The Red Lion Hotel Olympia is undergoing a multi-million dollar transformation into a modern, design-conscious hotel and hip gathering spot, Hotel RL. This follows the announcement last year by Red Lion Hotels Corporation that the longstanding Olympia staple would be converted to the company’s new upscale lifestyle brand.
“The Red Lion brand was founded in the state of Washington in 1959, and as the state capital, Olympia is an important meeting place,” said Greg Mount, RLHC president and CEO. “Our Olympia hotel team is known for incredible food and guest service. We want our physical hotel to also exceed guest expectations. The remodeled Hotel RL is built around the concept of a hotel serving as a town square where visitors and locals alike meet to collaborate. Olympia is the perfect market in which to do that.”
Relaxed, creative and welcoming, Hotel RL will offer a taste of the local scene, where socially-minded business and leisure travelers are invited to work, play and pursue their passions freely. The new hotel will be part urban lodge, part local hangout and 100 percent unique.
Upgrades to the Red Lion Hotel Olympia have already begun, with the full remodel expected to be completed this fall. Improvements are planned for the nearly 200 guest rooms, the lobby, restaurant and 16,500 square feet of meeting space. The new pavilion-style lobby has as its focal point The Steps, a tiered gathering and seating area where guests can enjoy an espresso and complimentary Wi-Fi in the mornings or a signature cocktail in the evenings.
“This new brand is a big deal for Red Lion Hotels,” said Jeff Bowe, director of sales. “All of our market research points to delivering a product that appeals to travelers with a millennial mind-set. I’m excited to lead our Olympia property into this new market. Our guests will be surprised at some of the changes they will see. This is not just a fresh coat of paint. It’s a whole new series of amenities that invite guests into our public spaces to enjoy good coffee, food, conversation and entertainment.”
LEAH GROUT
For additional information: facebook.com/redlionhotels