Homewood Suites by Hilton Buffalo/Amherst

They are renovating, which is why I'm giving two stars, but until the work is finished I'd avoid this place. It's in really rough shape. There were stains on the carpet and every piece of furniture, so I didn't even want to sit down. The bed smelled bad too. Maybe the sheets weren't clean, or maybe everything was just old and musty. I couldn't wait to leave and take a shower.

The staff made my extended stay especially good. Rachel, Jillian, and Brandi at the front desk were always helpful and cheerful, even when I needed emergency support. Lulu in housekeeping was wonderful, with no spots or chores missed and always a smile. The rest of housekeeping did good work too. The handyman, whose name I didn't catch, helped twice with plumbing issues, and Kenny arranged a helpful late checkout. The kitchen team put out a great breakfast every day, with plenty of options for different diets, including vegetarians. The tortillas and fixings were a fun, inspired idea. The property is very clean and well maintained, with a fully equipped gym, heated pool, and jacuzzi. My room was good, and the full kitchen came in handy when I wanted to cook. It's right on the highway, about 15 minutes from the Airport and 25 minutes from Downtown/Niagara Falls. I'd come back and stay here again.

The room and hotel felt worn down, with damaged, scratched furniture and stained sofa and chair upholstery. The carpets were worn too. In the bathroom there was hair on the toilet, the shower drain was clogged, and the dispenser was out of shower gel. The sofa bed had two fitted sheets, so I had to go back downstairs for a regular one. The hot tub was out of order because they were replacing its heater. That alone wouldn't have been so bad, but it seemed like the whole hotel was falling apart.

The location made it easy to get to the main attractions, but the hotel was still peaceful enough for a good night's sleep. Breakfast each morning was fresh and had a nice range of choices, and the view from my window was beautiful. My room was spotless, comfortable, and nicely equipped, with lovely linens and complimentary toiletries. The welcome was warm from the moment I arrived, and check-in was quick. The front desk team were friendly, knew their stuff, and were happy to help. Homewood Suites by Hilton Buffalo-Amherst exceeded my expectations. I had a fantastic stay and will definitely return when I'm in town. Highly recommend it.