Gracious hotels and grand entrances.
Arrivals. The excitement of rounding the last corner of a long drive to see your destination in sight and the pleasant feeling of anticipation that comes with it. In that important first moment of a much anticipated trip, the old cliché about first impressions is true. Here are some Virginia hotels that know how to give a proper southern welcome.
Craddock Terry Hotel, Lynchburg
Guests are greeted by Buster Brown—a 5-year-old wirehaired fox terrier. This former riverfront shoe factory hosts evening champagne receptions and room service arrives at your door in converted wooden shoeshine boxes. CraddockTerryHotel.com
Hotel Monaco, Alexandria
Each evening, from 4 to 5 p.m., a Radio Flyer wagon pulls into the lobby of the Hotel Monaco carrying games, juice and snacks for Kids’ Hour, and at 6 p.m., the hotel, opened in 2007, hosts a wine reception for adults. Monaco-Alexandria.com
The Inn at Little Washington, Washington
This 5-star inn’s staff welcomes you with a seasonal cocktail or the inn’s signature passion fruit tea at the “Monkey Bar.” A personal guided tour of the property follows. TheInnAtLittleWashington.com
Tides Inn, Irvington
Many of the staff at this timeless Northern Neck resort have become recognizable to frequent visitors, including Earl Baker, a doorman of 37 years, and Robert Waddy, a houseman for 41 years. TidesInn.com
