The Willcox Guest Directory

GUEST DIRECTORY

WELCOME TO

our location, in the heart of historic Aiken, gives you convenient access to Hitchcock Woods, our equestrian community, numerous golf courses, and downtown boutiques.

During your stay, it will be our staff’s pleasure to attend to all of your needs. From expediting business matters to personal reservations and requests, our entire staff is available to assist you.

Please take advantage of our Restaurant, Salon & Spa, Lobby boutique, outdoor pool and health & wellness opportunities. A complimentary hot breakfast is served in the dining room from 7:00-10:00am. The Restaurant serves daily 11:30am until 10:00pm and Sunday Brunch starting at 9am. The Salon & Spa are open daily from 9am–7pm by appointment only.

In this directory, you will find all the information you need to plan your moments and days at The Willcox. Our Guest Services team is happy to assist with helping you create your personal Willcox experience.

Check out is 11:00am. If your departure schedule does not coincide with this, please contact Guest Services early in the day so we can make every effort to accommodate you.

The Willcox has been welcoming guests for over a century. We encourage you to relax and make yourself at home. If there is anything we can do to make you more comfortable or assist you during your stay, please do not hesitate to ask.

Thank you for choosing The Willcox!

HISTORY OF THE WILLCOX

The Willcox was built in the late 19th century for well-to do Yankees seeking warmth, light and high society. Aiken was popular with the swells and dandies of the gilded Age and they came in such numbers every winter that the town was dubbed the “Winter Colony.” Great dances were held and ballrooms glittered with candlelight. Old rivals, fiercely competitive but impeccably polite, settled their differences on the polo field. Grand picnics in Hitchcock Woods were laid out with silver, crystal and linen. Politicians, royalty and captains of industry often visited The Willcox.

The far-reaching reputation of The Willcox was built on its atmosphere, impeccable service and excellent cuisine. Famous guests included Winston Churchill, Harold Vanderbilt, W.R. Grace, Elizabeth Arden and Count Bernadette of Sweden. Legend has it that Franklin Delano Roosevelt would ride his private train car to the back door and slip in quietly. The Prince of Wales was regretfully turned away for lack of space. And, The Willcox doormen, sentries of society and taste, assessed the shoes of arriving guests before allowing them inside.

In those days Aiken was known as the Newport of the South, the Queen of the Winter Colonies. The ideal of the Winter Colony was to play three sports a day: polo in the morning, golf in the afternoon and a hunt after dark, when riding was at its most hazardous. Both the men and the women, having inherited extraordinarily large fortunes from their ancestors, amused themselves with daring pastimes that were just as challenging as labor. Too rich to work, but too active and restless to sit still, they developed in Aiken a hectic style of leisure that became a lifestyle for the privileged.

As grand and graceful as ever, The Willcox continues to draw people from all over the world to enjoy superb personal service, gracious accommodations, excellent cuisine and their individual interpretation of the “Aiken lifestyle.” This treasured piece of Aiken’s history is the living room of the community and a second home to our out-of-town guests.

SUSTAINABILITY POLICY

The Willcox Hotel is committed to minimizing our overall impact on the environment without sacrificing the comfort and enjoyment of our guests.

We strive to conserve water and energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality and minimize waste. We educate our employees and suppliers about the importance of environmentally respectful conduct and have an environmentally preferred purchasing policy in place.

People have come to The Willcox for more than a century to enjoy the highest level of service and the beauty of our surroundings. We are committed to preserving this rich legacy for generations to come.

We’ve implemented more than 100 planet friendly practices to make our hotel, restaurant and spa a better place. So when you’re staying with us, dining with us or relaxing with us, rest assured we’re doing everything we can to create a sustainable experience.

GREEN AWARDS

• GOLD STATUS DESIGNATION – TripAdvisor’s Green Leader’s Program

• GOOD EARTHKEEPING AWARD — SC Hospitality Association

• THREE PALMETTO CERTIFICATION — SC Green Hospitality Association

• SMART BUSINESS RECYCLING PROGRAM – SC Department of Health and Environmental Control and the SC Department of Commerce

To learn more about our green journey, check out our Sustainability Program on our website (TheWillcox.com) or in our Green Binder in the lobby.

RECOGNITION/AWARDS

We are a small and personal hotel, and are grateful to our Aiken community and our guests for their continued support. The following awards would not be possible without them.

No. 4 Best Hotel in South Carolina, 2022

No. 4 Best Hotel in South Carolina, 2021

No. 7 Best Hotel in the South 2020

No. 10 Resort Hotel in the South 2020

No. 8 Best Hotel in the USA 2017

No. 2 Best Hotel in the South 2017

No. 45 Best Hotel in the World 2017

No. 7 Best Hotel in the World 2016

No. 2 Best Resort Hotel in the Continental U.S. 2016

No. 1 Resort Hotel in the South 2016

T+L 500 - World’s Best Hotels

Top 50 Hotel in the World

Top 10 Small Lodge in the USA 2012, 2013 TRAVEL + LEISURE

No. 1 Best Hotel in the South 2019

No. 2 Best Hotel in the South 2018

SOUTHERN LIVING MAGAZINE’S SOUTH BEST AWARDS

Executive Chef Regan Browell

BEST CHEF’S OF AMERICA, 2013, 2014, 2015

Award of Excellence

WINE SPECTATOR, 2014, 2015, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022

I have stayed in many luxury hotels all over the world. There is no doubt that The Willcox is offering what “standard” luxury hotels can’t offer… the feeling of being home.

GUEST

The Willcox…nestled in the heart of thoroughbred horse country… was a favorite haunt of the Astors, Vanderbilts, Whitneys and Harrimans. Most of the guest accommodations feature high ceilings, fireplaces, period antiques, feather beds and plush baths… Rocking chairs line the front porch… A small exercise room and day spa round out the offerings.

ANDREW HARPER HIDEAWAY REPORT “BEST OF THE UNITED STATES”

Guests return to The Willcox, where time slows down to a more relaxed pace – they’ll find a rocking chair for resting their day-trip bones, a guestroom spilling over with modern-day comforts, and a hearty helping of Southern hospitality.

HOME & GARDEN MAGAZINE

No. 11 Best Hotel in the South – Readers’ Choice, 2021

No. 7 Best Hotel in the South – Condé Nast Traveler, 2020

No. 12 Best Hotel in the South – Condé Nast Traveler, 2019

Top 55 Hotels in the World 2013, 2015

Gold List – World’s Best Hotels 2014

Top 20 Best Hotel in the USA 2013, 2014, 2015

Top 10 Perfect Vacations 2014

Top 15 Hotel Spas in the USA 2014

Top 15 Business Travel Hotels in the World 2013 CONDÉ NAST TRAVELER

Greenleaders GOLD

TRIPADVISOR, 2014, 2015, 2016

Good Earth Keeping Award

S.C. HOSPITALITY ASSOCIATION, 2012

Diners Choice Award OPENTABLE, 2020, 2021, 2022

The Willcox Restaurant TRAVELERS CHOICE AWARD WINNER, 2021, 2022

The Willcox recalls an age when times were simpler but the pleasures of the season were celebrated with flair

THE ATLANTA JOURNAL-CONSTITUTION

What I loved most, other than my huge addictive bed, was just going for a walk around that lovely little town and then returning to the hotel. Stepping inside the foyer, every time it took my breath away a little, the high ceilings, the long couches, the beautiful antiques. Like coming back home, to the kind of Southern home I’ve always wanted. The staff remembered my name and what I like to drink from the last time I was here. The food was close to divine. There’s not another place like this.

GUEST

HOTEL SERVICES

THE RESTAURANT

Please join us in our award winning restaurant for a sumptuous meal created by our Executive Chef Alexander Mikos. Restaurant meals can be enjoyed in the dining room, lobby, front porch, pool side or in the privacy of your room. It is our pleasure to offer room service from our Restaurant Menus during restaurant hours.

Sunday Brunch 9AM–3PM • Breakfast Daily 7AM–10AM • Lunch Daily 11:30AM–3PM Bites 11:30AM–10PM • Dinner Daily 5PM–10PM

LOBBY BAR

Relax and enjoy true Southern hospitality. Plush seating areas, a roaring fire and live music are all part of the inviting ambiance that make The Lobby Bar a favorite of many guests. Entertainment is available Sunday mornings and Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings, with jazz on Thursday nights.

SALON & SPA

Your relaxation and rejuvenation are the goals of our Salon & Spa. Whether it’s a facial, massage or simply a wash and blow dry, our staff will surround you in gentle comfort. Allow us to make your reservation as early as possible in order to best serve your needs.

Open daily 9am–7pm by appointment only. Guests can cancel their appointment 24 hours (48 hours for Spa Packages) prior to service without penalty.

SPA BOUTIQUE

All of the hair, beauty and nail care products used in our Salon & Spa, and recommended for your daily home care regimen, are available through our Spa Boutique. We are pleased to represent the following brands in our Salon & Spa: Moroccan Oil and Phyto hair products; Dermalogica, Tammy Fender, and Intraceuticals skin therapies; Supergoop SPF, OPI, NuFace microcurrent and LED therapies; and Esker and Ancient Minerals body products. Please see Guest Services for assistance or allow us to make an appointment with a Therapist for a complimentary consultation.

LOBBY BOUTIQUE

The Aiken lifestyle is reflected in the merchandise on display in our Lobby Boutique. Take a moment to explore and we’re sure you’ll find just the “treasure” to gladden your heart and keep the memories of your visit alive.

POOL

Relax in the warmth of a sunny afternoon or after a long day. Our salt water pool is waiting to refresh you. Please note that we do not have a lifeguard on duty, and swimming is at your own risk. Should you require assistance getting in or out of the pool, please let the front desk know.

CARDIO ROOM

For our guests who enjoy keeping fit, we invite you to enjoy our poolside cardio room which is equipped with a treadmill, rowing machine and stationary bike to help you keep fit or simply exercise your “jet lag” away.

MEDITATION

Tammy Fender, a pioneer in plant-based luxury skin care and holistic living has created a meditation specific to The Willcox that can be found on your iPad. Guests are also invited to explore the meditations available through the Calm App on your Apple TV.

IN-ROOM FITNESS

Turn your guest room into a private fitness center. A yoga mat has been placed in the closet of your room. Should you wish guided exercise instruction, Guest Services will be happy to deliver a DVD player and exercise videos.

OFF-SITE FITNESS

As our guest, you enjoy complimentary use of Max Fitness. Please give your name and present your room key to have full use of the exercise equipment and classes (excludes Push Zone Training). Max Fitness located at 101 Corporate Pkwy Aiken, SC, (803) 648-4653.

BICYCLES

Our guests enjoy complimemtary use of our bicycles. Pedego Electric Bike tours and rentals can be arranged by Guest Services for your enjoyment as well. Please contact Guest Services to inquire about pricing and availability.

EVENING TURNDOWN SERVICE

When you’re ready to retire, your bed will be turned down, a cashmere hot water bottle can be tucked under your sheets if you wish and a small sweet gift placed on your pillow. Should you wish to enhance your turndown service, please visit our Experience Enhancements on your Apple TV for options that include port wine and truffles, chamomile tea and rose petal turndowns.

SLEEP CONCIERGE

Adequate rest improves alertness, productivity, mood and memory, and is crucial to losing body fat. Allow our Sleep Concierge to create the perfect environment for you to achieve your body’s ultimate rest. Our Sleep Concierge Menu can be found in the UNWIND section of our Experience Enhancements Menu on your Apple TV.

BATH BUTLER

Experience a taste of The Spa at The Willcox in your own room, with one of our specially created baths. Soak in a state of tranquility. Allow our Bath Butler to prepare everything for you. Soak in the oversized tub and end your day in total relaxation. Our Bath Butler Menu can be found in the UNWIND section of our Experience Enhancements Menu on your Apple TV. Available in Premium Rooms and all Suites.

EXPERIENCE ENHANCEMENTS

We have a wide selection of experience enhancements designed to further personalize your stay. Our enhancement menu includes a variety of welcome amenities, romantic, relaxation and enrichment options as well as additional turndown and holiday amenities. We welcome you to explore these on your Apple TV.

SHOE SHINE

Complimentary shoe shine is available daily. Please place shoes in the shoe bag in your closet and place outside your door before midnight. Your shoes will be returned, polished by 7a.m. the following day.

DRY CLEANING & LAUNDRY

Same day laundry and dry cleaning service is available everyday except Saturday & Sunday. Laundry bags are hanging in your closet and must be at the Front Desk by 8:00a.m., to ensure they will be back the same day by 7:00p.m.

BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

A computer, facsimile, photocopying, printing, shipping and high speed internet access are available 24-hours. Software includes Microsoft Office with Word, Excel and Power Point. Typing is available by appointment and a minimal charge. A desktop computer and printer are available for your use on the second floor of the east wing. Our meeting spaces have additional business amenities, and our Catering and Events Manager can work with you to accommodate additional needs or requests.

CHARGING STATION

A station to charge all your electronic devices is available at the front desk.

NEWSPAPERS

The New York Times Digest, and our local paper will be in the lobby each morning. Please let Guest Services know if you wish to have the Times Digest delivered to your room daily.

INTERNET

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in all guest rooms, lobby and meeting spaces. Willcox Guest Password: welcome123

TELEVISION

Your television is equipped with the DirectTV residential experience and an Apple TV for your streaming pleasure. Upon arrival, your television will be set up with the Apple TV. Instructions to change the input of the television for DirectTV are under the television remotes in your guestroom.

STAVE PUZZLES

For your enjoyment we have Stave puzzles located in the lobby. Stave puzzles are one of a kind wood jigsaw puzzles, hand cut one piece at a time, by a skilled crafter.

GAMES

Board games are available for your enjoyment while a guest at The Willcox. Games are located on the credenza of the east wing of the second and third floor.

CONVENIENCE ITEMS

If in the rush to travel you forgot something, the following items will be provided with our compliments upon request:

• Band-Aids

• Hand Sanitizer

• Insect Repellent

• Nail Polish Remover

• Tooth Brush

• Tooth Paste

• Mouth Wash

• Dental Floss

• Cough Drops

• Deodorant

• Shaving Cream

• Razor

• Feminine Products

• Contact Lens Solution

• Lint Brush

For your convenience we also have AA and AAA Batteries available for purchase.

GUEST ROOM BEVERAGES

Chilled Open Water are located in your bedside table. Open water is ultra-purified, electrolytepacked canned water in BPA-free aluminum packaging that’s recyclable and climate neutral. Waters enjoyed will be charged to your room and restocked daily.

HORSE CONCIERGE

The dedicated Horse Concierge at The Willcox is available to assist you with all of your equestrian needs. The Horse Concierge team provides information on services such as:

• Equine Veterinarians

• Farriers

• Tack Equipment & Supplies

TRAIL RIDES

• Blanket and Tack Repair

• Feed Dealers

• Trailer Accessories & Repairs

• Clipping and Braiding

• Associations

• Shows & Events

Slow or fast, we can coordinate up to 2 experienced riders on a guided tour along the clay roads or through the Hitchcock Woods. Horses also available for drag hunt and/or polo.

DOG CONCIERGE

The dedicated Dog Concierge at The Willcox is available to assist you with all of your canine needs. The Dog Concierge team provides information on services such as:

• Veterinarian Services

• Grooming

• Dog Walking

• Dog Bakery

• Dog Parks

• Dog Friendly Restaurants

DOG BOARDING

Relax knowing your pet is receiving care, love and attention. Day camp and nightly boarding available with supervised play and swim time.

PET TAGS

Should your favorite pet leave the property, we offer complimentary pet tags with our return address for your pet to use while a guest at The Willcox.

AMENITIES FOR GUESTS WITH DISABILITIES

The public areas of the hotel have been constructed to ensure access and a specially designed guest room is available to accommodate the physically challenged.

MEETING & WEDDING FACILITIES

Two Meeting rooms, accommodating groups of up to 100 guests are available for business gatherings and social events. The Restaurant, Pool, Lobby and Roosevelt Suite are also available for events. The Willcox can accommodate weddings and events for up to 300 people.

OFF-SITE MEETINGS & EVENTS

The same award-winning cuisine and personalized service you enjoy at The Willcox, is also available off premise at the event space of your choice. Willcox customers have the additional venue options of one of our Vacation Rental homes.

LINKS

We invite you to explore the following links for additional information. Please do not hesitate to call Guest Services if we can answer any questions or offer any assistance in creating your personal Willcox experience.

FOOD & DRINK

CLICK

CLICK HERE TO SEE OUR DRINKS MENUS

SALON & SPA

Voted

CLICK HERE FOR A FULL LIST OF OUR EXPERIENCE ENHANCEMENTS

ACTIVITIES & ADVENTURES

CLICK HERE FOR A LIST OF ACTIVITIES & ADVENTURES

People here enjoy just about every outdoor kind of fun short of mountain climbing. Start with horses, a nature walk, or even explore downtown Aiken.

MEETINGS & RETREATS

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Voted one of the best business travel hotels in the world.

WEDDINGS & SPECIAL OCCASIONS

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION RETAIL

CLICK HERE TO SHOP WILLCOX

GIFTS, SPA LUXURIES & GIFT CARDS

Photo by Whitney Wysong

IN ROOM INFORMATION

The Willcox has been welcoming guests for over a century. We invite you to relax and retreat in the comfort of your room. If there is anything we can do to make you more comfortable or assist you during your stay, please do not hesitate to ask.

SECURITY, SAFETY, AND FIRE

Because we are concerned with your well-being, we encourage you to take the precautions identified in this section of our in-room guide.

IN CASE OF ACTUAL FIRE .....................................................................................

WHEN YOUR ROOM IS THE SAFEST PLACE TO STAY

The Willcox is a smoke-free facility.

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Please feel free to sit on our front porch in a rocker or out by the pool if you wish to enjoy a cigarette or cigar. Guest rooms that have been smoked in will incur a cleaning fee starting at $500. Thank you.

TV GUIDE

APPLE TV

The black, rectangular remote is the Apple TV remote. When you arrive in your room, your TV will be turned to Apple TV. Press the “Home” button on the top left corner to return back to the home screen.

CABLE TV

The round, black and grey remote is used to watch TV. To watch, click the “Input” button on the bottom right corner. Apple TV is Input 2, and DirectTV/Cable is Input 1. Press and hold down the “Input” button for 3 seconds. After releasing the button, you will have the option to switch between Apple TV and DirectTV.

I-HOME RADIO

LISTENING TO THE RADIO

• Press and release the Mode Button as needed to turn on the unit and cycle through iPod, FM radio, AUX Line-in modes

• In FM mode, press + or – to tune to your desired radio station. You can hold the + or – to scan for the next clear station.

• There are 6 preset stations on your radio: P1 Public Radio P2 Adult Hits P3 Country P4 Top 40 P5 Adult Contemporary P6 Classic Rock

• Press the preset button to cycle through these radio stations

USING THE AUX LINE-IN JACK

You can play any portable audio device with the standard 3.5 mm head phone jack provided.

• Plug in the provided cord from the back of the iHome clock radio and plug it into your headphone jack on your portable audio device.

• Press and release the Mode button until Aux-in appears in the lower part of the display.

• Turn on and play your device.

INTERNET ACCESS

To access The Willcox network please go to Network Connections on your computer and choose Willcox Guest. Password is welcome123

FIREPLACE LIGHTING INSTRUCTIONS

Fireplaces are available for your enjoyment during the cooler months. If you need assistance lighting your fireplace, please call Guest Services at ext. 4522

SAFE OPERATIONS

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

You can operate the safe with a personal code.

USING YOUR PERSONAL CODE

TO CLOSE - you will find the safe open. Close the door and enter any 4 digit number and press the “LOCK” (#) key. The word CLOSED appears.

TO OPEN - Enter your 4 digit number and the safe will OPEN.

SECURITY, SAFETY, & FIRE

Because we are concerned with your well-being, we encourage you to take the precautions identified below:

SECURITY

• We recommend that all valuables are placed in the room safe.

• Close the door securely whenever you are in your room and use all of the locking devices provided. Be sure that connecting doors are locked properly.

• Know who is at your door. If it is a hotel employee, you should verify this by calling the front desk.

• Do not leave room keys on tables or in the spa or any other places where they can be easily lost or stolen.

• If you see or hear any suspicious activity, please report your observations to management.

SAFETY

• Please observe all signs posted for your safety in the cardio room, pool and spa.

• Please watch young children at all times, especially around the exercise equipment, pool, spa & dining room areas.

• Use the hand railing provided at stairways and exits.

FIRE

• Upon arrival at your guest room, note the floor plan, location of emergency exits, fire extinguishers, and fire alarms.

• Memorize the location of at least two emergency exits, including which side of the hall they are on. Count the number of doors to the nearest exit.

• Practice how to lock and unlock your door. Try practicing with your eyes closed so you can exit easily if the room is dark or if smoke is present.

• Keep your door key in a convenient place where you can find it easily – such as the nightstand. Always take your key when leaving the room. It is important to be able to get back in the room if exits are blocked.

IN CASE OF ACTUAL FIRE

• Call the front desk by dialing 4522. Give your room # and whether you smell smoke or hear an alarm ringing.

• If you cannot reach the front desk, call the fire department by dialing 911 on your in-room telephone.

• Plan your escape immediately via the nearest stairway exit.

• Never take the elevator, even if fire is just suspected. The fire’s heat can short-circuit elevator wiring.

• Do not pack items—leave your room immediately.

• Check your room door with your hand. If the door or doorknob is warm, do not open the door. Please see next page for instructions.

• If the door is not warm, crouch down, brace a foot against the door, and open it slowly. Stay low or crawl when leaving your room to avoid smoke or odorless carbon monoxide. Close door behind you.

• If the path is clear, proceed to the nearest exit. Move quickly along the same side of the wall as you exit and stay low. Open stairway doors carefully and check closely for any sign of smoke.

• Proceed downstairs, holding onto the railing for security.

• Meet out in the Colleton Avenue median, alert Hotel Management to the status of any other guest you are aware of in the building. Do not re-enter the building until approved by an emergency personnel.

WHEN YOUR ROOM IS THE SAFEST PLACE TO STAY

• Notify the front desk of your situation. If unable to reach the front desk, call 911.

• A well-prepared room is your best defense if a safe, speedy exit is not possible.

• Keep the room door closed. Stuff wet sheets or towels at the base of the door and in all door cracks and vent openings in the room and bathroom to prevent smoke from entering.

• Fill the bathtub with water immediately in the event fire interrupts the water supply.

• Quickly wet everything using the room’s ice bucket or wastebasket. Walls, bedding, and your clothes should be kept completely saturated.

• Turn off your air conditioner, fireplace, or heater to keep smoke from entering the room.

• Do not open or break the windows – this may add fuel to the fire. If your window opens without force, open it quickly and hang a sheet or towel outside to notify fire officials of your location. Then close the window quickly. Break the window only as a final means of escape.

• Jumping from above the third floor is usually more dangerous than waiting out the fire. There are many recorded cases of fire destroying areas all around a saturated room and guests surviving more than two hours in a trapped situation. Keep everything as wet as possible.

• Move drapes and anything flammable away from the window.

• Stay low and avoid inhaling smoke.

• Help filter smoke by tying a wet towel around your nose and mouth, folding it into a triangle, and placing the corner in your mouth.