A HISTORY OF FIRSTS
It all started in 1919, when Conrad Hilton bought his first hotel. Since then, we’ve led the industry with our innovative approach to products, amenities and service. Today, Hilton Hotels & Resorts stands as the stylish, forward thinking global leader of hospitality. Take a look at some of our most important, guest-focused firsts along the way.
1927
Hilton opens its first hotel (the Waco Hilton) with cold running water and air-conditioning in the public rooms.
1947
The Roosevelt Hilton in New York City becomes the first hotel in the world to install televisions in guest rooms.
1948
Hilton becomes the first hotel company to introduce a multi-hotel reservations system, which is the beginning of the modern day reservation system.
1950
Hilton creates its first special amenity for female travelers – a sewing kit and booklet with helpful names and telephone numbers.
1957
Hilton offers its first brand-wide direct-dial telephone service.
1959
Hilton opens its first airport hotel (San Francisco Airport Hilton) and pioneers the airport hotel concept. Business travelers everywhere rejoice.
1973
Hilton develops the first centralized reservation service using computer technology, a breakthrough in customer service.
1987
Hilton introduces its guest loyalty program, Hilton Honors.
2008
Hilton Vancouver Washington makes history as the first hotel to be both Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and Green Seal certified.
2010
Less than five months after its October 21, 2010 opening at Hilton Short Hills, eforea spa operates in China, Thailand and the United States.
2011
Hilton Hotels and Hilton Resorts Launches Hilton Huanying. Inspired by the Chinese word for "welcome" (Hilton Huanying), the program is tailored for Chinese travelers abroad.
2013
Hilton launches new dining concept, Herb N’ Kitchen worldwide.
2014
First hotel brand to live stream a concert on YouTube (Hilton Times Square).
2016
Hilton expands its footprint to 100 countries and territories around the world with the opening of Hilton N'Djamena in Chad.
