DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bloomington - Minneapolis South

This hotel stands out as a significant conference and convention center, capable of hosting large-scale events, and is also widely recognized for its convenient park and fly service. These features make it a versatile destination, particularly well-suited for conference attendees and business travelers seeking extensive meeting facilities. Its family-friendly amenities, especially the large pool area, also make it an appealing choice for families looking for recreational options. For airport travelers, the hotel offers a practical solution for pre-flight stays and long-term parking. Guests frequently commend the overall friendliness of the staff and the hotel's capacity to manage numerous visitors. However, feedback regarding the condition of some rooms and the reliability of the shuttle service is notably mixed. To enhance your stay, it is advisable to inquire about and request one of the recently renovated rooms for a more modern experience, and if utilizing the airport shuttle, be prepared for potential wait times and plan your schedule with flexibility.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities and amenities that cater to both leisure and business guests. A prominent feature is the large swimming pool, which is heated and consistently enjoyed by families, providing a popular recreational outlet. Adjacent to the pool, a spacious hot tub offers a relaxing option for unwinding. For those maintaining their fitness routines, the well-equipped fitness center is available and generally reported as clean. The hotel is particularly well-regarded for its extensive meeting places and conference amenities, which are described as spectacular and capable of accommodating large groups, making it an ideal venue for events. While free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the property, some guests have reported occasional issues with its reliability, noting that it can be inconsistent. The overall availability of these amenities contributes significantly to the guest experience, offering various options for relaxation, work, and entertainment.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is mixed. While some rooms are described as clean and well-maintained, many reviews highlight filthy conditions, including dirty grout, hair in the bathroom, and dusty surfaces. Older rooms are often cited as dated, with stained carpets, peeling wallpaper, and even mold, indicating a need for remodel. Conversely, recently renovated rooms receive high praise for being immaculate, comfortable, and modern. Bed comfort varies, with some finding beds comfortable and soft, while others report uncomfortable mattresses, flat pillows, or squeaky beds. Standard amenities include a coffee maker, refrigerator, and microwave. Noise can be an issue from the pool area, hallways, or events, though some rooms are quiet. Common complaints also include awkward bathroom layouts, toilet issues, sink back-ups, leaking shower heads, loud AC, and a persistent smell of smoke or other strong odors in certain areas.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers various dining and food quality options, though guest experiences are varied. The breakfast buffet is available for a fee, typically around $15, and is generally described as a robust offering with plentiful and hot food options, including real eggs, sausage, potatoes, fruit, and pastries. However, some guests express disappointment or confusion, expecting a free continental breakfast which is not included. The on-site restaurant receives mixed reviews, with some guests finding the food decent or even excellent, while others note that restaurants closed early during their stay. The bar area is often praised for its friendly staff and good service, though some mention it closing earlier than expected. Specific mentions of the Aspen and Oak restaurant and bar highlight positive experiences with both the food and the service provided by the staff. Room service is available, but some guests have reported issues with responsiveness.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location and accessibility are key aspects of guest feedback, particularly its proximity to the airport. It is conveniently close to the airport and the Mall of America, making it suitable for travelers utilizing these hubs. While some chain restaurants and cafes are within walking distance, many guests note that there is not much of interest within walking distance for exploring, often requiring an Uber or rental car to reach other attractions. The park and fly service is a popular and generally reasonably priced option for airport travelers, though some guests report parking issues due to full lots or limited space, and concerns about handicapped parking. The airport shuttle service is a major point of contention; while some drivers are praised for being friendly and safe, a significant number of reviews detail long wait times, often exceeding one or two hours, unreliable service, missed pickups, and communication issues from staff regarding shuttle availability. Guests frequently report the shuttle being full, leading to frustration and additional costs for alternative transportation.

Staff & Service
Guest feedback on staff and service is quite varied, ranging from highly positive to significantly negative. Many guests consistently praise the staff as friendly, helpful, attentive, and providing excellent service, highlighting their professionalism and accommodating nature. The check-in and check-out process is often described as easy and quick, though some guests report slow or disorganized check-in experiences, particularly during peak times or when the hotel is busy. While some reviews commend housekeeping for maintaining clean rooms and offering turndown service, others express dissatisfaction, noting rooms were not cleaned adequately or that service needed to be specifically requested. A recurring negative theme involves the front desk staff, with numerous complaints about individuals being rude, unhelpful, dismissive, and unprofessional, demonstrating a perceived lack of concern for customer service. This inconsistency in service significantly impacts the overall guest experience.

Additional Information
Beyond the standard categories, several important details enhance or detract from the guest experience. The hotel is frequently lauded as an excellent venue for conventions, capable of accommodating a large capacity of attendees and offering wheelchair accessible areas throughout its spacious layout. Guests appreciate the hotel's pet-friendly policy, allowing them to travel with their companions. There is ongoing discussion about renovations, with the lobby updated and some rooms recently renovated, offering a modern aesthetic. However, many guests note that other sections of the hotel are still older and in need of further updates. A delightful and frequently mentioned perk is the provision of warm cookies at check-in, a welcoming touch that many guests enjoy. Conversely, a recurring issue reported by several guests involves double charges on their credit cards, leading to frustration and requiring follow-up to resolve.