Alexandra Hotel

It's a handy place for a night or two if you're heading out in downtown Toronto, since you're pretty much right in the heart of it. Just keep your expectations in check. It has a bit of a motel feel, but it's not bad at all.

The front desk woman was very sweet, and the man who came to clean my room was friendly and quick since I had an appointment coming up. The room itself wasn't too bad, but I found garbage, a dress, and some other items in about three cupboards and the nightstand. Housekeeping should check those spots and clean thoroughly after someone leaves. The comforter on the bed by the wall had cigarette burns that went through the sheet and duvet. It makes me wonder whether the sheets had been changed between check-ins, since the holes went straight through, if you know what I mean. I'll take a picture and add it when I get a chance.

The checkout routine was an annoying extra step. Staff first inspect the room, then process another transaction to refund the deposit, and have you sign to confirm it was done. It adds about 10 minutes that you have to plan for, especially when you're trying to catch transportation home. The staff were friendly, but the process feels unnecessary. This location also serves as temporary housing for unhoused people, which may be a concern for some. That aspect was fine in my experience. The rooms were clean, though some amenities, such as a coffee maker, weren't provided unless requested.

We were traveling with my two kids, and the Alexandra Hotel worked well for our needs. The room was very clean and had modest but convenient furnishings, including chairs and a table. The kitchenette was especially useful for making food instead of eating out all the time. It's quiet, and staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. At check-in they gave us maps and lots of information about getting around. Parking was reasonably priced, with cameras to keep the lot secure. The location is hard to beat: attractions are an easy walk or transit ride away. There's a park with play equipment and a pool bordering the property. CN Tower is a 30 min walk, the harbour is 40 min, and Kensington market, Chinatown, and a transit station are 10 min away on foot. Casa Loma, the university, and museum district are a 30 min transit ride. It seems the hotel also provides temporary housing for people experiencing homelessness, and there were people gathered around the entrance at all hours. That was startling at first, but we never had an issue. Everyone we interacted with was friendly and respectful. My only room complaint was the quite firm bed, which wasn't the most comfortable. Still, the place was clean and suited us. If you want a clean, inexpensive, no-frills stay in a convenient spot, it fits the bill.