Billings Hotel & Convention Center

The hotel's most notable feature is its impressive water park with two slides, making it a popular destination for families and children seeking recreational fun and a memorable stay. While the property is currently undergoing significant renovations, which can lead to some disruptions and parking challenges, guests often commend the staff's friendliness and helpfulness, noting their efforts to accommodate requests. However, recurring concerns include the hotel's generally outdated condition, inconsistent cleanliness, and unfortunately, reports of bed bugs, which have caused considerable distress for some. This hotel is particularly suited for families prioritizing on-site entertainment and convention attendees utilizing its event spaces, as well as budget-conscious travelers looking for value despite the property's age. To ensure a more comfortable stay, it is advisable to confirm the specific room's condition upon arrival and be prepared for potential noise from ongoing construction and thin walls.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's standout feature is its impressive water park, boasting two slides that are a huge hit, especially with children and families looking for on-site entertainment. However, the pool area sometimes suffers from overcrowding, high chlorine levels, and a noticeable lack of towels, which can detract from the experience. The hot tub frequently receives negative feedback, described as dirty, foamy, and sometimes out of order, with some guests noting unpleasant odors. Beyond the aquatic features, the hotel also features a casino and a bar, which many guests appreciate for on-site entertainment and a place to unwind. Some guests note issues with ice machines being broken and Wi-Fi being weak or unreliable. The elevator can also be problematic, with some finding it slow or unreliable, particularly given the hotel's size.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Room cleanliness is a significant point of contention, with many guests reporting dirty rooms, stained sheets, and unpleasant odors like smoke or pet urine. The hotel is widely described as outdated and in need of renovation, with visible scuff marks, holes in walls, and worn fixtures. Bed comfort is mixed; while some find beds comfortable, many describe them as hard, worn out, or saggy. A serious and recurring issue is the presence of bed bugs, causing considerable distress and prompting guests to leave. Noise levels are often high due to thin walls, allowing sounds from hallways and neighboring rooms to easily penetrate. Showers are a frequent source of complaint, with inconsistent water temperature (scalding hot to ice cold), low pressure, and maintenance issues like mold or broken fixtures. Housekeeping is inconsistent, with many guests reporting no service for multiple days and difficulty obtaining fresh towels.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers an on-site restaurant and bar, which generally receive positive remarks for their convenience and atmosphere, with some guests enjoying live music and reasonable pricing. However, feedback on food quality is mixed, with some finding it good and others reporting issues like cold dishes or forgotten orders, indicating inconsistency. Breakfast is a common topic; it is typically not included in the room rate and must be purchased separately, which disappoints many guests who expect it to be complimentary. Some reviews mention the breakfast service struggling to keep up with demand during busy periods, leading to shortages of food items, plates, or seating. The bar is often highlighted as a pleasant spot for a drink, though a few guests have experienced rude service from specific bartenders, impacting their overall enjoyment of the venue.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is generally considered convenient, situated off the highway and offering easy access to nearby shopping, restaurants, and sports venues. However, some guests find the hotel difficult to locate due to its setback position and unclear signage. A major point of concern is the ongoing construction, which significantly impacts parking availability and ease of access. Guests frequently report tight parking spaces, limited spots close to rooms, and hazardous conditions due to construction vehicles. Navigating the property, especially for those with mobility challenges, can be difficult, with some mentioning long walks to rooms or issues with the elevator. The surrounding area is sometimes described as less desirable, with concerns about questionable patrons and marijuana smells in hallways.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, politeness, and helpfulness. Many guests highlight positive interactions with front desk staff, who are often described as accommodating and willing to assist with requests, including room changes or local recommendations. The check-in process is generally smooth, though some guests have experienced delays due to technical issues or understaffing during peak times. While the majority of feedback on service is positive, there are isolated reports of rude staff members, particularly concerning specific interactions or handling of complaints. Despite these instances, the overall sentiment is that the staff are dedicated to providing good service, often going out of their way to resolve issues or enhance the guest experience.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of a significant incidental fee of $100-$200 per night, which is charged upon check-in and can take several days to be refunded, causing frustration and unexpected financial holds for many. The hotel has a pet-friendly policy, but some guests have noted issues with strong pet odors in rooms and challenges finding suitable outdoor areas for pets nearby. There are reports of security concerns, including exterior doors not locking properly and a perceived lack of surveillance cameras in parking areas, leading to instances of theft from vehicles. The hotel is undergoing extensive renovations, which, while aiming to improve the property, currently contribute to noise, disarray, and accessibility challenges for guests, particularly regarding navigation and parking. Some guests also mention issues with key cards frequently deactivating, requiring multiple trips to the front desk for re-activation.