A century of Hilton innovation has employed an estimated 10 million Team Members and served more than 3 billion guests around the world. This history informs today’s practices in hotels that both reflect and impact travelers, employees and communities.
Click on a Filter Below to see Hilton’s Century of Innovative Initiatives For:
The Hilton Effect on the Traveler: Refilling our Tanks
Because traveling for work is work on top of work, Conrad Hilton understood that delivering hospitality – the comforts, pleasures, and possibilities for refreshment – was the missing piece of the puzzle that would power the brand.
The Hilton Effect on Team Members: Entrepreneurship, Autonomy and Flow
When Conrad Hilton turns a hotel over to a manager he gives that (person) complete autonomy. Each unit is, for that reason run differently and has individuality” New York Times, 1949.
The Hilton Effect on Communities: Commitment, Social Connections and Development
A known, international hotel brand is a secure bridge to the outside world, a sign of a steady influx of money and moneyed foreigners arriving from lands with healthier economies.
Hilton becomes the first major hospitality company to commit to science-based sustainability goals
2018
Hilton unveils Connected Room, the first truly mobile-centric guest room
2018
Today Hilton employs more than 400,000 Team Members around the world
2018
This demonstrated resilience made the Hilton Colombo a symbol of stability. Of the 700 current team members 200 have been on the team since the Central Bank bombing in 1996.
2017
Hilton Innovation Gallery launched in Virginia to showcase new innovations that enrich guest experiences
2016
Hilton named to the Fortune 200 Best Companies to work for list.
2016
Hilton Cleveland Downtown: “This hyper-modern skycraper is the Cleveland’s tallest, most spacious and most comfortable hotel as well as being the crown jewel of the downtown core.”
2016
Hilton upgrades hundreds of properties to improve employee spaces such as cafeterias, break rooms, and locker rooms.
2014
Hilton Times Square first to live stream a concert on YouTube
2013
Hilton returns to the New York Stock Exchange
2000s
2008
The modernization of Puerto Madero spurred by the Hilton’s launch continued with the construction of the new headquarters of YPF, the state oil company on land that had been vacant for decades. A number of embassies followed.
2007
After 40 years of being separate companies, Hilton Hotels Corporation and Hilton International are reunited and Chris Nassetta is appointed President & CEO.
2003
Hilton Americas Houston: “This AAA Four-Diamond hotel lies at the center of Houston’s downtown core, just steps away from professional sports, the theater district and world-class shopping.”
2000
The Hilton Buenos Aires was the first commercial building in Puerto Madero when it opened, just as an economic crisis began. Other hotels closed during the crisis but Hilton held strong, becoming an icon of the Argentinian skyline that has since played host to world leaders and celebrities alike.
1990s
1996
The Hilton Colombo was damaged by a series of separatist attacks during Sri Lanka’s civil war. The hotel stayed open in spite of the damage, with the general manager declaring "We will never close,” and rallying the employees to establish the hotel as a haven from the conflict.
1995
The first Hilton website launches www.hilton.com.
1980s
1987
Hilton Honors™ loyalty program launched
1987
Hilton Abuja: “One of the largest hotels in sub-Saharan Africa, the Hilton Abuja is both a national landmark and a home for travelers to experience the richness of life in Nigeria’s capital.”
1987
Hilton Colombo: “Sri Lanka’s premier hotel offers peerless international dining, first-class amenities and stunning views over the Indian Ocean, all from the heart of the city of Colombo.”
1970s
1973
The first computerized reservation database
1971
John Lennon handwrites words to “Imagine” on a piece of Hilton New York stationery while at the hotel
1960s
1965
Lady Hilton the first hotel concept exclusively for women
1963
Remote controls for TV and radio at the London Hilton on Park Lane
1950s
1959
Hilton pioneers the airport–hotel concept by opening the San Francisco Airport Hilton
1959
Nile Hilton, Cairo: “The Nile Hilton Hotel Cairo has been at the center of modern Egyptian history. One of the city’s most iconic structures—second, perhaps, to the Great Pyramids.”
1957
In his autobiography, Be My Guest, Conrad Hilton reiterates his policy of rewarding good work with more work: “Success seems to be connected to action. Successful people keep moving. They make mistakes, but they don’t quit.”
1955
Air conditioning comes to every Hilton hotel
1955
The first multi-hotel reservations system
1955
Conrad Hilton flew in more than 100 luminaries for a five-day grand opening of the Istanbul Hilton. The hotel became an iconic landmark, with a lingering aura of importance as community focal point. Eighteen years later, a record 21 couples were married at the Istanbul Hilton in a single week. Istanbul’s first and finest five-star hotel has welcomed some of the world’s most elite guests, including Sophia Loren, Queen Elizabeth II, Louis Armstrong and Grace Kelly.
1940s
1949
Hilton International is born, with the opening of the Caribe Hilton in Puerto Rico. The Piña Colada was also invented and first served at the Caribe Hilton.
1947
Roosevelt Hilton, New York, becomes the first hotel to install televisions in guest rooms
1943
Hilton becomes the first coast-to-coast hotel group in the U.S. with the purchase of the Roosevelt and Plaza hotels.
1940s
Conrad Hilton pursued his unique management style over a rapidly-growing chain, engaging his employees by demanding that they ‘climb a little higher”.
1930s
1930
Room service pioneered at the Waldorf Astoria
1920s
1925
Dallas Hilton is constructed from the ground up.
1910s
1919
Conrad Hilton purchased his first hotel in Mobley, Texas
After nearly 100 years of global expansion, Hilton has more than 5,500 hotels and resorts spanning across 109 different countries and territories. Explore some of its most iconic properties around the world.
This hyper-modern skycraper is the Cleveland’s tallest, most spacious and most comfortable hotel as well as being the crown jewel of the downtown core.
The exemplar of Manhattan high life, the Waldorf has been home to Winston Churchill, Herbert Hoover, Frank Sinatra and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor to name only a few.
The first Hilton Hotel outside the continental United States, the Caribe Hilton is the setting for many major motion pictures and the birthplace of the Piña Colada.
Joining the Hilton portfolio in 2017 as Hilton’s 100th hotel in Latin America, the property is the tallest building on the famous strip of Copacabana beach, and an icon in the city for its beachfront location and rooftop views of the Sugar Loaf and Christ the Redeemer.
Opened in 2012 as the province’s first internationally branded hotel, revolutionizing the industry in the area by introducing new hospitality standards and creating opportunities in the community.
This world-reknown property is home to the Golden Globe Awards and over 100 annual red carpet galas. Several of its rooms offer sweeping views of the Hollywood Hills and its Aqua Star Pool is Beverly Hills’ largest pool and serves as the setting for many photo and film shoots.
The Drake is an iconic Chicago hotel, which has served as a symbol of elegance since its opening in 1920. The property is situated at the beginning of the Magnificent Mile and has stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline from many of its meeting rooms.
Palmer House A Hilton Hotel has 140 years of experience, winning over downtown Chicago travelers with award-winning service. Set in the theatre and financial district, this landmark hotel is in walking distance to Millennium Park, the Art Institute and theaters.
Situated in the stylish Gold Coast neighborhood of downtown Chicago, Waldorf Astoria Chicago offers easy access to all the city has to offer. Their collection of expansive guest rooms and suites feature private terraces and fireplaces - the perfect base for an unforgettable stay in Chicago.
The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel
Experience luxurious Southern hospitality at the historical Roosevelt New Orleans Waldorf Astoria. This landmark hotel is a short walk to the French Quarter, close to New Orleans nightlife, dining and culture, providing an elegant sanctuary in a vibrant Mardi Gras town.
On the edge of the Pacific Ocean, the legendary Hotel del Coronado, Curio Collection by Hilton offers a magical seaside experience. An iconic presence since 1888, it combines majestic Victorian architecture, modern luxuries and beachfront recreation for a resort experience that’s uniquely Southern California.
The Tru by Hilton Oklahoma City Airport was the first location for Hilton’s game-changing new brand that provides a simplified and spirited approach, grounded in value for business and leisure travelers.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Seattle Downtown Pioneer Square
The Embassy Suites by Hilton Seattle Downtown Pioneer Square nestled in Seattle's original neighborhood Pioneer Square. With two glass towers comprising of 282 suites offering panoramic views of Seattle and Elliott Bay, the hotel is the perfect hub for your next travel experience.
Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton Inn by Hilton and Home2 Suites by Hilton Chicago McCormick Place
Located in Chicago’s South Loop, the first-ever Hilton tri-brand property (Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton Inn by Hilton and Home2 Suites by Hilton Chicago McCormick Place) brings together these three category-leading brands and their signature, yet distinct offerings under one roof, providing travelers with a wealth of shared amenities.
Anchoring the very tip of Key West since New Year’s Eve 1920, the legendary Casa Marina Resort was built by Henry Flagler as a reflection of his passionate love affair with Florida. This elegant combination of Old Key West ambiance and contemporary luxury, features 311 spacious guest rooms and suites, many of which include a private balcony and ocean views.
The Diplomat Beach Resort Hollywood, Curio Collection by Hilton is Hollywood, Florida's most iconic property, boasting 1,000 guest rooms and suites, 10 different culinary destinations, two sun-drenched pools, 26 poolside cabanas – including four designed by the iconic fashion brand, Trina Turk, a deluxe spa and fitness center, and 209,000 square feet of meetings and events space.
The Boca Raton Resort & Club, which opened February 6, 1926 as the Cloister Inn, is a large resort and membership-based club located in Boca Raton, Florida. Originally designed by California-born architect, Addison Mizner, this hotel is in a Mediterranean inspired village offering
Hilton Washington has been the site of prestigious gatherings hosted by U.S. presidents, world leaders and other prominent figures since opening in 1965, with more than 110,000 square feet of event space, including one of the largest column-free ballrooms on the east coast – its legendary 36,000 square-foot International Ballroom complex.
The historic Capital Hilton is located two blocks from the White House along K Street in downtown Washington, DC. Since opening its doors as a Statler Hotel in 1943, the hotel staff has hosted Washington’s most noteworthy events and served the world’s most famous dignitaries, including Winston Churchill, Princess Elizabeth, Queen Noor of Jordan and Charles Lindberg, along with countless senators, congressmen, world ambassadors and celebrities. Although the hotel has hosted every U.S. President since Franklin Delano Roosevelt, including President Barack Obama’s first black-tie dinner as Commander-in-Chief, the hotel is also known for its historical significance in mid-century architecture – it was one of the few grand hotels built in the nation during World War II, and was widely considered America’s most modern hotel of its time. The hotel with 547 rooms was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in July 2007.
Famous as the site of John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s ‘bed-in for peace’, the Hilton Amsterdam is steeped both in history and in the luxuries expected by the modern traveler.
The Nile Hilton Hotel Cairo has been at the center of modern Egyptian history. One of the city’s most iconic structures—second, perhaps, to the Great Pyramids.
A piece of living history and UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik offers modern luxury only steps away from Dubrovnik’s world-famous Old Town and the landmark Pile Gate.
An elegant hotel near the western lakefront, Hilton Lake Como is the first Hilton hotel in the region. The property offers personalized service, a unique view of the lake from their rooftop bar and infinity pool, and suites with with private terraces and whirlpools.
Chandeliers, hand-painted mosaic walls and a 46-foot high ceiling lobby are just some of the features that make this hotel a popular venue with Parisians as well as guests. Located in the lively Opéra quarter, it is considered a landmark hotel in the heart of the city.
This world-class resort hotel sits astride a hilltop in Montemario so guests may enjoy Rome’s only 3-Michelin star rooftop restaurant while overlooking the Eternal City.
Set across six connected houses, this hotel is an integral part of a neighborhood rich with history, color and life. Grab a few bicycles and make restaurant, bar and retail discoveries on Laugavegur Street, or visit Hallgrímskirkja Church and snap a perfect picture of the city from 73 meters up.
The city’s rich heritage seeps through the hotel’s architecture, as the hotel was the former iconic Neptune Cinema, and still houses the cinema ticket hall, which has been transformed into a Welcome Zone.
Hampton by Hilton debuted in the Middle East this year with the opening of Hampton by Hilton Dubai Airport. The hotel features 420 contemporary guestrooms (making it the brand’s largest open property), a state-of-the-art rooftop gym with panoramic views of the Dubai skyline, a large infinity pool, and a fully licensed bar.
It took nine years to revive the stately Victorian building, originally built as the Liverpool Conservative Club. The building remains to the fore while the contemporary-styled rooms have a boutique feel, and the Dale Street entrance, in particular, showcases the restored, renaissance features, such as marbled columns and stained-glass windows, the latter depicting symbols of Liverpool’s maritime heritage.
In the heart of Shinjuku—one of the world’s most dynamic and stylish entertainment districts—the Hilton Tokyo is an ideal jumping-off point to the best of Japanese urban life.
Nestled in the heart of Chatan, Okinawa, the sleek Hilton Okinawa Chatan Resort provides upscale amenities adjacent to the beautiful Mihama American Village.
A towering presence with 35 floors, Hilton Kuala Lumpur is a landmark destination in itself. Dubbed the ultimate lifestyle hotel, it showcases stylish rooms and diverse gastronomical options in the heart of the vibrant KL Sentral.
Located within walking distance of the Forbidden City, the award-winning Hilton Beijing Wangfujing offers access to the best of what China’s capital has to offer.
Nestled in the heart of the city, Hilton Sydney offers convenient access to Sydney’s favourite attractions like the spectacular Darling Harbor, Sydney Opera House, and Bondi Beach.
Soaring high across 52 floors, Waldorf Astoria Chengdu is the newest luxury hotel in the burgeoning Chengdu Hi-Tech Zone. It blends classic elegance and modern grandeur with inspirational environment.
Combining the history and culture of the celebrated Shanghai Bund with a taste for 21st century sophistication, this Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund offers legendary service and timeless amenities for travelers seeking spectacular opulence.
An iconic presence rising in the heart of Thailand’s City of Angels, the Waldorf Astoria Bangkok offers luxurious accommodations, as well as sophisticated dining and entertainment options, including the New York-inspired Bull & Bear and two rooftop bars with stunning views.
Dubbed as guests’ ‘address in the sky’, this sleek luxury hotel offers incredible views of Osaka and the Aji River from the highest floors of the Nakanoshima Festival West Tower.
Admired for its globally inspired architecture and stunning Han River and skyline views, Conrad Seoul appeals to travelers for whom life, business and pleasure seamlessly intersect.
This hyper-modern skycraper is the Cleveland’s tallest, most spacious and most comfortable hotel as well as being the crown jewel of the downtown core.
The exemplar of Manhattan high life, the Waldorf has been home to Winston Churchill, Herbert Hoover, Frank Sinatra and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor to name only a few.
The first Hilton Hotel outside the continental United States, the Caribe Hilton is the setting for many major motion pictures and the birthplace of the Piña Colada.
Joining the Hilton portfolio in 2017 as Hilton’s 100th hotel in Latin America, the property is the tallest building on the famous strip of Copacabana beach, and an icon in the city for its beachfront location and rooftop views of the Sugar Loaf and Christ the Redeemer.
Opened in 2012 as the province’s first internationally branded hotel, revolutionizing the industry in the area by introducing new hospitality standards and creating opportunities in the community.
This world-reknown property is home to the Golden Globe Awards and over 100 annual red carpet galas. Several of its rooms offer sweeping views of the Hollywood Hills and its Aqua Star Pool is Beverly Hills’ largest pool and serves as the setting for many photo and film shoots.
The Drake is an iconic Chicago hotel, which has served as a symbol of elegance since its opening in 1920. The property is situated at the beginning of the Magnificent Mile and has stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline from many of its meeting rooms.
Palmer House A Hilton Hotel has 140 years of experience, winning over downtown Chicago travelers with award-winning service. Set in the theatre and financial district, this landmark hotel is in walking distance to Millennium Park, the Art Institute and theaters.
Situated in the stylish Gold Coast neighborhood of downtown Chicago, Waldorf Astoria Chicago offers easy access to all the city has to offer. Their collection of expansive guest rooms and suites feature private terraces and fireplaces - the perfect base for an unforgettable stay in Chicago.
The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel
Experience luxurious Southern hospitality at the historical Roosevelt New Orleans Waldorf Astoria. This landmark hotel is a short walk to the French Quarter, close to New Orleans nightlife, dining and culture, providing an elegant sanctuary in a vibrant Mardi Gras town.
On the edge of the Pacific Ocean, the legendary Hotel del Coronado, Curio Collection by Hilton offers a magical seaside experience. An iconic presence since 1888, it combines majestic Victorian architecture, modern luxuries and beachfront recreation for a resort experience that’s uniquely Southern California.
The Tru by Hilton Oklahoma City Airport was the first location for Hilton’s game-changing new brand that provides a simplified and spirited approach, grounded in value for business and leisure travelers.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Seattle Downtown Pioneer Square
The Embassy Suites by Hilton Seattle Downtown Pioneer Square nestled in Seattle's original neighborhood Pioneer Square. With two glass towers comprising of 282 suites offering panoramic views of Seattle and Elliott Bay, the hotel is the perfect hub for your next travel experience.
Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton Inn by Hilton and Home2 Suites by Hilton Chicago McCormick Place
Located in Chicago’s South Loop, the first-ever Hilton tri-brand property (Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton Inn by Hilton and Home2 Suites by Hilton Chicago McCormick Place) brings together these three category-leading brands and their signature, yet distinct offerings under one roof, providing travelers with a wealth of shared amenities.
Anchoring the very tip of Key West since New Year’s Eve 1920, the legendary Casa Marina Resort was built by Henry Flagler as a reflection of his passionate love affair with Florida. This elegant combination of Old Key West ambiance and contemporary luxury, features 311 spacious guest rooms and suites, many of which include a private balcony and ocean views.
The Diplomat Beach Resort Hollywood, Curio Collection by Hilton is Hollywood, Florida's most iconic property, boasting 1,000 guest rooms and suites, 10 different culinary destinations, two sun-drenched pools, 26 poolside cabanas – including four designed by the iconic fashion brand, Trina Turk, a deluxe spa and fitness center, and 209,000 square feet of meetings and events space.
The Boca Raton Resort & Club, which opened February 6, 1926 as the Cloister Inn, is a large resort and membership-based club located in Boca Raton, Florida. Originally designed by California-born architect, Addison Mizner, this hotel is in a Mediterranean inspired village offering
Hilton Washington has been the site of prestigious gatherings hosted by U.S. presidents, world leaders and other prominent figures since opening in 1965, with more than 110,000 square feet of event space, including one of the largest column-free ballrooms on the east coast – its legendary 36,000 square-foot International Ballroom complex.
The historic Capital Hilton is located two blocks from the White House along K Street in downtown Washington, DC. Since opening its doors as a Statler Hotel in 1943, the hotel staff has hosted Washington’s most noteworthy events and served the world’s most famous dignitaries, including Winston Churchill, Princess Elizabeth, Queen Noor of Jordan and Charles Lindberg, along with countless senators, congressmen, world ambassadors and celebrities. Although the hotel has hosted every U.S. President since Franklin Delano Roosevelt, including President Barack Obama’s first black-tie dinner as Commander-in-Chief, the hotel is also known for its historical significance in mid-century architecture – it was one of the few grand hotels built in the nation during World War II, and was widely considered America’s most modern hotel of its time. The hotel with 547 rooms was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in July 2007.
Famous as the site of John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s ‘bed-in for peace’, the Hilton Amsterdam is steeped both in history and in the luxuries expected by the modern traveler.
The Nile Hilton Hotel Cairo has been at the center of modern Egyptian history. One of the city’s most iconic structures—second, perhaps, to the Great Pyramids.
A piece of living history and UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik offers modern luxury only steps away from Dubrovnik’s world-famous Old Town and the landmark Pile Gate.
An elegant hotel near the western lakefront, Hilton Lake Como is the first Hilton hotel in the region. The property offers personalized service, a unique view of the lake from their rooftop bar and infinity pool, and suites with with private terraces and whirlpools.
Chandeliers, hand-painted mosaic walls and a 46-foot high ceiling lobby are just some of the features that make this hotel a popular venue with Parisians as well as guests. Located in the lively Opéra quarter, it is considered a landmark hotel in the heart of the city.
This world-class resort hotel sits astride a hilltop in Montemario so guests may enjoy Rome’s only 3-Michelin star rooftop restaurant while overlooking the Eternal City.
Set across six connected houses, this hotel is an integral part of a neighborhood rich with history, color and life. Grab a few bicycles and make restaurant, bar and retail discoveries on Laugavegur Street, or visit Hallgrímskirkja Church and snap a perfect picture of the city from 73 meters up.
The city’s rich heritage seeps through the hotel’s architecture, as the hotel was the former iconic Neptune Cinema, and still houses the cinema ticket hall, which has been transformed into a Welcome Zone.
Hampton by Hilton debuted in the Middle East this year with the opening of Hampton by Hilton Dubai Airport. The hotel features 420 contemporary guestrooms (making it the brand’s largest open property), a state-of-the-art rooftop gym with panoramic views of the Dubai skyline, a large infinity pool, and a fully licensed bar.
It took nine years to revive the stately Victorian building, originally built as the Liverpool Conservative Club. The building remains to the fore while the contemporary-styled rooms have a boutique feel, and the Dale Street entrance, in particular, showcases the restored, renaissance features, such as marbled columns and stained-glass windows, the latter depicting symbols of Liverpool’s maritime heritage.
In the heart of Shinjuku—one of the world’s most dynamic and stylish entertainment districts—the Hilton Tokyo is an ideal jumping-off point to the best of Japanese urban life.
Nestled in the heart of Chatan, Okinawa, the sleek Hilton Okinawa Chatan Resort provides upscale amenities adjacent to the beautiful Mihama American Village.
A towering presence with 35 floors, Hilton Kuala Lumpur is a landmark destination in itself. Dubbed the ultimate lifestyle hotel, it showcases stylish rooms and diverse gastronomical options in the heart of the vibrant KL Sentral.
Located within walking distance of the Forbidden City, the award-winning Hilton Beijing Wangfujing offers access to the best of what China’s capital has to offer.
Nestled in the heart of the city, Hilton Sydney offers convenient access to Sydney’s favourite attractions like the spectacular Darling Harbor, Sydney Opera House, and Bondi Beach.
Soaring high across 52 floors, Waldorf Astoria Chengdu is the newest luxury hotel in the burgeoning Chengdu Hi-Tech Zone. It blends classic elegance and modern grandeur with inspirational environment.
Combining the history and culture of the celebrated Shanghai Bund with a taste for 21st century sophistication, this Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund offers legendary service and timeless amenities for travelers seeking spectacular opulence.
An iconic presence rising in the heart of Thailand’s City of Angels, the Waldorf Astoria Bangkok offers luxurious accommodations, as well as sophisticated dining and entertainment options, including the New York-inspired Bull & Bear and two rooftop bars with stunning views.
Dubbed as guests’ ‘address in the sky’, this sleek luxury hotel offers incredible views of Osaka and the Aji River from the highest floors of the Nakanoshima Festival West Tower.
Admired for its globally inspired architecture and stunning Han River and skyline views, Conrad Seoul appeals to travelers for whom life, business and pleasure seamlessly intersect.
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