Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Reviews

• BB

  Brayh

  Jan 4, 2026
  2.0
  My experience with the Hotel Ballast in Wilmington, North Carolina, was brief. The valet gentleman was polite and directed me to the front desk for check-in prior to parking my vehicle, which was nice. Upon entering the lobby, it felt like I had time-warped into the 70s—not in a cool, hip way. The low ceilings and dark lobby gave off a dingy, dated, and downright tacky vibe; it felt very geriatric, more reminiscent of an old default retirement home. As I waited for the front desk agent to acknowledge me, I couldn’t help but think, "Is this for real?" After all, this is a Hilton property, and it made me relive how Hilton standards have really gone downhill over the years. As I stood in line, at least four people deep, I overheard a rather disappointing conversation between the first couple and the front desk agent. I won’t go into details, but it sounded like they were speaking to a 10-year-old on their first day at the front desk—with no clue about guest expectations or hospitality. One would think that with so many people waiting, someone else would come to help, but that never happened. About 12 minutes later, a ragidy looking older woman who didn’t look like she even worked there walked up to a computer and simply stared down at it for another 4 to 5 minutes, not acknowledging anyone in line, including myself. The more I looked around and listened to the conversations of the guests in front of me, the more I realized that this might be my only opportunity to escape this nightmare of a hotel. Finally, I made contact with the other agent, who was desperately trying to go unnoticed despite standing in front of a line of people. I said, "Can you just cancel my reservation? I’ve decided I don’t want to stay here. I can’t deal with the incompetence that I’m witnessing." She became argumentative, but I shut that down immediately and simply asked for my reservation to be canceled with no fee. She assured me it would be cancelled with no fees. Between her bad attitude and the deplorable condition of the lobby, I realized this was not going to be where I spend the night. I left and went next door to the Aloft by Marriott. I self-parked my vehicle right up front where I could see it and checked into a beautiful suite with a balcony overlooking the river. I was greeted with amazing hospitality and enjoyed cocktails on their rooftop deck prior to dinner. It was an amazing time. Thank you, Hotel Ballast, for failing to execute the simple basics of hospitality; your shortcomings led me to a great hotel that truly knows how to deliver genuine hospitality. ALOFT is a better option for sure! *** Online photos could be very deceiving. This property is very outdated.
• AA

  Anna Allman

  Jan 1, 2026
  5.0
  We had a wonderful experience!! Our room was very nice and clean! The hotel was decorated beautifully for the holidays! We were able to walk to everything downtown…you can’t beat the location! We will definitely be back!
• TT

  Tango Thomas

  Dec 31, 2025
  5.0
  The hotel was very nice and the room was very comfortable. The only thing some people may not like is that there is no fridge. My wife and I being accustomed to boutique style hotels had no issues with that. The Italian restaurant, Hugo, was amazing. We were trying different spots around the city so we only had drinks and an app but they were amazing. This is a must do place in the city.
• CB

  Cassandra Bishop

  Dec 20, 2025
  5.0
  Hotel Ballast Wilmington is one of our favorite places to stay in Wilmington, and this visit only reaffirmed why. The location truly cannot be beat—right on the Cape Fear River with direct access to the Riverwalk. Everything is within easy walking distance: restaurants, shops, breweries, and museums. During our stay, the Christmas lights along the Riverwalk were absolutely beautiful and added such a festive, romantic touch—especially since the Riverwalk is accessible straight from the hotel. Check-in was wonderful. The receptionist who helped us was incredible—so kind, welcoming, and genuinely pleasant, which set the tone for the entire stay. I also love that the hotel has a 24-hour gift shop, which is incredibly convenient. The on-site coffee shop is another big plus; while I do wish it had longer hours, it’s still so nice to have quality coffee available right in the hotel. This was an anniversary trip, and a return visit after loving Hotel Ballast during our honeymoon, so it meant a lot to us. We were greeted with sparkling champagne waiting in our room, which was such a thoughtful and romantic gesture. The only small oversight was that we were provided just one champagne flute, but it didn’t take away from the experience. Dining-wise, Sugo Italian Steakhouse was phenomenal and absolutely worth the price. Everything—from the food to the staff to the atmosphere—was top-notch and made for a perfect anniversary dinner. Unfortunately, the second restaurant, Board & Barrel, was a letdown. The food was overpriced for the quality we received, which was disappointing, especially compared to how exceptional Sugo was. Like many downtown areas, Wilmington does have a visible homeless population, and a few individuals were around the hotel during our stay. However, this never made us feel uncomfortable or unsafe and didn’t negatively impact our experience at all. Honestly, the most negative moments came from a couple of rude fellow hotel guests we encountered—but that in no way reflects on the hotel or its staff. We stayed in a suite, which we absolutely loved for its spaciousness and comfort. The only thing I wish it had was a microwave, as we did have to go downstairs to heat up leftovers. That said, we would absolutely stay here again—always in a suite. Hotel Ballast remains a favorite for us and continues to be our go-to when visiting Wilmington.
• DG

  Dorry Gascon

  Dec 18, 2025
  2.0
  Worst hotel experience I’ve ever had. I am Hilton diamond member. I stay in hotels frequently and this was the worst hotel experience I have ever had for noise. I called the front desk starting at 12:30 am about the noise from the room next to me. No one answered at the front desk so I had to go to the lobby to find the front desk attendant in a back room presumably sleeping. He called the rm that hung up on him and then had security go to the rm. The noise continued. I complained again at 1:30 am when I was told he was calling 911. The occupants left and returned at 4:15 am. I complained again about the noise and once again was told they were calling 911. The noise continued and I finally gave up and got ready for my 14 hour day at the hospital that began at 6:30 am. After I called Hilton to complain they did apologize and arrange for me to have a complimentary dinner waiting when I returned from work. I appreciate that they made the effort but I would have preferred my sleep.

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