ROANOKE, VA—The Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center will join Curio — A Collection by Hilton as the brand’s first hotel in the state on Feb. 28. Designated as a National Historic Landmark, the hotel is also part of Historic Hotels of America. It has been in operation for 134 years. The hotel is managed by Benchmark Resorts and Hotels and owned by Virginia Tech Real Estate Foundation.
“As a landmark with deep roots in the Roanoke community, this magnificent hotel perfectly embodies the Curio spirit of individuality and authenticity,” said Dianna Vaughan, global head, Curio – A Collection by Hilton. “With its adjoining conference center, easy downtown access and ideal location within the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains region, The Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center is an ideal choice for business and leisure guests.”
Originally built in 1882, the Tudor-style Hotel Roanoke retains aspects of the 1939 reconstruction, including marble floors and walnut paneling, according to Hilton. Other hotel features include decorative murals and artwork from local and regional artists.
The hotel, formerly a DoubleTree by Hilton property, features 330 guestrooms and is connected to a 63,000-sq.-ft. conference center. The property will feature a 1,680-sq.-ft. governor’s suite on the top floor, with a private rooftop terrace and a working fireplace.
Gary Walton, the hotel’s longtime general manager, will continue to lead the property’s current staff.
“This storied hotel offers the perfect blend of history, exceptional hospitality, Benchmark’s reputation as a global leader in the operation of first rate hotel conference centers, and the worldwide reputation for excellence of Hilton,” said Alex Cabañas, CEO of Benchmark Hospitality International.
Upgrades and renovations on all guestrooms are currently underway or already complete. Work is expected to be finished by the third-quarter of this year.