SpringHill Suites by Marriott Jacksonville

A reservation problem at another hotel sent me here, with that hotel paying the bill. The front desk understood the situation, got me into a room quickly, and made the night better. The property could use updates and some cosmetic work, but the bed was comfortable for the night. It's conveniently near food, gas, and shops. It made for a nice detour on my trip.

Desmond gave us five-star service over the phone and at check-in. He was helpful and professional, especially during our late, tired arrival. The room was comfortable for all five of us after a concert at Daily’s Place, about a 14-minute drive away. We really liked the West Elm trundle bed instead of a sofa bed. A few small things kept this from a five-star rating: the pillows need replacing, the area behind the bathroom door needs a scrub, and the phone should be updated or replaced. There are lots of restaurants and fast food within walking distance, including First Watch, Millers Ale House, and Wing Stop. Weekday breakfast runs from 6:30 a.m. to 10 a.m., later than at most places. The morning front desk woman was welcoming and made sure breakfast was being kept up. Thanks for the great service.

The staff were incredibly friendly and apologetic, and I felt bad for them since so many problems seemed beyond their control. The hot tub was out of order, though, and our room only had a shower. We asked to move to somewhere with a bathtub. The first room they gave us was accessible, but the water only got lukewarm at best, so we moved a third time. The bathtub in that room had a strange screw plug that wouldn't stay down, so we had to use a trash bag to stop the water from draining. Once the tub filled, we saw why nobody had been using it: the bath mat glued to the bottom had years of mold and mildew underneath, which became obvious in the water. It was disgusting, and it ruined our whole weekend. Sometimes a small thing can make or break a stay.

The location is great, with lots of restaurants nearby, but my room smelled of dogs and Marijuana and was nasty. They had no other room available when I asked to move. I checked in at 11:43 p.m. and had to find another hotel with a child just seven minutes later, at 11:50. Maybe your stay will go better than mine.