The Draftsman, Charlottesville, University, Autograph Collection Hotel

After we’d checked out, I realized I’d left something behind. About an hour later the hotel called to say they’d found it, then kindly shipped it to our home the next day. That honesty and follow-through meant a lot. We had a wonderful stay at The Draftsman in Charlottesville. The staff were friendly and attentive, the rooms felt clean and fresh, and the modern design was comfortable and thoughtfully laid out. Valet parking made arriving and leaving easy. The location is especially handy for the University area, with campus, restaurants, and local attractions close by. I’d gladly stay again and recommend it to anyone visiting.

The parking garage situation really affected our stay, so I’m giving four stars. The hotel is valet-only, and the valet said the 11th and 14th Street garages were nearby and just a short walk. We used the 11th Street garage, then had trouble getting out the next morning after checkout. Garage staff scolded us for staying overnight when we apparently weren’t allowed to. We did find a solution, thankfully, but it wasn’t ideal. The property itself is beautiful and clean, the staff were helpful and friendly, and our King Suite was great. We had breakfast at The Ridley, where the brioche French toast and sausage were the best parts. We also asked for espresso, only to hear that the machine had been broken for a very long time. Downtown Charlottesville is easy to reach on foot.

The front desk and valet were fantastic on New Year’s night, friendly and personable while still professional. Everyone went above and beyond, and housekeeping kept things in great shape. The decor looks current, there are lots of good places to eat nearby, and it’s a nice part of town that still feels relaxed.

My room was clean, and the valet was quick, but parking was expensive and they made it sound like I had no real alternative. The room was tiny and the shower pressure was awful. I tried to eat breakfast at the restaurant the next morning, couldn’t get served, and left to find food elsewhere. At the front desk, instead of a hello, the woman gave me dirty looks and asked if I was in the right place, even though my suitcase was right beside me. I didn’t enjoy the stay.