DANVILLE, Va. — Reservations are now being accepted for The Laurel Hotel, a new boutique lodging destination in Danville’s historic Schoolfield District, marking another milestone in the ongoing transformation of the former Dan River mill campus in Southside Virginia.
Developed as part of the Danville Hotel Collection, the property occupies renovated space once central to the region’s textile manufacturing industry — long a cornerstone of Danville’s economic identity.
City officials and tourism leaders say the opening reflects continued momentum in repositioning Schoolfield from a former mill village into a mixed-use district centered on hospitality, entertainment and heritage tourism.
Historic preservation, modern design
Renovations preserved defining architectural features of the original structure, including exposed brick walls, oversized industrial windows and structural beams dating back to the textile era. Updated interiors blend boutique styling with design elements that reference the site’s manufacturing past.
The hotel’s laurel branding draws inspiration from historic Dan River mill symbolism, reinforcing the connection between Danville’s industrial legacy and its evolving visitor economy.
For decades, textile production provided employment for thousands across Danville and surrounding Southside communities before industry shifts reshaped the region’s workforce.
Upscale boutique accommodations
The Laurel Hotel offers 36 guest rooms, including suites designed for leisure travelers, corporate guests and visitors drawn to the city’s expanding entertainment offerings.
Nightly rates generally range from the high-$100s to approximately $400, depending on room type, availability and seasonal demand.
The property is located right beside Caesars Virginia Casino and within close proximity to the River District and other attractions contributing to increased overnight visitation.
Valentine’s season launch
The hotel’s reservation launch aligns with Valentine’s travel, with promotional packages available for couples and weekend guests. Experience add-ons include sparkling wine, specialty chocolates and locally sourced floral arrangements — partnerships aimed at supporting small businesses throughout the Southside region.
How to book
Reservations for The Laurel Hotel can be made through the Danville Hotel Collection’s official website at www.danvillehotelcollection.com or by calling (434) 234-4190.
Guests may also book through major online travel platforms, though hotel officials encourage direct reservations for access to seasonal promotions, curated stay packages and event-related offers.
Part of larger redevelopment vision
The Laurel is one component of the broader Schoolfield redevelopment initiative, an adaptive reuse strategy converting former mill properties into lodging, residential, dining and entertainment spaces.
Economic development leaders say projects like the boutique hotel preserve Danville’s architectural history while generating new tourism revenue for the city and surrounding Southside Virginia communities.
With reservations now open, stakeholders anticipate the property will help meet rising visitor demand driven by casino traffic, festivals and heritage tourism — further positioning Danville as an emerging overnight destination in the region.