Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton bringing new amenities to downtown Owensboro
OWENSBORO, KY (Feb. 12, 2026) – BryantCorp, owner, developer, and manager of the Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Downtown Owensboro/Waterfront, announced a major redevelopment project on its first and second floors that includes a new first-floor Starbucks in the hotel and a new second-floor fitness center overlooking the Ohio river. The project reinforces BryantCorp’s commitment to drawing the community to downtown Owensboro and the riverfront district.
The new full-service Starbucks will replace the former Out of the Blue Bourbon Shop and will be open to both hotel guests and the general public. The new fitness center will offer guests sweeping views of the Ohio river and riverwalk area. Starbucks will feature its full menu of handcrafted beverages and food offerings, along with mobile ordering, providing added convenience for downtown workers, residents, and visitors.
“A thriving downtown Owensboro requires continued reinvestment, and we need to play our part in that process just like the City and other private developers are doing every day,” shared hotel General Manager Sharon NeSmith. “Starbucks’ consistently high-quality service speaks for itself and aligns with the guest service we strive to deliver at the Hampton Inn & Suites.”
NeSmith anticipates the new fitness center to be completed this spring with new coffee shop opening to follow over the summer, along with the hiring and training of 10-15 new team members. Positions will include baristas and supervisors, supporting continued growth of downtown Owensboro’s hospitality workforce.
“Downtown Owensboro continues to gain strength through steady, intentional reinvestment,” said Claude Bacon, President & CEO of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation. “Projects like this reflect the confidence private developers have in our downtown and its long-term momentum. Recognizable brands often serve as signals of market confidence, and continued local investment from companies like BryantCorp demonstrates a long-term commitment to downtown that benefits residents, workers, visitors, and neighboring businesses alike.”
BryantCorp built the Hampton Inn & Suites in downtown Owensboro as part of the broader redevelopment of the entire Ohio River waterfront in 2014. The company also owns and operates the fully-renovated Hampton Inn Owensboro South on Salem Drive, managed by Chris Green. The Starbucks/Fitness Center project is part of BryantCorp’s ongoing commitment to build and maintain community amenities that support tourism, conventions, and community activity.
Additional details, including an official opening date and hours of operation, will be announced closer to completion.
Media Contact
Dan Tracey
dtracey@bryantcorp.com
About the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation
The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is committed to fostering economic growth by supporting entrepreneurship, business expansion, and workforce development.
About BryantCorp
BryantCorp is a family owned and operated real estate company specializing in community-enhancing hospitality projects. The company is committed to projects that drive economic growth and long-term community development throughout Kentucky, North Carolina and throughout the southeast.
###