Clarion Inn Silicon Valley

This hotel offers a compelling blend of value and spacious rooms, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking comfortable and affordable accommodations. Its unique proximity to the Capitol Drive-In and a CalTrain station positions it as a convenient base for sightseers looking to explore San Francisco, as well as families and solo travelers needing easy access to local attractions and transportation. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's cleanliness and the overall comfort of their stay. To make the most of your visit, it's advisable to confirm the current status of amenities like the pool and hot tub, as their availability can vary, and consider the surrounding neighborhood, especially if planning to walk after dark.

Facilities & Amenities
Guest feedback on the hotel's facilities is quite mixed. While the lobby is described as airy, some find its decor dated. Most guests appreciate the easy parking, often noting it as spacious and well-lit, and the security measures, including key access for hallways and entrances. However, the pool and hot tub are frequently reported as being closed, out of order, or seasonal, leading to disappointment for many. The fitness center is also often noted as being in disarray or unavailable. Wi-Fi performance receives consistent criticism for being spotty, lagging, or unreliable. Additionally, guests have reported issues with ice machines, laundry rooms, and vending machines being out of order. Some rooms feature a microwave and refrigerator, which are appreciated conveniences.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel generally receives high praise for its cleanliness, with many guests describing rooms and the property as very clean and well-maintained. The beds are consistently highlighted as comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, and the rooms are frequently noted for being spacious. However, feedback on room condition is varied; while some rooms are described as modern and recently renovated, others are found to be dated with old finishes, peeling wallpaper, or stains on the carpet. Issues with bathroom cleanliness, such as dirty toilets or uncleaned surfaces, are occasionally reported. Guests also mention problems with hot water availability, non-functioning outlets, and noisy air conditioning units. Some find the bathroom layout unusual, with sinks sometimes located in the main room, and note a lack of counter space or shelving.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast offering is a significant point of discussion among guests, with feedback being notably mixed. While many reviews praise the breakfast as good, hot, and enjoyable, particularly highlighting the option to make fresh waffles, and the availability of scrambled eggs and sausages, a substantial number of guests express disappointment. This is primarily due to the breakfast often being a "grab-and-go" bag containing items like a granola bar, yogurt, and juice, rather than the expected full continental spread. Some guests specifically mention the use of powdered eggs and a lack of variety over multiple days. The breakfast room itself is sometimes described as tiny, which can impact the dining experience during peak hours.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location receives varied feedback, often depending on the guest's purpose of stay. It is praised for being quiet and secluded from the main street, and its proximity to the CalTrain station is a significant advantage for those traveling to San Francisco. Guests also appreciate its convenience to the convention center and nearby shopping areas like Costco and Target. Parking is consistently described as easy, spacious, and safe, with some areas offering covered parking. However, many reviews caution about the surrounding neighborhood, describing it as "sketchy," "rough," or "unsafe at night," with mentions of homeless encampments nearby. While the hotel itself is considered secure, guests often feel the need for a car or ride-sharing services to access restaurants and attractions.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel generally receives positive remarks for their friendliness, helpfulness, and politeness. Many guests highlight specific instances of staff going out of their way to assist, such as quickly replacing a broken microwave, sending forgotten items, or accommodating room requests for safety. The check-in process is often described as easy and efficient. However, there are also instances of negative feedback, with some guests reporting rude or uninspired staff, issues with payment processing, or a lack of responsiveness from management regarding serious concerns like theft or refund requests. Housekeeping is generally praised for being on point, though some guests experienced unexpected room entry.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that despite being advertised, EV chargers are not available at the property. There have been recurring issues with the hotel's cancellation policy, where guests who check out early are charged for the full reserved stay, even if the room is re-rented. This policy has led to significant frustration and is a point of concern for many. Some guests have reported serious security incidents, including theft from rooms and concerns about window locks, which the hotel management reportedly did not adequately address. Additionally, the hotel has experienced power outages during guest stays. It is advisable to confirm the operational status of all advertised amenities, such as the pool and hot tub, prior to booking, as their availability is inconsistent.