Hilton Garden Inn Indiana at IUP

All the staff I spoke with were so nice and helpful, and quite a few of them gave our attention-loving puppy a warm welcome. There's a nice dog area with a waste station, which was handy since I left my poop bags at home. I'd absolutely stay here again if we're in the area. The hotel is newer, very nice, and almost right on campus, so it was easy to find and get in and out of. We came to celebrate my son's birthday, with my husband working out of town, so we met halfway. There isn't a lot to do nearby, especially in winter. I only went out for Chick-fil-A, which I don't recommend. It's on campus in the food court, hard to get to, ordering was terrible, and the food sucked, just a heads up. 😆 The hotel restaurant was really good. The pancakes were amazing, they gave you lots of bacon, and it was nice not having to go out for food. Just a reminder, no Chick-fil-A on campus. 😆 The pool area was clean and had loads of chairs and towels, but it was pretty cold. My 10-year-old son swam for a little while but couldn't stay long, which sucked since he was looking forward to it. Our room was nice, clean, and stocked properly, but we didn't get the larger room I'd booked. We brought our dog, and I understand that the room I booked wasn't pet-friendly. Still, it would be helpful if hotels made clear which rooms allow pets when people are deciding where to stay. I've come across a couple that do this, and it's a big help. My son had been looking forward to the larger room too. We were already there, and no other nearby hotel accepted pets, so we had to take the downgrade.

I stay with Hilton for work almost exclusively, traveling every other week, so I expect a consistent, reliable experience. A key staff member here didn't meet the Hilton standard, and it had a big effect on our group's stay. While we were gathered in the lobby, Faith told us we couldn't have food or alcohol there and had to leave because the kids were running. I understand needing to manage children's behavior, but she came across as abrupt and unnecessarily unkind. She didn't explain the rules or give us a moment to address what the kids were doing, we were essentially dismissed. I'm surprised by how it was handled, since I've often seen families and groups use Hilton lobby areas without a problem. Later I went to staff to clarify the rules. Faith said food was allowed if it was on tables, contradicting what she'd said earlier, and that alcohol had to be bought on-site, a detail she hadn't mentioned at first. She also said she worried the kids could choke on a hot dog and she couldn't assume that liability. I understand safety concerns, but I wish we'd been given the chance to address the behavior before being asked to leave. The next morning, several exit doors had icy sidewalks, which made the earlier concern about slipping feel misplaced. This fell well below the hospitality I've consistently experienced at Hilton. I hope the feedback helps improve communication and the guest experience.

The wings were shockingly big, and the food at the Bar was amazing. If they have Philly Beef Soup, get the largest size, you won't be disappointed. Whiskey Bar-B-Que sauce is the way to go on the wings.

The staff were really nice and helpful, and dinner on the main floor was very good. My room was great too. I also had breakfast in the morning, with wonderful French toast, bacon, and coffee. I picked up my grandson and brought him home for a visit.