I’d find myself back in the DC area once more and had an opportunity to lay my head at a recent acquisition of Kimpton’s, the Morrison House in Alexandria. If I may say, this hotel was entirely un Kimpton-like in the sense that it was not ultra sleek and modern. It did not push the envelope of contemporary architecture and design. On the contrary, this hotel was a wonderfully quaint and charming, historic hotel in the heart of Alexandria’s coveted Old Town district.I say un Kimpton-like but that only applies to its structure – the ambiance and personalized service is markedly Kimpton-like and perhaps the most so. Because of its warm and intimate nature, checking in here feels much more like checking into a home, an inn, or even a Bed and Breakfast. It’s the only hotel in Alexandria that still issues metal keys!
Upon entry into my guest room, I was immediately charmed. It was the proper mix of old and new. I could still easily access complimentary internet access using my Kimpton-In-Touch login and I could enjoy the comforts of my luxurious Kimpton bed and high quality soaps and toiletries. But at the same time, I could appreciate the classical furnishings and the view out my window of gas lamp lit buildings and boutique colonial shops and restaurants.
The dining room is perhaps what Morrison House is most famous for and I’d have an opportunity to enjoy breakfast here on my last morning. Just steps past the cozy bar and grand piano, I could sit and enjoy an extremely civilized breakfast without feeling like I was in a busy downtown bistro. The hotel mixes business and leisure quite brilliantly.
My favorite part of the hotel are the two rooms off the lobby – two warm living rooms where they serve their complimentary wine hour but where I could office from through many parts of the day. They serve coffee in the morning and fruited waters throughout the day, exceeding my expectations of comfort at each turn. If business brings one to Alexandria, or even to the District, this is a undiscovered gem that shouldn’t be missed any longer!
My photos –
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151026653607674.505258.137517647673&type=3
On the web- http://www.morrisonhouse.com/