Have friends and family headed your way for the holidays? If you’re looking for a place for them to stay (that’s not your house!), here’s one new option to add to the list: The Residence Inn Stamford Downtown. This extended stay, 156-suite hotel on Atlantic Street opened in November and boasts apartment-style suites with kitchens. Plus, the hotel welcomes pets and offers complimentary luxury car service throughout the city.
We spoke with Todd Lindvall, the hotel’s area general manager and a veteran of the Stamford tourism scene, about the hotel, how tourism has shifted in the city, and his favorite spots to take out of towners.
Tell us a bit about the new Residence Inn Stamford Downtown. What makes it different from other hotels in the area?
Todd Lindvall: Residence Inn Stamford Downtown is the city’s first extended-stay hotel. Our custom designed, luxury apartment-style rooms encourage travelers to stay, explore and enjoy all that downtown Stamford has to offer. In addition, our new tapas and tequila bar, One Club, will stand out in Stamford’s popular Downtown District. With over 90 restaurants and bars within walking distance, we wanted to insert ourselves as a part of the downtown food and beverage experience. Complete with a dramatic double-story ceiling, grand piano and fireplace, One Club will serve as another great atmosphere to unwind, socialize and indulge in the perfect cocktail at day’s end.
With the holidays coming up, lots of people may be coming in from out of town—why do you think Stamford, and Connecticut in general, is a great place to visit?
Stamford is a thriving and growing community that has something to offer for everyone. We have the advantage of being a city with a flourishing downtown scene, but at a more easy-going pace. There are many indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy during the holiday season for both individual travelers and families in the city and surrounding area. Plus, we’re less than an hour by train from New York City, which is perfect for travelers that want to enjoy the Big Apple’s holiday festivities but stay outside the hustle and bustle.
How has tourism changed over the years in the area?
Travelers have increasingly acclimated to the millennial mindset of convenience over luxury. We needed to learn and adapt to that mindset to provide guests with an experience custom to their needs. Hotels must stand out and display qualities that are especially unique to corporate travelers and social groups, while providing an elevated level of service. Residence Inn Stamford Downtown will do just that, putting travelers in control of their experience.
What are some under-the-radar places you love recommending to visitors?
I always love to recommend Lorca Coffee Bar, Mill River Park, Columbus Park, Antique District in Harbor Point, Chelsea Piers Sports Complex and Verde Galerie to travelers.
Anything else you’d love for us to know?
Because we neighbor our sister property, Courtyard by Marriott, which recently completed a $2.5 million renovation, guests of Residence Inn will be able to access the amenities of both hotels. This doubles the options for our guests and lets them enjoy the best amenities of both properties during their stay. For example, Residence Inn Stamford Downtown guests can jump start their day in Courtyard by Marriott’s indoor pool or cap it off at R Bar, which is Courtyard’s chic bourbon and whiskey lounge.
