experience by offering its own live music before and after the ticketed event. Cambria also keeps its restaurant and bar open late on show nights, offering a quick-service menu and nightcaps for those who don’t want the party to end.

“The guests are great,” Geisendorff said. “They’re all here to have a great time.”

A private shuttle service offers $5 rides between the hotel and Klipsch, he said. Some guests opt for the head-clearing walk, which takes about 15 minutes.

The only closer overnight option is decidedly more rustic, but the Sleepybear Campground has been welcoming music fans since long before nearby retail development began. Space fills up fast for big shows.

Guests are being directed to an overflow campground when the Dave Matthews Band is in town June 19-21, for example, but the Sleepybear has lined up a school bus to transport fans to and from the concert.

Restaurants at Hamilton Town Center also are angling for a share of music fans’ entertainment budget. Mo’s Irish Pub, for instance, draws customers before and after shows by offering $4 shuttle service to Klipsch.

"There is no doubt Klipsch's presence makes a significant contribution to the local tourism economy, driving thousands of hotel rooms as well making an impact in local retail, restaurant and ancillary spending," said Brenda Myers, executive director of Hamilton County Tourism Inc.

Out-of-towners are likely to drop more dough than locals, but we're no slouches, eithers. What's your summer concert ritual? Do you pack a cooler for the parking lot or treat yourself to a night on the town? (And no, hitting the Taco Bell drive-through on the way home doesn't count.)