The Inn At Claussen's

This brick bakery turned into lofts has been our Charlotte getaway for over 16 yrs, and we still love coming back. The historic Columbia location is right by the university, with the 5 points fountain just outside. Our loft king room is surprisingly quiet, even with the train going by around midnight. I'm a light sleeper and it doesn't bother me. The service is amazing and the bedding is comfortable. Breakfast is brought to your room at the time you pick the night before, as long as you hang your order on the door before 11 p.m. Ask for a loft king with the spiral staircase.

The room layout and location were good, but the rest of the stay fell short. The tub was clogged, breakfast left at the door was stale, the windows were filthy, and during our one night we heard the train roar by three times. Customer service was horrible, too. There were two billing mistakes. I caught the first on my way out and went back to have it corrected. I only noticed the second when it appeared in my checking account. I called, thinking any decent staff would fix a small error. Instead, they argued with me and said they couldn't help because I'd paid cash for my toothbrush. They don't give receipts for toothbrushes, they said, so there was nothing to do. Yes, this was over a toothbrush. After paying to stay there, I'm sick that they'd rather leave a customer unhappy than refund their $5 mistake. I won't stay here again. I'd rather pay more somewhere that isn't trying to pinch pennies.

I've stayed here a lot over the years and never had a bad visit. It's convenient, with everything within walking distance. You get a five-star experience without that stuffy five-star feeling.

Really unique hotel. The interior looks great, mixing an older style with modern design. I love this place.