The Petit Jean | King Suite | The Empress Hotel

Step into quiet romance and legend in The Petit Jean, a thoughtfully appointed queen suite inside The Empress of Little Rock, Arkansas’ only Michelin-Key hotel and an acclaimed AAA Four-Diamond property. Inspired by the enduring legend of Petit Jean, the young French woman who disguised herself as a cabin boy to follow the love she could not leave behind, this room reflects both the courage of departure and the tenderness that inspired it.

Located in the historic Quapaw Quarter, just minutes from downtown Little Rock, SoMa, and the River Market, The Petit Jean offers an intimate stay within one of the city’s most iconic Queen Anne Victorian mansions. This suite is ideal for guests drawn to story, craftsmanship, and a deeply atmospheric experience.

The Suite

The Petit Jean is located on the second floor of the main house, just off the Grand Main Staircase, offering easy access while maintaining a sense of privacy. The room is anchored by an ornately carved Empire-style queen bed finished in dark walnut, its dramatic high back creating a striking focal point against the room’s softer palette.

Romantic blues and whites balance the richness of the wood tones, while tall windows bring in natural light and frame the bed on either side. At the foot of the bed, a Victorian-style sitting couch provides a comfortable place to relax, complemented by upholstered armchairs that create a welcoming seating area within the room.

The suite is accented with curated décor and relics inspired by military and maritime life, echoing the journey that defines the Petit Jean legend. A framed telling of the story is included in the room, offering guests a deeper connection to the inspiration behind the space.

Modern comforts are discreetly integrated throughout, including a smart TV with streaming services, a writing desk, generous storage, and a private coffee and tea station with Keurig, water, and glassware.

The Petit Jean features a room-side marble sink, thoughtfully placed just outside the bathroom, allowing the space to function comfortably while preserving the historic layout of the house. The enclosed bathroom includes a Pullman-style bath with shower, finished in glass and brass, along with classic fixtures and thoughtful amenities.

Plush robes, luggage stands, an antique wardrobe, and period lighting complete the experience, creating a stay that feels intimate, layered, and deeply personal.