Richmond hotels

Ask anyone in Richmond where the most legendary stay in town is and they’ll tell you it’s at The Jefferson Hotel. Historic, elegant and luxurious, this is one of the best hotels in Richmond for a traditionally glamorous hotel experience.

Originally opened in 1895, this Beaux-Arts stunner epitomizes opulence, particularly in the lobby, which boasts exquisite plasterwork above stately marble columns. But the real showstopper here is the stained-glass rotunda, which soars high above a life-size statue of Thomas Jefferson in the Palm Court.

The service and amenities are just as impressive as the architecture and design, but what I love most about The Jefferson is its wealth of stories. Ask the staff to share tales about the alligators that once lived in the fountain out front (true story), or the lobby staircase so elegant it looks like it could be straight off the set of Gone with the Wind.

If art steals your heart and you have a taste for the cheekier side of life, Quirk Hotel Richmond is the place for you. This Italian Renaissance-style hotel was originally built as a chic department store, and that history remains evident in the handsome exterior and the architectural details of the interior – but that’s where the past ends.

The aesthetic of this eye-popper is pink, pink, pink, and as modern as you can get in this early 20th-century landmark. Contemporary art is the name of the game, from unique pieces in guestrooms to large-scale works in public spaces – but my favourite feature is the hotel’s own art gallery.

One of the best hotels in Richmond for creatives, check out the temporary exhibits here, featuring local and regional artists, and be sure to browse the gift shop for some souvenir art to remember this unique stay.

Hilton Richmond Hotel & Spa/Short Pump is one of the best hotels in Richmond for the ultimate spa and hotel combo experience. Aura Spa at the Hilton offers salon and spa treatments ranging from simple mani-pedi services to chromotherapy steam showers and an extensive menu of massages.

I’m a fan of the hot stone massage, but lovebirds might want to take advantage of the affordable couples massage in the dedicated couples suite.

This one is not quite within the city itself, but it’s only about 20 minutes by car from Richmond city centre in the Short Pump suburb, best known for its great shopping. This is the place to stay for an indulgent getaway of spa services and shopping sprees between city experiences, as long as you have a rental car or a rideshare membership.

Richmond is the only city in the country with class IV rapids within city limits, and white-water rafting down the James River is an excellent way to experience this unique feature first-hand.

If you want to take advantage of the river’s awesome adventures and need a luxury respite to return to afterward, the Omni Richmond Hotel is one of the best hotels in Richmond to book. Even if you’re not up for an on-water excursion, you can still enjoy the walking and biking trails that snake through James River Park.

River aside, I also recommend this hotel for business travellers looking for a luxury stay with business amenities. You’ll find a well-equipped business centre and meeting rooms, as well as event spaces. While here, don’t miss the Southern-inspired menu at the acclaimed Tobacco Company restaurant nearby.

For Americana lovers looking for an entertaining and educational vacation with a heavy dose of living history, Williamsburg Inn is one of the best hotels in Richmond (even if it’s not quite in the city).

The world’s largest living history museum, Colonial Williamsburg sprawls over 1.2 square kilometres teeming with reconstructed buildings, functioning trades and historical reenactors, and it’s under an hour from Richmond.

Directly next to the Colonial Williamsburg Historic Area, the Williamsburg Inn is a renowned 5-star hotel famed for its elegance and exceptional service. But though it may be the official hotel of an 18th-century village, it’s as modern and luxurious as can be.

Reserve a room and add your name to an illustrious guest list that includes US presidents and world royalty, among other celebrities. I recommend asking about specials that sometimes include free tickets to Colonial Williamsburg (they’re not cheap).

The Commonwealth occupies a century-old structure across from the Virginia State Capitol Building, but it’s anything but stuffy. In fact, with a dedicated focus on all things local, The Commonwealth is one of the best hotels in Richmond for instant immersion in the unique modern culture of the city.

The art collection here consists exclusively of works by local and regional artists or centred around local themes (and often both), with large murals on every floor, in-room pieces and temporary lobby exhibits.

But my favourite local touch – and the reason you’ll find me roaming the halls when I’m in residence – is that each suite door is inked with its own tattoo by a local artist in recognition of the city’s serious tattoo culture. Elsewhere around the hotel, you’ll find local touches like Richmond-favourite Carytown Coffee and furniture hand-crafted by makers in the area.

Virginia Crossings Hotel is a unique spot in the area perfect for hosting business meetings or even a conference. This one is also a little outside the city, but not much. Under 20 minutes from the city centre, Virginia Crossings is a modern corporate conference facility built in 18th-century style.

With 26 meeting rooms and 2,200 square metres of event space, there’s plenty of room to handle your business indoors, but I suggest taking at least one meeting at The Crossings Golf Club next door.

Guests of the hotel can hit the links, viewable from several points around the hotel, at discounted rates. Don’t miss the pool and hot tub outside, open seasonally.

Shockoe Slip – a central district packed with much-loved eateries, from barbecue joints to upscale Southern – is the place to be for culinary connoisseurs. If that’s you, The Berkeley Hotel is one of the best hotels in Richmond for your next visit.

Shockoe Slip is famous for its historic cobblestone streets lined with 19th-century architecture, and the meticulously renovated Berkeley provides modern luxury within this yesteryear environment. Rooms are large and comfortably furnished, but I recommend a terrace room for plush robe mornings with a cup of coffee on your private balcony (also great for a nightcap).

But my favourite reason to stay here is the hotel’s proximity to some of the top restaurants in the city, many of which are within walking distance of this well-situated property.

The Westin is one of the best hotels in Richmond for travellers who thrive in familiar comfort. Many of the top hotel brands in North America have properties here – you’ll find reservations to fit almost any loyalty program and Marriott Bonvoy members have multiple options – but I find The Westin Richmond to be the most consistent.

It also tends to offer the most in terms of standard luxuries, like the nearly unbeatable Westin Heavenly Bed system and superior bath amenities, at a reasonable price point for an upper-scale stay.

Other amenities here include a well-stocked fitness centre and a heated indoor swimming pool, open every day. This one is also convenient for getting to the University of Richmond, making it one of the top-rated hotels in Richmond for visiting the campus.

Drury Hotels is my favourite chain for cashing in on exceptional freebies without sacrificing a quality stay, and the Drury Plaza Hotel Richmond more than lives up to its brand reputation. This is one of the best hotels in Richmond for maximizing your budget without resorting to budget brands, and an especially wise reservation if you’re travelling as a family.

In addition to more common complimentary amenities like free hot breakfast, this property offers free popcorn and soda in the lobby every day for quick snacks (and an easy treat for kids), plus a free evening menu that includes familiar bites like salads, pasta, burgers and more, every day at 5:30 pm.

If you have a hungry family in tow, this alone can save you a serious bundle on your dining budget. Drinks, including alcoholic beverages, are included during this evening get-together too.