The Jefferson Hotel

This historic hotel was built in 1895 by Lewis Ginter, who also developed the wonderful Lewis Ginter Botanical gardens in town. The rotunda in the entryway is stunning, with beautiful stained glass windows. I booked directly with the hotel, which got me free parking in a secure lot right across the street. Our room was lovely and spacious, with high ceilings. There was a little room between the bedroom and the bathroom with a desk and a dressing area. The large bathroom had s full sized tub with a picture window looking out onto the city, a large walk in shower and separate toilet area. Check out the gift shop on the lower level. The lady in the shop can tell you the story of the four alligators who lived in the pond inside the hotel for forty years. Travelers would be going north from Florida with their pet alligators and a few got left at the hotel. The bellhops would find them lounging on the couches in the morning and would shoo them back into the pond. There is also an interesting history of the hotel near the gift shop. Many interesting people have stayed at the hotel. There is a very nice indoor pool, but the water was really cold. A great property with a lot of character.

Our family took a Christmas trip to the Jefferson Hotel in Richmond, Virginia, known for its beautiful architecture and rich history. Upon arrival, we were amazed by the stunning lobby, with its chandeliers, garlands, and festive decorations. After checking in, we enjoyed a delicious meal in the hotel’s restaurant. We started with a roasted beet salad and wild mushroom risotto, then had the traditional Christmas dinner with juicy turkey, stuffing, and sweet cranberry sauce. In the evening, we learned about the hotel’s history from the staff while admiring the portraits of famous guests. This added depth to our visit. That night, we returned to our cozy room, decorated for the holidays, and enjoyed hot cocoa while watching holiday movies and sharing our favorite moments. The next morning, we had a relaxing breakfast with pastries and coffee. We visited nearby historical sites like the Virginia State Capitol and the Museum of History, adding to our experience of the city’s rich past. Before leaving, we gathered by the grand fireplace, reflecting on our trip. We agreed that this Christmas was special, filled with great food, history, and wonderful family memories. As we left the hotel, we felt grateful for the magic of the holiday season.

Beautiful hotel with spacious rooms. My husband loves a bath so we upgraded for a room with a large tub. The tub did not have hot water (valve was broken). The sinks did not have cold water and the shower only had very hot water. The maintenance man was lovely but could not fix until next day. We did not feel like changing rooms at 9 at night so stayed in the room. We did get some compensation for this but the woman at the desk when we checked out was not very nice. For the price the room should be perfect!

We have been going to the Holiday Tea at The Jefferson Hotel for over 5 years and this year stole the show. Sierra took great care of us, the hotel was beautifully decorated, and the food was delicious. We enjoyed the tea sandwiches, delicious scones (the chocolate peppermint was the best!), and so many delicious treats with the chocolate lovers experience. Thank you for making our holiday season so memorable and we look forward to seeing you all next year!

I've waited a few years to get reservations for The Jefferson Hotel Christmas Afternoon tea. The experience was average at best. The food was awful. The scone was a dried up mini scone that came with jam but no clotted cream. What high tea has a mini scone and no clotted cream? The sandwiches were plain with a poor selection that was bland at best. Years ago at one of their teas, they served giant chocolate covered strawberries. This time just a small average strawberry. The peppermint cookies were dry. Not a single Christmas decoration on the table. I would tell anyone that for over $80 with tax and gratuity, just buy a tea in their gift shop and sit on a couch downstairs to enjoy the hotels beautiful decorations. I give the tea 1-2 stars. The staff and the setting is wonderful. Very disappointing as I'm disabled and will be alone for Christmas, so I decided to splurge on the tea. Wouldn't do it again.