By Kelly Jordan, September 12, 2016

Drawn to Gulfport, Mississippi, for its beatific beaches, fresh seafood and affordability, meeting planners in the past have largely relied on hotels outside of the downtown area to fit their room block needs—until now. It’s in the midst of a renaissance (a new Mississippi Aquarium is on the way), and, come early fall, planners will find added appeal in the forthcoming Hotel Vogue.

“Downtown Gulfport is the hub of South Mississippi,” says David Parker, director of economic development for the City of Gulfport. “I feel like this hotel is filling a perfect need.”

Situated in the middle of Gulfport’s thriving financial district and a short drive from Mississippi Coast Coliseum & Convention Center, Hotel Vogue is the first boutique hotel in the downtown area. Dozens of cafes and restaurants are within walking distance.

The 114-year-old building where Hotel Vogue makes its home has sat vacant since Hurricane Katrina. Now, the 16-room hotel is slated to become the epitome of inspiration, complete with antique columns, stained-glass windows and marble floors that will lend the space an aura of 1930s Hollywood for small church board meetings. An on-site upscale restaurant with covered-terrace seating and an intimate meeting space for up to 20 people round out the hotel’s offerings.

Photo credit: Gulfport Main Street