Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines

This hotel is highly regarded for its prime location, offering convenient access to a variety of restaurants, shopping, and entertainment options, making it an ideal choice for families and groups attending tournaments or reunions. Its proximity to a major mall is a significant draw, allowing guests to easily explore the area. While many appreciate the hotel's modern appearance and comfortable accommodations, some guests have noted inconsistencies in service and room maintenance. The hotel strives to provide a welcoming environment for all, including pet owners, and offers conference facilities for business travelers. To ensure a smooth stay, guests are advised to confirm their room type upon arrival and be aware of potential noise levels, especially during peak times.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features a large pool area, which is a significant draw for many guests, particularly families. While some found the pool clean and warm, others reported issues such as the water being too cold, a strong chlorine smell, and the hot tub jets not functioning or the hot tub not being adequately heated. There were also concerns about the enforcement of rules, with some guests noting unruly children in the pool area. The fitness center is available for guest use. Feedback on the Wi-Fi is mixed, with some experiencing unreliable connections, particularly with the free option. The elevators were occasionally described as slow, noisy, or in need of maintenance, with some visual signs of wear. Conference facilities are available and well-regarded for events.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Overall, the cleanliness of the rooms is generally praised, though some isolated incidents of hair in the bathtub or unvacuumed areas were noted. Room condition receives mixed reviews; while many find them spacious, clean, and modern, others describe them as dated or showing signs of wear, such as peeling wallpaper or unfinished details like exposed electrical boxes. The beds are a point of contention, with some guests finding them exceptionally comfortable and conducive to a good night's sleep, while others reported them as stiff, hard, or past their prime. Noise levels are a recurring concern, stemming from loud air conditioning units, hallway activity, and sounds from adjoining rooms. In-room amenities include a mini-fridge and microwave, though some guests experienced issues with the fridge's functionality or noise. Shower pressure and consistent hot water supply were also inconsistent for some.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options receive considerable attention, particularly the breakfast. While it is not included in the room rate and incurs an additional charge, many guests find the breakfast to be of good quality and variety, featuring options like cooked-to-order omelets, French toast, bacon, and a fresh fruit bar. Some, however, felt it was a standard hotel breakfast not worth the extra cost. The on-site restaurant and bar are generally well-regarded, with guests praising the quality of the food, including dishes like pork chops and pizza, and the attentive service from the bar staff. Complimentary cookies are also a popular treat offered by the hotel.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently highlighted as one of its strongest assets. Guests appreciate its close proximity to major attractions, including Jordan Creek Mall, which is often within walking distance. The surrounding area offers a wide array of restaurants, diverse shopping opportunities, and various entertainment places, making it convenient for leisure and business travelers alike. Parking is generally described as easy and accessible, contributing to a hassle-free arrival and departure experience. The hotel's position within a well-developed and pleasant neighborhood further enhances its appeal, providing a secure and enjoyable environment for guests.

Staff & Service
Feedback regarding the staff and service is notably mixed. While many guests commend the friendly staff, highlighting their helpfulness and attentiveness, particularly the bartenders and conference staff, a significant number of reviews describe negative experiences with the front desk staff. These include instances of unresponsiveness, rudeness, dismissiveness, and slow service, especially when dealing with issues like room changes or lost items. Housekeeping service is a frequent point of concern, with guests reporting a lack of regular room servicing, non-replenishment of in-room items like coffee, and towels not being replaced. The check-in process also received varied comments, with some finding it fast and efficient, while others encountered delays or difficulties, particularly with online check-ins or third-party bookings.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of certain hotel policies that may impact their stay, such as restrictions on consuming outside food and beverages in the lobby booths, and specific rules regarding hot tub use for minors. The hotel also implements a quiet hours policy after 10 PM, which is appreciated by groups seeking a more restful environment. For guests traveling with pets, the hotel offers a pet-friendly policy. Some guests booking through third-party sites reported difficulties with check-in and obtaining refunds or adjustments for issues encountered during their stay. While the hotel has undergone recent renovations, some areas still exhibit minor "fit and finish" issues. The overall value for money is a recurring discussion point, with many guests feeling the cost is high given the amenities and service inconsistencies.