Element by Marriott Fort Smith

The rooms and the rest of the property were exceptionally clean, and you can tell the team takes pride in keeping them that way. I also liked being able to borrow the hotel bike to pick up food instead of driving. Ms. Kim, the chef, makes delicious homemade pastries and has such a warm, welcoming presence that you feel at home. The staff were among the best I could ask for, and guests were treated so well throughout check-in, breakfast, and check-out. I travel nearly 300 nights a year, and this stay is in my top five. It’ll be my go-to whenever I’m in the area.

The rate was about $150, which felt like a bargain for what was on offer. Breakfast was included, and the mobile key was handy. I was upgraded to a suite as a member, and it was my first time at an Element Hotel. The suite had two decently sized rooms and a nice-sized bathroom. The king bed was comfortable, with four different pillows for guests to argue over. The hotel and room were clean, and there was a pool indoors, exercise room, chess, and cornhole. The lights also had USB-C ports for charging.

We were there for a couple of weeks and can’t wait to come back for another staycation. The staff were professional and friendly, and the breakfast was delicious. Tara and her sons make breakfast at Element feel like a special occasion every morning. The college students at the front desk go above and beyond to help every guest.

The room on the fourth floor had two queen beds, a huge TV, a desk and chair, and a fully stocked kitchen. It had a coffee maker, large refrigerator, stove, pots and pans, dishes, silverware, utensils, and a dishwasher. They even left a fresh sponge and dish soap. The bathroom had a large shower and hair dryer, and the big closet had a safe, iron, and ironing board. The lobby, breakfast, and lounge area were immaculately clean. There was also a little gift shop area with snacks, drinks, dog items, and complimentary cookies. Breakfast started at 7 and offered yogurt, bagels, fresh fruit, or hot food like scrambled eggs, sausage links or patties, bacon, and biscuits and gravy. There was fresh milk and juice, plus coffee with about 30 syrup flavors. My tiny complaints: the cookies weren’t soft, which is just my preference, and the shelves between the beds were too narrow to hold much comfortably. I’ve stayed in lots of hotels, including many in Vegas, and this one is the best I’ve ever been to. I’d go back to Fort Smith, Arkansas just to stay here. If I needed a new place to live, I’d seriously consider moving in, lol. I can’t speak for their other locations, but this one’s staff was great and check-in was quick and easy.