Fodor's Expert Review Le Méridien Tampa

A meticulous renovation transformed this historic, marble-lined former federal courthouse into Tampa's most talked-about boutique hotel. Originally built in 1905—and well preserved due to its historic status—this hotel sits at the heart of downtown; the Tampa Theatre and Straz Center as well as a host of museums and restaurants are an easy walk. Every room here has a story. You can stay in rooms that were formerly holding cells or opt for one that was once a prosecutor's office. Despite the building's age, the rooms are relatively large and modern. Amenities abound, including a pool and a fitness center. The restaurant, Bizou Brasserie, offers French-inspired fare (including a wonderful assortment of pastries in the morning). Note the hostess stand; in the building's prior incarnation it served as a witness stand. A large table in the bar area was once a jury deliberation table. The list of interesting factoids goes on.