The Arts Hotel

The rooms are comfortable, clean, simple, and well appointed, and the service has always been excellent in the many times I've stayed here since it opened. The main problem is noise. The Pony Boat, a game room next door known for loud music until about 1 or 2am, can keep you awake with thumping bass and loud chatter unless your room is on the other side of the building. We knew about it on our last visit, and the front desk was very accommodating and let us change rooms, but we still heard doors slamming and people carrying on in nearby rooms until about 2am. I'll probably stay again for convenience, but I can't honestly give it full marks with noise being such a factor.

I visit this city seven or eight times a year and stay at this hotel each time. Usually I book through a third party, but this time I booked directly. I entered the wrong arrival and departure dates by mistake and only noticed a week later when I showed up. My card had already been charged the full amount, which I understand. Since the hotel wasn't full, I hoped management might offer a complimentary room. The young man at the desk said he'd see what he could do, then came back after a few minutes with approval for a discounted rate that night. I accepted, but felt underwhelmed. It was certainly their choice not to provide a free room, and what they did was acceptable. Still, this was a chance to give an especially loyal guest exceptional service instead of merely okay service. Management put a value of $100 on that opportunity. Imagine the goodwill, and the stories I'd have told friends, neighbours, and other travellers, if they'd offered the room. That was an opportunity missed.

The location is great, and the women at the front desk on Oct 3 were friendly and accommodating. They even let us check in early, which we appreciated. We stayed at The Arts Hotel in Charlottetown on Oct 4th. The room was clean, but surprisingly bare: no TV, fridge, phones, or much beyond the basics. It was fine for a short stay, just very minimal. The lounge was the part that bothered us most. On the morning of October 4th, men were sleeping there with clothes and belongings spread everywhere. It felt uncomfortable and unwelcoming, and we couldn't even get a coffee. When we told the front desk, staff just said, “Yeah, we're aware,” which wasn't reassuring. I was glad my boyfriend was with me.

Friendly staff, clean, simple rooms, and I'm glad the hotel welcomed pets. Just be aware there's no designated parking. You can park on the road out front and pay after 8am, or use the parking garage right beside the hotel. Staff will explain the options.