Courtyard by Marriott Harrisburg Hershey

My wife and I stayed at the Courtyard by Marriott Harrisburg Hershey. It was a clean, well-kept hotel, in line with what I usually find at Marriott properties. Most of the experience was solid, though not all the staff were friendly. The one thing that really annoyed me was the balcony room had no chairs. That seems common at their properties.

The fitness center was very nice and had decent equipment. We also liked the bistro seating groups, where families or friends can hang out, play cards, and share food and drinks without being stuck in a room. There's a small outdoor area for a group to gather, too. Bistro staff were friendly and helpful, and my breakfast bagel was fresh and perfectly toasted. Our first-floor room, 104, was clean, with clean bathroom and linens, and a huge TV with a great picture. There was a faint smoke smell in the carpet and walls, as if someone had smoked there before, but it wasn't coming from the HVAC. The pillows smelled musty, though I always bring my own. It was easy to reach the property from any direction, and we'd definitely stay again. Last time in the area we stayed at a TownPlace Suites not far away, which I wouldn't recommend.

The staff made our weekend feel like home during my daughter's cheer competition. We stayed two nights, and the rooms were clean. All the parents could spend time together, and the staff let us relax and enjoy ourselves even if we got a little loud. The dark-haired woman with the pink flower in her hair at the front desk this morning was kind and welcoming to the kids, even when they were running around, and went out of her way to complete our trip. The two women at the desk around 3 pm Saturday made sure our family was on the same floor and next door to one another without any fuss. Great customer service. The young housekeeper on floor 4 Saturday afternoon helped when I'd lost my key and needed towels, and asked if I needed anything else. The male bartender seemed cranky and could use a smile, but overall we were pleased, 15 out of 10. We'll be back. Thank you.

The room wasn't the cleanest, with a lot of dust on the light fixtures and streaks on the furniture and in the bathroom. The king bedroom layout wasn't great, and the heating and AC unit was too loud. It turned on in the middle of the night with loud banging. We were here for two nights for a hockey event with our team. Big groups like ours often get frowned on at hotels, but Jasmine and Jay were absolutely amazing, helpful, and accommodating. I really appreciate their kindness and how they helped make so many memories for the kids.