Marriott Debuts its First New Downtown Richmond Hotels in 20 Years

By Adrian Maties, Associate Editor

On Monday Dec. 8, Marriott International Inc. opened downtown Richmond’s first new Marriott hotels in in 20 years. The new Courtyard Richmond Downtown and the new Residence Inn Downtown Richmond are connected and share an open lobby and entry.

The six-story hotels are located at the corner of 14th and Cary Street, in Richmond’s historic Shockoe Slip district. They were constructed on the site where the Virginia General Assembly passed the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom,in 1786. Apple Hospitality REIT is the owner of the two properties. They will be managed by White Lodging Services of Merrillville, Ind.

Richmond’s new Courtyard offers 135 guest rooms. Amenities include free WiFi, a business library, and The Bistro. According to the hotel’s website, room rates start from $89 per night. The new Residence Inn offers 75 studios and suites and is designed for stays of five nights or more. According to Marriott, the rooms are up to 50% larger than traditional hotel rooms. Rates start from $109 per night.

The shared lobby features a fitness center and 2,862 square feet of meeting space that can accommodate up to 210 people. The complex also includes the First Freedom Center, a 1,500-square-foot gallery commemorating Thomas Jefferson’s penning of the Virginia Statute of Religious Freedom. It is scheduled to open on January 16.

“Attracting both business travelers as well as tourists, this historic area of Richmond is an ideal location for the dual opening,” Janis Milham, senior vice president of modern essentials and extended stay brands for Marriott International, said in a statement. “Each brand offers distinct amenities and services that tailor to all visitors.”

Photo credit: Marriott International, Inc.