Hampton Inn Hickory

This hotel is highly regarded for its exceptional staff and consistent cleanliness, making it a memorable choice for many travelers. Its signature feature is its direct proximity to the Convention Center, providing unparalleled convenience for business travelers and attendees of various events. Guests frequently highlight the hotel's comfortable accommodations and the outstanding breakfast experience. The property is an excellent fit for families due to its spacious rooms and amenities like an indoor pool, and it also caters well to sightseers and those seeking local experiences, given its accessible location near dining and shopping. While most experiences are positive, some guests noted the hotel is undergoing renovation, which can sometimes lead to minor disruptions. To ensure the best stay, guests might consider inquiring about the renovation status and specific room types to match their preference for bed firmness.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests generally appreciate the range of facilities and amenities available, enhancing their stay. The indoor heated pool is a popular feature, especially for families, though some guests noted the water temperature could be inconsistent. A well-equipped fitness center is available for those wishing to maintain their routines. Rooms are thoughtfully appointed with convenient features such as a refrigerator and microwave, which are particularly handy for longer stays or families. The hotel provides free Wi-Fi, ensuring guests can stay connected. For added convenience, a guest laundry facility is on-site, and a business center offers computer access. While the hotel does not feature a full-service restaurant or bar in the lobby, guests found the availability of ice machines and vending options useful. The elevators are generally efficient, and the AC systems are effective in maintaining comfortable room temperatures.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel receives widespread praise for its exceptional cleanliness, with many guests describing rooms and public areas as immaculately maintained, often surpassing expectations. Most guests found the beds comfortable, contributing to a restful night's sleep, though some experienced issues with overly firm mattresses or flat pillows. Spacious rooms are a recurring positive, offering ample space for relaxation, especially in family suites. While many rooms are noted for being quiet, some guests reported varying noise levels, including occasional sounds from the interstate, construction, or adjacent rooms. The bathroom facilities are generally clean, with many appreciating the strong shower pressure. However, a few isolated comments mentioned issues such as peeling paint in bathrooms, or concerns about worn upholstery and carpet in some areas, indicating that while overall cleanliness is high, some rooms may show signs of wear. Additionally, some guests noted issues with AC filters needing cleaning.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast service is consistently highlighted as a major strength, often described as exceptional and exceeding typical hotel offerings. Guests rave about the breakfast variety, which includes hot options like eggs, sausage, biscuits, and gravy, alongside lighter fare such as oatmeal, grits, bagels, and a popular waffle station. The quality of the food is frequently praised, with many considering it well worth the stay. The coffee is also noted for its quality. Beyond breakfast, guests appreciate thoughtful touches such as warm cookies offered in the evenings and a snack bag provided at checkout, adding to the overall positive dining experience. The dedicated staff managing the breakfast area receive significant commendation for their attentiveness and friendly service, ensuring food is constantly replenished and the dining area remains clean and welcoming.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage, offering easy access to various points of interest. Its direct adjacency to the Convention Center makes it an ideal choice for attendees, allowing for convenient walking access. Guests appreciate being close to numerous restaurants, many within walking distance, providing diverse dining options. The hotel is also well-situated near shopping areas, including a mall and major retailers. Its strategic position right off I-40 ensures excellent accessibility for travelers arriving by car, though some noted a confusing access road. Parking is available and generally easy to access, although it can become quite full, and some guests mentioned limited availability for handicap spaces upfront. Overall, the location is praised for its convenience and for being in a safe area.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receives outstanding praise, with guests frequently describing them as exceptionally friendly and helpful. From the front desk to housekeeping and the breakfast team, the entire staff is commended for their professionalism, attentiveness, and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay. The check-in process is often highlighted as quick and efficient. Guests appreciate the staff's responsiveness to requests and their ability to resolve issues promptly. The hotel's pet-friendly service and family-friendly service are also noted, with staff accommodating the needs of all guests. While the vast majority of feedback is overwhelmingly positive, a few isolated comments mentioned specific negative interactions or observations regarding staff conduct, but these are exceptions to the generally high standard of attentive service provided.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel has been undergoing renovation and construction, which, while aiming to improve facilities, has occasionally led to minor disruptions such as noise, covered windows, or temporary closures of certain entrances. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, accommodating guests traveling with animals, though finding suitable outdoor areas for pets might require some effort. A notable policy is that housekeeping by request is standard for multi-night stays, which some guests found less convenient than daily service. While most rooms offer a comfortable environment, some guests noted the absence of effective room darkening curtains, which could impact sleep quality for those sensitive to light. The hotel also offers guest laundry facilities, which is a practical amenity for longer stays.