Hampton Inn & Suites Gainesville-Downtown

Being downtown means there are food options around, but the street noise carried up to the fourth floor and continued until midnight. The room was also badly dated, with no updates that I could see in over ten years. There were stains in the shower, an old and gross toilet seat, and the bathroom wasn't very clean. I arrived at 9pm to find nobody at the front desk. I'd already checked in through the app, so I went straight to my room, only to find the water that members are supposed to receive wasn't there. Then the A/C seemed broken. In Florida, with temperatures in the high 70s or low 80s, the thermostat showed 65° but the fan never came on, and the room got really warm. If I’d stayed another night, I would have had to change rooms or hotels. This was an unpleasant stay, and I won't return. I'd suggest the A/C Marriott or The Hyatt.

The rooms were like other Hilton rooms, and there was good food nearby in a lively area. What really stood out was Carlos at the front desk. He was friendly and went above and beyond, helping with our questions and requests and making our whole family feel welcome. He made the stay better in a lot of ways.

The breakfast was hot and good, and the cleaners were kind and really attentive. Everyone on staff was super friendly and terrific throughout our incredible stay for The Fest. I know The Fest brings a non-typical crowd, and I wish I could give extra stars. I forgot to take photos of the room and lobby. One small thought for that crowd: there are a lot of vegetarians and vegans, so maybe don't put pork in the eggs, like in the western omelets, and consider a plant-based protein. No big deal, just a thought.

Tammi was amazing, keeping everything running with a great attitude on a packed holiday travel morning, with dozens of people coming through the breakfast area. The food was awesome, and the breakfast hours are the best. The location is beautiful, with great food, drinks, coffee, and entertainment nearby. We'll definitely be back and recommend it 10/10.