Luxury boutique hotel in Little Rock, AR – Capital Hotel

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I finally understand why everyone calls The Capital Hotel the Front Porch of Little Rock. From the moment I walked through the doors, it felt like stepping into a piece of Arkansas history that still knows how to stay current.

This landmark has been standing for more than a century, yet it manages to feel both grand and inviting. With 94 rooms, six event spaces, and two incredible restaurants, the hotel blends old-world charm with modern luxury.

It’s elegant without being stiff and refined without feeling unapproachable. The staff call it Southern Comfortable, and that phrase fits perfectly.

Inside, you’ll find two of Little Rock’s favorite dining spots.

The Capital Bar & Grill is where locals and travelers gather for cocktails and Southern-inspired comfort food, while One Eleven at the Capital serves one of the best brunches in the city every day of the week.

Executive Chef Brad Izzard honors the hotel’s storied past while keeping the menu fresh and exciting.

If you’re celebrating something special, ask about their wine cellar. The space glows with candlelight and historic charm, creating the perfect setting for a small dinner, milestone birthday, or romantic proposal.

Whether you live nearby or are visiting Little Rock for the first time, make time to experience The Capital Hotel.

Have brunch at One Eleven, enjoy a drink at Capital Bar & Grill, or treat yourself to a weekend stay in one of their beautiful suites with breakfast in bed.

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The Front Porch of Little Rock is waiting, and it’s every bit as welcoming as you imagine.

 

Perfectly Located in the Heart of Downtown Little Rock

The Capital Hotel is perfectly situated in the heart of downtown Little Rock, just 15 minutes from the airport.

From your room, you can enjoy views of the Arkansas River and step right outside to explore some of the city’s most iconic attractions, including the Clinton Presidential Library and the Old State House Museum.

One of the details I loved most was the complimentary airport transfer. Even though the ride is short, the experience feels thoughtful and refined.

A private driver picks you up at the terminal and whisks you across the city with ease, setting the tone for the kind of care and attention you can expect throughout your stay at The Capital Hotel.

Hotel Details

📍 Address: 111 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72201
📞 Phone: (501) 374-7474
🌐 Website: www.capitalhotel.com
🛏️ Book Now: Book your stay through Expedia

Check-in & The Rooms: Spacious, Elegant, and Designed for Relaxation

Check-in at The Capital Hotel felt less like a transaction and more like being welcomed into someone’s home.

The staff greeted me by name before I even reached the front desk, and within minutes, I was holding my key and a glass of champagne.

There was no rush, no scripted politeness, just genuine hospitality that instantly put me at ease.

When I opened the door to my room, the first thing I noticed was the space. The ceilings are high, the windows stretch from floor to ceiling, and natural light spills across every corner.

It’s the kind of room that immediately invites you to slow down.

The décor blends classic Southern style with modern touches, think crisp white linens, rich wood accents, and plush seating that makes you want to curl up with a glass of wine and never leave.

I will say it was a little too traditional for my taste, but it was still amazing.

My favorite detail was the bed. The custom mattress was so comfortable that it felt like it had been made just for me.

After a full day ziplining through the treetops in Hot Springs, I slipped between the Frette sheets and instantly melted into the bed.

Waiting for me was a plush robe and soft slippers, the perfect little luxury after an adrenaline-filled day of adventure.

The room even smelled heavenly, and I could feel myself unwind the moment I walked in. The attention to detail was unmatched.

The bathroom was stocked with Molton Brown products, thick towels, and fresh flowers that added just the right touch of elegance.

Each evening, housekeeping left bottled water and buttery toffee during turn-down service, along with a handwritten note that made me feel genuinely cared for.

Every part of the experience felt intentional, from the soft glow of the hallway lights to the quiet sense of calm that filled the room.

Whether you’re visiting for business, a weekend escape, or celebrating something special, The Capital Hotel sets the bar for comfort and refined Southern charm in Little Rock.

If you’re visiting during October or November, consider extending your stay with a scenic drive through the Ozarks.

My guide to the best places to see fall foliage in Arkansas will show you where to catch the most beautiful views of the season.

Capital Bar & Grill: Cocktails, Conversation, and Comfort Food Done Right

I’ll be honest, I wasn’t expecting to fall in love with a hotel bar, but the Capital Bar & Grill completely surprised me.

The moment I walked in, I understood why locals call it Little Rock’s living room. It feels warm, familiar, and effortlessly stylish.

You’ll see business travelers, locals, and couples all gathered together enjoying good food, great drinks, and even better conversation.

I found a cozy seat at the bar, and within minutes, the bartender greeted me like an old friend.

He suggested their signature Moscow Mule, made with house-crafted ginger beer and served in a perfectly chilled copper mug. One sip in, and I knew I was staying for dinner.

The menu reads like a love letter to Southern comfort food.

I ordered the pimento cheese dip because you simply can’t visit Arkansas without trying it, followed by shrimp and grits that were creamy, flavorful, and just the right amount of indulgent.

Each dish tasted familiar yet refined, the kind of comfort food that makes you want to linger a little longer.

Tim, my bartender, suggested I add the spiced pecans to the banana pudding, which took the banana pudding completely over the top, and my taste buds did a happy dance.

 The banana pudding was by far the highlight of the evening.

Whether you stop in for cocktails before a show, a late-night meal with friends, or a quiet dinner alone, the Capital Bar & Grill feels welcoming to everyone.

By the end of the evening, I was chatting with locals at the next table and laughing like we had known each other for years.

The food, the energy, and the service were all unforgettable. The Capital Bar & Grill is much more than a hotel restaurant; it is the heart of Little Rock.

Things to Do Near The Capital Hotel

One of the best parts about staying at The Capital Hotel is how perfectly it’s located in the heart of downtown Little Rock.

You can walk just about everywhere, which makes exploring easy and enjoyable.

I started my mornings with a stroll along the River Market District, where you’ll find local shops, coffee spots, and open-air vendors that make it feel like the city’s true gathering place.

A few blocks away, the Clinton Presidential Library is a must-see.

Even if you’re not a history buff, the exhibits and glass architecture are worth the visit. If you enjoy art, the Arkansas Arts Center features both local and national exhibits, and for nature lovers, Riverfront Park offers beautiful walking trails and river views that are perfect for an afternoon picnic.

You can also take a short drive to Hot Springs National Park for a day of adventure or relaxation.

Whether you want to hike the trails, visit the thermal baths, or zipline through the treetops, it’s an easy and scenic escape from the city.

Is The Capital Hotel Worth It? My Honest Review

Without question, yes. The Capital Hotel lives up to its reputation as one of the best boutique hotels in the South.

From the moment I checked in, I felt cared for in a way that very few hotels manage to achieve.

Every detail, from the fresh flowers in the lobby to the hand-written turn-down notes, showed a level of thoughtfulness that can only come from years of perfecting true hospitality.

The rooms are spacious and beautifully designed, the dining experiences are exceptional, and the location is unbeatable.

Whether you are planning a romantic getaway, a girls’ trip, or a solo retreat, The Capital Hotel delivers comfort, charm, and service that feel effortless.

Tips for Booking Your Stay at The Capital Hotel

• Book directly through the hotel or a trusted affiliate link to access seasonal offers and exclusive perks.
• Ask for a corner suite if available. The natural light and views of downtown Little Rock are worth it.
• Plan dinner or brunch in advance. Both Capital Bar & Grill and One Eleven at the Capital are popular with locals and often fill up.
• Consider a weekday stay. You’ll find more availability, quieter spaces, and sometimes better rates.
• Take advantage of valet service. Parking downtown can be limited, and the staff handles everything seamlessly.
• Request turndown service. The small details like Molton Brown toiletries and nightly treats make the experience even more special.

Final Thoughts: The Front Porch of Little Rock Feels Like Home

Every now and then, I find a hotel that stays with me long after checkout, and The Capital Hotel is one of those places. It embodies everything I love about Southern hospitality — warm, refined, and deeply personal.

What makes it truly special is the feeling it gives you. From the first greeting at the door to the quiet moments sipping coffee in my suite, I never once felt like a guest. I felt like I belonged there.

I will admit that the hotel’s design is a little more traditional than my personal taste. I tend to prefer modern, minimalist spaces with sleek finishes, but that’s just me. The Capital Hotel leans classic in all the right ways — rich woods, elegant details, and a timeless charm that perfectly matches its history.

If you are looking for a getaway that combines comfort, elegance, and heart, this is it. The Capital Hotel is more than Little Rock’s front porch. It is its soul, and it will have you planning your next visit before you even leave the lobby.

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