Stillwell Hotel

For a cheap one-star hotel, I was pleasantly surprised. The front desk was relaxed and helpful, and room service came daily to make the bed and leave fresh towels. I spotted long hairs on the pillowcases, and since I’m bald, I avoided using them. I’d been unsure after seeing reviews from 2014-2018, but it seems those problems have been addressed. The hotel’s in a great spot for a low price. If good value and location are all you’re after, I’d recommend Stillwell hotel. You get what you pay for when it comes to the amenities and look of a cheap one-star place.

The bathroom was clean, and the bed was more comfortable than I expected. The towels were fresh and white, too. I stayed three nights for the first time. The price is good, and the neighborhood felt safe to walk around. The room had just one lamp and no light at the desk, and the front desk couldn't find another because every room was booked. The hard desk chair made working uncomfortable. We needed the AC even with the window open and outdoor temperatures in the 60s and 70s, and it was loud. There are two elevators, and their safety inspection was two years overdue.

I was told on a recorded call that I could get a full refund up to 48 hours before check-in, and I also paid $20 for refund protection. When my travel plans changed a couple of days later, they approved my refund and emailed me confirmation. I still haven't received the money. They stopped answering my follow-up questions and calls, and disputed the charge with my credit card company despite the written confirmation. I lost more than $400. Avoid booking here, this felt like a complete scam.

My room was comfortable, very clean, and quiet. The AC and flatscreen TV both worked, and there were two beds, one of them small and cute. The staff were nice, and the bar looked really cool, though I didn't stay for last call at 2am. I would've gone back, and I'm sure they'd have found me a room with a working shower head if I'd stayed longer. The Stillwell Hotel has the look of a haunted place, and as a paranormal investigator, I have no doubt it's haunted. The ghosts are polite, at least, and let you sleep. It's a huge old venue that was once grand, but now seems open and underused. I care more about a clean room than the general upkeep, and they did a great job cleaning my room. I think the place might be better maintained if more people stayed there. The community should support whoever bought this fixer-upper.