Home2 Suites by Hilton Carbondale

The hotel is notably distinguished by its direct proximity to the Amtrak station and Southern Illinois University (SIU) campus, making it a prime choice for train travelers seeking convenience and university visitors attending events or dropping off students. Its design and amenities also cater well to business travelers looking for comfortable long-term stays and families needing spacious accommodations. Guests frequently commend the friendly staff and the quality of the complimentary breakfast. However, a significant and recurring concern is the considerable noise emanating from nearby train tracks and an adjacent bar, which can severely disrupt sleep. Additionally, parking is often cited as limited and challenging. To enhance your stay, it is advisable to request a room situated away from these primary noise sources, and consider arriving earlier in the day to secure a more convenient parking spot.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests consistently praise the spacious rooms and suites, many of which include a convenient kitchenette with a full refrigerator, microwave, and dishwasher, making them ideal for longer stays or families. The hotel offers a well-equipped fitness center with Peloton equipment for guests to maintain their routines. An indoor pool is available, though several guests noted the water was often cold or murky, leading to disappointment. While Wi-Fi is provided, some reviews indicate it can be unreliable. Laundry facilities are a welcome addition for extended visits. The hotel also features pleasant outdoor seating and a patio area, and provides electric vehicle charging spots, though these are sometimes blocked by non-electric vehicles. Additionally, room lighting and electrical outlets were occasionally problematic.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is mixed. While many guests found their rooms to be very clean and spotless, some reported significant issues, including greasy floors, hair in bathrooms, stained carpets and furniture, and unpleasant room odors, including a strong smell of marijuana or a general gym-like scent in the lobby. Bed comfort also varies, with some finding the beds comfortable and others describing mattresses as firm or cheap spring-type, leading to poor sleep. The most prevalent issue is noise levels; the hotel's proximity to train tracks and a bar results in frequent train noise (horns blowing throughout the night) and loud music from the bar, severely disrupting sleep for many. Room condition concerns include bathroom doors that do not close or latch properly, loose faucets, damaged fixtures, and low water pressure in showers, with some noting slippery shower floors.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast at the hotel receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from guests. Many describe it as one of the best they have experienced, highlighting its variety and the fact that hot food options are consistently available and fresh. Guests appreciate the range of choices, which often include items like egg sandwiches, omelets, and hot oatmeal, alongside standard continental selections. The coffee is generally well-regarded, and the use of real dishes and metal cutlery instead of disposable items is a frequently praised detail, enhancing the dining experience. While most reviews are positive, a few guests found the breakfast to be merely adequate or expressed a desire for more fruit options.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage for many guests, particularly its direct proximity to the Amtrak station and the university campus, making it highly convenient for visitors to both. It is also situated within the downtown area, offering walkable access to various restaurants and bars, as well as other local attractions and businesses. This prime positioning allows guests to easily explore the surrounding area on foot. However, parking is a consistent point of concern for many. The parking lot is frequently described as small, cramped, and limited, often leading to guests struggling to find available spaces, especially during peak times or later in the evening. Some guests reported having to park on the street or in nearby lots, and the layout can be challenging for larger vehicles, impacting overall convenience.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentive service. Many guests highlight specific individuals who went "above and beyond" to ensure a comfortable stay. The check-in and check-out processes are generally described as quick and easy, with some guests appreciating the option to use a mobile app for convenience. While the majority of feedback is positive, some guests reported instances of poor customer service, including perceived indifference or unhelpfulness from front desk personnel, particularly during stressful situations or when addressing issues like room problems or extended lobby waits. Despite these isolated incidents, the overall sentiment is that the staff are professional and dedicated to providing a welcoming experience.

Additional Information
The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, which is appreciated by guests traveling with animals, though finding suitable outdoor areas nearby can be a challenge. Guests should be aware that the hotel's security measures include keeping the main entrance locked, requiring staff assistance for entry, which some found inconvenient. There are also significant concerns regarding ADA compliance, particularly with accessible parking spots reportedly being occupied by vehicles without proper placards, forcing guests with disabilities to park in less suitable areas. While some guests mentioned rewards program benefits, others expressed frustration over unexpected charges or discrepancies in pricing. The hotel also features outdoor grills and provides BBQ utensils for guest use, adding a unique amenity for those wishing to cook outdoors.