Our Story

Following the South’s postwar economic boom in the late 1800s, railroad tycoon William P. Denckla had the grand idea of building a block of businesses, offices, and "bachelor’s quarters” in downtown Little Rock, steps from the capitol building. The enterprise was a success, and the building’s grand facade quickly became a centerpiece of downtown Little Rock when it was constructed in 1872. Save a few additions made over the years, the original cast-iron facade is still in use today.

When a massive fire destroyed the neighboring Metropolitan Hotel in 1876, the entire Denckla Block was transformed into a boutique hotel, with plans of expanding the building. To christen the hotel, Major Adams chose a name suggested by Mrs. Morehead Wright. She recommended it be called the “Capital Hotel,” for it was, in her words, “a capital enterprise located in a capital building, and I am certain it will be a capital success.”

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Capital Hotel established itself as a hub of elegance and high society. Its grand halls and luxurious rooms attracted notable guests, including politicians, celebrities, and business magnates. The hotel’s impeccable service and opulent decor made it the preferred lodging for those seeking comfort and sophistication in Little Rock.

Today, the Capital Hotel remains the most significant structure of its kind in the state of Arkansas. It stands as a symbol of timeless elegance, offering guests a unique blend of historical charm and modern comfort. The hotel continues to be a proud centerpiece of downtown Little Rock, welcoming visitors with the same warmth and grandeur that have defined it for over a century.