The Bellwether Hotel

Attempted to stay at the Bellwether. Never received the email or text code to check in. Repeatedly contacted the hotel and was told "my boss is not answering her phone". Then no response. After over an hour I moved on to another hotel. It's a shame because I have stayed there before and was very satisfied, but I definitely will not stay here again.

I read a lot of good and not so good reviews about this hotel, but in the end, if you're looking for a place with character, a vintage vibe, and a great neighborhood, you should find your way here. Admittedly I had a lot of trouble navigating the required online check-in (my mobile wasn't working properly and the laptop is not conducive to this type of task). But in the end I got it and found my way to the room. The building is historic, and the interiors are minimalist, but with 20s music playing in the lounge, and the art deco decor, I really thought it was something special. There was an industrial feeling to the room - with concrete floors and brick walls, but the high ceiling and comfy bed were nice. If I had wanted a 5-star experience, I would have gone to a chain or luxury hotel, so I have some issue with the complainers that state this place is "dumpy". Imagine yourself a century ago and have fun. The neighborhood is residential and rather trendy, with many restaurants and cafes in a short walking distance. Parking is on the street and is challenging: I was lucky to get a spot and didn't move my car until I really had to. I would definitely return with someone who appreciates the out of ordinary.

This property is unique. You are emailed a code before you arrive so you literally check in and get to your room without seeing a soul. Parking is on the street. All startlingly impersonal. That said, the hotel has a funky vibe (a good one) and is beautifully located in the middle of one of Louisville's coolest neighborhoods. Great restaurants, bars, street scene. My room, the Eden Suite, was small and a bit dungeon like. Not bad, not great, just unusual. The bedding, towels, amenities were all very nice. I was there two nights and enjoyed it, but had no desire to linger. I suspect it is the best, or certainly most interesting, lodging in the immediate area and I would stay there again. The attached restaurant and bar are a big plus.

You know you are back in Kentucky when the snacks available for purchase in your hotel room are wine, bourbon and chocolate. Just looking at the facade you can feel the history of the place. Once a Bell Telephone company switching station (hence the name), then a police station and later home to the Louisville Ballet after long neglect it has arisen once again as an upscale hotel, a mix of modern and historic. What's good: *Terrific location in Louisville's tree-lined Highlands, easy walking distance to excellent restaurants, bars, shops, etc. For those looking to stretch their walk the hotel is mere blocks from Cherokee Park, one of Frederick Law Olmstead's ode to Nature. *Modern amenities, including premium ground coffee and a press. *Good strength of wifi, and excellent insulation that blocks out exterior noise on busy Bardstown Road. *Smart TV with lots of apps and content options. *Spacious room, though a bit austere in furnishings (see photos). Needs improvement: *The lack of off-street parking is a deal-breaker for me. Bardstown Road and Rosewood, the street adjacent to the hotel, are jammed with cars even on weeknights. On the Saturday I stayed there was a festival nearby and it was blocks and blocks away to find a parking space. Lucky I wasn't hauling luggage. I can't recommend the hotel to anyone who has to park a car, it's that tough. *There was no closet in my room, and a bar attached to the wall with three hangers is a joke (see photo). Also missing was a stand or way to access luggage. *No local stations on the TV made it a hassle to get local news and weather. *No staff present made it feel more like an AirBNB than a hotel. In three nights my room was never cleaned and I never saw anyone cleaning rooms. Good luck getting additional linens or any sort of assistance without calling or texting for help.