Hotel Ballast, located on the historic Downtown waterfront, is a celebration of Wilmington’s time-honored maritime past. As one of the first member properties of Hilton’s boutique Tapestry Collection, the property has undergone a $11.5 million renovation and is ready to provide guests with a uniquely local experience focused both on Wilmington history and culture and warm Southern hospitality. Guestroom upgrades include hardwood floors, elevated bedding packages, and high-end marble bathroom finishes, while the hotel’s meeting spaces received new furniture, carpeting, and lighting. Two restaurants on site include a Ruth’s Chris Steak House and the Board & Barrel Coastal Kitchen, an all-new indoor/outdoor riverfront restaurant and bar that incorporates locally-sourced ingredients and draws inspiration from Southern culinary traditions and coastal flavors. Additionally, the lobby features Buffalo Bayou, a gourmet-to-go café serving local coffees, teas, and house-made light fare.