Choosing to splurge on The Jefferson Hotel in Richmond isn’t just about booking a room; it’s about stepping into a world where Gilded Age grandeur meets Southern hospitality. But is the splurge worth the price? I say yes. The Jefferson delivers the kind of unforgettable moments that make the splurge feel not only justified, but essential. Read more to learn exactly why.

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The Jefferson Hotel: Richmond’s Most Iconic Luxury Stay

The Jefferson Hotel’s story is central to Richmond’s identity—an architectural showpiece, a social hub, and a symbol of resilience. Its blend of Gilded Age luxury and meticulous preservation makes it one of America’s most storied hotels. We opted to stay here during our recent visit to Richmond in June 2026, and it proved to be an excellent choice!

A Brief History of The Jefferson Hotel

The Jefferson Hotel began as the dream of Lewis Ginter, a tobacco baron and philanthropist who wanted to build Richmond’s grandest hotel. Construction started in 1892, and the hotel officially opened on October 31, 1895.

Ginter hired a renowned New York architectural firm, known for designing the New York Public Library and the Ponce de Leon Hotel. The design blended Beaux‑Arts, Renaissance, and Spanish Baroque influences, creating one of the most architecturally significant hotels of its era.

Sadly, a devastating fire in March 1901 destroyed much of the hotel. Miraculously, there were no casualties, and the Thomas Jefferson statue was saved, although its head broke off during rescue and was later repaired.

A restoration was undertaken, and the hotel reopened in 1907 with expanded accommodations, marbleized columns, and the now‑iconic grand staircase and mezzanine. During World War II, the hotel housed transient army recruits. The stained‑glass skylights were removed to comply with blackout rules and to prevent damage from rowdy soldiers.

By the 1960s–70s, the hotel fell into decline and eventually closed, except for occasional film use, most famously in My Dinner With Andre.

A major renovation beginning in 1983 revitalized the property. After more than $34 million in restoration work, The Jefferson Hotel reopened in May 1986, revealing restored mahogany paneling, marble details, and updated luxury accommodations.

Today, the hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a member of Historic Hotels of America.

The Alligator Legend

One of the hotel’s most charming historical quirks is the legend of alligators swimming in the Palm Court pools. Because the hotel was a popular stop on the route from Florida to New York, travelers who saw fit to bring home a tiny alligator often dumped it at the Jefferson Hotel, as by that point they had grown too large.

The last one, Old Pompey, lived at the hotel until 1948. A bronze statue pays tribute to Old Pompey right outside the hotel’s entrance. For those with a keen eye, numerous alligator references can be found throughout the property. We most enjoyed the milk chocolate alligators distributed at turn-down!

Exploring the Guest Rooms & Amenities

We stayed in a Grand Premium King room, a category that falls between the standard guest rooms and suites. At nearly 600 square feet, the room was huge. It was also packed with fun amenities like Molton Brown toiletries, a mini-fridge, coffee supplies, plush bedding, and even a TV embedded in the bathroom mirror.

While slightly smaller, the standard guest rooms are just as graciously appointed. If you choose to book a suite, you’ll enjoy near-apartment-style accommodations, with some rooms boasting small kitchens, dining tables, and more. Furthermore, the suites are huge, ranging from 700 to 1400 square feet.

The guest rooms, like the hotel in general, are decorated in a classically elegant style, which is complemented by modern upgrades. Connecting rooms are available, making it a perfect choice for families or groups traveling together.

To complement your stay, there are numerous amenities available to guests, including:

• an indoor pool with a private outdoor sundeck
• a full-service spa
• fitness facilities
• concierge service
• complimentary bicycles
• a small gift shop and coffee bar
• a complimentary shuttle to nearby entertainment districts

Dining and Events

Lemaire is the hotel’s full-service dining venue. We enjoyed breakfast here daily. Service was quick and friendly, and the food preparation was superb. At Lemaire, they blend modern Southern cuisine with French technique. The seasonal menu is driven by availability at local farms. An award-winning wine list and craft cocktail menu enhance the experience.

TJ’s Bar & Lounge is located in the rotunda. It’s an excellent choice for a pre- or post-dinner drink while you soak up the rotunda’s beauty.

Two special events are worth checking out if you have the time. The first is afternoon tea, served on Fridays and Saturdays between noon and 4:15 PM. The second is Sunday Brunch, served from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM. We were not able to experience either of these due to scheduling conflicts, but from the sample menus and photos listed online, I’d make this a priority on a return trip.

Best Reasons to Stay at The Jefferson Hotel

While this historic property is one of the loveliest we’ve ever visited, a couple of other factors help it stand out. The staff is incredibly well-trained and customer-focused. From our first interaction with the bell-hop to our ongoing interaction with the shuttle bus driver, everyone at the Jefferson was friendly and helpful.

The hotel’s proximity to major sights is another benefit. Many are within walking distance. Personally, we spent much of our time at the convention center, which was only a fifteen-minute walk away.

The Jefferson is best suited for romantic getaways, especially anniversaries and milestone celebrations, holiday stays where you can enjoy the spectacular Christmas decorations, and business travel.

Insider Tips for Booking Your Stay

Richmond’s mid-Atlantic climate makes it suitable for travel year-round. Summer months may bring a bit of humidity, but also offer the best assortment of outdoor entertainment and activities.

While prices at the Jefferson Hotel run $100-200/night higher than other properties in the vicinity, a splurge here is quite reasonable when compared to other, more-visited cities.

We booked using the American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts benefit, which offers $300 cash back on bookings of 2 nights or more. It also gives guests additional benefits like early check-in, late check-out, daily breakfast for two, and a $100 food/beverage credit. At the time we booked, the Amex rate was comparable to the hotel rate ($383/night before the $300 rebate), so it proved to be a good deal.

Guests can self-park ($20/night) in a secure lot adjacent to the hotel, or they can valet ($38/night). The hotel has multiple EV charging stations available; however, one must use the valet service to take advantage of them. PRO TIP: Self-park for the bulk of your stay, and valet the evening before you depart so that you can get a full charge.

Is The Jefferson Hotel Worth It?

Honestly, this was one of the best and most luxurious hotel stays we’ve had in some time. While we didn’t get to experience as many of the amenities as we’d hoped, the grand decor and attentive service made us want to book a return trip.

The Jefferson’s blend of Gilded Age ambition, architectural grandeur, clean, spacious, comfortable, and well-appointed rooms, combined with thoughtful service, cements its status as Richmond’s most iconic luxury landmark.

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Do you have a favorite historic property that I should know about? If so, send me a message or drop it in the comments below. And please share the post with anyone who appreciates Gilded Age gems! Until next time…