Guest User
December 27, 2023
It was our first day and first time in Charlotte and we were looking for a different experience for our stay so we chose the Duke Mansion. The most important thing you should know (that we didn’t) is that hotel guests are 2nd class to any events that take place here. Period. There are only 20 rooms and they probably do not generate enough income to sustain the facility. Although room rentals are likely essential to fill out the Duke’s overall budget during nonevent times, you will feel marginalized during your stay here if an event is taking place. Apparently there are many. We were unfortunately here during an event and basically relegated to staying in our room lest experience the unwelcoming glares of party goers towards us interlopers or potential party crashers (It happened). There was no where to go downstairs anyway as everything was closed off. Kind of reminded me of having to stay in my room as a kid during my parents “for adults only” parties. We booked the facility more than a month in advance but were notified of the event only a week prior and could not economically change our plans. In hindsight we should have canceled because we were not able to enjoy the property and the Duke did nothing special for the significant disruption of our stay. I am a history buff and relish in the opportunity to stay in a unique, historical property. But staying at The Duke is not exactly a “night at the Museum” as much as “a night at Grandma’s”… and after she’s slathered on Vick’s Vapo Rub. The room was unbearably musty and smelled off. A heavy rain passed through the area a few days prior and I suspect mold issues. The room furniture is an old and eclectic mix of periods and does not illicit a feel of being somewhere special. Maybe other rooms are appointed better. They really should just drop this granny chic look and update all the rooms like they did in the bathrooms which were nicely done except for the water pressure. Overall there is a significant amount of wear at the Duke that the wide photos don’t show. This wear and tear would be fine if it was say Paul Reveres house in Boston built in 1680 and has been authentically preserved. But the Duke was built in 1915 and has gone through many owners and modernized remodels here and there. If elements are not truly original (I.e. walls are newer drywall not original lath and plaster) everything should be in tip top shape. Even original architecture should be better cared for. I was expecting a miniature version of the Huntington Library with some antique books to browse through but saw basically a large sized community book swap in the library. So if not historical, if not nicely updated, what exactly is the point here? I respect the fact that this property reflects local history that should be preserved. But to subject guests to a 2nd class experience during events and smelly rooms that need care demonstrates little B&B hospitality - it’s more of a northern carpet bagger vibe. Is that the exp