Checking In: A Review of Linden Row Inn in Richmond, Virginia

Welcome to Checking In, a series of posts dedicated to the places we stay when we travel

When is a hotel more than just a place to sleep?

When it embodies the spirit of a destination, woven into its history like threads in a tapestry.

For Richmond, nowhere quite fits that description like an inn that once housed many of the city’s residents: Linden Row Inn.

Note: This stay was generously hosted by Linden Row Inn, but as always, all opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links.

Today, Linden Row Inn welcomes visitors to downtown Richmond with its seventy guest rooms, but the road to becoming a historic inn requires, well, a bit of history.

ABOUT LINDEN ROW INN

Linden Row Inn courtyards — Before Linden Row Inn’s arrival, the gardens played host to a famous guest

It’s hard to imagine Richmond without Linden Row Inn, but around the turn of the nineteenth century, the very land it is built upon only narrowly escaped becoming a state penitentiary. Had the land’s then-owner Thomas Rutherfoord not stepped in, the historic hotel would not exist today.

Yet that’s not the only notable moment in the inn’s long history; in the early 1800s, after the land exchanged hands and a garden was sown, one of the names most associated with the city would come to visit.

It was in this verdant garden where Edgar Allan Poe played with the owner’s children, and where the poet later courted his first love, Elmira Royster.

By the mid-1800s, the land had changed hands once more, and the recognizable row houses were built on the site. The first five were completed in 1847, and five more were seamlessly added in 1853 – so identical, you’d never know it, except for the slight difference in foundation seen at street level.

Two images taken at Linden Row Inn: the foundation marking where the original and newer buildings meet, and a photo of Mary Wingman Scott — *left*: the foundation is the only indicator that the identical row houses were built at separate times | *right*: a photo of Mary Wingfield Scott hangs in a lobby that wouldn’t exist without her efforts

In the century that followed, the walls of the row houses witnessed gatherings of Confederate leaders (an inescapable occurrence, this being Richmond), the development of a school for girls, and an eventual plan for demolition. This final item – yet another threat that could have stopped the inn’s existence today – was thwarted by local preservationist (and trailblazer) Mary Wingfield Scott.

It is thanks to her that the row houses of Linden Row Inn remain in downtown Richmond, ready to welcome modern-day visitors.

Linden Row Inn Rowhouses — The entrance to the hotel is just around the corner, but don’t miss an opportunity to see the original row houses from their best angle

And what a welcome visitors receive! Approaching the inn from Franklin Street yields the most iconic view of the historic homes’ original entrances. Once inside the 1st Street lobby doors, the first greeting most visitors receive is from Annabelle, the inn’s resident tuxedo cat – and the second is the cozy sitting room in the anterior of the lobby. I regret not being able to take a photo of the hotel’s charming front room, which was always full of other guests during our visit (however I managed to take plenty of photos of Annabelle; you can find them on my Instagram Stories!).

Heading deeper inside, you’ll find a front desk with friendly staff ready to check you in for your stay in one of the hotel’s seventy guestrooms.

Linden Row Inn offers three room styles for guests to choose from: Main House Rooms, Parlour Suites, and Garden Rooms. Michael and I stayed in one of the inn’s sumptuous Parlour Suites – the perfect place to relax and unwind.

LINDEN ROW INN’S PARLOUR SUITES

View of the Parlour Suite at Linden Row Inn — Each Parlour Suite is uniquely outfitted in period decor

Four images of the furniture and amenities in the Parlour Suite — The suites are more than generously sized, with everything a traveler needs for a couple of days

Annabelle the cat sits in front of a rocking chair — Each suite includes two rocking chairs on the balcony (and, on occasion, a cat visitor!)

Each of the seven Parlour Suites at Linden Row Inn is furnished in impressive period decor – and incredibly, no two are alike.

We stayed in the Charles Ellis suite, named after the building’s one-time owner and business partner to John Allan (Edgar Allan Poe’s adoptive father). With soaring ceilings, charming parlor seating, and beautiful windows looking out to the courtyard and the tree-lined street, the suite provided a warm and comfortable respite from the rain that plagued the start of our Richmond visit.

With separate living and sleeping quarters, the Parlour Suites are ideal for catching up with friends and family over coffee before heading out to explore Richmond together – or just for a couple seeking to escape to a lavish space for a couple of days *raises hand*.

In addition to the antique and reproduction period furnishings, the suites are also equipped with all the essentials: a minifridge (for leftovers, or in our case, a pack of craft beer from a local brewery), iron and ironing board, coffeemaker, television, a wardrobe, and full-length mirrors.

AMENITIES AND EXTRAS AT LINDEN ROW INN

Entrance to Linden Row Inn and the interior courtyard — *left*: Linden Row Inn’s restaurant Parterre is located near the entrance | *right*: the walled courtyard is a delightful place to enjoy a cup of coffee on a sunny morning

Aside from ample in-room extras, Linden Row Inn’s amenities delightfully enhance the visitor experience.

From a beautiful garden courtyard that is perfect for recovering from a busy day of sightseeing to an on-site restaurant and bar, the inn really feels like a home away from home. If you’re so inclined, Linden Row can serve as your gym away from home, too – they offer an on-demand fitness app and free use of the YMCA down the block.

And like all of Savara Hospitality’s hotels, Linden Row Inn is committed to displaying local art throughout the property for guests to enjoy. Through their partnership with 1708 Gallery, guests and the public alike can enjoy rotating works of art in the hotel’s public spaces (see something you like? Gallery works are available for purchase).

A REVIEW OF LINDEN ROW INN

Front of Linden Row Inn — One of the best examples of historic row houses in Richmond

Alyssa drinks a cup of coffee in the parlor — The Parlour Suites have ample seating – perfect for gathering over coffee with friends and family

Location isn’t everything, but it is the first thing I noticed upon arrival at Linden Row Inn.

The hotel is two blocks shy of Broad Street, placing it close to the action of the major downtown street, but away from the noise and heavy traffic.

Checking in was a seamless process, and parking was not as difficult as I feared. In fact, because of the timing of our visit, I never had to pay for parking while staying at Linden Row. Parking is free in the evenings, and we were always able to find a spot in the surrounding block.

A cat walks along a banister at Linden Row Inn — Annabelle seems to take her job *very* seriously

So comfortable and home-like, it was tough to leave the Parlour Suite to get out and explore Richmond – made all the more difficult by a snuggly bed with soft linens and room-darkening curtains.

But when it was finally time to draw back the curtains and get ready for the day, the room’s large windows flooded the space with natural light. And with a mirror on either side, there was no need to fight for space while getting ready to explore.

Alyssa peers out the window of Linden Row Inn — Large windows flank either side of the Parlour Suites, letting in wonderful natural light

The weekend of our visit was a particularly lively one, with many guests gathering at the property for a wedding. I couldn’t help but think about how beautiful of a location it is for such a meaningful event, but I admit I also worried how this might impact our stay.

With the exception of two extremely minor inconveniences (so small it feels almost embarrassing to list them, but for the sake of transparency: using the side door to exit once to avoid being in the background of the happy couple’s photos, and not being able to access a small portion of the courtyard one morning), the nuptials and resulting festivities had zero impact on our stay.

My one regret from our visit was missing the chance to dine at the on-site restaurant, Parterre (a reference to the enchanted garden in Poe’s “To Helen“). With local fare on the menu, it looks truly delightful. Frankly, I’m not mad about using it as an excuse to return!

Alyssa looks out over the balcony at Linden Row Inn — The interior courtyard provides access to upper-floor rooms

All-in-all, Linden Row Inn’s storied past is reason enough to visit, and its comfortable luxury is reason to stay. That being said, while it looks wonderful for its age, these walls have experienced a lot of life. If you can’t overlook a creaky wooden floor or over a century’s worth of patina on the fireplace in your room, Linden Row Inn might not be the place for you – just know you’ll be sorely missing out on a stay at one of Richmond’s most treasured inns.

LINDEN ROW INN FAQS

Where is Linden Row Inn located?

Linden Row Inn is located at 100 E Franklin St, Richmond, VA 23219.

Does Linden Row Inn offer parking?

Just like most of pre-automobile Richmond, Linden Row Inn does not have a dedicated parking lot. There are several paid parking lots nearby (ask the staff at the desk for the most up-to-date parking info – lots can become full quickly), but there is plenty of free street parking in the surrounding blocks, too. Just be sure to double-check any signage, as the city is strict with ticketing and towing. Don’t fret about finding parking upon arrival and carting over your luggage; the hotel offers several 30-minute spaces right out front for checking in and unloading.

What is there to see and do near the inn?

Um, everything? A stay at Linden Row Inn places you only minutes away from world-class museums, boutique shopping, chic restaurants, and plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors.

I’m hungry.

That’s… not a question. But the quickest way to be satiated is to head down to Parterre by walking through the garden. Beyond that, some great neighborhood options are Perly’s, Stella’s Grocery, and Restaurant Adarra.

What types of rooms are available?

Linden Row Inn has a total of 70 guest rooms between the Main House, carriage houses, and the one-of-a-kind parlour suites. Looking for an event space? They have that too.

Are there any specials or discounts?

Yes! Don’t skip a look at the Offers page before booking – you may just snag a deal or score something extra for your stay.

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Looking to dig into the history of Linden Row Inn even more? Check out the book Linden Row Inn, by Ginger Ward (available from Amazon or through your local library's Hoopla subscription).

We are so grateful to the team at Linden Row Inn for their generous hospitality during our stay!

Have I missed any of your burning questions about Linden Row Inn?

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One Comment on “Checking In: A Review of Linden Row Inn in Richmond, Virginia”

Guardian Fence Company says:

June 11, 2024 at 9:48 pm

Your review of Linden Row Inn makes me want to book a staycation there immediately! The historical charm of the place is undeniable. How did you find the service and amenities? The inn’s location is perfect for exploring downtown Richmond on foot. Did you visit any nearby attractions, like the John Marshall House or the Richmond Coliseum? Also, I’m curious about the breakfast options – did they offer any local specialties? Thanks for sharing such a detailed and engaging review. Definitely adding this to my list of recommendations for visitors!