When the Southeast Tourism Society chose a meeting venue in Baton Rouge, it picked the Hilton Capitol Center, a historic downtown hotel with a AAA Four-Diamond gem in the arts and entertainment district. While we drove to the event, other attendees took advantage of the hotel’s complimentary airport shuttle. The day of our meeting, the hotel was fully booked and the valet staff efficiently parked our car.

The hotel recently completed a $12 million renovation while maintaining the 1927 building’s architectural charm. Legendary politician Huey P. Long once made his residence in the hotel, and one of the three presidential suites bears his name in his honor.

Our standard ADA-accessible guest room located on the sixth floor provided an expansive view of the Mississippi River. The room’s understated décor featured sepia-toned photos of the Old State Capitol. We had a king-sized bed and a bathroom with a roll-in shower. The amenities we most appreciated were the coffee pot, free internet, room service, mini fridge, desk and an in-room safe large enough for our laptop. For exercise, the hotel offers a fitness center open 24 hours a day and an outdoor swimming pool.

The hotel does have an on-site restaurant and bar. However, our luncheon was in the Art Deco-influenced Heidelberg Ballroom. Individual presentations were conducted at each table during the three-course meal. The food was delicious — and the staff did a super job serving unobtrusively throughout the working lunch.

Needing to walk off the lemon cake calories, we took a stroll beside the river to Louisiana’s Old State Capitol where the current exhibit featured paintings by one of our favorite artists — James Michalopoulos. Located within an easy drive of major attractions and businesses, the Hilton’s historic vibe blends nicely with Baton Rouge’s developing downtown.

Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center

201 Lafayette St.
Baton Rouge, LA 70801