Clarion Inn Auburn Seattle

Our beds were super comfortable, and the staff were the best part of the stay. The hotel was very clean and recently remodeled, and everyone went out of their way to make us feel at home. Nicole was especially kind and courteous. She called Emerald downs to make sure we had a ride to the Derby. The breakfast team were just as helpful, even offering to make sausage when it wasn't being served and to carry breakfast to our room. There were several problems in the rooms, though, and they seemed rushed during the renovation. The toilet wouldn't flush number twos, so we had to ask for a plunger and use it every time. The phone and wall thermostat didn't work, the closet rack fell off and had to be screwed back on, and the bases weren't secured to the wall. I bought two rooms, and the other one had no working thermostat either; its window screen almost fell out. Nicole came right over to plunge the toilet on our first night and offered to leave the plunger. A few fixes and plumbing repairs would make this a great stay.

The room was small but nicely arranged, with everything we needed. I especially liked the bathroom's backlit mirror, and the bed was clean and very comfortable. There was also a good closet with the safe, iron, ironing board, and plenty of space for clothes. We went for New Year's Eve, and the lobby looked beautiful and festive. The person checking us in was warm, friendly, and thorough. I got a free drink voucher and a microwave bag of popcorn, and enjoyed the drink while waiting for my friends. Breakfast was wonderful, and the coffee was great. The staff's friendliness really made the stay. I'd definitely come back.

The front desk staff were welcoming, polite, and helpful, and the hotel provided a good breakfast. But during our stay they ran out of food and drinks: no milk for cereal, no cream for coffee, no cup lids, and one day no protein options. For what we paid, service needs to improve. The lobby and exterior looked clean and nice, but the room smelled of cigarette smoke and wet dog. It wasn't cleaned unless we spoke to the desk and asked them to send housekeeping, and they never left soap or clean cups. The hotel is near an active railroad, and every train was loud enough to shake the building like an earthquake. Commercial vehicles nearby also beeped their backup alarms very early in the morning.

Singh, the manager, treats you like a longtime friend, and the whole staff are amazingly courteous and go out of their way to make things easy for guests. The rooms are updated and clean, and work well for one person or a family. I highly recommend staying here if you want to be treated well. We'll keep coming back with this management and staff.