Residence Inn Norfolk Downtown

The hotel is widely praised for its spacious rooms and kitchenette amenities, making it a highly suitable choice for families and long-term stays seeking a comfortable, home-like environment. Its prime location in downtown, coupled with generally positive feedback on cleanliness and staff attentiveness, positions it as a strong contender for sightseers and business travelers alike. Guests frequently highlight the convenience of having ample space to relax and prepare meals, which significantly enhances the overall experience. To ensure a seamless stay, it is advisable to confirm room amenities upon arrival and be aware of the parking arrangements, as these are recurring themes in guest feedback.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers well-equipped kitchenettes in its rooms, complete with essential utensils and appliances, which many guests find incredibly convenient for extended stays. The indoor pool is a popular feature, especially among families with children, though some reviews mention the hot tub being out of service or needing maintenance. The fitness center is available, but some guests note a limited selection of weights. A significant and frequent concern is the elevators, with many guests reporting that only one is operational, leading to considerable wait times, particularly in a nine-story building. While Wi-Fi is available, some guests experienced slow or inconsistent service, and others noted it came with an additional cost. A laundry room is also provided, adding to the convenience for longer visits.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Most guests find their rooms to be clean and well-maintained, with many appreciating the spacious layout and comfortable beds that contribute to a restful night's sleep. However, a notable number of reviews indicate that the rooms, while clean, appear dated and are in need of renovation, with mentions of worn furniture, peeling wallpaper, and minor cosmetic issues. Some guests reported issues with hot water availability or inconsistent temperatures in the shower, and others experienced problems with the air conditioning or heating systems. Noise from the street, including sirens and traffic, is occasionally mentioned, particularly for rooms on lower floors or facing busy streets, impacting the overall quietness for some.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast receives mixed but generally positive feedback, with many guests praising the variety of options and the attentiveness of the breakfast staff. Popular items include waffles, eggs, and sausage, which are often described as fresh and well-stocked. However, some guests expressed disappointment with the coffee quality, describing it as lukewarm or awful, and a few noted that hot food items could be cold or unappetizing. There are also instances where breakfast items ran out quickly or the service area was closed earlier than expected, which was inconvenient for some late risers. Overall, the breakfast is seen as a convenient amenity, despite some inconsistencies in quality.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location in downtown, making it highly convenient for guests to access various attractions and points of interest. It is within easy walking distance of the Waterside District, Scope Arena, the Chrysler Museum, and numerous restaurants and entertainment venues. Its proximity to local hospitals is also a significant advantage for those visiting for medical appointments. Parking is available in a public garage directly across the street, which most guests find convenient and easy to access. However, it is important to note that parking incurs a daily fee, which some guests found expensive or were unaware of prior to arrival, and issues with the garage's entry/exit system were occasionally reported.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Guests frequently highlight the welcoming demeanor of the front desk team and their willingness to assist with various requests, from providing local information to addressing room issues promptly. The check-in process is generally described as smooth and efficient. Many reviews commend specific staff members for their exceptional service, particularly in the breakfast area, where their attentiveness and positive attitude enhance the dining experience. While most interactions are positive, a few guests reported instances of staff being overwhelmed during busy periods or a lack of responsiveness to phone calls.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel operates on a scheduled housekeeping policy, meaning daily room cleaning is not standard and must be requested in advance, which some guests found inconvenient. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, accommodating guests traveling with animals. A recurring technical issue involves the key card system, with many guests experiencing problems with their room keys deactivating frequently, requiring multiple trips to the front desk for recoding. Furthermore, general maintenance and the aging infrastructure are noted, with several reviews mentioning the need for overall renovation and updates to various fixtures and furnishings throughout the property.