The Jefferson Hotel anchors the corner of Franklin and Adams Streets in the heart of Richmond, Virginia, placing guests within easy walking distance of the Virginia State Capitol, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, and the Monument Avenue historic corridor. Opened in 1895, this National Historic Landmark showcases Beaux-Arts grandeur with a grand marble staircase that ascends the main lobby and a soaring rotunda adorned with stained-glass skylights and Italian marble columns — architectural details that have drawn visitors for well over a century. The hotel is regularly cited as one of the finest historic hotels in the American South and maintains a five-star classification.
Guest rooms span Deluxe King, Premier Queen, Junior Suite, and Landmark Suite configurations, each furnished with period-inspired décor updated with contemporary amenities including luxury bedding, spa-style bathrooms, and high-speed Wi-Fi. Room sizes are generous by historic hotel standards, and upper-floor suites command views of the Richmond skyline and the tree-lined boulevard below.
Dining at the Jefferson centers on Lemaire, the hotel's flagship restaurant named for Étienne Lemaire, the maitre d'hôtel of President Thomas Jefferson. The restaurant serves contemporary Southern cuisine drawing heavily on Virginia's seasonal larder — dishes like pan-roasted Virginia trout and local Chesapeake crab are recurring menu staples. TJ's, the hotel's bar, offers an extensive cocktail list and a more relaxed environment suited to pre-dinner drinks or late arrivals.
The full-service spa provides massage, skincare, and body treatments for guests seeking relaxation after business or cultural engagements. An indoor pool and a well-equipped fitness center round out the wellness amenities. Concierge services reflect the hotel's tradition of personalized attention, assisting with theatre reservations at Altria Theater, Civil War site tours, dining recommendations, and transportation arrangements throughout Richmond. Valet parking is available. The Jefferson is equally well-suited to corporate travelers using the adjacent Richmond Convention Center and leisure guests exploring the Virginia capital's expanding arts and food scene.
Room types
- Deluxe King
- Premier Queen
- Junior Suite
- Landmark Suite
Amenities
- Spa
- Pool
- Fitness Center
- Fine Dining (Lemaire)
- Bar
- Valet Parking
- Concierge
- Business Center
Location
101 W Franklin St, Richmond, VA 23220
37.5418, -77.4428 View on map
Highlights
- National Historic Landmark Beaux-Arts hotel dating to 1895 with a grand marble staircase and stained-glass rotunda lobby
- Lemaire restaurant serves celebrated contemporary Southern cuisine anchored in Virginia's seasonal larder
- Full-service spa, indoor pool, and fitness center within a five-star downtown Richmond property
- Walking distance to the Virginia State Capitol, Museum District, and Monument Avenue historic corridor
- Landmark and Junior Suites offer spacious period-inspired accommodations in the heart of Richmond
Tips for visiting
- Reserve a table at Lemaire well in advance — the restaurant fills on weekends and during legislative session when Richmond is at its busiest
- Valet parking is the most convenient option; self-parking garages on nearby Grace Street cost less for budget-conscious guests
- Request an upper-floor Franklin Street room for the best views of the historic streetscape and Monument Avenue in the distance
- TJ's bar offers creative cocktails and a lighter snack menu — a practical option for late-night arrivals who missed dinner service
- The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is a 10-minute walk west on Grove Avenue and has free general admission
- October is an excellent time to visit — the Virginia Film Festival uses the hotel as a hub, adding atmosphere to any stay
When to visit
Spring (April–May) and fall (September–November) offer the most pleasant conditions for exploring Richmond on foot. Summer brings peak humidity; January and February are the quietest and often least expensive months to stay.
Accessibility
The Jefferson Hotel provides ADA-compliant guest rooms with accessible bathrooms and roll-in shower options, elevator access to all floors, and fully accessible public spaces including the restaurant, bar, spa, and pool. Guests with specific mobility requirements are encouraged to contact the hotel in advance to confirm the most appropriate room assignment and available accommodations.
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Frequently asked questions
Is The Jefferson Hotel pet-friendly?
The Jefferson Hotel does not generally accept pets. Service animals are always welcome. Guests traveling with animals should confirm the current policy directly with the hotel before booking.
Is there on-site parking at The Jefferson Hotel?
Valet parking is available at the hotel for an additional nightly fee. Self-parking garages exist on nearby streets in the downtown Richmond core at lower daily rates.
What are the check-in and checkout times at The Jefferson Hotel?
Standard check-in is at 4:00 PM and checkout is at 11:00 AM. Early check-in and late checkout may be arranged based on availability; inquire with the front desk.
Does The Jefferson Hotel have meeting and event facilities?
Yes, the hotel features elegantly appointed ballrooms and private event spaces suitable for weddings, corporate gatherings, and social receptions. A dedicated events team assists with planning and coordination.
How far is The Jefferson Hotel from Richmond International Airport?
Richmond International Airport (RIC) is approximately 8 miles southeast of the hotel, typically a 15–20 minute drive depending on traffic. Rideshare and taxi services are readily available.