Highland Welcomes Its First Boutique Hotel: The Cardinal Hotel

For years, residents and visitors of Highland, Indiana, have noted the absence of lodging options within the town's borders.

While neighboring communities like Hammond, Munster, and Schererville have long offered accommodations, Highland itself remained without a hotel.

That is set to change with the introduction of the Cardinal Hotel, a 35-room boutique establishment currently under construction.

Located within the Cardinal Campus near the intersection of Main Street and Indianapolis Boulevard, this $18 million project is poised to redefine hospitality in the area.

The development is spearheaded by Dr. Claude Gendreau, a renowned veterinary surgeon and the visionary behind the Cardinal Campus.

Dr. Gendreau's Veterinary Orthopedic Center, situated within the campus, attracts pet owners from across the nation seeking specialized care for their animals.

Recognizing the need for nearby accommodations, the Cardinal Hotel aims to serve these visitors, offering convenience and comfort during their stay.

Highland Redevelopment Director Maria Becerra highlighted the significance of this addition, stating, "People come from all over the nation to bring their pets here to get surgery. They're going to have somewhere to stay now."

The hotel is designed to offer more than just lodging.

Plans include a conference room, a gym, and a bar with light dining options, catering to both guests and local residents.

The establishment is expected to enhance the town's appeal and provide a boost to the local economy.

Construction is progressing steadily, with the goal of completing the 21,464-square-foot hotel by mid-September of next year.

The project has been in the works for several years, facing delays due to the pandemic and other challenges.

However, with ground now broken, the vision is becoming a reality.

The Cardinal Campus, which first opened six years ago, is already home to a variety of medical specialists and businesses, including Bone & Joint Specialists, Health Lab, ATI Physical Therapy, and Indiana Ear & Sinus/Carepointe ENT.

The addition of the Cardinal Hotel is expected to further solidify the campus as a hub for professional services and hospitality in Northwest Indiana.

As Highland continues to grow and attract visitors, the Cardinal Hotel stands as a testament to the town's commitment to development and community enrichment.

Residents and visitors alike eagerly anticipate the opening of this landmark establishment, marking a new chapter in Highland's history.