The Jefferson Hotel

This historic hotel was built in 1895 by Lewis Ginter, who also developed the wonderful Lewis Ginter Botanical gardens in town. The rotunda in the entryway is stunning, with beautiful stained glass windows. I booked directly with the hotel, which got me free parking in a secure lot right across the street. Our room was lovely and spacious, with high ceilings. There was a little room between the bedroom and the bathroom with a desk and a dressing area. The large bathroom had s full sized tub with a picture window looking out onto the city, a large walk in shower and separate toilet area. Check out the gift shop on the lower level. The lady in the shop can tell you the story of the four alligators who lived in the pond inside the hotel for forty years. Travelers would be going north from Florida with their pet alligators and a few got left at the hotel. The bellhops would find them lounging on the couches in the morning and would shoo them back into the pond. There is also an interesting history of the hotel near the gift shop. Many interesting people have stayed at the hotel. There is a very nice indoor pool, but the water was really cold. A great property with a lot of character.