The Lantern Hotel Columbia

From the moment you walk in, the staff and management make you feel genuinely welcome. The beds are incredibly comfortable—soft, cozy, and perfect after a long day. What really sets this place apart is the lobby: it doesn’t feel like a lobby at all, but more like a living room where guests can relax, connect, and actually converse. The way the hotel honors its firehouse roots throughout the building while leaning into the history is beautifully done. It feels intentional, inviting, and full of character—an experience, not just a stay.

So happy we booked the Lantern to celebrate our engagement ! My fiancée is a huge Dawn Staley fan so we are going to the game on Sunday and I booked the Lantern because it’s a quick walk to the arena. The attention to detail from booking (text messages from the front desk about our engagement) to arrival was superb. The bartenders were wonderful and I cannot rave enough about the bar menu. We ended our first night with a beautiful bonfire outside the hotel. We feel really comfortable here and recommend the Lantern for your next Columbia visit.

We went for Valentine's Day. The rooms are outstanding. It's strange to say but, the lighting might be the best part. There are cool lights on the headboard and motion sensor lights on floor of bed. The lobby and restaurant are so nice. We loved having cocktails by the fire outside the bay doors that were open so we could still see the nice atmosphere inside. So many great details about this place. Definitely check it out. We will come back for many more staycation visits

Stayed four nights in February. Location is wonderful. Very close to Biltmore and convenient to restaurants and shopping. A great "home base" for an Asheville vacation. 1BR condo was very clean, spacious, and equipped fairly well. High value for the money. Amazing gas fireplace. Large bathroom. Could have used an extra blanket. Called the front desk, left a voice mail, never heard back. Slow internet (5Mbps download) and THIN walls. We heard every step from above.

Our time at The Lantern was a delight! From our initial call to ask about the rooms and configurations, to check-in, and throughout our stay, every team member was kind, gracious and so helpful. Our room was attractive and comfortable with little touches that made it feel special. During the visit, we enjoyed dinner in the restaurant downstairs-- Meal, service, and lively vibe at Ladder 13 were fantastic!