The Eliza | Queen Suite | The Empress Hotel

Light-filled and quietly elegant, The Eliza is a refined queen suite inside The Empress of Little Rock, Arkansas’ only Michelin-Key hotel and a distinguished AAA Four-Diamond property. Named for Eliza Cunningham, widely regarded as the founding matriarch of Little Rock, this room reflects the hope, resilience, and promise of a woman who helped shape the city in its earliest days.

Eliza Cunningham arrived in Little Rock in 1820, becoming its first permanent female resident. She would later give birth to the city’s first documented child, serve as the city’s first First Lady when her husband became Little Rock’s inaugural mayor, and remain central to the civic and family life of the growing settlement. Her story is one of courage, continuity, and quiet leadership — qualities that subtly inform the character of this suite.

Located in the historic Quapaw Quarter, The Empress of Little Rock offers guests an immersive stay in one of the city’s most iconic Queen Anne Victorian mansions, just minutes from downtown, SoMa, and the River Market. The Eliza is ideal for travelers seeking a graceful, intimate retreat rooted in history and warmth.

The Suite

The Eliza is located on the second floor of the main house, directly ahead at the top of the Grand Main Staircase. With 14-foot ceilings, tall windows, and a soft, luminous palette, the room feels open, calm, and welcoming from the moment you enter.

The suite is anchored by a queen-size French walnut bedstead with an ornately carved headboard, its warm wood tones complemented by dark oak antiques throughout the space. Gentle rose and violet hues soften the room, creating a delicate balance between historic richness and lightness.

A comfortable seating area at the foot of the bed includes plush chairs and ottomans, thoughtfully arranged for reading, conversation, or simply enjoying the natural light. Large windows fitted with two-inch wooden blinds and drapery look out toward the front of the property, allowing daylight to fill the room while maintaining privacy.

Modern comforts are seamlessly integrated, including a smart TV with streaming services, a writing and coffee station with Keurig, mini-refrigerator, water, mugs, and glassware, and generous storage throughout. An antique wardrobe with mirror houses plush robes, hangers, an ironing board, iron, and hair dryer.

Bath Experience

The Eliza features a room-adjacent pedestal sink set on marble, preserving the historic layout of the house while offering practical convenience. Porcelain fixtures, brass shelving, and soft lighting create a graceful transition between bedroom and bath.

The enclosed bathroom includes a Pullman-style bath with shower, finished in glass and brass. A curated collection of seashells — inspired by Victorian seaside traditions — adds a subtle, personal touch. Towels, amenities, and consistent water pressure ensure comfort and ease.

Comfort & Atmosphere

The Eliza is climate controlled as part of the upper-floor system, allowing guests to adjust their room temperature for comfort. Its front-facing position, tall ceilings, and layered textiles contribute to a peaceful, balanced atmosphere throughout the day.

Designed to feel hopeful, gentle, and enduring, The Eliza offers a stay that honors one of Little Rock’s foundational figures — a light-filled retreat within one of Arkansas’ most celebrated historic hotels.