The compact capital of Virginia is known for its well-preserved history, its role in the Civil War, and for being among America’s oldest major cities. It’s also quite a hipster haunt, with an arty vibe and a high density of electric thrift shops, microbreweries, and a collection of increasingly eclectic hotels. To help you choose one, from gorgeous boutiques to sleek and modern high rises, here are my favorite cool and trendy hotels in Richmond, Virginia…



Graduate Richmond
My personal favorite for a trendy and youthful stay has to be the Graduate Richmond. I love this hotel’s quirky design, reflecting a savvy and easy-going vibe that’s perfect for Millennials and Gen Zs. While visiting, the stunning outdoor rooftop pool was a standout feature for me, offering a refreshing escape with fantastic views. I also tried out their onsite golf course and tennis court, adding a unique twist to my stay.
The Graduate Richmond is a beautiful tribute to tennis legend Arthur Ashe, fused with mid-century minimalism. Ashe’s words, “Success is a journey, not a destination. The doing is often more important than the outcome,” resonate throughout the hotel. The lobby, with its gorgeous walnut paneling and Ashe’s spectacle frames, brings history to life. While staying here, I was enamored by the rich historical ambiance.
Don’t miss the lobby-level games room, where I experienced a lively, preppy vibe. It’s a fantastic spot to immerse yourself in the hotel’s unique atmosphere. Also, the seasonal rooftop pool, bar, and kitchen are perfect for hanging out and savoring delicious dishes while observing the city lights. I highly recommend booking a room with a view of the rooftop to enhance your experience.
My personal favorite was the evening spent at the rooftop bar, indulging in the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views of Richmond.
Pros
Quirky design
Savvy and easy-going vibe
Stunning outdoor rooftop pool
Golf course and tennis court onsite
Cons
Some bathrooms are small
The restaurant menu is a bit limited
The Commonwealth
I love this unique hotel, the Commonwealth, for its eclectic vibe and stunning local artwork. The hotel’s history, blending over a century of legacy with a modern twist, struck me deeply. The tattooed doors of each suite, reflecting Richmond’s vibrant tattoo culture, are a sight to behold. I highly recommend taking a photo in the Instagrammable 1912 elevators for a memorable souvenir.
My experience at Rueger’s restaurant was a highlight, offering a genuine taste of the South with its Southern food and Virginia dishes. It’s a culinary gem that shouldn’t be missed. My personal favorite was their signature Southern dish, which left an unforgettable mark on my palate.
Pros
Stunning local artwork
Eclectic vibe
1912 Instagrammable elevators
Fabulous Tattooed doors of each suite
Cons
Shower pressure can be a little weak
Restaurant closes early
Parking is extra
Virginia Crossings Hotel
Virginia Crossings is a delightful escape for those who appreciate a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. The Colonial-style architecture, coupled with the stunning English gardens, creates a serene atmosphere. I tried one of their 183 rooms and was pleasantly surprised by the modern touches like the iPod docking station.
The outdoor pool and on-site golf course were perfect for an active retreat. The hotel’s stunning curved staircases and antique furnishings add to its unique character. My personal favorite was a leisurely stroll through the English gardens, an experience that felt both refreshing and timeless.
Pros
Colonial-style architecture
On-site basketball court and fitness center
Outdoor swimming pool and on-site golf course
Gorgeous English gardens
Cons
Gym is small
No spa
Breakfast is not included
Embassy Suites by Hilton Richmond
Embassy Suites by Hilton Richmond is a trendy haven that I adore. The ultra-chic decor and the Mad Men vibe make it a standout choice. The hotel offers modern amenities in its 225 rooms, including free WiFi and two TVs per suite.
The heated indoor saltwater pool and the fantastic fitness center add to its allure. The made-to-order free breakfast was a delightful bonus, and dining at the Atrium Grill was like stepping into a scene from Mad Men. My favorite was the relaxing swimming in the heated pool, a perfect way to unwind.
Pros
Ultra-chic decor
Heated indoor salt-water pool
Fantastic minimarket on-site
ATM/cash machine on site
Cons
The elevators can be slow
No spa
Some bathrooms are small
The Westin Richmond
The Westin Richmond is a gem for its customized approach and modern decor. The pet-friendly atmosphere and the pure cuisine of Small Batch Local Kitchen were highlights of my stay. The heated indoor pool and jacuzzi offer a luxurious touch to the stay.
Its attention to detail and personalized service sets The Westin Richmond apart. The evening cocktails and snacks were a delightful surprise, enhancing the overall experience. My favorite was dining at Small Batch Local Kitchen, where the fresh, organic cuisine was delicious and revitalizing.
Pros
Splendid customised approach
Modern Decor and pet-friendly
Pure cuisine of Small Batch Local Kitchen
Heated indoor pool and jacuzzi
Cons
The elevators can be slow
No microwave in rooms
The Berkeley Hotel
The Berkeley Hotel is one of my favorite places to stay while visiting downtown Richmond. Its 70 bedrooms are steeped in history, and they’re filled with antiques, earning the hotel a well-deserved spot on the National Register of Historic Places. I love this hotel because, despite its historic charm, it’s far from stuffy.
I experienced fantastic amenities like cable TV, wifi, and efficient air conditioning during my stay. These modern comforts seamlessly blend with the hotel’s classic ambiance. One of the highlights of my visit was the romantic garden courtyard, a perfect spot for a sundowner.
I couldn’t help but feel like I was in a different era, and it’s worth noting that this place is rumored to be where Edgar Allan Poe found inspiration to write about an enchanted garden in his poem “To Helen.” Another thing I enjoyed was the hotel’s proximity to Richmond’s gastronomic center, just a five-minute walk away. While staying at Linden Row Inn, I had easy access to great bars, eateries, and entertainment, making my visit feel like a delightful journey through the past with all the comforts of the present. My favorite memory here was sipping a cocktail in the enchanting garden courtyard, feeling transported to a bygone era.
Pros
Some rooms have four-poster beds
Proximity to the historic Shockoe Slip
Central location near the Virginia State Capitol
A terrific collection of scrumptious cuisine
Delta Hotels Richmond Downtown
Residence Inn Richmond Downtown is one of my favorite places. While staying at this hotel, I experienced the height of modernity in the historic Shockoe Slip area. I love this six-story marvel with rooms up to 50% bigger than standard. It’s spacious and hip, and they offer free breakfasts and Wi-Fi. The excellent fitness center kept me in shape, and I was treated to outstanding views over Shockoe Slip’s cobblestones and the modern city’s lights.
While visiting, I was intrigued to discover that this ultra-modern hotel is precisely where Thomas Jefferson wrote the Virginia Statute of Religious Freedom. It reflects on this historic moment with a fascinating display of historic documents and images. This added a unique and educational touch to my stay. My favorite memory here was enjoying the complimentary breakfast while gazing out at the stunning cityscape.
Pros
Fabulous contemporary design
James River's awe-inspiring view
Complimentary downtown shuttle service
Canoeing and fishing activities
Cons
Breakfast is not included
Parking is extra
Linden Row Inn
Omni Richmond Hotel is one of my favorite places. While visiting this gem, I experienced the perfect blend of Southern charm and high-rise style. Every moment was a delight, from the vast glass atrium where I savored Tuscan delicacies to the elegant outdoor sun deck. I love this place because many rooms and suites offer world-class views of the James River rapids. It’s a mesmerizing sight to wake up to.
The Westham Tavern is a charming dining spot with its decor steeped in nearly three hundred years of history. The best local food served with genuine Southern charm made my meals here special. I tried out the heated indoor pool and used the well-designed fitness center during my stay at the Omni Richmond Hotel. These amenities ensured that my trip to Richmond was enjoyable and revitalizing. My favorite moment here was savoring a delicious meal at the hotel’s restaurant while enjoying the river view.
Pros
Historical furnishings and decor of rooms
Romantic garden patio
Proximity to Richmond's gourmet hotspot
Incredible art galleries
Cons
No parking
Wi-Fi can be slow
Not pet-friendly
Residence Inn by Marriott Richmond Downtown
Residence Inn Richmond Downtown is one of my top picks for a stay in Richmond. This hotel perfectly blends modernity in the historic Shockoe Slip area. During my stay, I was impressed by the spaciousness of the six-story marvel, with rooms up to 50% larger than standard. It’s spacious and hip, offering complimentary breakfasts and Wi-Fi.
One of the highlights was the excellent fitness center that helped me stay in shape during my visit. This hotel is even more special because of its location, where Thomas Jefferson wrote the Virginia Statute of Religious Freedom. The hotel pays tribute to this historic moment with a captivating display of historic documents and images, adding an educational and unique touch to my stay.
My favorite memory here was savoring a complimentary breakfast while gazing out at the stunning cityscape, starting the day with a picturesque view.
Pros
Exquisite Shockoe Slip and city lights view
An enthralling exhibit of historic images and documents
Proximity to notable attractions
Some family-friendly rooms
Cons
Valet parking only
No spa
Omni Richmond Hotel
Omni Richmond Hotel stands out as one of my favorite places to stay. This gem offers a perfect blend of Southern charm and high-rise style. From the vast glass atrium where I savored Tuscan delicacies to the elegant outdoor sun deck, every moment was a delight. What truly sets this hotel apart is the breathtaking views many of its rooms and suites provide of the James River rapids. Waking up to such a mesmerizing sight was a memorable experience.
The Westham Tavern, with its decor steeped in nearly three hundred years of history, is a charming spot to dine. The best local food served with genuine Southern charm made my meals here truly special. During my stay at the Omni Richmond Hotel, I enjoyed the heated indoor pool and used the well-designed fitness center. These amenities ensured that my trip to Richmond was not only enjoyable but also revitalizing.
My favorite moment here was savoring a delicious meal at the hotel’s restaurant while enjoying the picturesque river view, creating a perfect dining ambiance.
Pros
Breathtaking views of the James River
Exquisite outdoor sun terrace
Vintage Westham Tavern restaurant decor
24-hour business center onsite
Cons
WiFi is extra
Valet parking only
No spa
Best Hotels in Richmond VA Compared
We at Global Grasshopper have compared the top 10 cool and trendy hotels in Richmond VA for your convenience in a tabular form below. You may sort the table based on key factors like dining options, the fitness facilities etc:
Hotel Name | Location | Price Range (per night) | Fitness Facilities | Distance to Attractions (km) | Nearby Restaurants |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Graduate Richmond | 301 West Franklin Street | $243-$371 | Yes | 1.6 | 3 |
The Commonwealth | 901 Bank Street | $209-$302 | No | 3.9 | 3 |
Virginia Crossings Hotel | 1000 Virginia Center Parkway | $157-$241 | No | 12.0 | 3 |
Embassy Suites by Hilton Richmond | 2925 Emerywood Parkway | $220-$237 | Yes | 7.0 | 3 |
The Westin Richmond | 6631 West Broad Street | $231-$285 | Yes | 7.0 | 3 |
The Berkeley Hotel | 1200 East Cary Street | $202-$272 | No | 4.1 | 3 |
Delta Hotels Richmond Downtown | 555 East Canal Street | $249-$336 | Yes | 3.5 | 3 |
Linden Row Inn | 100 East Franklin Street | $187-$281 | No | 1.9 | 3 |
Residence Inn by Marriott Richmond Downtown | 14 South 14th Street | $274-$286 | Yes | 4.3 | 3 |
Omni Richmond Hotel | 100 South 12th St | $198-$1163 | Yes | 4.1 | 3 |
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Becky Moore – Owner, writer and photographer
My first true adventure began as a six month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my ex Athens street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Borneo, Finland, Greece, Berlin, Laos, California and the surreal and beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland.
I’ve been quoted in Forbes, National Geographic, The Times, Yahoo Travel, Huffington Post, Business Insider, Thrillist, British Airways Magazine, Entrepreneur, express.co.uk, Wanderlust, Telegraph Travel, Daily Mail and metro.co.uk. Find me on Linkedin or Facebook.
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