MONROE, LA — A new chapter begins in Northeast Louisiana today with the grand opening of The Hotel Monroe. The design-forward boutique hotel seamlessly blends historic architecture with modern Southern hospitality. The Hotel Monroe buildings originally stood as a Sugar Brothers Grocery and Opera House. Since then, they have housed a hardware store, poolside shop, and in the 1920s, the Star Hotel. The buildings have been carefully restored to create a boutique hotel that caters to today’s traveler while honoring the stories, heritage, and charm of Northeast Louisiana.
Joining Hilton’s Tapestry Collection, the 69-room property now returns to its roots as a gathering place for community, culture, and connection. With stunning meeting spaces, curated guestroom amenities, and a deep sense of place, The Hotel Monroe reflects the character and craft of Northeast Louisiana.
We wanted to create more than just a place to stay—we envisioned a gathering place that reflects Monroe’s rich cultural roots and forward momentum. From the reclaimed wood beams to the locally inspired menus, every detail was personally selected to celebrate the heritage of this vibrant city and offer visitors and locals a destination they can be proud of. Michael Echols, Co-Owner of The Hotel Monroe
A Cultural Revival for Northeast Louisiana
The hotel’s identity is deeply tied to Monroe’s cultural arts scene, featuring hand-painted murals by Louisiana artists Jay Davis and Nick Bustamante, as well as curated materials by local artisans, including Bayou Woodworks, Black Bayou Clay Co., and The Foundry in Ruston.
Now accepting reservations for stays beginning May 29, 2025, The Hotel Monroe is expected to generate over $10 million in economic impact in its first year, with a community-first hiring model creating up to 100 jobs locally.
It’s truly an honor to work closely with such an incredible ownership group on a historic project of this magnitude. This is more than a hotel—it’s a statement about the future of Monroe. Kimberly Christner, President & CEO of Cornerstone Hospitality
Heritage Design Meets Boutique Detail
The hotel’s preservation-led renovation retains original arched windows, wood-beam ceilings, and reclaimed brick walls throughout its public spaces. Interior design was led by Christie Echols, who envisioned a space that felt lived-in, layered, and warm—an authentic nod to Monroe’s culture and landscape.
My goal was to create a space that felt deeply rooted in Monroe’s story—a place where the design felt residential, soulful, and welcoming. We partnered with incredible local artisans and makers to infuse meaning into every detail. This project has truly been a labor of love. Christie Echols
The 69 guestrooms include Standard Kings, Riverview Rooms, Courtyard Rooms, Deluxe Soaker Tub rooms, and ADA-accessible accommodations—all appointed with sumptuous, made in the USA Kingsdown mattresses, Molton Brown amenities, Boca Terry robes, luxury linens, 55” smart TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, hydration stations, and Hilton Honors perks.
A Culinary & Community Destination
Dining at The Hotel Monroe includes:
- Heirloom, led by Executive Chef Tony Owens, offers a gluten-free menu rooted in Southern flavors and family memories, serving fresh, local cuisine with a creative and memorable twist.
- The Star Bar, an unpretentious rooftop bar with panoramic views, stunning sunsets, and hand-crafted cocktails, is perfect for relaxed evenings and lively conversation.
- Sugar Brothers Provisions is a stylish retail gift shop offering regional goods and curated essentials with a local twist.
Events & Gatherings with Purpose
With more than 7,000 square feet of flexible event space—including the grand Opera House Ballroom (4,740 sq ft) and four additional meeting rooms—The Hotel Monroe is designed to host weddings, conferences, and social gatherings with grace and southern style. Each space features modern AV equipment, a historic ambiance, and customizable layouts.
Whether visiting for business, a wedding, or a weekend escape, The Hotel Monroe invites guests to settle in and stay awhile, with stories in the walls and Southern comfort in every detail.
About The Hotel Monroe
The Hotel Monroe is a boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Monroe, Louisiana, offering 69 thoughtfully designed guestrooms, a Southern-inspired dining experience, rooftop cocktails, and historic event spaces. A proud member of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection, the hotel celebrates Monroe’s cultural heritage through art, design, and community-focused hospitality.
Learn more at www.tapestrycollection.com/thehotelmonroe.
844-866-6763
Instagram: @thehotelmonroe
About Cornerstone Hospitality
Cornerstone Hospitality is a distinctive hotel consulting and hospitality management company specializing in the development, repositioning, and management of historic and boutique hotels. Headquartered in Williamsburg, Virginia, the firm is recognized for revitalizing landmark properties through thoughtful restoration and community-driven strategies. With a portfolio that spans the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic, Cornerstone combines operational excellence with innovative branding to deliver memorable guest experiences and sustainable business success.
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Managing Director, Resonate PR
+1 760 846 4640
Cornerstone Hospitality, LLC
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