DoubleTree by Hilton Lawrence

The hotel's signature welcome of warm cookies at check-in creates an immediate positive impression for many guests. While many appreciate the friendly staff and comfortable beds, a significant number of reviews highlight a pervasive musty or moldy smell and high humidity throughout the property, often linked to the indoor pool area. This can detract from the overall experience, despite efforts to maintain clean rooms. The hotel appears to be a suitable choice for business travelers and conference attendees due to its convenient location and meeting facilities. Families might also find it appealing for its indoor pool, when available, and the welcoming cookie tradition. To enhance your stay, consider inquiring about room humidity levels or specific room locations away from the pool area, and it's advisable to confirm the operational status of amenities like the pool and hot tub upon booking.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features an indoor pool and hot tub, which are often a draw for guests, particularly families. However, feedback on these facilities is mixed; many guests report the pool and hot tub are frequently closed for maintenance, are cold, or contribute to the pervasive humidity and musty smell throughout the hotel, especially in the lobby area where the pool is centrally located. The Wi-Fi receives varied comments, with some finding it fast and reliable for business needs, while others experience frequent disconnections and poor performance. A fitness center is available, though some guests note issues with equipment logins. The air conditioning in rooms is a common point of concern, with many reporting it to be ineffective or broken, leading to uncomfortably warm and humid conditions. Guests also mention issues with televisions freezing or not working properly, and some describe the elevator as run down.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Most guests find the rooms to be clean, and many praise the comfortable beds and pillows, ensuring a restful night's sleep. However, a significant and recurring concern is the presence of a strong musty or moldy smell and high humidity within the rooms, which some guests found made them feel unwell or triggered allergies. This dampness sometimes resulted in wet carpets. The air conditioning is frequently reported as ineffective, contributing to the uncomfortable humidity and warmth. Some guests noted that the hotel's overall decor and room furnishings appear outdated and in need of renovation, with issues like dirty curtains and ceilings needing repair. Bathroom conditions also receive mixed reviews, with some mentioning short ceilings, slow drains, grime on showerheads, or empty amenity dispensers. Noise levels can be an issue, with reports of children running in halls late at night, parties, or sounds from adjoining rooms impacting quiet enjoyment.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options generally receive positive feedback, particularly the breakfast buffet. Many guests commend the breakfast variety, highlighting the popular made-to-order omelets and the quality of other items like crispy potatoes and fresh fruit. While some guests appreciate the convenience and quality, it's important to note that breakfast is not complimentary and incurs an additional charge, which some guests were surprised by. The on-site restaurant and bar are also mentioned as convenient amenities, offering good food and service, though some guests found the menu sparse or experienced slow service. A signature and highly appreciated aspect of the hotel experience is the complimentary warm cookies provided at check-in, which consistently delight guests and create a welcoming atmosphere.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel is widely praised for its convenient location, offering easy access from the highway, making it a practical choice for travelers. It is situated favorably for those visiting the nearby university campus and attending conferences, with many guests finding it an ideal base for their academic or professional needs. While not directly on Mass Street, it is considered a short drive away, providing reasonable proximity to local attractions, shopping, and dining options, allowing guests to explore the area with ease. Guests consistently appreciate the availability of plentiful parking, including spaces suitable for trucks and trailers, which adds significant convenience for those traveling by car. The hotel's position away from the main expressway also contributes to generally quiet rooms, despite some internal noise issues, allowing for a more peaceful stay.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receives high praise for their friendliness and helpfulness, with many guests highlighting their positive interactions and willingness to assist. The check-in process is often described as easy and efficient, contributing to a smooth arrival experience. However, some guests report significant issues with customer service, including instances of staff being perceived as rude, unaccommodating, or lacking empathy, particularly when dealing with complex reservation problems or policy enforcement. There are also reports of room mix-ups, digital key failures, and concerns regarding the handling of guest belongings by housekeeping or during room changes. Despite these isolated negative experiences, the overall sentiment points to a dedicated team striving to provide good service, with many guests commending individual staff members for their kindness and professionalism.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of several specific policies and features that may impact their stay. The hotel has a pet-friendly policy, which is appreciated by those traveling with animals, although finding suitable outdoor areas nearby can sometimes be a challenge. There are strict lobby quiet hours after 10 PM, and guests attempting to use the lobby for work or relaxation during these times have reported being asked to leave, sometimes assertively. Some guests have experienced billing discrepancies, including instances of being double-charged or having issues with loyalty program benefits, necessitating careful review of their statements. Additionally, there have been reports of difficulties with the hotel's process for handling lost and found items, with some guests struggling to retrieve their belongings even after confirmation of their discovery. It is advisable for guests to clarify any specific policies or potential charges upon arrival to avoid misunderstandings.