Aloft by Marriott Birmingham Soho Square

I booked a king room, but was given two queens and couldn't switch to a king. The room felt really worn and dingy, and the only chair was filthy. There was no glassware, drawers, or closet, just a small curtained nook for storing things. Some of the lights didn't work either. I wouldn't recommend this hotel.

The lobby was a highlight, with lots of seating and things to do, and the wide hallways and convenient location were nice too. Staff greeted us warmly and helped set up our three-day stay, and parking was free. You could buy food, and there were free donuts if you got there early. Our room was large, with a nice TV, big shower, plenty of outlets, and a contemporary layout, though the view wasn't much. There wasn't much closet space, and the lights weren't controlled separately by each bed, so one person reading made it harder for the other to sleep. We enjoyed our stay, especially at a good deal or group rate.

The room smelled musty and seemed poorly maintained for a newer hotel. I didn't think much of it at first, but after coming back late, I woke in the middle of the night stuffy and struggling to breathe. It felt like there was some kind of bad allergen in the room. I felt better after being out of it for an hour. I told the front desk, and they said maintenance would look into it. I should have moved rooms that night, but I was too tired. Parking was also unclear. The garage sign said parking for Aloft, but didn't mention a fee or registration, and the desk hadn't explained it. I later found a notice on my car saying I hadn't registered it. Staff were nice when I arrived, and the location was great, but I won't stay here again.

Bruce at the front desk and Terry the bartender gave excellent customer service. Most of the staff were great, though one person was such a fun sponge that being around them brought people down. We had a great time in our larger balcony room, even though the hotel could use a refresh. The room was clean and had that Aloft je se sais quoi, but the painted cement-like floor had only a thin carpet, the windows and doors showed their age, and we got only hot water in the shower. We enjoyed it anyway. The lobby is in very good shape, with a regular bartender, pool table, plenty of TVs and seating, plus a small snack area by the circular front desk. The fitness room was clean but small and basic. Its cardio machines worked, though the TVs attached to them didn't. A cable-driven weight machine would be a good addition. There's also a small indoor pool with lounge chairs. Soho's shops and restaurants are nearby, mostly furniture and women's clothing stores. We had plenty of free street parking while we were there. I'd go back, and hope they refresh the hotel so it can be outstanding.