This property is in a beautifully restored 14-story brick building in the heart of the historic and financial district. This hotel, the oldest in the state, is once again the preferred downtown address after yet another renovation with new owners. Condominium conversions have taken over the top floors, and the aura of understated elegance is pervasive. Revolving brass doors sweep guests into an elegant marble lobby with plaster detailing and tall mullioned windows.

Large floral arrangements and a rotating collection of fine paintings provided through a local artists' association add color and panache to the room, and wingback chairs, floral-print sofas and a grand piano provide comfort. The welcoming staff swiftly attends to guests from a small but efficient front desk.

To the right of the lobby is the large L-shaped lounge that spills out onto the sidewalk in fair weather. The light menu is the only dinner option at the hotel and explains the meager room-service options. An antique staircase gracefully rises to the mezzanine, where the cafe serves breakfast and lunch in an intimate setting surrounded by windows.

The penthouse area houses well-equipped meeting rooms with breakout space on the rooftop patio surrounding the chef's garden and greenhouse. The main-floor ballroom seats 110 for meetings. A small gift shop, a 24-hour fitness room with a dozen cardiovascular machines, and a well-equipped business center round out the amenities.

Guest rooms have a regional flair with magnolia-themed art, soft cream-on-cream color schemes, neutral carpeting, fine fabrics in stripes and florals, and neoclassical-style hardwood furnishings. Large desks, dual-line speakerphones with voice mail, high-speed Internet access, and 25-inch TVs in the armoires please corporate travelers. Large mirrored closets and vanities are just outside tiled baths with deep tubs and glass stall showers. Toiletries, hair dryers and coffeemakers come standard. Corner rooms are larger, brighter and fitted with huge soaking tubs; they are priced accordingly.

The can-do staff here is terrific. Fresh, pert and personable—this is an alternative to the Tutwiler a block away as one of the top in downtown Birmingham.