Hotel Indigo Downtown Baltimore in the former YMCA–Baltimore, Maryland’s first, is a boutique hotel beauty that serves up warmhearted service with a smile. From the valet who gave me directions to a nearby pub, to the receptionist who drew directions to Edgar Allen Poe’s house on the map she gave me, each interaction felt like I was a favored guest. My experience was not unusual. I saw several other guest interactions accompanied with an “I’m here to help attitude.”
Poets Modern Cocktails and Eats
This attitude creates an atmosphere of hang out to enjoy the ambiance. One hang out spot is Poets Modern Cocktails and Eats, the dining room and cocktail lounge. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and libations are served up starting at 6:30 am. Unfortunately, I arrived after the lounge closed and headed out in the morning for a meeting. Regional cuisine like Maryland Crab Cakes and local craft beers and craft cocktails are a draw. On Thursday night, when I stopped back through to check out the live jazz music the receptionist mentioned, the lounge was buzzing. Jazz music is an every Thursday night fixture.
Other hotel hang out spots are the library room with its enormous fireplace that doubles for meetings, and the lobby where comfy seating provides a street view of the historic Mt. Vernon neighborhood. Grab a book and settle in. There’s also a fitness room with a treadmill, bike, weights and more, as well as a, small business center.
For hunger cravings, grab a snack including local treats like the Baltimore-made Aunt Kelly’s Cookies from the Hotel Indigo’s kiosk.
Like the other hotels in the Hotel Indigo brand, the downtown Baltimore version with its 162 guest rooms incorporates its location in the decor. The wallpaper mural in my king bed room was a nod to Edgar Allen Poe’s poem, “The Raven.”
In the bathroom, a framed photograph of one of Baltimore’s historic buildings provided a color splash to the taupe, white and beige palate. The walk-in rainfall shower was a treat after my several hours drive to get there. Room amenities include: a mini fridge, high definition flat screen TV, coffee/tea maker and a work space desk with ample plugs and lighting.
Everything about the room from the comfy mattress and plush bedding to the organization of the furniture gave me a most pleasant stay. For those looking to add to relaxation, in-room spa services are available. For dog lovers, dogs are welcome for a fee. The Mt. Vernon neighborhood where Hotel Indigo is located does have a dog park.
There is valet parking available, but I parked across the street in the parking garage. Because most places that I wanted to see in Baltimore were within walking distance, including Edgar Allen Poe’s house, I left my car parked for a couple of nights.
Guest rooms range from single king beds to double queen rooms to suites. Rates currently start at $141.55 if booking through Hotel Indigo Baltimore’ Downtown. Try out Hotels.com or Booking.com for a deal. Hotel Indigo Hotels are part of the IHG hotel group.
Post and photos courtesy of Jamie Rhein
