More about Hotel Monaco Baltimore - a Kimpton Hotel
Beautiful and Friendly, in an historic building
by TripAdvisor Member DoctorCupcake
We were looking for a last minute anniversary getaway, and found a great deal at the Hotel Monaco. I rarely find the best deal booking directly through a hotel website, but their website offered the best rate with our AAA discount. Based on the website pictures, we were excited to see the hotel in person, and were not disappointed. High ceilings and the beautiful architectural details of the historic building were enhanced by the elegant but fun decor. Though a new hotel, and thus free of the normal hotel wear and tear, the Monaco doesn't feel new, largely because of the competence of the staff. I can not say enough good things about the hotel staff, who were both efficient and exceptionally warm. From the moment we first encountered the friendly bellmen at the curb to when we walked out the door, we encountered staff who treated us warmly and professionally. The bellman who walked us out (Big Dave) offered to take our picture before we left, and though we expected a single snapshot by the desk, he had us pose in front of several of the most visually striking seating areas in the lobby and foyer, and seemed to genuinely enjoy helping us capture memories of our trip. The weekend concierge was right on with his recommendations, and we were pleased when the waitress at Ruths Chris surprised us with an anniversary dessert after the concierge informed the restaurant we were celebrating. There were milk and cookies at the front desk upon arrival, and a complimentary wine reception in the lovely lounge each evening at 5:00. The complimentary goldfish (not the crackers, but an actual fish) that is delivered to your room upon request enhanced our impression that the Monaco, though elegant, is not at all stuffy. I agree with another viewer that the air system is a bit loud, but otherwise the room was quiet and exceedingly comfortable. We look forward to returning to the Hotel Monaco Baltimore, and trying out others in the Monaco chain.
West Elm meets Tiffany’s
by TripAdvisor Member city44
The Hotel Monaco is located in the former headquarters of the B&O Railroad. The historic building built in 1906 is just three short blocks from the Inner Harbor near the intersection of Charles and Baltimore Streets. Once you enter the beautiful lobby, you take an elevator up one floor to check-in and let your visual senses free. The inner artist in you will love the variety of fabric patterns, lighting and daring color combinations. It’s a role model for integrating the polar opposites of an older structure with an ultra hip interior. West Elm meets Tiffany’s. In fact the hotel houses four million dollars worth of Tiffany stained-glass.
As with all Kimpton Hotels, you can expect a thoughtfully layed-out room with modern decor. I’m not sure any other hotel could manage to make blue & brown paisley roman shades work with checkerboard wallpaper and a greek style patterned carpet so well. The hotel just opened up at the end of July 2009 so you can expect brand-spankin’ new everything. It’s not often you get to stay at a hotel that is absolutely immaculate. Guests need to forgive the little blips that are inevitable at any new establishment that has a fresh new staff, such as a missing mini-bar key or one set of silverware delivered for two people from room service.
Baltimore has a reputation for being an edgy city but you will find the staff eager to help. Each employee has a tag with their first name and what they aspire to do in life. If you’re lucky, you’ll have the privilege of being escorted to your room by Darryl who aspires to “Travel the World”. His enthusiasm is contagious while he shows you the large beautifully tiled bathroom with an oversized showerhead, the environmentally friendly bath products, the ipod docking stations and the lighting and temperature system. He even raced down to the lobby to get our mini-bar key. He will make many good friends during his travels and it was our pleasure to meet such a nice young gentleman.
In an attempt to manage elevator traffic more efficiently, there are six total elevators three of which are for business travelers only. Since occupancy seemed low, I’ll be curious to see how this system works when the hotel is at full capacity.
This hotel is pet friendly with dog dishes at the front entrance that are sure to put a smile on your face. If you have allergies, you may want to reserve a room that is far away from the designated pet only rooms. You may also want to request a room that does not have a locked-off adjoining room. It seemed the divider wall was paper thin and we could clearly hear talking and cell phones ringing.
The bed is super comfy although the King bed looked more like a Queen size. The Plasma TV sits on a long funky red metal desk with chair. There’s a safe, mini-bar and decent sized closet in the room. The hotel shape isn’t a basic rectangle, so when you open your window blind, you may be able to wave to your neighbors depending on what room you get. Room Service is 24/7 and the food is pretty good. I’ve had better at the Westin, but it was still darn good. The Mac & Cheese Dumplings are delicious.
The hotel offers Valet only Parking for about $36 for a 24hr period. This may seem hefty, but nearby parking at the Galleria can cost you about $25 for a 12 hour period. It’s a given fact that parking is expensive near the Inner Harbor so get over it folks. Vehicles are taken to a secure lot off premises. It is wise to call the front desk at least 15 minutes prior to check-out so your car is waiting for you when you exit. With a lower occupancy, the valets were still incredibly busy. Just a side note...service personnel count on your tips. This is what puts food on their tables and I am amazed at how many people do not tip. If you can’t afford to part with a few dollars, stay home.
A capable staff is in part the direct result of a good Manager. Hotel Monaco seems to have both. If they keep up the good work after the honeymoon is over, I’m sure they will reach the number 1 spot on Trip Advisor and stay there. I highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Baltimore.
Wonderful Stay
by TripAdvisor Member rthrbatthbch
Just returned from a one night stay at the Hotel Monaco and could not have asked for anything more. Amenities and location are outstanding, staff is friendly and helpful and value can't be beat. We will stay here everytime we return to Baltimore!
Home away from Home
by TripAdvisor Member ottumnite
We visited Baltimore to see a Red Sox game.at the end of July 2009. We stayed at the Monaco Baltimore just days after their Grand Opening and I must say I was so pleased with everything. I don't have one negative thing to say about our stay. Great service, great rates, welcoming helpful staff, beautiful decor, and clean rooms. All around this was one of the best hotels we have stayed at. We will absolutely be staying here again next year ! Thanks Monaco for the excellent service. See ya in June 2010.
Great Hotel
by TripAdvisor Member barclaycat
Wow what anice hotel everyone is friendly and the hotel is beautiful. Great room, amazing bed, wonderful bathroom and shower. Room could have some more lighting and it is strang that they have no phone books in the room. Would highly suggest this hotel. Parking was very expensive 36.00 overnight.
Thank goodness Kimpton has come to Baltimore!
by TripAdvisor Member JeanninePC99
I love Kimpton Hotels and am so thrilled to see one in Baltimore, where I attended a conference recently. The hotel is just a few blocks from the convention center, but removed enough from the cluster of chain hotels and traffic that the rooms are quiet.
The decor is stunning. I imagine the staff is used to guests staring in awe when they arrive due to the sweeping, grand, marble staircases, ornate ceilings, and original Tiffany windows. Upstairs, the furnishings are more contemporary, but very comfortable. Please see my pictures...I took plenty!
Service was wonderful. We were completely charmed by the restaurant staff and found ourselves going back for meals and drinks time and again, despite there being plenty of dining options in the Inner Harbor. I was especially impressed by the staff's knowledge of high end beers and their enthusiasm for the menu. They clearly love what they serve.
One of the reasons I love Kimpton Hotels is that they are more than dog friendly - they are dog enthusiastic. Unfortunately, my golden retriever wasn't with me because I was on business, but I was happy to see water bowls and treats at the front door.
I'm so glad that I'll never have to deal with the other hotels downtown again. Thank goodness Kimpton is in Baltimore!
Still love Kimpton
by TripAdvisor Member bennfam
Our experience with Kimptom Hotels has been superb. The Monaco does not . the disappoint. The service was exemplary. As always the rooms were comfortable and clean and the wine hour is an added bonus. Great location to visit Baltimore walking distance to the harbor. The front desk are very helpful for place to visit and eat and the in house bar has great staff, serves excellent cocktails and good foo
What a beautiful property!
by TripAdvisor Member Worldly Woman
I stayed here September 27 - 30, 2009. Conference hotel was the nearby Hyatt, but I got a better rate and stayed at this beautiful, new property. Refurbished beaux arts building originally built as B & O Railroad HQ's in 1906. It seemed like I was the only guest on my floor. Totally quiet and from the 9th floor, even street noise was minimal. Also enjoyed dinner at the adjacent restaurant and the manager on duty was a fellow Michigan State grad. Try the gnocci made of ricotta cheese. Much lighter than potato based pasta and tasty! Treat yourself and stay at the Hotel Monaco.
Quirky in Downtown
by TripAdvisor Member FourEasyPieces
Hotel just opened. Staff was fine and friendly. Reception is on second floor and signage on main floor not very specific. Rooms large, bright, modern with a combination of very modern decor that is a bit full of itself and a little bit of whimsy (zebra stripped bathrobes). Hard to part in area. Valet parking a bit slow. Good if you have to work downtown. Area is close to Harbor but a little on the seedy side.
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