Holiday Inn Express Airport-Calgary by IHG

This hotel is highly regarded for its family-friendly atmosphere and excellent pool with a waterslide, making it a standout choice for families and travelers with children. Its convenient proximity to the airport and reliable shuttle service also make it ideal for those with early flights or layovers. Guests consistently praise the hotel's overall cleanliness, spacious rooms, and the generally friendly and helpful staff. For a more peaceful stay, especially if traveling without children, it is advisable to request a room away from the pool area or lower floors, as some guests noted noise from active families and sports teams. Confirming shuttle details upon booking can also enhance a smooth arrival and departure experience.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's pool is a major highlight, especially for families, featuring an exciting waterslide that provides great entertainment. Many guests found the pool clean and enjoyable, though some noted it could be too cold at times. The hot tub is also available for relaxation, but a few guests mentioned issues with its temperature or jet pressure. A fitness center is on-site, described as functional and spacious, though some reviews indicated a lack of cleaning supplies. Guests appreciate the convenience of free Wi-Fi throughout the property. In-room amenities like exposed wall outlets and USB ports are generally available, although some USB ports were reported as damaged.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests frequently commend the cleanliness and spaciousness of the rooms, often describing them as modern and updated. The beds are consistently praised for being exceptionally comfortable, often equipped with multiple pillow options to ensure a restful sleep. Many rooms include a fridge, microwave, and coffee maker, adding to guest convenience. The bathrooms are generally well-maintained, though some guests reported issues such as cracking caulk, mold, dirty showers, or a lack of light over the mirror. While most rooms are quiet, some guests experienced noise from hallways, adjacent rooms, or loud air conditioning units, impacting sleep quality. Isolated reports of damaged furniture or stained lounge chairs were also noted.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast is a significant draw for many guests, frequently described as delicious and offering a good variety of options. Highlights often include the interactive pancake machine and tasty cinnamon buns. Hot food items like eggs, sausages, and beans are typically available, though some guests found the quality inconsistent or the menu repetitive for longer stays. The coffee is generally well-received. The breakfast area can become quite crowded, especially during peak morning hours, leading to long lines or limited seating. Some guests expressed a desire for more diverse protein options or lactose-free alternatives for yogurt.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a convenient location near the airport, making it an excellent choice for travelers with early flights or layovers. A complimentary shuttle service to the airport is provided, often utilizing taxis if the hotel's own shuttle is unavailable, which guests find very helpful. However, some experienced confusion or delays regarding shuttle availability and booking procedures. Parking is available on-site, but many guests found it limited and tight, particularly for larger vehicles, sometimes necessitating parking in overflow areas. The hotel is situated near several restaurants and shopping options, accessible by walking or a short drive. Due to its proximity to the airport, some guests noted occasional noise from low-flying aircraft.

Staff & Service
The staff at this hotel consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Guests frequently highlight the efficiency of the check-in process and the staff's willingness to accommodate requests, such as late check-out or room changes. Many positive comments specifically mention the attentive front desk team and the hard-working breakfast room attendants. The staff's efforts in coordinating airport transportation are also widely appreciated. However, a few guests reported isolated negative experiences, including perceived rudeness, a lack of consistent staff presence at the front desk, or issues with housekeeping consistency, such as not replacing paper cups or towels.

Additional Information
This hotel is a popular destination for families and frequently hosts sports teams, which can contribute to a lively atmosphere but occasionally result in noise in hallways during quiet hours. While the hotel offers a convenient airport shuttle service, guests should be aware that long-term parking for personal vehicles while away on trips is generally not permitted on the property. Some guests noted minor inconveniences such as occasional issues with key card functionality or the elevator being slow. The hotel is often chosen for its ability to accommodate large family groups with its spacious room configurations.