Courtyard by Marriott Chapel Hill

This hotel is highly regarded for its exceptional staff, who consistently go above and beyond to ensure guest comfort and satisfaction, particularly during challenging personal circumstances. Its convenient location near the UNC campus and medical facilities makes it an ideal choice for families visiting for medical appointments or university events, as well as business travelers attending conferences at the nearby Friday Center. Guests frequently commend the hotel's overall cleanliness and the comfort of its accommodations. While the hotel offers many positive aspects, prospective guests should be aware of the paid parking policy and the potential for pool closures, which are recurring themes in guest feedback. To enhance your stay, it is advisable to confirm the operational status of all amenities upon booking.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities, though guest experiences are mixed. The indoor pool and hot tub are appreciated by some, especially families, but many reviews note that these amenities are frequently closed for maintenance, have inconvenient hours, or are perceived as small or unclean. The fitness center is available, described by some as well-equipped, while others find it small. The lobby is generally seen as beautiful and spacious, providing a comfortable area for guests. However, some guests report issues with the elevators, citing slow operation, cleanliness concerns, or mechanical problems. In-room amenities vary, with some rooms featuring a refrigerator and microwave, while others lack these or have outdated versions. The in-room coffee makers are often criticized for being tiny or unclean, and the air conditioning can be loud or ineffective, leading to humid rooms.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is notably mixed. Many guests praise the rooms as clean, spotless, and fresh, highlighting the efforts of the cleaning staff. However, a significant number of reviews mention specific cleanliness issues, such as hair in the tub, mold in the bathroom grout, dirty furniture, or unvacuumed floors. Regarding comfort, the beds receive polarized opinions; many find them comfortable and conducive to a restful sleep, while an equal number describe them as too firm or uncomfortable, leading to backaches. Noise levels are also a concern for some, with reports of construction noise, loud air conditioning, or sound transfer from adjacent rooms due to thin walls, though others describe their stay as quiet.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options, primarily the Bistro and bar, receive varied feedback, with a common point of contention being the lack of complimentary breakfast. Most guests express dissatisfaction with having to pay for breakfast, often finding it expensive for the quality offered. Descriptions of breakfast food range from "substandard" and "inedible" with "cold bacon" and "undercooked potatoes" to "great" and "delicious." The coffee available for purchase is also frequently criticized for its high cost and poor quality. The Bistro service can be slow, with some guests reporting long waits or issues with orders. The bar receives mixed reviews; some praise the bartenders for their excellent service and cocktails, while others find the staff unengaging or the drink selection limited.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is consistently highlighted as a major advantage, particularly for its proximity to the University of North Carolina campus, the Friday Center, and the local hospital. Guests appreciate its convenience for attending university events, sports games, and conferences. The property is set back from the main thoroughfare in a wooded area, contributing to a serene and peaceful atmosphere. However, a significant and recurring negative theme is the paid parking policy. Guests widely criticize the daily parking fee, describing it as unreasonable and a "bait and switch," especially given the hotel's suburban setting with ample, open parking that lacks gates or security. The payment process, often involving a clumsy third-party app with additional service fees, adds to guest frustration.

Staff & Service
The staff at this hotel consistently receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, standing out as a signature strength. Guests frequently commend their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness, noting that employees often go above and beyond to assist with requests and resolve issues. The check-in process is generally described as quick and efficient, with staff being welcoming and accommodating, even for early arrivals. Many reviews highlight specific instances of exceptional customer service, such as providing gift bags for families in need, assisting with Amazon deliveries, or promptly addressing room concerns. While the overall service is highly praised, there are some mixed reviews regarding housekeeping, with a few guests reporting missed cleanings or specific oversights, though others found their rooms consistently well-maintained.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel has been undergoing renovations, which some reviews indicate can lead to noise disruptions during the day, particularly in the mornings. While the hotel aims to provide a comfortable stay, some guests have reported issues with door locks malfunctioning, leading to inconvenience. The hotel implements a "no party" clause, which is communicated upon check-in. For guests who are members of the hotel's rewards program, there have been instances where status benefits were not automatically acknowledged, requiring guests to inquire. On a positive note, the hotel has demonstrated excellent lost and found service, with one guest reporting the successful return of an item left behind months prior.