Upon entering this graceful and exquisitely restored building just steps from Dickson Street and the bustle of downtown Fayetteville, a leisurely look at historic photos lining the walls immediately evokes feelings of nostalgia and curiosity about bygone eras at the University of Arkansas. The Inn at Carnall Hall, an elegant boutique hotel with a prized porch view of Old Main and the earliest sections of the famous Senior Walk that honors graduates dating back to 1875, is a place built on making new memories and celebrating the past.
Carnall Hall found its beginnings in 1905 as the first all-women’s dormitory in the state of Arkansas and was named for a much-loved professor of English, Miss Ella Howison Carnall. Over the years, the building’s function evolved to house a men’s fraternity and later classroom space—until the building was shuttered due to safety concerns and slated for demolition. Concerted efforts by dedicated historic preservationists ultimately reversed the proposed fate of Carnall Hall, and the beautiful building reopened in 2003 following a $6.3 million renovation and restoration. It is now a member of the prestigious Historic Hotels of America, recognizing its commitment to “authenticity, sense of place and architectural integrity.”
Despite the hotel’s age, guest accommodations offer every modern amenity, including free high-speed WiFi, flat screen TV, a personal Keurig coffee machine, premium toiletries and even free access to the state-of-the-art University of Arkansas Fitness Center. The rooms are airy and cheerful, outfitted with plush beds and comfortable spaces to relax. ADA accessible rooms are available, as are two elegant State Rooms with added space and special details.
The Inn at Carnall Hall is known as much for its celebrated restaurant, Ella’s Table, and cozy space for cocktails, Lambeth Lounge, as it is for its overnight hospitality. Ella’s serves outstanding, award-winning Southern cuisine in a space made for conversation. The well-curated but approachable menu spans breakfast, lunch and dinner, featuring a tasty array of traditional options with a decidedly gourmet twist.
Lambeth Lounge is a cozy alternative, offering craft cocktails, fine wines and scotches, as well as small plates to be enjoyed inside the bar or on the beautiful adjoining porch. Each Thursday, the Inn invites hotel guests and the public to Sippin’ at Sunset, with live music, food and drink specials, and time to take in the view overlooking the Lawn of Old Main.
To learn more about this truly special Fayetteville treasure and make hotel or dining reservations, visit innatcarnallhall.com.
