21c Museum Hotel Durham

The worst hotel experience I’ve ever had. There was not a single soul available to help me check into the hotel. I had called the previous day to let them know I’d be checking close to midnight and they acknowledged that wouldn’t be an issue. Unfortunately, it was. After waiting 15-20 minutes of no one in sight, multiple phone calls going unanswered, and being stranded without a room, I ended up leaving and finding a room elsewhere with my money. They still have not given me a refund, I have called and left messages and sent emails.

I’d like to begin by saying I’m glad I didn’t trust the reviews on this place! First though I gave it 4 ⭐️ for just a couple of things. First it’s REALLY hard to locate. Second it needs attention to small details like maintaining a good image because the entrance, valet area, room doors, elevator are full of fingerprints and smudges. The areas around the elevator need sweeping and the room carpets need replacing. BUT.. my room was spotless, the bath and shower sparkling, the towels dense cotton, the toiletries nice, a nespresso machine but THE BEDS AND PILLOWS AMAZING!! The reception just immaculate the staff super friendly, the museum although small was well done, the restaurant was EXCELLENT ( I’m a chef) the food flavorful and generous, the service perfect and the drinks very nice! The menu is ambitious and somewhat limited as is the wine by the glass list.. full wine list large! LOOK.. this is an overall great place with a great location with much to offer!! Ps a huge plus??? REAL GLASSES in the rooms!!

right downtown, super friendly staff, really nice and big room, great gym (even has sauna and steam room). I appreciate the Elkay water filling station in lobby. And the art in the lobby is actually really cool and inspiring. Definitely will back.

We valet parked since we knew we did not need to drive anywhere since so many things are within walking distance of the hotel. Check in was quick and easy, the staff was friendly. The elevator came quickly. Our room was clean, the shower had plenty of hot water and a good shower head. The only comment we have is the noise level in our room as the walls seemed thin and we could hear everything the family with children next to us were saying. But they quieted down in the evening so it was fine. Also, they had some interesting art pieces in the lobby.

The showery had lukewarm water. The staff said we had to run the water for several minutes but it still remained lukewarm at best. Don’t feel right running water for 10 minutes or more just waiting. The room was cold. Heater never properly worked. The staff told us heat was motion sensitive. What happen when I fall asleep. Valet was confusing at night. Really one of the worst hotel experiences. Simply not worth it.