Holiday Inn Express Sault Ste. Marie By Ihg

The hotel stands out for its recent renovations and an exceptional breakfast experience, which guests consistently highlight as a major draw. Its overall cleanliness, the remarkable staff hospitality, and the provision of comfortable beds contribute significantly to a positive stay. The well-regarded pool area also adds to the appeal. This hotel is ideal for families participating in sporting events, couples seeking a quiet and relaxing getaway, business travelers needing convenient access to local areas, and sightseers exploring nearby attractions. It is also a suitable choice for pet owners. To enhance your stay, consider requesting a room away from connecting doors to minimize potential noise, and it's advisable to inquire about the hot tub's operational status upon arrival.

Facilities & Amenities
Most guests highly praise the hotel's indoor pool and hot tub area, frequently noting its cleanliness and appeal, particularly for families and children. However, some reviews indicate that the hot tub is occasionally out of order or has issues with its jets, and the pool water temperature can sometimes be cooler than desired. A well-equipped fitness center is available and appreciated for its convenience. The hotel provides free Wi-Fi, though a few guests reported intermittent connectivity problems. Significant renovations have resulted in a modern and well-maintained appearance throughout the property. While generally functional, some guests experienced an elevator that felt unstable, leading them to use an alternative.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel consistently receives high praise for its exceptional cleanliness, with many guests describing rooms as spotless and well-maintained, even the designated pet-friendly accommodations. The comfortable beds and nice pillows are frequently highlighted, ensuring a restful night's sleep for most. While generally quiet, some guests experienced noise from adjacent connecting rooms or from the weight room during early morning hours. The bathroom size elicits mixed feedback; many find them clean and functional, but some describe them as small or cramped, with occasional reports of low water pressure or a shower door that does not stay closed. In-room amenities such as a fridge and microwave are appreciated, as are blackout shades and a coffee maker. Minor issues like a non-functional thermostat or outdated TV systems were occasionally noted.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast is a significant highlight, consistently receiving rave reviews for its extensive variety and high quality. Guests frequently commend the hot breakfast options, which include omelets, bacon, biscuits and gravy, and the popular pancake machine. The coffee is also surprisingly well-regarded for a hotel breakfast. Staff members are noted for diligently keeping the breakfast bar well-stocked and clean, even during peak times. Many guests appreciate the convenience of to-go containers for those on the go. While the breakfast area can sometimes feel crowded, the overall dining experience is a major positive for most guests, often exceeding expectations for this type of hotel.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a highly convenient location, situated directly off the expressway and providing easy access to downtown and various local attractions. It is particularly well-suited for visiting the Soo Locks, experiencing the Agawa Train, and accessing Lake Superior State University. Its close proximity to the Canadian border is also a significant advantage for cross-border travelers. While the parking lot is generally sufficient, some guests noted it could be tight, especially with larger vehicles or during busy periods. The hotel's setting offers pleasant views, with some rooms providing a distant glimpse of the river, though a direct, close-up river view is not universally guaranteed.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receives outstanding praise for their friendliness, professionalism, and attentiveness. Guests frequently highlight the welcoming atmosphere and the staff's willingness to go above and beyond, from assisting with early check-ins to providing helpful local recommendations. The check-in and check-out process is generally described as quick and efficient. Housekeeping is noted for being thorough and responsive to requests for replenished amenities. The hotel is particularly commended for its family-friendly service, especially when accommodating groups like hockey teams, though some isolated incidents of staff being perceived as overly strict with children were mentioned. Overall, the exceptional customer service is a recurring theme, making guests feel valued and cared for.

Additional Information
The hotel has recently undergone extensive renovations, which guests generally appreciate for creating a fresh and modern ambiance, though some noted temporary inconveniences like construction noise or closed facilities during the process. The pet-friendly policy is a notable feature, with clean pet rooms available, though some guests found the associated fees to be high, especially given the lack of daily room cleaning for pet rooms. A few guests reported issues with the slippery tile around the pool area, advising caution. There were also isolated reports of unexpected smoking fees or issues with billing discrepancies, which caused frustration for some guests.