Hilton Garden Inn Huntsville South/Redstone Arsenal

The property is starting to show its age, but the people working there were great. We arrived a few minutes after breakfast had ended, and the manager went into the kitchen herself to help get us something to eat. Donna, the assistant manager, also went out of her way to sort out a reservation mistake I'd made in the Hilton app. Everyone was friendly and helpful.

The young receptionist had a good dinner suggestion, which helped since the restaurant wasn't serving in the evening, just breakfast. I like this motel chain because I can eat there without having to head back out after arriving. It can also be hard to find when you're traveling.

The gym is the reason I'll probably look elsewhere for future business trips. Two treadmills and an elliptical were broken and unusable, and after several complaints over the years, I watched the equipment keep deteriorating without anything being done. The owner apparently doesn't put the gym high on the list. Luckily, there are two other Hilton-affiliated hotels nearby, and they're usually available. I've stayed in this area for work at least two nights a week for five years as a Hilton Honors Diamond member. My needs are basic, a bed and a gym. The renovated rooms are very clean and quiet, the service is kind and friendly, and the food is decent.

We picked this hotel specifically because my son wanted to swim, so it's a letdown that the indoor pool is closed for maintenance for about a week. He's pretty bummed. The hotel itself is nice.