The Battle House Hotel has re-opened after being shuttered nearly 30 years ago. And once again, it is simply the best hotel in the city. I was able to discover this firsthand on my birthday, when we checked into the hotel for an in-town getaway.

While the original historic building is intact and has been beautifully restored, the hotel has also expanded into the city's soaring RSA Tower -- the highest skyscraper between Houston and Tampa (at 745 feet). The hotel occupies several of the RSA Tower's lower floors, in addition to its historic digs. If you want a room in the historic section, you should probably contact the hotel directly to make sure you get what you want..

We reserved a Corner King room, which turned out to be in the Tower. It was odd, checking into the city's most historic hotel and staying in the city's newest architectural gem! The room, as other reviews will attest, was fantastic. It was spacious (the Marriott website says 490 sq. ft), clean, had a fantastic bathroom with a large tub and separate shower, and a shared balcony.

The lobby area is simply beautiful. In fact, I saw it on the cover of this year's official Alabama travel guide. Well worth a visit, even if you are not staying or eating here. We did not eat at the Trellis Room, a restaurant described as Northern Italian/Fusion, but friends of ours have. They reported great food with high prices to match. You can also order room service, as the Battle House offers 24-hour room service.

The Battle House has been the talk of the town since it re-opened, and I've noticed (based on Trip Advisor reviews) that the quality of our hotels has risen a great deal with the return of this historic hotel. Its sister property, the Renaissance Riverview Plaza, has also undergone a multi-million dollar renovation and looks better than ever. But without a doubt, the Battle House sets the standard in Mobile.

Nearby: Spot of Tea serves fantastic breakfasts, and is just a few blocks away from the hotel on Dauphin Street. Downtown Mobile has several great restaurants and bars (including the hotel's own bar -- very nice!). Try Liquid Lounge, a smallish bar about a mile down Dauphin (between Washington and Dearborn) for the best sushi I've ever had.

We are Mobilians who, like many other locals, book hotels during Mardi Gras. I was very lucky to book one night (Lundi Gras) at the Battle House. This is a great base because you can walk down St. Francis St. north side to get to Dauphin Street Entertainment district even during the parades. Next year, we are planning to stay for two nights. The bathrooms are so nice with a separate shower, all marble and/or travertine. Just like the pics someone else posted.

I've travelled to Europe many times and most places cannot touch the amazing lobby, except the Hotel Danielli in Venice,Italy. Battle House is a close second, that's for sure.
If you can't afford to stay here, stay down the street at the Renaissance River view, and just go for drinks in the Battle House's Bar: It is rarely crowded and has a menu from the Trellis Room. Then you can peep into the lobby. Although, during Mardi Gras, they were issuing wrist bands for security.

I had booked a room in the historic section, but when we arrived, we were told we had the RSA tower section. I simply protested and got a nice king size bed overlooking Royal Street. They had some rooms available , which surprised me but it is the most expensive hotel and very worth it. It had a nice sitting area; I think we had what was called an Exec. suite and we paid about $350 (Mardi Gras prices) or so for it. If I remember, there were other rooms available for about $50 less, but doubtful they were as nice. We got a late check-out too.

I was very impressed with information presented in the room. Someone apparently did a great job with the tourism section and the room service looked good. (We did not have time to order.)

Disappointed that they charge to listen to digital music but there is a clock radio, I guess. Also, not good help with bags but we could easily carry ours so we did. It was on the day before Fat Tuesday; I'm sure they were crazy busy.

Tip: If you arrive during Mardi Gras, the parade route goes right in front of the hotel, so they have another entrance on Dauphin off Water Street.

Another Tip: To the left of the entrance is the elevator. Go up to the eighth floor to look at the view off the roof. Don't ask if you can look, just go.
Also, on the 2nd floor of the lobby, there are "whispering arches". You speak into the corners of the molding and can amazingly hear your partner at the other end whispering.

I used to think that Mobile was just a "drive by" city. Well, not anymore. The convention center, downtown area, attractions, and the Battle House create a unique southern atmosphmere that I am certain has been long awaited. I truely recommend spending time on the visitors guide which lists the activiites that will be available in Mobile and then plan your visit.

The staff is warm and friendly and the food is outstanding. Be sure to ask for a historical tour from one of the concierge! You feel a sense of "awe" staying here and being apart of it's history.

We will return!

This hotel is really great. Stayed in a corner king room with a balcony. The room was great. The bathroom is unbelievable.
Service was very good.