I’m heading to Raleigh for a work trip and decided to stay at a somewhat unique hotel in Downtown. The Longleaf Hotel and Lounge is a small independent hotel with a retro style. I’ve visited Raleigh a few times but I’m usually out in suburbia, but this time I wanted to stay Downtown. If you’re interested in suburban Raleigh hotels, I have reviews for that too: Suburban Raleigh Hotel Reviews
Bottom Line: I liked the Longleaf hotel here in Raleigh. It’s ex-motel eclectic style fits the area. The rooms were large and clean, but it does still have a little bit of a low cost feel.
Longleaf Hotel Raleigh Location
The Longleaf hotel is located just on the edge of what is usually considered Downtown Raleigh. It’s sandwiched between Dawson and McDowell. You can walk from here to popular places on Glenwood Ave like Raleigh Beer Garden.
If you’re arriving by car, you can see the old school neon signs that direct you into the parking lot.
Pulling into the parking lot, it’s very clear the Longleaf was once an old school motel. That’s on, they’re kinda embracing it. The lobby is located under the little tunnel.
Longleaf Hotel and Lounge Lobby
The lobby very much showing off it’s 60s/70s motif. I checked into the hotel and was told about the lounge and bar.
The other half of the lobby is the lounge and bar. Unfortunately they don’t serve food here, I was looking for some dinner when I arrived. I ended up walking to Five Star for some Chinese, just down the street. Would also recommend.
Longleaf Hotel Hallway
It might sound silly to show the hallway of a hotel, but because this was once a motel with outside doors, I figured it was worth pointing out. The front desk told me when they renovated, they built this hallway so each room as interior doors instead of outside.
Longleaf Hotel Rooms
I walked into the room and I was very pleased with the Longleaf. The rooms were clean and comfortable. I will note, the room was always a little dark, There just aren’t enough lights in the room.
I wasn’t super impressed with the bed. I’m not sure why, but I couldn’t get comfortable. Both sides of the bed had a small table, lamps, and there are outlets nearby.
Opposite from the bed is a desk, luggage rack, and TV. Under the desk there is a small fridge.
Longleaf Hotel Bathroom
The bathroom here at the Longleaf was clearly updated since this was a motel, but it’s pretty tight like you’d expect. Not pictured is the shower and tub, and it is a tub, I’d much prefer a stand alone shower.
Longleaf Hotel In Room Snacks
For being such a small hotel and brand, they have really gone all out with adding their branding logos to lots of items. In the room there’s a selection of snacks and drinks. There’s also some earplugs, we’re pretty close to the road and there’s certainly some outside noise.
I will say, the branding and vibe here at the Longleaf is pretty great.
Longleaf Hotel and Lounge Raleigh Final Thoughts
I liked the Longleaf hotel. For a one night trip to Raleigh, it’s hard to beat. If you were coming to town for an event or even something like a wedding, it would be a fun place to stay. The room was nice and clean, the lobby lounge is a very cool spot for a drink, and the staff is very friendly. I will say I didn’t sleep well, not sure why.
I will admit, there are more polished and “corporate” feeling hotels just a few blocks away, but that’s boring. The Longleaf is interesting and unique. Be honest with yourself, if you’re not willing to stay outside of a mass market hotel, don’t stay here. But if you want something a little fun, stay at the Longleaf, I will.
Suburban Raleigh Hotel Reviews
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