If you’ve ever road-tripped through America or searched for a basic, affordable hotel, chances are you’ve come across a Comfort Inn. And if you’ve ever stayed at one, you might understand why I never have.
Like many others, I too always felt that Comfort Inns were stuck in the past. Dated rooms, inconsistent service, and a lack of basic amenities made these properties feel more like a blast from the past than a modern stay. For years, while hotel giants like Hilton, Marriott, and IHG aggressively refreshed their brands and raised standards, Choice Hotels seemed to be coasting on autopilot.
That finally seems to be changing for the better. Now sit back and come along as I take you through all the changes Comfort Inn and Country Inn & Suites are going through to become the hotel chains they deserve to be.
A Long Overdue Refresh
In 2021, Choice Hotels unveiled the Comfort Rise & Shine prototype, marking a significant milestone for its flagship brand as it celebrated its 40th anniversary. This new design aimed to modernize the Comfort brand and position it for continued growth in the upper midscale segment.
It is very clear that attention was paid to every single detail from day to day operations, franchisee feedback and most importantly the guests experience. The new design makes the best of both worlds for both franchise owners and guests.
Key features of the Rise & Shine prototype include:
Reducing the average square footage of newly built hotels by an average of 3,000 to 4,000 square feet.
New guest spaces and that allow for flexibility and new revenue opportunities.
Examples include new outdoor porches and multi-purpose flex rooms that easily transform from additional breakfast space to meeting and event space.
Easily adaptable designs to allow for customization based upon geographic location and to fit the needs of the local market.
City (bold yet approachable with rich wood tones), Sea (calm and soothing with muted colors and light wood tones), and Sun (vibrant and cheerful with a relaxed yet optimistic
Outdoor patios anchored by an indoor/outdoor fireplace, open and airy public spaces with high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows to maximize natural lighting, and guest rooms featuring upgraded fixtures and furniture, including semi-open closets and new “on the go” stations at the door.
Empehis on better and more comfortable lighting throughout interior and exterior spades.
Examples include the front desk welcome wall, public space millwork shelving, exclusive up-lighting on the guest room headboard wall and media panel, and on the prototype exterior.
As Megan Brumagim, Vice President of Brand Management, Design, and Compliance at Choice Hotels, stated,
“The prototype combines the features, design, and amenities that guests want, with the efficiency, functionality, and flexibility that developers expect. It offers spaces that can transform from day to night and serve a broad range of guest stays, whether business or leisure.”
So far, the new The Rise & Shine prototype has been adopted in over 140 properties across the U.S., including locations in Nashville, Huntsville, and Fort Myers. These updates have led to increased guest satisfaction scores compared to previous designs. Additionally, the updated design package has resulted in a 16% average cost optimization for owners, achieved through smart, innovative design and partnerships.
Country Inn & Suites: A Fresh Take on Generous Hospitality
Comfort Inn is not the only brand getting a major retool and refresh. Following Choice Hotels’ acquisition of Radisson Hotels Americas in 2022, the company has made significant strides in revitalizing the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson brand. (If you are interested in learning more about this acquisition, check out our post: Choice Hotels Acquires Radisson Hotel Group Americas – Thoughts & Reactions)
The refreshed prototype emphasizes a philosophy of generous hospitality, appealing to guests who value a comfortable, relaxed environment with a residential ambiance.
Unfortunately, there is not many renderings or images available for the prototype nor could I find any official confirmation of any locations using the new design. The only information that I could reliably find was directly from the Choice Hotels website which is where I find the renderings below:
Key updates include:
Similar to what we have seen with the Comfort Inn upgrades, the Country Inn & Suites also optimized their layout and square footage required for new hotels built. During this process, the prototype gained enough space for 18 keys (rooms).
Reduced costs for owners and operators while maintaining the rich legacy of Country Inn & Suites.
Guests are now greeted with a signature freshly baked chocolate chip cookie and can unwind in cozy public spaces designed with a residential ambiance, including a well-scaled single-story connected lobby and dining space.
The results speak for themselves in a positive way with higher reported revenue, more direct bookings and a higher growth in business travel. Furthermore based on guest surveys done, 84% of guests reported they would likely stay at a Country Inn & Suites hotel following the design refresh.
Why Now?
Frankly, this move was necessary years ago. I mentioned this same issue in my blog post on Wyndham’s new prototypes: many economy and midscale hotel brands lost appeal over the last decade because their parent companies fell behind on innovation. While Hilton and Marriott were rolling out new flagships and modernizing legacy brands, Choice and Wyndham moved much slower.
That said, Choice wasn’t completely idle. While Wyndham largely maintained the status quo, Choice at least took some strategic steps launching new brands like Everhome Suites and acquiring Radisson Americas, which included the Country Inn & Suites brand. Still, the flagship Comfort Inn brand continued to lag in perception.
The reality is that Comfort Inns across the country became wildly inconsistent. Some locations are clean and decently maintained; others feel like stepping into a time capsule. That inconsistency is a byproduct of franchise-heavy models where enforcement of brand standards can be lax.
However, this seems to be the first step forward to changing this long standing issue for Comfort Inn. The new design looks fresh and is ready to compete with other budget chains and even the big players like Hilton or Marriott. However though, without continuous brand enforcement or regular investment in property improvements, even a great prototype can fall flat once rolled out.
Can It Make a Difference?
It’s encouraging to see Choice Hotels investing in its core brands, even if it feels a little late. There’s clear intention here not only with fresh designs but also in the language they’re using. The new branding is more than a logo swap; it’s about “sharpened identities” and modern guest experiences.
Will it work? That depends on execution. If franchisees adopt the new prototype widely and Choice commits to stronger brand enforcement, it could help repair Comfort’s reputation and make it a serious contender in the midscale space once again.
For now, it’s a step in the right direction and one that’s been a long time coming.
If you have been following my travels over the past few years, it is no secret that I love going to Pennsylvania for short overnight trips or small vacations. There is just something about Pennsylvania I love and it always seems to just help me recharge the batteries. Lately, life has been very crazy and I decided it was time to do another short vacation to recharge. Join me as I take you along on my recent trip to Doylestown, PA for some fun explorations, sites and of course a hotel review!
Day 1 – Peddler’s Village:
Peddler’s Village 100 Peddlers Village, New Hope, PA 18938
The first stop on our trip was Peddlers Village in the small town of Lahaska, PA. Peddler’s Village is a 42-acre countryside property that features 60+ retail shops and boutiques, full and quick-service restaurants, a 66-room hotel and an indoor family entertainment center.
Peddlers Village is so large, I actually ended up spending the entire day there with my family and got to visit most of the stores in the village. I loved the amount of variety and different types of stores there was. While visiting, we also got to do a few of the antique stores across the street from the village.
One of my favorite stores I visited here was Fehrenbach Black Forest Cuckoo Clocks and German Gifts. I was so excited to visit this store and couldn’t wait all morning during the drive out. This split 3 level store features German food specialties, handcrafted gifts from wood carvings, cuckoo clocks, nutcrackers and smokers. This was honestly such a cool store and it really felt like you were in Germany. I was honestly amazed at the cuckoo clocks with how intricate and detailed they were. From little birds popping out to entire groups of people dancing, it was amazing to see how much effort went into that and the end result. Of course I could not leave here without buying a cuckoo clock for myself. Best purchase this entire trip!
Overall, this was a great stop on the way out to Doylestown and was so much fun. I highly recommend this as a day trip or stop next time you are in Pennsylvania. If I ever got the chance, I definitely would stop here again.
Days 2 & 3 – Fonthill Castle & Mercer Museum:
Up next, our trip took us to two of the coolest places I have ever been to in Pennsylvania: The Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle. Both of these places have some really cool history to them with rich histories tied to their creator, Henry Chapman Mercer, an early 20th-century antiquarian, archaeologist, and philanthropist. Mr. Mercer was very interested in preserving local history for generations to come and sought to do with his museum and Fonthill castle which was built as his residence. Up first, let’s explore the history of Fonthill Castle and showcase the stunning architecture and design of the home.
Fonthill Castle
Fonthill Castle was built between 1908 and 1912 using reinforced concrete which at the time was a new building technique. The castle was modeled after European castles with influences from medieval, Gothic, and other architectural styles.
The castle contains 44 rooms, with various levels, staircases, galleries, and hidden spaces. The rooms include living areas, galleries for his tile collection, a library, and even a small chapel. Mercer’s love for the eclectic and unusual is evident throughout the castle, which features asymmetrical design elements, circular staircases, and irregularly shaped rooms.
When you first enter the castle, you enter a dark circular room with arched columns that truely transports you back in time. You feel like you are entering a medieval castle straight out of a fantasy novel. As you navigate the castle further, each room gets more jaw dropping with its unique design, natural light and historic artifacts displayed and integrated throughout.
One of my favorite rooms was the library/study room with its floor to ceiling bookshelves, arched windows, grand fireplace and beautiful tile work. One of the coolest things is this room is two levels with the stairs cleverly tucked behind the fireplace giving the illusion there are no stairs to create a larger space. I found it amazing how old some of those books were in that library. Some were so old you could see the layers of dust through the sealed plastic covers that protected the books from disintegrating.
As the tour went on, it just kept getting more interesting and the rooms were getting more fascinating each with its own story and history. Yet another room that stuck out to me was the hallway area with “Rolo’s Stairs”. We learned from the tour guide, Mr. Mercer’s dog Rolo ran through wet cement at the foot of one of the staircases during construction. Rather than cover it, the paw prints were left and the staircase was named “Rolo’s Stairs”.
At the end of the tour, it felt as though you truly got a sense of who Mr. Merecer was the vision he had for his home. You were truly immersed in his story and it felt as though you knew him personally. I can’t recall many places that I left that evoked that feeling.
Mercer Museum:
If you thought Fonthill Castle was fantastic, you have to also check out the Mercer Museum. The Mercer Museum, completed in 1916, was designed to showcase his vast collection of over 40,000 American tools and historical artifacts, emphasizing the role of craftsmanship in early American life. The museum’s architectural style mirrors that of the castle, with a fortress-like design that houses exhibits on industrial and domestic tools, showcasing Mercer’s vision of preserving American history through its material culture.
I highly recommend Fonthill Castle and The Mercer Museum if you are ever in the area of Doylestown, PA. It is well worth the trip out here to be transported back into another time. You will leave appreciating the history and stories behind everything you will see just as Mr. Merecer wanted future generations to feel when he built both these stunning places.
Holiday Inn Lansdale – Hatfield Review
Holiday Inn was honestly not my first choice of hotel since the last few IHG hotels I stayed at I was left disappointed with. However, with all other nearby hotels sold out or $300+ plus a night for the entire weekend, Holiday Inn became the best option available. The going rate was about $147 plus tax for each night which was honestly a steal.
One reason I picked this hotel was the fact it had very high ratings and was recently renovated. From doing some research, this hotel was built in 1970 which you can easily tell from the layout of the building and from older images of the hotel. The building is also sectioned off into A,B,C and D sections which is typical of older builds.
While I do not mind this unique design, I did find it annoying that there were no signs or directory signs to guide you to the elevators. The elevators are completely at the other end of the first floor and tucked around a corner making it hard to see from down the hall. There was also a small 5 step staircase that you had to go down to get to the 1st floor guest room hallway. If finding the elevator was not annoying as it was, the elevator took forever every time you called it. It took on average 3 minutes for the elevator to come each time which was annoying but not worth complaining over since it is not anyone’s fault the elevator is old. However, once I got the room, it was pretty worth the small inconveniences getting to the room.
Room Review – 3.4/5
The room as mentioned, was newly renovated which you can tell since everything in the room looked brand new and was in excellent shape. When you first enter the room, you are greeted with a very spacious closet and wardrobe. I really enjoyed the amble storage and the fact there was a built in ledge with USB ports for phones and electronics. Very nice attention to detail there.
Before we get to the rest of the room, I want to mention the bathroom which honestly was the biggest downside to the room. While the bathroom was decently renovated, I noticed several issues that really made a difference. First off, the paint job on the ceiling and door was so sloppy and poorly done. You could see old paint chipping off the door, the ceiling hatch for plumbing access was painted over and it looks so tacky and bad.
The problems did not stop there sadly, the bathroom vent was clogged with so much dust that it kept falling into the shower despite trying cleaning it up several times. I have to say that is something housekeeping should have spotted. Other major issues of note include, very poor water pressure in the shower and at times a lack of hot water in the shower (temperature was more around room temperature or just barely warm). Last thing that was a major disappointment in the bathroom was how there was only one towel hook to hang up towels. I feel like this is a major detail missing especially for a room designed to sleep four people.
Other than the issues in the bathroom, the rest of the room was almost perfect. I was thoroughly impressed with the cleanliness of the room, the modern finishes and attention to detail throughout. Some key details that I loved were the AC filters being spotlessly clean with no dust or debris on them, the blackout shades were mounted inside the window frame so there is no annoying gap and the pillows were labeled if they were firm or soft.
Amenities – 3.5/5
Since this was a full service Holiday Inn, it featured a lobby restaurant with a bar and a breakfast buffet. One major downside is breakfast was not included with your stay which would normally not be a big deal if you were paying for a really good breakfast. Unfortunately, the $14 was not worth it and you were essentially paying for a Holiday Inn Express type breakfast. I do not think a breakfast you would get at an Express location or any other select service hotel is worth $14.
On the flip side, the lobby restaurant and bar, while decent, was somewhat of a let down with an overly basic menu and not much selection. However, I do have to say the food they did have was pretty good but felt expensive for what it was. I really would have liked to have seen some sort of specials menu or seasonal menu to compliment the small menu.
Final Rating
So, where exactly does this hotel rate with all the pros and cons? Based on my experiences, I would rate this hotel 3.5/5. While I did have issues with this hotel, I would stay here again if the need arose and would most likely recommend this hotel.
Final Thoughts:
Overall, the trip was a major success and an absolute blast up to this point. However, it was far from over! We had so much fun that we decided to stay an additional night to explore more of what Doylestown had to offer and tour yet another one of the coolest historical places I have ever been to on this trip.
Stay tuned for part two where we discover Downtown Doylestown, Bethlehem Steel Works and another hotel review!
The headlines have been busy these first few months of 2025 with yet another major player in the hotel scene making an announcement on new developments. In a recent press release, IHG Hotels & Resorts introduced the future-ready Generation 5 concept for Holiday Inn Express, set to revolutionize its public spaces across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa (EMEAA).
Before we get into my personal thoughts and reactions, let’s dive into a brief recap of what Generation 5 is all about.
Future Ready – Generation 5
It is clear the focuses on the new design are all centered around guest experience, diversity and inclusivity. The Generation 5 design reflects insights from extensive research into traveler preferences, including the demand for experiential and sensorial spaces. With zones like the EXPRESS Café & Bar and Focus Studio, guests can socialize, relax, or work in vibrant settings tailored to their lifestyles. Smart guest room features, such as ergonomic workspaces, ample USB ports, and Smart TVs, complement the elevated public spaces.
Each hotel will incorporate elements that reflect its local destination, ensuring a distinct sense of place. Moreover, IHG collaborated with a disability task force to create public spaces that are inclusive and accessible, catering to diverse needs and fostering a welcoming environment for all.
The Generation 5 design also focuses on offering flexibility and cost-effectiveness for hotel owners. Its scalable layout allows for easy adaptation across different locations while keeping costs manageable. This ensures that owners can maintain strong financial returns without sacrificing the high-quality standards Holiday Inn Express is known for.
When asked about his thoughts on the new design, John Wright, Vice President of Mainstream Brands for EMEAA at IHG had this to say:
“Generation 5 is a premium, vibrant, and dynamic design that leans into a lifestyle vibe that’s on trend. It’s playful and distinctive nature defines the witty personality of Holiday Inn Express, while its flexibility ensures each hotel reflects a sense of place.”
Generation 4 vs Generation 5:
Holiday Inn Express first introduced its Generation 4 design in 2016, focusing on modernizing guest rooms and public spaces with smarter layouts, improved service delivery, and enhanced technology. While it set a new standard for efficiency and comfort, Generation 5 takes things a step further by creating more dynamic, flexible, and experiential public spaces that cater to evolving traveler expectations.
Here’s how Generation 5 builds upon and improves the previous design:
More Experiential Spaces – Generation 5 introduces zoned public areas like the EXPRESS Café & Bar and Focus Studio, designed for socializing, working, and relaxing. Generation 4 emphasized functionality, but the new design brings a more vibrant, lifestyle-focused atmosphere.
Greater Flexibility – The new design allows hotel owners to adapt and scale spaces based on location and market needs while remaining cost-effective. Generation 4 was more standardized, whereas Generation 5 offers more local character and customization.
Enhanced Guest Engagement – Research shows travelers today want spaces that encourage connection and comfort. Generation 5 delivers this through inspiring aesthetics, multi-use furniture, and tech-forward features, making public areas feel more inviting.
Stronger Sense of Place – Unlike Generation 4, which had a uniform look, Generation 5 embraces local design elements, giving each hotel a unique identity while staying true to the Holiday Inn Express brand.
Inclusivity & Accessibility – Generation 5 was developed with insights from a disability task force, ensuring public spaces are more accessible and easier to navigate for all guests.
While Generation 4 modernized the Holiday Inn Express experience, Generation 5 reinvented it to deliver a smarter, more engaging, and future-ready hotel stay.
Examples of Generation 4 designs throughout Europe.
Deep Dive Into Generation 5 – Thoughts
Being brutally honest, this has to be one of the ugliest and most awful hotel designs I have ever seen. It looks like one of those really cheap and tacky home decor stores filled with cheap stuff that is “modern.” Look, I totally understand that outside of North America, there are different markets, each with its own specific demographics or preferences suited to that market. But this is just honestly bad.
I feel as though the thought process behind it is good, but the execution is very poor. From looking at some of the concept art, it makes the hotel look more like an elementary school or preschool than a hotel. At least with the previous generation, when it added in bold splashes of color, natural tones, and more of an artistic flair, it looked more like a hotel and was well done. I think there needs to be evolution and adaptation, but I don’t think this is the way to go.
I am all for making hotels not so cookie-cutter, but at the same time, I feel like as a brand, there needs to be some standardization and not too much deviation from the brand. It feels like Holiday Inn Express is trying to be something that it is not. It feels like they are trying to be more like a lifestyle hotel brand like Moxy, where they focus heavily on community, local design, and communal spaces.
To be very clear, I am in no way at all knocking this design because it was designed with inclusiveness and accessibility in mind. I am more critiquing and criticizing the actual design, such as furniture, color, and décor choices. I am all for designing spaces that work for everyone, but I think the final product just doesn’t look good like how you would expect from a Holiday Inn Express.
Final Thoughts
While the Generation 5 concept aims to offer innovative spaces that cater to modern traveler needs, the execution raises questions about the balance between creativity and brand identity. As the hospitality landscape continues to evolve, it’s crucial for brands like Holiday Inn Express to adapt while still maintaining the core essence that guests expect.
Ultimately, design should evoke a sense of comfort and familiarity, serving not only to attract new customers but also to reassure loyal patrons. The future of travel accommodation lies in thoughtful integration of local flair with brand consistency and guest-centric approaches. As we move forward, it will be interesting to see how this new design is received by travelers and how it influences the broader hotel industry. Only time will tell if Generation 5 can truly redefine what a Holiday Inn Express should embody.
Stay tuned for the first look at Holiday Inn Express Generation 5 when it opens in 2026!
Choice Hotels International is turning the page to an exciting new chapter for its Radisson Hotels Americas portfolio. With sleek new logos and elevated guest experiences on the horizon, this bold rebrand is all about redefining upscale hospitality in 2025 and beyond.
A Game-Changing Acquisition: The Foundation of Radisson’s Transformation
This transformation stems from Choice Hotels’ landmark $675 million acquisition of Radisson Hotel Group Americas in 2022. The deal brought nine brands, 624 hotels, and over 68,000 rooms under the Choice umbrella, significantly expanding its presence across the U.S., Canada, South America, and the Caribbean. This includes 10 Radisson Blu hotels, 130 Radisson hotels, nine Radisson Individuals, and a variety of other brands like Country Inn & Suites by Radisson and Park Plaza.
Current chart of Choice Hotels brands as of 2025 including all the Radisson brands from the 2022 buyout.
Radisson Brand Refresh: Modern Logos with Historic Roots
Let’s talk logos! Radisson, Radisson Blu, and Radisson Individuals are sporting fresh looks that nod to their storied pasts while stepping confidently into the future. Radisson’s new bold, elongated typeface pays tribute to its 115-year-old heritage, echoing the original signage created by its trailblazing founder, Edna Dickerson.
Meanwhile, Radisson Blu channels its Scandinavian design roots with a minimalist gradient typeface that invites guests to “think in Blu.” Radisson Individuals keeps it sleek and understated, allowing each boutique hotel’s unique charm to shine through.
Keycard for Radisson Blu Hotels
These updated visuals are more than just a facelift—they signal a bigger brand evolution. The bold Radisson logo celebrates its American origins, Radisson Blu’s design pays homage to its Danish beginnings, and Radisson Individuals perfectly balances elegance with individuality.
Honestly, while the new logos are important for the brand refresh, I’m not entirely convinced by these new designs. The new logos feel a bit too bland and way too corporate looking. So much so that they could belong to any big-name hotel chain like Marriott, Hilton, or IHG. There is really nothing particularly vibrant or eye-catching about them, and they don’t seem to capture the bold, dynamic spirit that Radisson has embodied in the past. Personally, I was hoping for something with more personality and color that would truly set the brand apart in the crowded upscale market. Unfortunately, logos are becoming way too boring today and lack any sort of creativity or boldness like the past. Hopefully one day, graphic design will return to that style.
New Upscale Hotel Experiences at Radisson Properties
In addition to new looks, Choice Hotels is rolling out exciting new guest experiences across Radisson properties in 2025. These experiences include:
Upscale dining experiences that are elegant yet still feel approachable for anyone.
Increase in grab & go food options that focus on quality.
New wellness amenities.
Introduction of new premium bath amenities such as shower, hair and body products.
Smart room controls.
Upgraded mobile check in process.
More specifically in Radisson Blu hotels focus on its Scandinavian feature new Scandinavian-inspired public spaces and guest rooms. Most notable in the guest rooms will be the new standout “Get Ready Moment” wall which is a chic vanity setup with flattering lighting and a full-sized closet.
Radisson Blu Renovations and Strategic Investments
Choice isn’t holding back on investments either. The rebranding kicks off at flagship spots like Radisson Hotel El Paso Airport and Radisson Blu Fargo. A massive $15 million renovation is underway at the Radisson Blu Mall of America, promising refreshed rooms, modern meeting spaces, and updated public areas that perfectly reflect the brand’s new identity.
Expanding into hot travel destinations is also part of the strategy. New Radisson hotels are opening in vibrant locations like Puebla and San Luis Potosí in Mexico and the stunning Playa Caracol in Panama.
Additionally, the Radisson Salt Lake City Hotel has completed a major redesign, blending sleek, modern touches with the city’s natural beauty. A second phase will introduce 215 West, a charming on-site coffee shop.
What’s Next for Choice Hotels and Radisson?
This bold rebrand is just the beginning. With over 7,500 hotels worldwide including more than 1,000 in the upscale and luxury categories. Choice Hotels is doubling down on its promise to deliver unforgettable stays. By blending rich brand histories with modern, guest-focused innovations, Choice is redefining upscale hospitality for today’s travelers.
“Since our integration of the Radisson brands, we’ve sharpened their brand propositions to captivate travelers who are looking for a hotel stay that stands above the rest. This year will mark just the beginning of our efforts to translate that vision into something customers can experience and enjoy on property,” said Indy Adenaw, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Upscale Brands, Choice Hotels International. “We are excited to usher in a new era for these beloved Radisson brands. At Choice Hotels, we’re never ones to rest on our laurels. We’re committed to further strengthening and distinguishing these brands within an increasingly competitive landscape so that owners can be confident they’re gaining a truly great value from their investment.”
Personally, I believe this is a genius move for Choice Hotels as we have seen in the past few years a heavy focus on brand improvements, new prototypes, and guest experience enhancements. This comes after years of a poorer brand image due to poor management, outdated locations and lower standards. With this move, it will position Choice into the more upscale market versus being heavily a budget oriented brand. Additionally, this puts Choice more in line with competition with IGH, Marriott and Hilton.
From fresh designs to wellness-driven amenities and thoughtfully curated experiences, Radisson’s new era is here and it’s brighter, bolder, and more inviting than ever.
Ready to experience the new Radisson? Book your stay now and discover the future of upscale hospitality.
Las Vegas is a city of change, always evolving, reinventing and innovating itself so it does not become stale and stays relevant. It is no secret that oftentimes these changes revolve around the mega hotels and resorts throughout the city. While some may come and go, some hotels often get rebranded and reconfigured into a whole new experience instead of meeting the wrecking ball.
Rebrands in Vegas are pretty common these days. We have seen the Monte Carlo become Park MGM, Bally’s become Horseshoe, and most recently, Mirage transforming into Hard Rock Las Vegas. (If you are interested in the Hard Rock conversion, check out our blog post on that). And there is yet another change coming to Las Vegas and no we are not talking about the As or Bally’s here. Instead, we are going to be focusing on the most recent news of the Delano being converted into the W Las Vegas.
Join us in today’s blog as we take a deep dive into the history of this property and all the changes that are coming within the next few years. So without further ado, let’s get to it!
History:
Thehotel as pictured in 2003 shortly after opening.
Before we dive into and discuss all the changes coming, let’s first take a look at a brief history of the Delano. The hotel originally opened as the THEhotel at Mandalay Bay and was built as an all suite hotel tower meant to complement the Mandalay Bay Resort. It was designed to stand out with bold stylish design and high end finishes. TheHotel opened to much fanfare on December 17, 2003.
In August of 2012, MGM Resorts International announced the rebranding of THEhotel into Delano Las Vegas as part of a partnership with Morgans Hotel Group. Through the deal, MGM would manage the hotel under a licensing agreement with Morgans Hotel Group, which owned the Delano brand. All of the suites at the hotel were to be redesigned, along with new bars, lounges, restaurants and nightclubs.
Although THEhotel had been financially successful, the decision to renovate and rename it was part of a transformation at the Mandalay Bay. In addition, there had already been plans to renovate the nine-year-old hotel tower prior to forming a partnership with Morgans Hotel Group, which had been expanding the Delano brand.
Delano Las Vegas officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on September 2, 2014. Flash forward to 2024, The Delano Las Vegas is getting a complete transformation and will officially be rebranded as W Las Vegas as part of the new MGM and Marriott partnership.
This collaboration between two trusted hospitality brands means more than 200 million Marriott Bonvoy members can enjoy unique benefits and redeem points at MGM Resorts’ destinations while MGM Rewards members can status match and receive member benefits at Marriott’s global portfolio of approximately 9,000 properties.
Ironically enough, this is not the first time the W brand is going to be in Vegas as there was previously a W Hotel in Las Vegas from 2006 to 2009 and 2009 to 2017.
W Hotel Las Vegas (2006 – 2009)
The W Hotel Las Vegas in its earlier incarnation actually opened in 2006, but it wasn’t a standalone hotel at that time. Instead, it was part of the Las Vegas Sahara Hotel and Casino property, which was undergoing a significant renovation.
The W Hotel was essentially a brand overlay within the Sahara’s renovation efforts. This was not a complete transformation but rather an infusion of W’s style and luxury into the existing Sahara property.
W Hotel Las Vegas (2009 – 2017)
Crews remove the W branding and signage outside of the SLS, soon to be renamed to the present day Sahara Las Vegas.
The W Hotel was located within the CityCenter complex on the Las Vegas Strip. It opened in 2009 as a full-scale, standalone hotel with its own identity, separate from the Sahara property. By 2016, it was operating under the same brand and offering the trendy, upscale experience the W brand is known for.
This version lasted until 2017, when it rebranded as part of the larger Sahara Las Vegas operation, ultimately ending W’s presence in Vegas.
What’s Changing?
Rendering the new W Hotel Las Vegas expected to begin renovations in early 2025.
While there is little details known about the exact timeline or details of the project publicly available at this time, we can definitely say the hotel is going to go through a renovation and conversion process to meet the W brand standards. The W brand is known for its bold, trendy, and youthful vibe, so expect a lot of style, art, and an Instagram-worthy atmosphere throughout the property. It’s a bit of a shift from Delano’s more subdued luxury, so it’ll be interesting to see how the two compare once the dust settles.
It’s worth noting, as with Delano, W Las Vegas will not have a casino but will still have access to the Mandalay Bay Resort and its casino floor.
Final Thoughts:
I think it is going to be interesting to see the W brand finally return to Vegas after a lengthy absence. It is interesting to think about why Marriott, another company or a developer did not try to bring a W hotel back to Vegas sooner. I think it is sad the original W Hotel had a relatively short lifespan before being rebranded. I truly think if the original W was still there today, it would have done very well all these years and would have become a Vegas landmark for luxury and lifestyle.
With that being said, I can not wait to see what the new W Hotel has in store for Vegas and I think it is going to fit right in. W is known for appealing to luxury travelers, and a younger, trendier crowd. I think with the well throughout high end design, experiences and amenities, it would have no problem appealing to that type of crowd.
I personally can not wait to see all the renderings and announcements about what the property is going to look like post conversion and am very excited by this news. I have no doubt that the W will bring fresh energy that is sure to turn heads on the Strip. I think this is going to be the first of many new hotels and or branding deals we will see from MGM and Marriott. I can see this being a trend going forward with other casino operators, not just in Vegas, bringing in luxury hotel brands to supplement their offerings they already have.
We’ll keep you posted with any new details as the renovation gets underway, but in the meantime, it’s time to start thinking about what’s next for this exciting new chapter in Vegas history!
Hello friends! Welcome to another one of our “Day In The Life” blogs! Did you know that some of the most critical tasks in a hotel happen when most people are asleep? As the city quiets down, the night auditor springs into action, ensuring the smooth operation of the hotel. When it comes to shifts, the 3rd Shift (often referred to as the Graveyard Shift or Night Audit) is often overlooked, in my opinion.
Many hotels have 24/7 service at the front desk, even during the holidays and the slow season. The night auditor is the unsung hero of the hospitality industry, making sure everything runs smoothly while the world sleeps. Many ask: “What is so special about Night Audit? It has to be the most boring shift, right?”
Having worked as a night auditor myself, I can tell you it’s anything but boring. It’s a shift filled with unique challenges and unexpected moments. By the end of this blog, I hope to create a special appreciation for night owls in the hotel business. I want to shine a light on their important role. So, grab a coffee, and let’s get started!
The Role of a Night Auditor
I’m sure many people wonder: “What exactly is Night Audit?” According to Indeed.com, Night Audit is a tool that helps managers keep the hotel functioning efficiently. It summarizes the daily financial transactions from the hotel’s front desk (or other departments, depending on the hotel). It provides a clear view of cash flow in and out of the hotel daily.
In many hotels, the night auditor handles the night audit process. They are typically a senior front desk employee or manager. The night auditor usually completes this process in the late evenings or early mornings; for me, it’s around 2 a.m. Eastern time. But what does this process entail?
Key Responsibilities
Balancing Transactions: A core responsibility is reconciling all financial transactions from the day, and ensuring all payments, charges, and refunds are accurately recorded. For my job, I receive paperwork from three main departments: Food & Beverage (from our restaurant and tavern), Visitor Center (from our campground), and Retail (from our market and the front desk market). One of my first tasks is to scan all receipts and paperwork as part of what will become the Audit Packet for the night.
Generating Reports: Another key responsibility is generating financial, occupancy, and maintenance reports for management. These reports are scanned into the Audit Packet and placed in the Manager’s box. Without these critical reports, it could be challenging for the business to run smoothly.
Checking Accuracy: Ensuring accuracy in all transactions and charges is crucial. My main goal is to identify and resolve any discrepancies in the paperwork. If any discrepancies can’t be resolved during the audit, it’s best to alert the manager.
Handling Guest Needs: Even though most guests have already arrived by the time an auditor starts their shift, handling guest needs is still part of the job. This includes checking in any late arrivals, checking out early departures, and addressing any concerns or requests that may arise during the night. Some nights are smooth, while others can be more challenging.
Security Checks: Ensuring the safety and security of the hotel and guests is another important task. This may involve performing routine checks or monitoring CCTV footage, depending on the hotel. For instance, at my location, a 3rd shift maintenance person helps with security, but I also act as security at the front desk.
Tools of the Trade
Property Management Systems (PMS): Each hotel uses a unique PMS system. They manage bookings, guest information, and financial transactions like pet fees or room charges. I must check the PMS system to ensure everything is recorded correctly before finalizing the system, which helps reduce errors and discrepancies.
Accounting Software (POS): Some hotels use specialized accounting software or a POS system to manage financial aspects for various departments. I also check for accuracy in this system to eliminate errors before finalizing.
Communication Tools: At my job, we use a radio to contact maintenance for guest needs, which could include issues with A/C units, wildlife encounters (yes, bears), or disturbances. Not all hotels have communication tools, and some auditors may work alone during the night.
Why Does Night Audit Matter?
Every task listed above is crucial to a hotel’s operations. Accurate financial records ensure smooth operations and aid in planning for future investments. Providing 24/7 guest service enhances the guest experience, potentially leading to better reviews and repeat customers. Having spent many nights auditing, I can attest to the importance of these tasks. For example, I once noticed discrepancies in room billing. After clarifying with my manager, I corrected the errors in the PMS system, ensuring accurate billing and a smooth checkout experience for the guests.
A Typical Night Shift
A typical night shift can vary depending on the location, but generally, it starts at 11 p.m. and runs until 7 a.m. the next morning. Here’s a look into what a night shift involves.
Starting the Shift
Once I arrive, I clock in at the staff room and place my dinner in the refrigerator for later. I then head back downstairs to the front desk to relieve the PM shift clerk. This marks the beginning of my night.
The night shift typically begins with a handover from the evening staff. This transition is crucial for understanding any pending tasks, guest issues, or special instructions. Communication is key, and I always take detailed notes to ensure nothing is missed. I inquire about any situations or issues from the previous shift and check the property management system (PMS) for any pending arrivals.
If there are pending arrivals in my campground, I alert maintenance to perform a site check during their patrol and report back. For my specific location, I also check for any picnic shelter reservations for the next day. If there are any, I usually fill out a shelter sign to provide maintenance as well.
Next, I count all the front desk drawers to ensure the money is balanced correctly. During this process, I also track how many park passes need restocking. After counting the drawers and recording any discrepancies in my error log, I proceed to the next tasks.
Handling Guest Needs
Despite the late hour, guests may still need assistance. This part of the job requires excellent customer service skills and the ability to handle various situations calmly and efficiently. This includes:
Late Arrivals and Check-Ins: Welcoming late guests, processing their check-in, and providing necessary information.
Guest Inquiries: Addressing questions or concerns, from room service requests to providing local area information.
Room Changes: Assisting guests who need to switch rooms, ensuring a smooth transition.
I keep a note journal of any situations or issues during my shift, which I later include in an email for the shift report. Good communication is essential in the hotel industry, so having accurate notes helps reduce errors or confusion for other shifts and management.
Financial Responsibilities
The core responsibility of the night auditor is to reconcile the day’s financial transactions, maintain accurate records, and prepare reports for management. My tasks include:
Reconciling Accounts: Balancing all transactions made throughout the day, including room charges, restaurant bills, and other services.
Generating Reports: Producing daily financial summaries, such as revenue and occupancy reports.
Audit Checks: Verifying the accuracy of financial data and cross-checking different sources to ensure there are no discrepancies.
I collect all paperwork from previous shifts and other departments, scanning them into the audit packet. This ensures that all payments, refunds, and credits are correctly posted and that necessary documents for the next day’s operations are prepared.
Administrative and Operational Tasks
Beyond financial duties, night auditors perform various administrative tasks to keep the hotel running smoothly. I usually handle these operational tasks at the end of my shift once I have completed the necessary paperwork:
Preparing for the Next Day: Setting up the front desk for a seamless transition to the morning shift.
Housekeeping Coordination: Pre-assigning arrivals to help housekeeping focus on immediate cleaning needs or turnovers for the day.
Maintaining the Front Desk: Ensuring the front desk is presentable by wiping down counters, restocking park passes, and taking out the trash if needed.
The Quiet Hours
During quieter parts of the night, when guest interactions are minimal, night auditors focus on detailed tasks that require concentration. This can be the most challenging part of the job. Tasks include:
Detailed Reporting: Compiling and reviewing reports to ensure all financial data is accurately recorded.
System Updates: Performing any necessary updates or maintenance on the PMS.
When I encounter an issue that I can’t resolve, I take a quick walk to clear my mind before refocusing on the paperwork. Managing stress and maintaining focus are crucial during these times.
Wrapping Up
As the shift comes to an end, I prepare for the handover to the morning staff. Watching the sunrise is a reminder of the long night’s work. Before ending my shift, I compile emails with notes, issues, and surveys from previous stays. Once my replacement arrives, I debrief them on the night’s activities, unresolved issues, and important notes. Afterward, I head back to the staff room to clock out and then drive home until the next shift.
Challenges and Rewards
Working as a night auditor comes with a unique set of challenges and rewards. From my experience, the rewards often outweigh the challenges. There will be nights with difficult guests, but there will also be nights when you can work undisturbed. Let’s explore both aspects in detail.
Challenges
Dealing with Difficult Guests: Handling guest complaints or issues can be particularly challenging at night when emotions might be heightened, and immediate resources may be limited. Patience, empathy, and problem-solving skills are crucial. For instance, one night a guest was very upset because their key card had stopped working. Despite asking questions like, “What room are you in? Did you put the keys next to a phone?” the guest remained difficult and left before I could help. I explained the situation to my manager, who addressed the guest the next morning.
Handling Emergency Situations: Night auditors must be prepared to manage emergencies such as medical incidents, fire alarms, or security breaches. This requires staying calm under pressure and knowing the appropriate protocols to ensure guest and staff safety. For example, there was a night when a guest had a blood sugar issue. I had to contact EMT services and fill out an incident report for my manager.
Managing the Night Shift Lifestyle: Adjusting to the night shift can be tough. It disrupts your sleep cycle and social life, requiring careful planning and discipline to maintain a healthy work-life balance. On my days off, I try to stay awake through most of the night since my body is accustomed to being awake. When I get home at the end of my shift, I eat breakfast and sleep until mid-evening (usually around dinner time).
Loneliness and Isolation: The quiet hours can sometimes feel isolating, especially if you’re used to a more social work environment. Staying engaged and finding ways to break the monotony are important. While I don’t find this challenge too problematic, as my shift includes another person to talk to, it does make it hard to attend employee events or staff meetings.
Rewards
Satisfaction of Ensuring Smooth Operations: There’s a great sense of accomplishment in knowing that your work ensures the hotel runs smoothly and is prepared for the next day. Your attention to detail and diligence play a vital role in the hotel’s success. I find it satisfying to be part of a well-oiled machine and appreciated by my fellow staff members for my hard work.
Opportunity for Quiet, Focused Work: The quieter hours of the night allow for focused work without constant interruptions. This can be a great time to complete detailed tasks and reflect on your work. I often pass the hours by playing music while focusing on the paperwork.
Building Strong Customer Service Skills: Handling diverse guest interactions, from late-night check-ins to resolving issues, helps build strong customer service skills. These skills are valuable and transferable to many other roles within and outside the hospitality industry.
Developing Problem-Solving Abilities: The unique challenges faced as a night auditor, such as handling emergencies or solving financial discrepancies, help develop strong problem-solving abilities and the capacity to stay calm under pressure.
Sense of Independence: Working overnight often means relying on your judgment and making decisions independently. This autonomy can be empowering and build confidence in your professional abilities. However, if I feel unable to handle a situation, I can always call my manager for guidance.
Conclusion
Being a night auditor is a unique and rewarding role within the hospitality industry, offering a blend of challenges and opportunities. We’ve explored the typical night shift, highlighting the crucial tasks that ensure smooth hotel operations, from handling guest needs and managing financial responsibilities to performing various administrative duties.
Key Points:
Diverse Responsibilities: Night auditors manage a variety of tasks, including guest interactions, financial reconciliation, and preparing the hotel for the next day.
Unique Challenges: The role involves dealing with difficult guests, handling emergencies, and adjusting to the night shift lifestyle.
Rewards and Satisfaction: Despite the challenges, night auditors find satisfaction in ensuring smooth operations, enjoying quiet, focused work, and developing strong customer service and problem-solving skills.
Reflecting on the unique aspects of being a night auditor, it’s clear that this role requires a blend of patience, attention to detail, and resilience. The night shift offers a quieter environment, providing opportunities for focused work and personal growth. It’s a position that not only supports the hotel’s operations but also enhances the guest experience through excellent service and efficient management.
Personal Reflection:
From my own experience, the role of a night auditor has been both challenging and fulfilling. The sense of accomplishment that comes with ensuring everything runs smoothly and the opportunity to develop valuable skills make this role truly rewarding. If you appreciate the tranquility of the night, have an interest in hospitality and finance, and possess strong problem-solving abilities, the night auditor position might be the perfect fit for you. However, this shift does come with its drawbacks and may not be ideal for everyone based on their personal lives.
If you’re intrigued by the idea of working nights and making a significant impact in the hospitality industry, consider exploring a career as a night auditor. It’s a role that not only supports your professional growth but also offers a unique and gratifying work experience. Join the night owls of the hotel business and discover the rewarding world of night audit.
Is the customer always right? This is an age old burning question in everyone’s mind who works customer service, especially the hotel industry.
So where exactly did this famous and controversial phrase come from? The famous phrase we always hear was coined back in 1909 by a London department store founder who wanted to assure customers that they would get good service at his store. It’s been used a lot since then, having endured exactly 110 years.
I personally have a lot of experience in hearing this painful saying during my time in both the restaurant and hotel industry. When I worked in the restaurant industry, this was my least favorite saying and is something we’d always joke about on break in the break room.
For all you strong supporters of this saying, I hate to bust your bubble, the customer isn’t always right! Sometimes the customer is the one who makes the mistake and tries to blame the restaurant or hotel. Let’s take a look at real world examples based upon my experiences.
Case Study #1:
Jimmy orders an extra large pizza, with pepperoni, ham, sausage and bacon. Jimmy wants light sauce and extra cheese but forgets to ask for it. The order taker reads back the order and Jimmy confirms it. 30 minutes later, Jimmy gets the pizza and complains it is not what he ordered since there is no light sauce or extra cheese. Jimmy then tries to blame the restaurant for the mistake even though he made it.
Is Jimmy, the customer, right?NO!
Despite Jimmy thinking he didn’t make a mistake, the restaurant only made exactly what he ordered.
Case Study #2:
Susan books a 3 night hotel reservation for the Sunset Inn. What Susan doesn’t realize, there are two Sunset Inn locations in the town she is coming to vacation in. Susan books the farther away location on the opposite end of town instead of the location closer to the beach. Susan comes into the location closer to the beach not realizing she is at the wrong hotel. She begins to get argumentative with the front desk when they tell her that she booked the wrong location and direct her how to get there. Susan then gets even more irate after the front desk tells her they are sold out and can not modify her reservation since she didn’t make it there. Furthermore Susan begins to blame the desk and say they screwed up.
Is Susan, the customer, right?NO!
Susan is one hundred percent at fault here as she didn’t double check her reservation and just skipped past the confirmation screen before fully booking the reservation.
My Honest Thoughts:
Honestly I understand the rationale behind is to ensure customers and guests that they will get the best service possible and is a marketing tactic. However, like I mentioned above, sometimes they aren’t always right. Sometimes it’s the guests that make the mistake and not us service professionals.
Mistakes aside, let’s be real here for a second. The customer can’t be right if the request is not realistic or possible. Not every customer request or complaint may align with the business’s capabilities or policies. Customers may sometimes have unrealistic expectations or misunderstandings. In such cases, businesses need to manage expectations effectively while aiming to provide a satisfactory resolution.
Businesses operate within certain guidelines, policies, and operational constraints. These are designed to ensure efficiency, fairness, and adherence to legal and ethical standards. Sometimes, meeting a customer’s request may conflict with these policies. In such situations, businesses must find a balance that respects both the customer’s needs and the organization’s standards.
Additionally, we can not forget those who love to abuse the system and manipulate it to their advantage. This phrase can create a culture of negative customer entitlement and a “Karen” culture. Instances where customers verbally abuse service staff or make demands that compromise ethical standards illustrate the dangers of blindly adhering to this god awful phrase. For example, in the hospitality industry, a guest insisting on discriminatory treatment towards staff based on race or gender cannot be justified under any circumstances, despite the belief that “the customer is always right.”
The customer entitlement that comes with the phrase not only leads to poor treatment of employees, it also increases job stress and burnout. This ultimately leads to high turnover which is the worst thing the hospitality industry faces.
Now, I know what you are thinking. If the customer isn’t right what do I do to resolve the issue at hand? Here’s the key, you want to make the customer think they are right even though they may not be. Even though they made the mistake or are totally wrong, you can not argue or dismiss the situation entirely. This is something I have come to learn in time and is extremely useful for the situations listed above.
So how can one make the customer feel like they are right? Let’s take a look back at our earlier case studies as examples.
In our first case study with Jimmy, despite the mistake being his fault, all you could do is apologize, and address the situation head on by offering a remake, discount on the next order or offer a free side or dessert of Jimmy’s choice next time he orders. By doing this, we shift the blame a little bit. We make Jimmy think it was our fault when in fact it was not and this allows us to hopefully make Jimmy satisfied and a returning customer.
In our second case study with Susan, all we can do is offer to help her here. If there was availability at the hotel, the best solution would have been to make her a new reservation and help her cancel the other one. Since there is no availability, there is not much we can do. All we can do is assist her with getting to the other location or if our company has other brands or affiliated properties in the area, we can always help her find a reservation at one of those hotels. By doing this, we are showing Susan that even if this is not our problem, we still care and are willing to do something and not leave her to her own devices.
Final Thoughts:
“The customer is always right” encapsulates the importance of prioritizing customer satisfaction and service excellence. However, it should not be interpreted rigidly. Successful businesses understand the complexities involved in customer interactions and strive to navigate them with empathy, integrity, and a commitment to maintaining their operational standards and values. This balanced approach ensures that both customers and businesses benefit from positive, sustainable relationships over the long term.
I’ll leave you with this final thought: Sometimes no matter what you do, or how hard you try, you never can make everyone happy. In scenarios like that, it is crucial to do your very best, go above and beyond, and never lose your cool. If you lose your cool, that only makes things worse for you and the situation at hand.
What are your thoughts on the phrase “the customer is always right”? Do you agree with our thoughts and analysis? Let us know down in the comments section below, and as always, if you are enjoying our content, be sure to subscribe to never miss a single post.
With warmer weather just around the corner, it is the perfect time for a family vacation or road trip. Oftentimes the most difficult decision when planning a trip, is where to go and what to do. In today’s post, we’ll be taking you coast to coast and highlighting what each state has to offer. So without further ado, let’s go to our first state!
Alabama
McWane Science Center:
There are many reasons why this fabulous museum is one of the top tourist attractions in Alabama. One of the reasons is because it is a place that can be enjoyed by adults and kids alike. Another is that it is a fascinating place packed with things to see and do with an impressive 9,000 square feet and four floors of exhibits.
Having opened in 1998, this place has seen millions of people come through the doors to explore the interactive exhibits. You can explore the natural wonders of the state at the science center and take the exhibits such as Native American artifacts, fossils, minerals and rocks, and much more.
You can also pay a visit to the IMAX theater, which is a dome theater that provides you with an immersive experience as you watch documentaries that are designed to educate and fascinate visitors of all ages.
Alaska
Glacier Bay National Park
If you enjoy taking in stunning natural beauty, then you will be thrilled with this attraction. Situated in the Alaska panhandle, this is a place where you can immerse yourself in the incredible surroundings that Alaska has become known for.
There are many outdoor activities that you can look forward to when you visit this attraction, and there is even a lodge that you can use as your base.
Amongst the recreational activities, you can enjoy kayaking and hiking, bird watching and fishing. You will be fascinated by the wildlife that is present here too, including mountain goats and black bears.
Arizona
Grand Canyon National Park
No trip to Arizona would be complete without a visit to the breathtaking Grand Canyon, which is known as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
You will find plenty to see and do here and some fantastic photo opportunities of the awe-inspiring surroundings. Accessible from both the North and South Rim, the Grand Canyon offers a host of hiking trails for those who want to explore the area.
You can even explore via mule rides if you prefer, although hiking on foot allows you to explore at your own pace and get to one with nature as you take in this stunning natural formation.
Arkansas
Magic Springs and Crystal Falls Water & Theme Park
This theme park provides a day of thrill, amusement, and fun for the whole family. There is something for all ages at this park with both white-knuckle rides and rides for younger ones.
If you visit during the summer, you will also enjoy being able to cool off at the water park, which provides a host of additional thrills, including the fabulous wave pools.
If you want to chill out and relax for a little while, you can enjoy the lagoons. The impressive water slides offer added excitement for kids and adults alike and thus should be on your USA bucket list.
California
Disneyland & Disney’s California Adventure
There are so many great attractions in California, but this world-famous theme park is an absolute must when you come to this state. Although there are other Disney theme parks around the globe, this is the only one where construction was personally supervised by the man himself – Walt Disney.
This gives it a unique and special twist as well as a little extra Disney magic. Of course, the fabulous rides, magical attractions, and exciting characters also add to its appeal, making it the perfect place for the whole family to visit when visiting this state.
Colorado
Garden of the Gods
At close to 1400 acres, there is plenty for visitors to feast their eyes on at this park with some stunning scenery to take in.
Garden of the Gods is designated a National Natural Landmark, making it the perfect attraction for those that want to get close to nature. You will be thrilled with the rock formations found here, which cover geological history going back hundreds of millions of years.
You can also enjoy the various walking trails to help you to make the most of your visit to this widely popular natural wonder. So, be sure to add this attraction to your USA bucket list.
Connecticut
The Mark Twain House & Museum
If you have an interest in literature and literary history, then the Mark Twain House & Museum is an attraction that you really shouldn’t miss. Although it only opened to the public in 2003, it has become quite popular.
You can learn more about the hugely talented Mark Twain and find out details about both his personal life and his life as a legendary author.
There is a gallery where you can take in an exhibition of Twain’s life and work, and there is even a theater where you can watch a documentary on him.
Delaware
Frightland
There are plenty of excellent attractions in Delaware, but if you are looking for something truly unique, you should take time out to visit Frightland. This spine-chilling attraction has become known as one of the scariest in the country and offers many spooky experiences to keep you on your toes.
Explore the Ravenwood Cemetery, take in the Zombie Prison, or try out the Horror Hayride. There are many other spooky attractions that you can look forward to when you visit this scream park. Do bear in mind that Frightland only opens during the fall, from late September through to early November.
Florida
Universal Studios
Florida is a state known for its plethora of fantastic theme parks, amongst other things, and one theme park that you will love is Universal Studios.
An excellent place for a family day out, this park has something for everyone and will enable you to immerse yourself in the world of the movies through fabulous settings and thrilling rides.
Georgia
CNN Center and Tour
A visit to the studio of one of the world’s best-known news networks is something that will provide you with the most memorable and unique experience. Visitors can look forward to a fascinating tour of the studio, which is the global headquarters of the network.
Enjoy seeing where news stories are gathered, written, edited, and broadcast to the world as you make your way around the studio.
There are also VIP tours and the chance to see the news being broadcast live. Also, you can enjoy a bite to eat at one of the news-themed restaurants onsite.
Hawaii
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
If you want to explore the world of volcanoes, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the place to visit in Hawaii. You will be thrilled with the dramatic landscapes and breathtaking views as you explore, and there are even various recreational activities that you can enjoy as you take in the surroundings. These activities include biking, hiking, and camping as you make your way through the park and marvel at the incredible scenery.
Idaho
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is a must-see attraction not just because of its natural beauty and recreational activities but because of its history. This was the first national park in the country, having been established in the early 1870s.
You will find some truly fascinating flora and fauna here, and it is the perfect place to soak up natural beauty in a historic and dramatic setting. There are plenty of activities, including camping, fishing, hiking, and spotting wildlife such as wolves, bears, and bison in the mountain wilderness.
Illinois
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is perfect for history lovers, and it is all the more fascinating because it stands in Springfield, which is the hometown of the 16th president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln.
You can take in a range of exhibitions and artifacts relating to the life of this iconic former president, including original and signed copies of documents that helped to change American history forever.
There are various other exhibitions to take in at this museum, with some artifacts belonging to his wife and even the box seat from the Ford Theater, where President Lincoln was assassinated.
Indiana
Indianapolis Zoo
Indianapolis Zoo is not just a regular zoo but a place where you can take part in some unique and exciting experiences. The zoo is the perfect attraction for families, as it aims to educate as well as fascinate its visitors.
There are, of course, plenty of animal species to see and learn about at this zoo. However, you can also enjoy some pleasant and memorable experiences, such as a guided in-water adventure with the dolphins.
The Animal Art Adventure enables you to have a personalized painting created by artists while the White River Garden teaches adults and kids about the conservation of plants and animals.
Iowa
National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium
One of the top attractions in Dubuque, Iowa, the museum and aquarium provide visitors with a unique and enjoyable experience. It is situated in the Port of Dubuque, and through the use of aquariums, exhibits, and wetlands, it takes you on a journey along the Mississippi River. There are various hands-on experiences that you can look forward to, and the experience is both educational and entrancing for adults and children alike.
Kansas
Kansas Cosmosphere and Space Center
Just like Dorothy was whisked away from Kansas to Oz, you can look forward to being whisked away from Kansas into space when you visit this immersive attraction.
There are some engaging US space artifacts and exhibitions to take in when you come to the space center, and it is a place that adults and children will love exploring.
Make sure you visit the Hall of Space Museum, which is second only in size to the Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum. There are several excellent shows to see at the dome theater, as well as plenty to learn at the planetarium.
Kentucky
Churchill Downs
One of the attractions that this state is famous for is the Kentucky Derby. If you are a fan of horse racing and want to have a unique experience, you can see where it all happens with a visit to Churchill Downs horse racing track.
This is an unforgettable and exciting experience where you not only enjoy the racing but can also take a trip to the Kentucky Derby Museum and learn all about the prestigious annual horse race through various exhibits.
There are even family Fun Days held here, which means that you can take the children along for a fun-filled day out.
Louisiana
Mardi Gras Tour
One grand and impressive event that Louisiana is known for is its colorful and fascinating Mardi Gras Parade, which takes place in New Orleans. You can learn all about this world-famous parade when you take the Mardi Gras Tour, where you can look forward to fun and entertainment every step of the way. You can delve into the roots of this parade as well as explore how the famous floats are created, which makes for a beautiful and memorable experience.
Maine
Portland Museum of Art
Maine is a state that is full of culture, and if it’s the culture you are after when you visit this state, you can head to Portland and pay a visit to the fascinating Portland Museum of Art. Here, you can look forward to taking in artworks from both American and European artists with some great pieces of art to feast your eyes on. There are more than 17,000 works of art to admire at this museum, including sculptures, paintings, and photographs.
Maryland
Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Museum
Whether you are a train enthusiast or want to have a fun and educational day out with the kids, the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Museum is a great place to visit. The most important railroad collection in the United States can be seen and explored in this historic national landmark.
There are also lots of engaging activities to look forward to for both children and adults, which includes a 20-min round trip train ride along the first commercial railroad track laid in America.
Massachusetts
Harvard University Tour
As one of the most famous educational institutions in the world, it is well worth heading to Cambridge and enjoying a unique tour of the Harvard University campus when you are in Massachusetts. You can look forward to a self-guided tour of the beautiful and historic campus, where you can learn more about its rich history as well as its many achievements and alumni. You can even get a taste of what’s life like as a student at this university as you explore the campus.
Michigan
Henry Ford Museum
Located in Dearborn, this museum is an excellent choice for those interested in invention, innovation, and history. You can explore the motor exhibits here, including the famous ‘Presidential Limousines’ exhibition. There is also the ‘Heroes of the Sky’ display, which is perfect for those who are into aircraft. You can even feast your eyes on a 1970s original Apple-1 computer when you come to this museum. The exhibitions on display here are designed not only to educate but also to inspire.
Minnesota
Water Park of America
Water Park of America is a great place to have some watery indoor fun with your family – and it is the country’s largest indoor water park as well. You will find plenty of thrilling rides at this indoor waterpark, as well as many opportunities to kick back and relax.
Head to the water slides for some excitement and fun or chill out in the indoor hot springs and let your stresses melt away. The Family Raft Ride is a great choice for some extra fun while at the park, and there is even a big game arcade that the whole family will enjoy.
Mississippi
The Museum of Natural Science:
This attraction is a fantastic way to combine education, and fun and enjoy a fascinating experience designed for all ages. Covering 73,000 sq ft, there is certainly plenty to see and do at this museum. Enjoy taking in the fabulous exhibits and marvel at the displays at the open-air amphitheater. The Monsters of the Deep exhibition is one that children will be thrilled with, and there is even an interactive aquarium that is perfect for kids that want to get close up to marine life.
Missouri
Forest Park
Situated in St. Louis, Forest Park is not only a place of stunning beauty but also packed with fun activities for the whole family to look forward to. There are 1300 acres of ground to explore here and some beautiful surroundings to admire as you make your way around.
Some of the area’s top attractions can also be found on the site, including the beautiful St. Louis Zoo and the St. Louis Science Center, both of which will be a hit for kids and adults alike. Impressive water features, lakes, and a golf course help to make this a beautiful place for a family get-together.
Montana
Glacier National Park
Breathtaking beauty abounds at this hugely popular attraction, with some incredible views to be enjoyed. When you come here, you will feel as if you have stepped into another world – one of startling beauty and pure tranquility.
Glacier National Park is the perfect place for those who love spending time outdoors but is also ideal for those who simply love to take in magical surroundings. From forests to mountains, lush greenery, and sparkling waters, you will find it all when you visit this park.
Take a look at some of the other places that are great destinations:
Visit the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center. Located in West Yellowstone, this discovery center is dedicated to educating visitors about the importance and struggles of wolves and grizzlies.
Visit the National Bison Range. This 18,500-acre wildlife refuge has between 350 and 500 bison at any given time.
Explore the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. This interesting Interpretive Center is dedicated to educating visitors about the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
Visit Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument. This monument and the visitor center are dedicated to the memory of the Battle of Little Bighorn and the far-reaching consequences.
Explore the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman. This Smithsonian-affiliated museum is famous for its paleontology collection, though there are plenty of other great exhibits as well.
Spend a day or two at Big Sky, Montana. Big Sky is famous for mountain biking in the summer and skiing in the winter.
Visit the Western Heritage Center. This museum is dedicated to educating visitors about the Yellowstone River Valley and the surrounding area.
Nebraska: Henry Doorly Zoo
This highly rated attraction provides a magical experience for adults and children alike, with both a zoo and aquarium to explore. Henry Doorly Zoo spans 7 acres, so you can be sure that there will be plenty to see and do during your time here.
In addition to some fabulous exhibitions and plenty of animals, you can also explore the aquarium and learn more about the world beneath the ocean. The IMAX Theater adds to your experience, as you can enjoy immersing yourself in fascinating documentaries.
Nevada
Las Vegas Boulevard
A trip to the state of Nevada is incomplete without paying a visit to Las Vegas Boulevard, also known as the ‘Las Vegas Strip’. Whether or not you are into gambling, it is worth visiting simply for the hotels and their ambiance. The strip is over 4-miles containing large hotels and casino resorts that are unique in every way.
You can explore destinations from around the world simply by going into different hotels such as the Venetian, New York-New York, Caesar’s Palace, and Paris, amongst others. The strip is lit up in neon at night, and there is entertainment everywhere you look. Don’t miss the incredible Bellagio fountains or the volcano outside the Mirage.
New Hampshire
Castle in the Clouds
This fairytale-style estate in New Hampshire is a charming place to visit and is one of the most popular attractions in the state. You can delight in the beautiful and quaint architecture of the mountain top property, which dates back to 1914. You can also take trolley rides along the pathways and take in the romantic ambiance of the area. Make sure you also visit the art gallery, as there are some stunning works of art to admire there.
New Jersey
Six Flags Great Adventure and Wild Safari
This is an attraction that the whole family will love as it offers you a day full of entertainment, thrills, excitement, and adventure. You will find rides to suit all ages and preferences at this theme park, from white knuckle rides for the more daring riders to fun rides for the little ones. You can meet the Looney Tunes characters around the park or head to the Safari Discoveries, which take place every half an hour and allow you to get up close and personal with a variety of different animals.
New Mexico
Carlsbad Caverns National Park
Intriguing, exciting, and thrilling are just some of the words that can be used to describe Carlsbad Caverns and National Park. There are well over one hundred caves to be explored here, making it the perfect place for those who love exploration and relishing the outdoors. You can enjoy discovering the various caves and take a guided tour to make the most of your time here.
New York
Statue of Liberty
This iconic monument is the very epitome of New York for many people, so it is something you have to go and see when visiting this state. You can head to Liberty Island by boat, where you will be able to take in the breathtaking sight of the statue up close and personal.
You can even head up and make the ascent to the crown of the statue, where you will be able to take in some incredible views.
You’ve seen it on TV and in the movies – now is the time to see it in person and enjoy visiting an attraction that is historic, meaningful, and inspirational.
North Carolina
Museum of Life and Science
A trip to this museum will enable you to enjoy an interactive experience that will fascinate the kids as well as the adults. There are many exhibits and displays designed to teach visitors about the planet as well as space.
Spanning over eighty acres, this is a fun place with plenty for everyone to look forward to. This includes the wonderful butterfly house, the variety of fascinating animals, and the interactive displays that get you involved.
North Dakota
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Named after the former president, who loved the outdoors and nature, this is a wonderful place to explore. There are several different areas in the park where you can take in fascinating wildlife, with a diverse array of species such as elk, deer, and Prairie dogs, amongst others. You can also enjoy taking in the beautiful and natural surroundings as you explore the park.
Ohio
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
If you love music, this is an attraction not to be missed while in Ohio. Located in Cleveland, the museum pays homage to some of the most legendary stars in music history, including The Beatles, Bruce Springsteen, the talented late David Bowie, and the King himself, Elvis Presley. There are some fabulous exhibits to explore here designed to enthrall and educate visitors.
Oklahoma
Gilcrease Museum
A huge hit amongst lovers of fine art, this museum is a wonderful attraction for those looking for some cultural entertainment. You will find a huge array of American art preserved here, so you can explore both the arts and history as you browse the exhibits. There are fascinating tours of the museum available to help you make the most of your time here with sculptures, paintings, and drawings by hugely talented artists.
Oregon
Oregon Coast Aquarium
Situated in Newport, this fabulous aquarium provides visitors with 23 acres of incredible exhibits. A wonderful place for children and parents, this is known as one of the best aquariums in North America and offers a host of attractions.
In addition to the exciting exhibits, you can also enjoy tours of the facility to make the most of your visit. You will find all sorts of marine life here, including seals and sea lions – and of course, everyone will be excited about seeing the sharks.
Pennsylvania
Independence National Park and the Liberty Bell
Spread over 55 acres, this excellent attraction is a must for anyone that wants to delve into the history of America’s independence. You will find some incredible sights, monuments, and artifacts here and you can even visit the museum dedicated to Benjamin Franklin.
You can look forward to fascinating tours of Independence Hall, Congress Hall, and Franklin’s Court, as well as watching the Liberty Bell, which is a poignant symbol of America’s rich history in terms of its independence.
Rhode Island
Blithewold Mansion & Gardens
You can combine your love for history with your love of natural beauty when you visit this attraction. Described as a wonderful example of the ‘Country Place’ era, you can explore the many rooms in the mansion, filled with beautiful heirlooms and artifacts, as well as the stunning gardens, which are truly spectacular and amongst the best in the state. You can look forward to learning more about the Van Winkle family, which owned this incredible estate.
South Carolina
Middleton Place
A wonderful combination of natural beauty coupled with rich history, Middleton Place is an attraction that is worth visiting when you come to South Carolina.
You will find the oldest landscaped gardens in America at this historic landmark, and you will be amazed by just how stunning they are as you stroll through them.
The estate spans more than 65 acres in total and is also home to the House Museum. Here, you can take in historical artifacts, stunning works of art, antiques, and much more.
South Dakota
Mount Rushmore
You’ve probably seen this fabulous memorial many times on the small and big screen, but there is nothing quite like seeing it up close and personal.
It is an awe-inspiring sight to view the sculptured heads of Presidents Washington, Lincoln, Roosevelt, and Jefferson carved into Mount Rushmore – it comes as no surprise that this attraction has millions of visitors from around the globe every year.
You can even head to the visitor center and learn about the creation of the monument as well as explore the history and heritage of the country.
Tennessee
Elvis Presley Graceland
Many people who travel to Tennessee come with one purpose in mind – to head to Memphis and visit the residence of the King of Rock N Roll, Elvis Presley.
If you are a fan of music and Elvis, this is an experience you will never forget, but even those who are not fans will find a visit to Graceland fascinating.
You can look forward to a guided tour of the residence, take in items on exhibits such as costumes and photos, visit the Elvis: Live from Las Vegas gallery, and explore the Elvis Presley Car Museum.
This attraction is a must-do on any USA bucket list that you will remember for years to come.
Texas
Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center
Texas is a state known for many things, and its involvement in space missions is one of them. This is why you should make sure that a visit to the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center in Houston is firmly on your USA bucket list.
You can learn about America’s space program during your visit, take in the fascinating exhibits such as spacecraft and equipment, enjoy education and incredible shows relating to space, and explore the International Space Station Gallery amongst many other things.
This is a wonderful and fascinating place for adults and children to visit, and there is a huge amount to do and see here.
Utah
Dinosaur National Monument
If you or your family has an interest in dinosaurs, you should make sure you pay a visit to the Dinosaur National Monument, which is an area that provides evidence of dinosaur occupation in the area.
You can also visit Carnegie Quarry having close to 1500 dinosaur fossils to explore.
In addition to a fascinating insight into dinosaur history, you can also explore historical culture when you visit this national monument as well as enjoy a range of recreational activities.
Vermont
Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory
Ben & Jerry’s is a brand that has become synonymous with incredible-tasting ice cream in a range of flavors.
If you have a sweet tooth, you love ice cream, or you simply want to treat the kids to a visit to a great attraction, head to the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory in Waterbury for a tour.
The tour is only half an hour but you will be amazed at how much you learn about the process used to create this fabulous sweet treat, which has become a hit the world over.
Virginia
Colonial Williamsburg
Step back in time and enjoy exploring the wonderful Colonial Williamsburg, a wonderful and fascinating living history museum with many attractions for visitors to enjoy.
There are historic hotels that you can stay at here and many places to visit, including a variety of fabulous art museums. You will find events going on here all the time and you can also enjoy tours of the Revolutionary City.
With dining facilities, entertainment, and even golf and spa facilities, you can look forward to a combination of history and modern life when you head over to this area.
Washington
Snoqualmie Falls
This stunning and natural attraction is visited by huge numbers of people each year, with visitors from around the globe heading over to enjoy the incredible scenery.
The two-acre park is perfect for families or couples that want to enjoy a picnic in peaceful surroundings, while the view of the wonderful waterfall and the beautiful surroundings make for the perfect photo opportunity. The waterfall is majestic at 270 feet, and in the evening, it looks even more magical as it is lit up.
West Virginia
West Virginia State Penitentiary
Although this prison is no longer in operation, it offers guided tours that are well worth going on. Its history as a prison spanned well over one hundred years, so there is plenty to explore here.
You can learn about the history of the prison and take in the Gothic architecture of the building. In addition to all of this, there are often special events held here to provide visitors with a truly spooky experience, so keep your eyes on what’s on when you visit.
Wisconsin
Milwaukee Art Museum
One of the best-loved attractions in the state, the Milwaukee Art Museum provides you with both a historical and a cultural experience.
Art lovers will be delighted with the sheer variety of artwork that can be found here, with more than 30,000 pieces to enjoy.
History lovers will also be able to delve into the past, as the museum is now almost 130 years old, having opened in 1888. You will find some fascinating displays and exhibits of both American and European artwork here and over 40 galleries to explore.
Wyoming
The Buffalo Bill Center of the West
The history of the American West is something that many people find fascinating.
If you head to Wyoming, then it is well worth taking a trip to Cody, where you can explore the fabulous Buffalo Bill Center of the West, which is a complex of museums providing information on the rich and exciting history of this era.
The museum was established in 1917, making it the oldest of its kind. There are five museums to explore in total and there are exhibits and displays that will thrill adults and children with an interest in the American West.
And there you have it! The Ultimate USA Bucket List! 50 States, 50 unique places to see.
How many have you checked off so far? Let us know!
When I am not working, one of my favorite things to do is to travel around and explore new places that interest me. Along the way, I have documented my travels and experiences on some of my trips. I always stay at branded hotels, and it’s often the same brand or within the same company. Depending on the duration of my trip, budget, and needs during my trip, the hotel I choose will vary. Below, I have listed my top favorite hotel brands I stay at and the pros and cons of each. So, without further ado, let’s get started.
Home2 Suites by Hilton:
By Far my favorite Hilton brand without a doubt. Home2 Suites is an all suite extended stay hotel brand featuring larger rooms with kitchenettes, living spaces and larger bathrooms. The brand was created to complement the existing extended stay Hilton brand Homewood Suites and to compete with TownePlace Suites by Marriott and Candlewood Suites by IGH.
While I haven’t featured this specific brand on the blog , my previous stays include the following locations:
Home2 Suites by Hilton Richmond Short Pump
Home2 Suites by Hilton Taylor Detroit
Pros:
Larger rooms than a traditional hotel at an affordable price. Most often cheaper than other select service hotels or full service hotels with smaller rooms.
Curtain divider in the room makes it easy to section off the room so someone can watch tv or read a book while someone else is sleeping without disturbing them.
Super functional kitchenette with microwave, dishwasher as well as dinnerware.
Larger bathroom offers larger vanities and shower stalls making getting ready in the mornings and at night a breeze.
Extremely comfortable beds, linens and pillows. I hate hotel pillows! But not at Home2! They are some of the most comfortable pillows out there.
Home2 Suites hotels are new build hotels meaning they are built from the ground up and aren’t existing hotels converted or renovated into Home2 Suites. This means most locations are newer which means a more comfortable stay.
Cons:
Limited breakfast selection. This sort of makes sense since the rooms have kitchenettes most guests cook their own meals in their rooms. However, despite the smaller breakfast selection, the food is very fantastic.
While the locations are new builds, this often means it is harder to find a location in some areas since there are not a lot of Home2 Suites in some areas since this is a newer brand. However, as time goes on more Home2 locations are being built in certain areas and it is getting easier to find one. (Note this may not apply to cities or large tourist areas).
With larger rooms and more amenities in the room, sometimes may come with a higher price tag. While this may not be true for every location, it may be possible in some markets where there are a lot of hotels or not many extended stay hotels.
Tru by Hilton
When I think of top hotel brands, Tru definitely has to be up there! Tru is a select service brand that focuses on minimal yet detailed oriented and meaningful design and experiences. At Tru, you get all the essentials in a perfect balance of form and function. With tons of storage, plenty of spaces to charge your devices, a mobile desk, and our big, bright bathrooms, everything you need is in easy reach. Tru really is a very detail oriented brand taking into account the smallest of details to make the overall stay better.
While I haven’t featured this specific brand on the blog , my previous stays include the following locations:
Tru by Hilton Lancaster East
Tru by Hilton Denver (PA)
Tru by Hilton Roanoke Hollins
Pros:
One thing I love about Tru is each location has unique touches and nods to the area and community it is located in. This gives it less of a cookie cutter feel despite being a franchised hotel.
I can’t talk about Tru without mentioning the amazing breakfast! Tru provides a large selection of hot foods, baked goods and of course the main star, pancakes! A full pancake topping bar and cool pancake machine are the true highlights of the mornings.
Considering the rooms are smaller yet more detail oriented, the bathrooms are very spacious and offer plenty of hooks to hang towels on. Finally a hotel brand got this detail right! I’m so tired of hotels forgetting about hanging towels or clothes up while you are getting ready.
Blackout curtains are mounted inside the window frame meaning there is no annoying gap on either side of the curtains. This really makes a huge difference in making the room dark for sleeping no matter the time of day.
I love the lobby design! The lobby offers plenty of seating, places to get some work done and even some games like foosball and pool to pass the time.
Tru hotels are new build hotels meaning they are built from the ground up and aren’t existing hotels converted or renovated into a Tru. This means most locations are newer which means a more comfortable stay.
Yet another thing Tru remembered is putting in an automatic night light in the bathroom so you can see as you walk to the bathroom in the middle of the night! Anyone else tired of tripping or bashing their legs into furniture? I know I sure am! Thank you Tru! Someone finally also got this detail right!
Cons:
Keep in mind these rooms are smaller and don’t offer coffee makers, microwaves or have large walk in closets. There is more focus on the small details and essentials.
I personally wish there was more lighting instead of just having one desk lamp, and overhead lighting above the beds. While I like the lights over the bed, I wish there was a way to turn off only one side without turning off the whole thing.
Be aware there are not many room types at Tru. Tru focuses mainly on rooms with one king size bed or two queens as well as accessible rooms. If you are looking for a suite or larger room, this may not be the brand for you.
Hampton by Hilton
Wow! Noticing a pattern here with Hilton? They are really on a roll here! I definitely couldn’t make this list and not include Hampton.
Hampton is a midscale hotel designed to compete against other limited service brands like Fairfield Inn by Marriott, Holiday Inn Express, and Comfort Inn/Comfort Suites. As of December 2019, Hampton by Hilton includes 2,544 hotels in 30 countries and territories with 266,933 rooms, including 72 that are managed with 10,061 rooms and 2,472 that are franchised with 256,872 rooms.
In my latest post, I reported and commented on the new prototype Hampton Inn has that is about to be rolled out. In some aspects I was a little more tough on the chain since I love it so much. One of those reasons has to do with the service alone. I find that along with many other Hilton hotels, the service is unparalleled. That paired with excellent designed and modern rooms makes for a perfect stay.
A quick fun fact before we jump into our pros and cons, did you know the Hampton Inn chain was originally started by Holiday Inn? It wasn’t until 1999 that many Hilton chains like Hampton Inn, Embassy Suites, and Homewood Suites would join Hilton under a massive $3.7 billion dollar purchase. Could you imagine how different the hotel industry would have turned out if that purchase never happened?
I previously featured this brand on the blog many times in the Touristician Reviews series. Previous stays include the following locations:
Hampton Inn Salem Boston – (Not featured on the blog)
Very easy to find a location especially when traveling on a major highway. You could legitimately take a rock and hit several Hampton hotels. (Although I wouldn’t recommend doing so while driving. Not only is that dangerous, it is also very illegal).
Extremely consistent service and rooms. There are not as many locations left that are old or run down. Additionally, the service is always impeccable and never fails to deliver.
While some hotels don’t provide microwaves anymore, Hampton Inn is one of the few out there that still does.
Plenty of room for storage in spacious closets, dressers and cabinets. Perfect for families with lots of luggage.
The perfect place for anyone traveling for business, vloggers, or college students who need to get work done. Large desk areas with desk lamps, and amble outlets provide the perfect place to work as well as relax.
Extremely spacious bathrooms offer oversized backlit mirrors, ample counter space, plenty of storage for liens, as well as plenty of towel racks/hooks. I always loved how Hampton over stocks the liens in the bathrooms and doesn’t put them over the toilet. (I always hate when hotels have a small towel bar and lien storage above the toilet. It is honestly disgusting).
Cons:
While I personally have not had this happen to me, Hampton is supposedly more noisy compared to other chains. However, I personally never had an issue with this at Hampton as I tend to stay in newer or renovated locations.
Inconsistent bathroom design across the brand. To be honest this is to be expected with a long established chain with several thousand locations. However, I notice there are more inconsistencies with this brand than other Hilton brands. For example there are a lot of different layouts, shower designs (walk in, shower doors, bathtub combo, etc).
I’d suggest you do your research before picking a Hampton location. If there are multiple locations, pick the most updated and higher rated location.
Take note because there are so many Hampton Inn locations, there may be multiple locations within the same town or city you are staying in often only minutes apart. This may confuse your travel plans. Make sure you really research and know exactly what location you are booking and going to.
Holiday Inn Express by IHG
Built upon the spirit of the original Holiday Inn chain, Holiday Inn Express was created in 1990 aimed to revolutionize select service travel for the newer generations. Compared to a full service Holiday Inn, the Express variation focuses on limited service with no on site restaurants, room service or ballrooms. Instead Holiday Inn Express features free breakfast each morning, fitness and pool facilities, and higher end more detailed rooms.
The brand aims to provide a perfect balance between offering a place to get work done yet offering a relaxing environment to recharge your batteries with a restful night’s sleep. As of 2021, the brand hit a milestone during its 30th anniversary year opening its 3,000th location.
I previously featured this brand on the blog many times in the Touristician Reviews series. Previous stays include the following locations:
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lancaster East – Strasburg (Not featured on the blog)
Holiday Inn Express Baltimore at the Stadiums (Not featured on the blog)
Holiday Inn Express Atlantic City W Pleasantville (Not featured on the blog)
Previously I used to say this was my favorite hotel brand ever. However, this brand is starting to lose its place as one of my favorites. Last few times I have stayed there were many issues and inconsistencies some of which keep happening over and over again. The last time I stayed was the straw that broke the camel’s back. However, I did still decide to include this on my last as I did enjoy a majority of my stays before these issues and am hoping that maybe next stay will be better.
Pros:
Very detailed oriented rooms include embroidered pillowcases to help mark the firmness of each pillow, reading lights over the headboards, and ample storage space.
Rooms do include a microwave which is a huge plus since most hotels do not offer this in rooms anymore. (From observation, it appears to be an industry wide trend).
Spacious bathrooms with plenty of lien storage, backlit mirrors and plenty of counter space to get ready in the morning.
Perfect balance between business and leisure. Rooms offer large work spaces while the hotels themselves offer business centers and meeting spaces all while keeping focus on leisure. Even if you’re not traveling for business, you’ll find this isn’t a turn off.
Most locations offer king size suites that feature larger living spaces, a small kitchenette area and larger bathroom. This is a huge plus since some select service brands don’t offer suites.
Good service at the properties and very responsive customer service from the brand.
Honestly nothing to rave about. It isn’t horrible yet isn’t over the top amazing. I would say Hilton does a much better job with service and pulls out all the stops everytime and consistently.
Easy to use mobile app allows for mobile check in to be a breeze. I actually did this before and it was so easy and well worth it. All I had to do when I got to the hotel was pick up my keys. I do wish there was a digital key option for the rooms on the app, but that isn’t a huge deal.
Cons:
Extremely inconsistent and poorer quality breakfast. Last few times I have stayed, I noticed the breakfast choices were very slim and the quality of the food went down hill drastically compared to a few years ago. Take our cinnamon roll incident from Mount Joy as an example.
Cleanliness issues appear to be more common especially in the bathrooms, on the flooring and on the appliances (fridges & microwaves).
Like Hampton Inn, there are so many Holiday Inn Express locations which often means there are multiple locations within the same town or city that are only minutes apart. This may confuse your travel plans. Make sure you really research and know exactly what location you are booking and going to.
Final Thoughts:
In conclusion, the journey of discovering and experiencing various hotel brands has been eye-opening and enriching. Each stay has offered valuable insights and memorable encounters, shaping my perspective as a traveler. As I look ahead to future adventures, I eagerly anticipate the evolution of these hotel brands and the new experiences they will offer. With a blend of nostalgia for past stays and a sense of anticipation for the future, I am grateful for the diverse range of hospitality experiences that have enriched my travels.
What do you think of my top hotel brands? Do you agree with this list? Let us know down in the comments section below, and as always, if you are enjoying our content, be sure to subscribe to never miss a single post.
If you have been following along with my Touristician Reviews series where I recap my travels, you may have noticed a recent trend in my hotel recaps. Almost every time I travel somewhere whether it was to Detroit, Richmond, or Lancaster County, I always stayed at a Hilton branded hotel such as Tru, Hampton Inn, and Home2 Suites. In general when I travel, I always look for a Hilton branded hotel as it is always reliable, consistent, comfortable and clean.
So when I found out one of my favorite Hilton brands, Hampton Inn is getting a refresh, I knew I had to take a look at the design. In this post, I will be going over the redesign, comparing it to the current prototype Hilton and sharing some of my thoughts on the new branding and design. So without further ado, let’s dive in!
Going through the press release, we can see there are a few key points Hilton is aiming towards with this branding update. Those being:
Refreshed brand identity with an updated logo, new branding, and focusing on what makes Hampton unique as a brand.
Redesigned guest spaces and a move away from a traditional lobby set up allowing for more spacious and open room design.
New guest rooms with a focus on utilizing space and decluttering rooms by using less furniture pieces.
Emphasis on smarter more efficient design allowing for operational efficiency and cost savings for operators.
Keeping the well known and loved exterior design only slightly tweaking the colors, finally adding outdoor space and modifying the entryway.
Initial Thoughts
Overall, I love how they kept the existing exterior design they have and just added to it. Although nothing is ever going to replace the traditional exterior design. I really love how they added an outdoor patio space to the design as this is something I noticed Hampton has been lacking for a while. When I stay at Home2 Suites or Tru I love the outdoor spaces they have, especially at night for relaxation just before bed. Although, I’m not sure if it is just the way the concept art shows it, but I think it is odd how the patio is literally next to the front door where cars pull up. I personally would rather see it moved to the back of the hotel away from the front entry like how Tru is. That or I’d like to see some more separation. However, I do recognize this concept art and the actual prototype may vary once it is rolled out.
Moving on to the lobby, I personally have mixed feelings about this design. I like how the retail market is moved out and is not stuffed in a corner or buried in the lobby. I feel like this helps contribute to that open air, large space design Hampton wants. One thing I dislike though is the seating area/community area. I feel like the furniture gives the space a dated feel and doesn’t really remind me of how a Hampton would be. Again I get this is just concept art, so we’ll have to just see how this actually turns out when the first location using this design opens.
Looking at the front desk, I like how it is not a cramped work space and has branding behind it. Although, I do have to say I wish they stuck more with the little greeting phrases on the walls they use now like “Welcome to the Garden State” or “Welcome to the BuckEye State”. I do have to give the design props though cause they did somewhat incorporate that in the foyer as we saw from the video. Personally, I’m not a fan of how lite the wood tones are since I feel like they clash with the darker wallpaper accents. I’d much rather see more of a walnut or brown toned wood instead since I feel like that is more consistent with the current new builds and design that is currently rolled out.
New welcome wall at foyer entrances in the new prototype design.
Room wise, I have mixed feelings and a few concerns with the new prototype. This redesign is meant to fit more rooms within the existing blueprints for new builds which means smaller room design. This concerns me as I do not want to see room sizes similar to Tru being implemented. Generally if I am only doing an overnight or two nights, I prefer Tru since it is a smaller room and generally I am just looking for a comfortable place to sleep without fuss. However, when I look to book a Hampton, generally it is for multiple nights so I prefer a little more space and do not want as small of a room. I’m personally not a fan of this design for a variety of reasons:
Lack of a closet space. I totally understand wanting to open up the space to make it feel less cramped but I dislike not having a closet. While I like this closet set up for a Tru, I feel like it doesn’t fit as well with the Hampton design and will be a move away from what Hampton rooms are known for.
I’m personally not a fan of the light wood tones since I feel like they clash with the color scheme of the room. I like the colors of the room since I feel like those are classic Hampton colors but the furniture just feels out of place to me. I personally would have the existing walnut colored furniture and fixtures in the room since I feel like they fit better and are already pretty streamlined. I feel like this furniture is too similar to that of Wyndham and it takes away from what makes Hampton Inn unique.
Another thing that alarms me, is in the press release, they mentioned a bathroom redesign. I surely hope they improve on the current bathroom design. Personally, I am sick and tired of seeing a lack of thought go into towel racks or towel hooks in hotel bathrooms. I personally like to sometimes reuse my towels for a few days before getting fresh ones. However, this is often complicated when there are only one or no hooks or towel bars. I would like to personally see sliding glass shower doors instead of curtains in the shower stall. I am starting to dislike shower curtains because you can’t tell if they are clean or how often it has been cleaned whereas with glass doors, you can actually see the steak marks and it is way easier to tell if it has been cleaned.
Current Vs New Branding & Design
Along with the refreshed hotel design comes the newly updated marketing and branding. I have to be honest here, and say I am thoroughly surprised and delighted with all the updates. Looking at the logo, I love how they kept the logo almost the same and added little touches like connecting the font together between the p and t and just modified the colors slightly. I was honestly nervous like most modern day rebranding, that the logo would be butchered and look so cooperate looking. However, this was definitely not the case here and I have to say Hilton hit it out of the park on this one.
The logo was not the only thing that received a much needed face lift. We also see the new branding and marketing materials that were a part of this brand refresh. I love how they kept those iconic mustache coffee cups and really took that idea and elevated it to the next level. I also love how they took the iconic waffle breakfast that the chain is known for and focused on that for billboard advertisements along major highways and high traffic areas.
When I was looking at all the new marketing materials, I noticed a few subtle things that stick out. First, when I was looking at the renderings for all the new promotional items, I see the Hampton Inn Memphis-Poplar is listed on the business card renderings. If you look up this location, it appears as though this location is due for a renovation. Is it possible the first roll out of this design would be in the Memphis-Poplar location?
Yet another thing that sticks out is in the newspaper ad rendering, you can briefly see a variation of the new design with a slightly different color scheme. Is it possible there are going to be variations to this new prototype design depending on the location of the hotel? Honestly speaking, I prefer the blue color scheme pictured since that feels more like Hampton Inn to me.
Final Thoughts:
Overall, I think these changes are mostly positive for guest experience and for operators to ease the burden in day to day operations. I can’t wait to see this new prototype rolled out and see the end result. I am never usually disappointed with Hilton branded hotels, and I can’t wait to stay in one of these new hotels one day. Personally, if I was ever to open my own hotel, this would be one of the brands I could consider going with based on my experiences, and my stays with Hampton Inn.
What are your thoughts on the new Hampton Inn redesign and updates? Let us know in the comments below. As always if you are enjoying our content be sure to subscribe and follow us on social media to never miss blog updates and any new posts. We’ll see you in the next one!
Touristician 