2024, A Stellar Year for Hilton Columbus Downtown

In 2024, the Hilton Columbus Downtown proved it’s more than just a hotel. In its second full year of operation, the new tower at 402 North High Street not only reached new heights for success, but it also played a key role in the city’s ability to successfully host and land large-scale events.

The Hilton Columbus Downtown didn’t just meet expectations in 2024 — it surpassed them. As the largest hotel in the state, the Hilton achieved outstanding financial results, outpacing revenue and profitability projections. This success was fueled by a combination of factors, including a thriving convention and meeting industry that attracted a steady stream of visitors to the city and the Hilton team’s dedication to excellent customer service.

Once again, the hotel was named a finalist for the coveted Connie Award, which is the Hilton’s premier award for service and quality. It’s an award Hilton Columbus Downtown has won five times, more than any other Hilton hotel in the U.S. This achievement speaks to the dedication, hard work, and collaboration of the Hilton team to make the Hilton Columbus Downtown a truly world-class destination.

Big Events Booked

One of the year’s biggest highlights came in August, as Columbus hosted the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church General Conference. The eight-day event broke downtown room night records with 24,000 total hotel room nights booked, within the Hilton and 13 other downtown hotels. The event drew 13,000 attendees to our city from all 50 states and 41 countries. The success of the AME Church General Conference highlighted the collaborative approach of Experience Columbus, the downtown hotel community, and the FCCFA in ensuring that Columbus remains a destination of choice for premier events.

And we know more success is on the horizon with the announcement that the ASAE Annual Meeting & Exposition is coming back to Columbus in 2030. This prestigious event is expected to generate approximately 15,000 hotel room nights, and it will be the second time Columbus is hosting the “super bowl of meetings.”

FYR Restaurant Shines

FYR Restaurant has elevated the downtown dining experience for guests and locals, earning national accolades for its innovative cuisine and outstanding service. FYR was included in the 2024 USA TODAY Restaurants of the Year list, solidifying its reputation as a culinary destination in the region. Its unique live-fire cooking technique was brought to Columbus by Chef Sebastian La Rocca, who learned the style from his native Argentina.

Commitment to Collaboration

A significant chapter unfolded as Hilton employees elected to be represented by UNITE HERE in contract negotiations. The hotel fully supports the fundamental right of employees to organize and is committed  to fostering a collaborative relationship with the union to continue to prioritize team members in delivering an exceptional guest experience and offering world-class accommodations.

Looking Back, Moving Forward

As we have turned the page into 2025, the Hilton Columbus Downtown stands as a symbol of excellence and continued opportunity. With strong financial performance, exceptional guest offerings and a pivotal role in bringing major events to the city, the hotel’s achievements in 2024 have set a high bar for the future.