Richmond, Virginia—a city brimming with charm and a bastion of southern LGBTQ+ inclusivity —offers an inclusive and creative retreat for travelers. At the heart of it all lies the Quirk Hotel Richmond, a pink high-femme fantasy brought to life and a perfect reflection of the city’s unique blend of history and modernity.
I’m here in early December in collaboration with Visit Richmond VA to uncover the best of what this LGBTQ+ friendly city has to offer. The Quirk Hotel has set the tone for my stay with its playful elegance, local artistry, and cozy hospitality.
Welcome to the Quirk Hotel Richmond VA
Quirk Hotel doesn’t just describe itself as “art-forward”; it lives and breathes creativity. The building itself is a testament to reinvention—it once housed the J.B. Mosby department store, dating back to 1916. Today, it’s a 73-room boutique hotel with an on-site art gallery, rooftop bar, and a personality as vibrant as Richmond.
Walking into Quirk feels like stepping into a dream where cottagecore meets LoveShackFancy. From the pink couches to the glittering Christmas tree in the lobby, it’s an elegant explosion of femininity with just the right amount of whimsy. I couldn’t help but smile when I noticed the hotel’s pink dachshund mascot, which felt like a delightful nod to my 13-year-old princess wiener dog, Mackenzie.
My room was massive yet minimalist, with enough space to practice a cartwheel or two (not that I practice them often). As a New Yorker used to compact spaces, the sprawling king-sized bed and airy layout felt like a luxurious treat.
Art and Inspiration Around Every Corner
What truly sets Quirk apart is its dedication to art. The Quirk Gallery showcases local artists, offering guests an immersive cultural experience without ever leaving the property. The art-filled boutique is a treasure trove of unique finds—perfect for picking up a piece of Richmond to take home.
Every detail at Quirk is thoughtfully curated to inspire, from the design of the rooms to the ambiance of the lobby. Even your morning coffee comes with a side of creativity at Quirk Cafe, where locally roasted selections from Blanchard’s Coffee Roasting Company pair beautifully with pastries that are almost too pretty to eat. It was freezing, with lows in the mid-20s F when I was in town so I almost went for the mocha with giant marshmallows but vanilla lattes have had a choke hold on me for 15 years so I went with that, it was outstanding.
Savor the Best of Virginia
For those who come for the art but stay for the food, Quirk doesn’t disappoint. The Lobby Bar serves up Mediterranean-inspired shareable plates. Local ingredients shine in every dish, celebrating Virginia’s culinary scene and near by farms. Every evening when I returned to the hotel the lobby was filled with local people enjoying the food and holiday decor. I’ve loved chatting up local people and asking them for tips and recommendations on the best of Richmond.
Although it was a bit too chilly to enjoy on my visit let’s not forget the rooftop bar—with stunning city views and relaxed vibe. Whether you’re sipping a craft cocktail at sunset or cozying up under a blanket with friends, it’s the perfect spot to unwind.
Exploring Richmond’s LGBTQ+ Scene
Quirk Hotel Richmond isn’t just a place to stay; it’s your gateway to Richmond’s dynamic neighborhoods and vibrant LGBTQ+ community. Located in the heart of downtown, it’s a short stroll to some of the city’s most exciting spots.
A 40-minute walk—or a quick ride—takes you to Carytown, Richmond’s boho district. Bright murals line the streets, and the indie boutiques, record stores, and farm-to-table restaurants are as eclectic as they are welcoming. I particularly enjoyed Mongrel, an LGBTQ+-owned eclectic gift shop.
Richmond’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community is brought to life by its many queer-owned businesses, from cozy cafes (Riverbend Roastery and Gold Lion) and eclectic thrift stores (Diversity Thrift) to lively restaurants. Among them is Babes of Carytown, a cherished lesbian-owned bar that’s been a cornerstone of the city’s LGBTQ scene for decades.
Plan Your Richmond Getaway
Whether you’re planning a quick weekend escape or looking for a detour filled with history, art, and inclusivity, this city has something for everyone. With its art-forward ethos, high femme aesthetic, and impeccable hospitality, Quirk Hotel Richmond feels like a home away from home for LGBTQ+ travelers. I know, I’d stay here again.
