Hilton Garden Inn Colorado Springs North Air Force Academy

The location was ideal for my stay, since Children’s Hospital was the main reason I was there. The front desk team were phenomenal, always friendly, professional, and ready to help. Their kindness made a stressful trip easier. Breakfast, though, was terrible and confusing. When I first approached, the hostess sharply asked, “Can I help you?” and practically made me sit down. She seemed irritated, as if guests shouldn't handle the accessible food. It felt abrupt and uncomfortable, especially in the morning when many people staying there may be visiting loved ones in the hospital and already have a lot on their minds. Then a bill arrived afterward, as though I'd eaten at a restaurant. Maybe the idea was to create a “dining experience,” but it catches guests off guard and makes you feel pushed into something you didn't ask for. I'd rather grab a quick breakfast and go, or take it back to my room. I've stayed several times while my grandson was in Children’s, and each visit I've seen other guests confused or frustrated by the dining bill. One woman even refused to sign. Management should make this setup more comfortable and considerate.

We chose the hotel because reviews described it as clean, and I trusted that since it was a Hilton. That was a mistake. There was a brown streak in the sink, with grime under the edge that ran down when it got wet. I also found somebody’s contact lens on the floor. The next morning, after sleeping under it, I pulled back the top cover and saw a badly stained quilt. I wish I'd checked it first. I've learned my lesson, and hope this helps someone else: always inspect the room carefully.

The hotel is centrally located, the service is great, and shops at Briargate, a high-end shopping mall in Colorado Springs, are right across the street. It looks really nice after its recent renovation, which is one reason I always enjoy staying here. I highly recommend it. Taves, the GM, is an awesome guy. He came out while I was checking in, and we had a great conversation.

The location was good, and the beds weren't bad, though not the most comfortable. But there was no hot water. I was on the third floor, and it sounded like the ceiling was cracking.