Holiday Inn Express & Suites Brandon by IHG

Amy at the front desk was friendly, and check-in was easy. The location is decent, with a gas station nearby. I was confused by the waterpark pictures before we arrived, since they showed an obstacle course, a slide, and a bucket playground. It's been updated, and now there's an obstacle course my kids loved. It was new and really nice, with plenty of space to sit and watch them. The hot tub worked, and they could play in the pool before heading back to the course. It can get wet, but otherwise seemed safe. My kids, ages 8, 4, and 3, had a blast until closing, close to 11 pm. A perfect place for them to play after traveling.

We had to move our son's first birthday party on the day of the event because Holiday Inn Express & Suites Brandon suddenly said outside swimmers weren't allowed on Saturdays. This was after we'd booked more than a week ahead, checked the swimming policy with their off-site booking service, and been told non-guests were welcome. Four days ago, we also visited in person, confirmed Saturday, Feb. 7th, and asked about wristbands. We were told they cost $10 each and outside swimmers could come. When I called today to ask about an event room, I was told the opposite. The last-minute change threw plans for 30-40 family and friends into chaos and caused a lot of stress. I've been a loyal rewards member for years, but the inconsistent information, poor communication, and lack of accommodation have changed how I feel about the hotel. Corporate has opened a case, but the harm was already done. This was deeply disappointing for what should have been a special family milestone in Brandon.

We keep coming back to this Holiday Inn because we love the playground in the pool area. This visit, though, the pool and hot tub were dirty, the area was filthy, and there were no towels. That was disappointing. Once we brought it up, they started working on it. One bad visit doesn't outweigh the good stays we've had, and we hope they find a better way to clean the pool area each night.

My son had a medical appointment, and I didn't want to drive another 4 1/2 hours home with two little kids afterward. We stayed one night. The rooms were clean and comfortable, and my daughter loved the pool room. I'd stay again and recommend it.