Springfield's BEST Hotel? DoubleTree by Hilton Review!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into the… well, let's just call it an "experience" that is Springfield's BEST Hotel: the DoubleTree by Hilton. Now, I'm not going to lie, I've stayed in some dives in my time. Think questionable stains, a distinct aroma of stale cigarettes mixed with… something else, and a hairdryer that sounds like a dying lawnmower. So, when I heard "DoubleTree," my expectations were… cautiously optimistic. I mean, it is a chain, but hey, the promise of warm cookies on arrival? That's a good start, right? This is my honest DoubleTree by Hilton Review!
First Impressions & Accessibility (and My Panic About the Elevators)
Pulling up, the building looked…big. Really big. Like, "where are all those rooms hiding?" big. Okay, so accessibility is a BIG deal, especially after that time I rolled my ankle and spent a week waddling. The good news? DoubleTree by Hilton Springfield nailed accessibility. The entrance was wide, the lobby was spacious and easy to navigate (important so you don't get stuck in some corner). There were ramps everywhere. Seriously, ramps for days. And the elevators! Okay, those were my nemesis for a bit, with all the people. They ran seemingly non-stop, which is great, but it was a bit of a free-for-all. But at least they were big enough for a wheelchair or, you know, a slightly clumsy me. And the elevator was a must-have feature, so I will give it a thumbs up, with reservations.
And… Yes! Wheelchair accessible! That's a major win. No one likes feeling like they have to limbo to get around, right?
Rooms: The Cookies, the Chaos, and the Wi-Fi
Okay, let's be real. What we really care about is the room, right? And yes, people. They give you a warm, gooey DoubleTree cookie at check-in. That's the first step to winning anyone over. I’m a sucker for free snacks!
My room? Spacious! The air conditioning blasted like a blizzard on a summer day – maybe a little too powerful, but better than being a sweaty mess. There was a desk, a comfy chair, and an extra long bed (important for us tall-ish folk). The Wi-Fi? Free! And FAST! Thank god, seriously. Trying to upload 5,000 pictures of my dog takes forever without speedy internet! The free Wi-Fi in all rooms is a huge plus. No more hotel-room internet that feels like dial-up from the 90s. The internet access – wirelss was great too!
The bathroom was clean (thank goodness, because, yuck), with all the standard amenities like toiletries, a hairdryer, and a bathtub. I may or may not have used the bathtub to contemplate life while slathering on some face mask. It was clean. And the separate shower/bathtub thing? Always a win.
Downsides? Okay, minor whinges here. While the room was clean, the carpet felt a little worn. The walls are a bit thin. I may or may not have heard my neighbor's… let's call it "enthusiastic snoring" at 3 am. Also there are interconnecting rooms available. Not ideal for a romantic getaway if you get the rowdy-kid neighbors, but that's a risk you take!
Cleanliness and Safety: My Inner Germaphobe Squealed (in a Good Way)
This is a big one, especially post-pandemic, right? DoubleTree by Hilton Springfield took it seriously. The staff were masked up, the daily disinfection in common areas appeared thorough. Little things like hand sanitizer readily available everywhere really helped. They also had individually-wrapped food options and a safe dining setup in the restaurant. My inner germaphobe actually did a little happy dance. Another good thing is the opt out. The room sanitization opt-out available is so useful!
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: The Restaurant Rhapsody
Okay, the food. This is where things got… interesting.
- The Restaurant: A decent spread. It was buffet style with a good selection of breakfast [buffet] and even an Asian breakfast, which was a pleasant surprise. I did have a craving for some Asian cuisine in restaurant, but that wasn't really available since I was having a breakfast. There were the basics (eggs, bacon, toast), and some fancier stuff. The Coffee/tea in restaurant saved my mornings. But, the dining room was PACKED during breakfast. My advice? Arrive early, or prepare for some elbow-to-elbow action.
- The Coffee Shop: A godsend for those morning caffeine cravings. Conveniently located and serving a decent cup of joe, but don't expect a barista-grade latte.
- The Poolside Bar: (see "Things to do" below).
Things to Do, Ways to Relax: Spa? I Wish!
Okay, this is a bit of a mixed bag.
- The Pool and Fitness Center: There is a swimming pool [outdoor]! It looked inviting, and I caught up some rays there. The fitness center was well-equipped, but like most hotel gyms, it's nothing to write home about.
- The Spa/Sauna: The Spa… sadly, it was a no-go during my stay. I'd dreamed of a massage and perhaps a sauna. Alas.
- The Rest: Not much else in terms of on-site relaxation.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
- The Front Desk: Super friendly and helpful. A big shout-out to the team that always managed to get me a smile! Front desk [24-hour] is helpful!
- The Contactless Check-in/out: A lifesaver! Thank you for the contactless check-in/out, very comfortable.
- Other essentials: The convenience store came in handy for late-night snacks. Nice to have. I also appreciate the luggage storage.
- Services and Conveniences: They provide concierge, currency exchange, dry cleaning, and laundry services
For the Kids:
They did have babysitting service and Kids meal – a good option if you have little ones.
Getting Around:
- Car park [free of charge]: Big bonus! Car park [on-site] also available if they're full.
- Airport transfer: Available, but best to check beforehand.
My Verdict: The Good, The Bad, and The Cookie
Okay, so is DoubleTree by Hilton Springfield the best hotel in Springfield? Maybe not. But it’s a very, very solid choice. It’s clean, generally comfortable, with excellent accessibility and friendly staff, and, let’s be honest, the cookies are a major selling point.
The Good:
- Accessibility!
- Free Wi-Fi!
- Cleanliness and Safety!
- The Location
The Room Improvement:
- Spa
The Imperfections
- Room Condition,
- Thin walls
Final Score: 4 out of 5 Stars. Would I stay there again? Absolutely. I'd even go back just for the cookies.
Craft a compelling offer for Springfield's BEST Hotel? DoubleTree by Hilton Review!
Tired of the same old hotel routine? Craving a comfortable stay with friendly service, delicious eats, AND warm cookies on arrival?
Then look no further than the DoubleTree by Hilton Springfield!
Based on our in-depth review, The DoubleTree by Hilton Springfield offers:
- Unbeatable Accessibility: Easy access for everyone.
- Free & Fast Wi-Fi: Stay connected effortlessly!
- Cleanliness & Safety: Relax knowing your well-being is a priority.
- A Delicious Breakfast Buffet: Start your day right.
- Outdoor pool
- The Iconic Cookie: That warm, gooey, sweet welcome you've been waiting for.
This is your invitation to experience a stay that feels like home, with all the perks of a top-tier hotel.
Book your stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton Springfield NOW!
Don't miss out on this chance to experience the best Springfield has to offer!
Escape to Comfort: Southpark Colonial Heights' Premier Suite Awaits!
Okay, buckle up buttercup, because this ain't your grandma's itinerary. We're going to Springfield, Missouri, and it's gonna be… well, it's gonna be something. This is less a schedule, more a chaotic dance of my own personal brand of travel. Let's go.
DoubleTree by Hilton Springfield - A Springfield Adventure (Probably with Pizza)
Day 1: Arrival, Awkward Greetings, and the Quest for the Perfect Poolside Nap
- 14:00 - Arrival at the DoubleTree: Oh, the siren song of the chocolate chip cookie. I've heard tales, whispers of these warm, gooey discs of pure joy. That's the real draw, I confess. Forget the "spa-like bathrooms" or the "state-of-the-art fitness center" – give me that cookie, and I'm halfway to heaven. But first, the check-in. Let's hope the front desk person doesn't give me that "are you sure you're at the right hotel?" look that always makes me feel like I've accidentally wandered into a corporate meeting.
- 14:30 - Room Reconnaissance & Cookie Devourment: Success! The room is… a room. Clean enough. The real star is the double bed. Let the napping games begin. But first, the cookie. Right then… Mouthful. Eyes roll back in delicious ecstasy. Okay, yes. Worth the drive. Now, to strategically place myself for maximum sunlight and minimal noise. This is serious business, people.
- 16:00 - Attempted Poolside Relaxation - Episode 1: The Sunscreen Struggle. I found the pool, a hopeful oasis of chlorine and potential tranquility. I slather myself, trying to avoid any awkward tan lines. Because I'm really good at that, sometimes. My attempt at peace failed because there are children running, screaming and splashing around the pool. I could never truly escape my responsibilities as a parent. At least I could enjoy some peace in my mind.
- 18:00 - Dinner Debacle: Pizza Quest/ Local Restaurant Review. The hotel restaurant is passable, I guess, but tonight, the craving for local flavor is real. My mission: Find Springfield's best pizza. My research began before I even booked the hotel. This is important. Every local pizza place in the area, and I've got a list. Tonight, it's Melt Down. Let's hope it lives up to the hype (and doesn't involve pineapple. I have strong feelings).
- 20:00 - Pizza Recap & Room Service Temptation: Melt Down was… good. Solid. Not a life-altering pizza, but okay. I'm getting hungry again, though. I check the room service menu. Ugh. The prices! That's why I would never order room service. It is ridiculous. It's tempting. But the bank account says no. I will get some snacks from the vending machine.
Day 2: Culture, Coffee, and Catastrophe?
- 08:00 - The Wake-Up Call (aka the "Did I Really Set an Alarm?") Yep. The alarm is actually the reason I woke up. I'm not naturally a morning person. Coffee is a non-negotiable at this point.
- 09:00 - Coffee & Contemplation: The hotel coffee is… hotel coffee. I shall survive. I stare at the view.
- 10:00 - The History Museum - A Quest for Enlightenment? I'll visit the History Museum. I guess I am a tourist. It will either be fascinating or inspire a sudden, overwhelming need to lie down.
- 12:00 - Lunch & Lamentation: The History Museum ended up being fascinating! Lunch, however, will be a quick affair, likely involving a sad sandwich from a deli. The restaurant I was hoping to try is closed on Mondays. Life is rarely fair.
- 14:00 - Exploring Downtown (and Possibly Getting Lost): Okay, time to embrace the chaos. I'm going to wander downtown Springfield. No map. No plan. Just… well, I'll try and find the best things I can. This could be disastrous. I embrace the unknown.
- 16:00 - The Springfield Art Museum (I Hope): Okay, I got lost. Twice. But I found it! The Art Museum. Let's hope I don't accidentally touch any of the priceless artifacts. My clumsiness is legendary.
- 18:00 - Dinner & Existential Dread: Dinner at a local restaurant. More pizza? Maybe. Probably. Is my life just a series of decisions leading to pizza? Possibly.
Day 3: Departure, Regrets, and the Cookie-Induced Hangover
- 08:00 - The Awful Goodbyes: Packing. Regret for the things not seen. This whole thing is a lot of things I would enjoy.
- 09:00 - Farewell Coffee and a Final Cookie (Maybe): One. Last. Cookie. It is the only thing left that is certain.
- 10:00 - Goodbye, Springfield. I grab one more cookie, looking at my wallet. I would have loved more.
- 11:00 - Airport bound I am already thinking of when to return.
- 13:00 - The Home Stretch: I just hope I packed well.
Important Notes/Disclaimers:
- This is a loose plan. I reserve the right to change my mind at any moment.
- May contain strong opinions on pizza, naps, and the general state of the world.
- Emotional outbursts are likely. Consider yourself warned.
- My sense of direction is… aspirational. Don't rely on me for directions.
- I am not, and never will be, a professional travel agent. Proceed at your own risk.
- The chocolate chip cookies might be the best part of this entire trip. Just sayin'.
So, there you have it. A thrilling, unpredictable, and utterly self-indulgent journey through Springfield, Missouri. Wish me luck. I'm going to need it. (And maybe a map.)
Escape to Clinton, IA: Your Dream Stay at Country Inn & Suites Awaits!
Springfield's BEST Hotel? DoubleTree by Hilton: The REALLY Honest FAQs
Okay, spill the beans. Is the DoubleTree actually the "best" in Springfield? And if so, WHY? Because frankly, I'm skeptical.
Alright, alright, settle down! "Best" is subjective, right? Like, what's "best" for world peace might not be "best" for my pre-bedtime chocolate chip cookie binge. But, after wrangling with Springfield's hotel options, the DoubleTree... LOOKS like it takes the crown. Emphasis on "looks." It's got that *vibe* you know? Polished enough for a business trip, BUT cozy enough I wouldn't feel utterly out of place rocking sweatpants and a questionable life choices t-shirt. The pool area is... well, it's not Miami, but it's not a glorified kiddie pool either. And seriously, those warm chocolate chip cookies at check-in? Game. Freaking. Over. They are pure, unadulterated, comfort-food heaven. I swear, I've practically clawed my way to the front of the line just to get one. (Don't judge me!)
Those cookies. Are they *actually* good? Or is it just aggressive marketing?
Okay, here's the *real* tea. The cookies are a blessing. A warm, gooey, chocolatey, *perfectly imperfect* blessing. They're not some gourmet pastry shop masterpiece, mind you. They’re... relatable. They have that home-baked quality, the kind a slightly-too-stressed-out aunt might make. The kind you inhale while secretly hiding in your room, pretending you're on a spa retreat and not just desperately trying to escape your in-laws. My *first* experience? I arrived, already stressed from driving through a freak thunderstorm. Check-in was slow, the receptionist had a *slight* air of "I've dealt with worse." Then BAM. Cookie. Everything, *everything* changed. The storm, the slow check-in, the lingering dread about the meeting the next day… all melted away with the first bite. Pure, unadulterated happy. The power of the cookie is REAL, people. Believe me.
What about the rooms? Clean? Comfy? Or are we talking stained carpets and questionable smells?
Okay, let's be honest. Hotel rooms can be a roll of the dice. The DoubleTree is... generally good. I'd say "mostly clean," which is a win in my book. I'm not *obsessive* about cleanliness, but I don't want to feel like I'm camping. The beds are usually comfy. Not the *best* bed I’ve ever slept on, but perfectly acceptable for an overnight stay. I have encountered the *occasional* stray hair in the bathroom (sigh), but nothing truly catastrophic. Remember the "questionable smells" concern? Fortunately, I haven't had any lingering, "mystery meat" odors. Just the pleasant, vaguely-corporate smell of air freshener. Which, hey, beats the alternative! One time though... the air conditioning unit sounded like a dying walrus. I called down, panicked a little (I'm a light sleeper), and they swapped me rooms. Kudos for that. It's about the response, right?
The gym and pool. Are they any good? Because let’s face it, hotel gyms are often more depressing than inspirational.
The gym... it's... a gym. It exists. It has the basics: treadmills, elliptical, some weights. Don't expect state-of-the-art equipment, or a personal trainer yelling motivational slogans. It's functional. Is it inspirational? No. Will it get the job done if you're trying to beat a deadline where you feel guilty not working out? Probably. The pool is *better*. It's indoors, which is a plus, especially in Springfield weather (hello, freak snow in April!). It's a decent size, and usually clean. My only real complaint? Sometimes it's a little… *busy*. Lots of kids splashing. Which is great for them, not so great if you just want to, you know, float in peace. I highly recommend going first thing in the morning, you will have less of a battle for space.
Let’s talk service. Are the staff friendly? Helpful? Or do they act like they’d rather be doing *anything* else?
Okay, this is where things can get a little... variable. Generally, the staff is friendly. They're not fake-friendly, which I appreciate. Real, genuine, Midwest nice. But… (and this is a big but), sometimes it's hit or miss. I've had check-ins where the person at the desk was sunshine and rainbows. Other times, they've seemed… a little overwhelmed, maybe? Look, hotels get busy. People are demanding. I get it. But a friendly face (and maybe an extra cookie) goes a long way. One time I was absolutely *dying* for coffee in the am, and it was a slow morning. The poor woman at the front desk was also manning the coffee station as well, when she saw my desperate attempts to hold on to my life, she perked right up. She took my order with kindness and the sweetest mannerisms. She even pointed me to the right place to go to buy a coffee with more caffeine! That's the kind of service that makes a difference. Not *perfect*, but generally good. And I can always go to the front desk for more cookies.
Food! What about the in-house restaurant? Worth it? Or should I just Uber Eats?
The restaurant is… a mixed bag. Let's call it that. It's convenient, obviously. Which, after a long day of meetings/traveling/dealing with life, is a *huge* plus. I ate there once, and the food was... edible. Not groundbreaking. Not something I'd write home about. Honestly, I *usually* go for Uber Eats. Springfield has some *amazing* food options (check out that BBQ!), and it's just more exciting than whatever the hotel is serving. Unless you're really, *really* tired and just need something, anything, put in front of you, skip the restaurant. Uber Eats. Always. Even a cheap pizza will seem like a gourmet delight after a day of hotel food. Plus, you can eat it in your sweatpants, cookie in hand, and watch whatever trash TV you want. Win-win.
The location! Is it convenient to… everything? Or am I going to be taking Ubers all day?
The location is... *okay*. It's not smack-dab in the middle of all the action. But it's close enough to most major things. You know, the usual suspects – restaurants, shops, whatever you're in Springfield toWhere To Stay Now
