Hilton Garden Inn Daytona Beach Airport

During major events, parking for hotel guests seems to come second to selling spaces to race fans. I’m staying at this Hilton for work during the 500, and I shouldn’t have to compete with event traffic for a spot on the property. When I asked the front desk where I should park, I was told, “I don’t know what to tell you. I didn’t work here last year.” Whether the person worked there last year has nothing to do with helping a current guest. That response showed no accountability or concern. I’m here every year for the 500, the Coke Zero 400, Bike Week, and other big events, often with employees, so this isn’t a one-time visit. I know how other brands handle busy weekends. In my experience, Hilton is the only major brand that consistently sells out its guest experience to make a few extra bucks. This is why I’m not loyal to Hilton and only stay when I have no other option. If you’re coming during a major event, expect parking to be an afterthought and the guest experience to take a back seat to event revenue.

After nearly 3000 nights with Hilton, including about 100 at this hotel over the past 20 years, I’ve been pushed away by the nickel and diming and ridiculous point redemption rates. I loved Hiltons, but now 99% of the roughly 200 nights I spend in hotels each year are with other brands. Was it really worth losing that business to charge me another $5? On this latest stay, I found a $5 nightly parking fee for an unsecured, unattended, unfenced lot. Hilton corporate had already done away with the “free” HGI breakfast, replacing it with a $10 credit that doesn’t cover breakfast. I have the highest status you can theoretically have with Hilton, lifetime Diamond, and honestly I don’t bother with them anymore. This is an average HGI that’s usually pretty clean, though breakfast is usually not great.

I’m a Hilton Diamond member and have stayed at many Hilton properties. This one stands out as a first-class property, with an amazing manager in Ashni Attri and outstanding staff. Janice, Victor, Donna,John,India,Garnet and the rest of the team deserve recognition. I’d highly recommend staying here, and hope Ashni and the staff get recognized for their excellent work.

The room was clean and well kept, with crisp AC, super clean towels, and a working hot tub. Service was excellent, too. The breakfast chef this morning made the best omelette I’ve ever tasted. I have high standards for food, and she absolutely nailed it.