DoubleTree by Hilton Stamford

This hotel is frequently chosen for its spacious lobby and its capacity to host large conventions and events, making it a suitable option for business travelers and event attendees. Despite its age, the hotel's most consistently praised feature is its exceptional staff, who are often described as friendly, helpful, and attentive, striving to provide excellent service. However, guests should manage their expectations regarding the overall condition of the property, as many areas are noted to be outdated and in need of renovation. For those driving, be prepared for a mandatory daily parking fee, which is a common point of contention among visitors. To ensure a smoother stay, it is advisable to confirm any specific room requests in advance and be aware of the potential for large group events.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features a grand and spacious lobby that many guests find impressive and welcoming, often contrasting with the condition of other areas. A fitness center is available, described as large and equipped with a variety of machines, though some note it feels dated or can be warm. The pool is generally considered nice and large, providing a good space for exercise, but some reviews mention it can be cool, has stains, or has experienced issues like ceiling leaks or non-functional jacuzzis. While a Starbucks is conveniently located on-site, providing quick coffee options, guests report that Wi-Fi can be slow or difficult to connect to in rooms. Elevators are a frequent source of frustration, with reports of them being broken, slow, or causing long waits. Additionally, while ice machines are present, vending machines are often noted as missing or the hotel store being closed.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room condition is largely consistent, describing them as outdated, old, and in dire need of renovation, with issues like peeling wallpaper, scuffed furniture, and cracked fixtures. While some guests found their rooms clean, many reported specific cleanliness issues, including stains on carpets, bed skirts, and walls, as well as dust, hair, and a persistent musty smell. The beds are generally praised for being comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep. However, noise levels can be a significant concern due to thin walls, leading to disturbances from hallway traffic or neighboring rooms. Bathrooms frequently receive criticism for mold, rust on fixtures, low toilets, slow drains, and a lack of amenities like body wash. Furthermore, rooms often lack a microwave and have a small fridge, which can be inconvenient for longer stays.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers a breakfast buffet that many guests find to be good, though it is often described as expensive with limited options and occasional quality issues, such as runny eggs or stale coffee. The on-site restaurant and bar provide convenient dining choices, with food generally considered good, but guests note a limited menu, inconsistent operating hours, and potentially high prices for drinks. The coffee shop located in the lobby, often identified as a popular chain, receives positive remarks for its convenience and the friendly service provided by its staff. However, room service is frequently reported as being limited or entirely unavailable, which can be an inconvenience for guests preferring to dine in their rooms.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a convenient location directly off I-95, offering easy access for travelers. It is also well-situated for those looking to visit New York City, with the Metro-North train station just a short walk away. However, parking is a significant point of contention, as it is not complimentary and incurs a daily fee, ranging from $25 to $32. The parking garage itself is often described as confusing to navigate, with limited spaces, and some guests have reported issues with dripping from the ceiling or concerns about security. While the hotel is in a corporate area, some guests feel the surrounding environment is not ideal for walking, especially at night. Furthermore, wheelchair accessibility is a major concern, with reports of difficult-to-open doors, high key card readers, and small, non-roll-in showers.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receives overwhelming praise, being highlighted as the property's strongest asset. Guests frequently commend their friendly, helpful, and attentive service, noting that many employees go above and beyond to assist with requests and create a welcoming atmosphere. The check-in process is generally described as smooth, though some guests have experienced long waits. While housekeeping is often appreciated for their efforts, some reviews mention inconsistencies, such as rooms not being serviced daily or missing amenities. Specific services like valet service are noted for their efficiency, despite the associated cost. However, feedback on problem resolution is mixed, with some guests reporting that issues, including requests for refunds or maintenance, were not adequately addressed or followed up on.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel frequently hosts large convention hosting and events, which can lead to crowded common areas, increased noise levels, and occasional strain on services. There are mentions from staff that renovation plans are in the works for the property, suggesting future improvements. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, but guests should note the substantial fee associated with bringing pets, which can be as high as $75-$100 per stay, and the challenge of finding suitable outdoor areas nearby. Some guests have reported reservation issues, including double billing or difficulties with booking platforms, and a lack of follow-up on promised refunds. There have also been recurring complaints about unexpected alarms going off in rooms and difficulties with the hotel's lost and found policy when trying to retrieve forgotten items.