Embassy Suites by Hilton Louisville East

Sporting the classic Embassy-chain look, this hotel has been very well maintained. The lobby’s tan and black tile floors lead to a shiny, brown lacquer front desk with a grouping of modern pendant lights. A gas fireplace with blue armchairs and blue patterned carpet sits across from the front desk, creating a dark and cozy place to relax. But its the bright and airy six-story atrium that's the main attraction. It has tropical plants, a large water fountain, and several clusters of high-quality black and brown leather sofas, glass tables across from striped bench seating, and various bar tables. A small, dark wood bar occupies a back wall with more seating. Guests take advantage of the abundant and comfortable seating arrangements to enjoy the free breakfast, free afternoon reception, and simply to relax. This is a weekday business hotel that sees plenty of couples and families visiting Louisville on weekends. 

The Embassy is just off busy North Hurstborne Parkway, between Louisville’s two interstate highway loops (I-265 and I-264) and surrounded by office buildings. It’s about 20 minutes east of downtown (driving) and all of its attractions, including the Kentucky International Conference Center, KFC Yum Center sports arena, Fourth Street Live entertainment district, Muhammad Ali Center, Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory, and the Louisville Slugger Field where the Louisville Bats (Cincinnati Reds AAA affiliate) play. The Fairgrounds also are about 20 minutes driving, as are Louisville International Airport and Churchill Downs. There are a few restaurants within a 10-minute walk, but that involves crossing busy roads on foot, so it may be best to reach them via car.

Room options include King Suites with king-size beds, Two Doubles Suites with two double beds, and Executive Suites that offer enough additional space to include a dining table with six chairs. Suites are clean and spacious with separate bedrooms and sitting areas that have plush blue sofa beds and blue paisley-patterned chairs. Antique-style framed maps, zigzag-patterned throw pillows, and busy starburst-print carpeting lend energy to otherwise fairly corporate decor. Living rooms also have work desks with media plug-ins and office chairs, and, like the bedrooms, flat-screen TVs. Small hallway wet bars include microwaves, coffeemakers, and mini-fridges. Decor is the same in all suites, with black and tan patterned carpet, and dark wood headboards, night stands, dressers, desks, and coffee tables. Bathrooms are about average in size with tan granite vanities, standard white shower/tub combos with curtains, white tile floors, and brown and gold patterned wallpaper. Free Wi-Fi is offered in all suites, and pets are welcome in select rooms for a surcharge. Views are generally of the parking lot or surrounding office buildings. Guests report that beds are very comfortable and rooms are quiet regardless of floor.

The hotel offers a free cooked-to-order breakfast with fruit, pastries, waffles, eggs, and more. The Atrium Cafe also serves bistro-style breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Plus, free snacks and beer, wine, and other beverages are served each afternoon. The restaurant has a children’s menu. Room service is available during restaurant hours. There's meeting space for up to 150 people, and a 24-hour business center with two computer stations, free printing, and Internet access. Free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the hotel. The hotel has a bar, indoor pool, and whirlpool. The 24-hour fitness center has cardio machines (with TV screens) and free weights. Coin-operated laundry facilities and dry cleaning services are available. The lobby gift shop offers snacks, beverages including alcohol, and various sundries. There's a safe deposit box at the front desk, and free self-parking is available on hotel grounds.