Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Harrisburg West

The hotel was loud all night from traffic and people slamming doors and partying in the halls. The TVs had no working internet, so YouTube and Netflix weren't available. We chose the place for shopping near the mall and because it was the only area hotel with a pool and hot tub. When we complained that both were ice cold, staff said they hadn't heard that before, but reviews suggested guests had been reporting it for three weeks. If they had told us the hot tub wasn't working, I could've booked another place with at least a warm pool. Even if we'd been willing to swim in the cold water, there were no towels, just dirty ones left on the floor by kids who apparently didn't mind the temperature. The breakfast photos showing fresh fruit and bacon weren't accurate. The eggs floated in water, and the sausage seemed microwaved. There was one half-black banana, bruised apples, shriveled oranges, and strawberries in some gelatin stuff. The advertised amenities don't work or are broken. Don't stay here.

The staff were friendly and did what they could to help, and the rooms were quiet. We were on the first floor, but the soundproofing held up well, and the hotel sits back from the main road so traffic didn’t bother us. Still, I wouldn’t stay here again when I’m back in PA. The biggest problems were in the room. There was hair in the sink and shower, an empty body wash bottle in the shower caddy, and the sink was broken. We asked for extra towels for our big group, but the hotel had none, and another family got the same answer. The towels and washcloths were thin, basic white ones, so we’ll bring our own to hotels from now on. The bed was soft, which some people may like, but I prefer firmer beds. The pillows were so flat that my neck hurt in the morning. The pool was cold, and the hot tub was cold too. We tried the timer, but it didn’t heat the water. The kids were fine with it, but the adults gave up and watched from the chairs. Breakfast was sparse: Raisin Bran, Corn Flakes, Frosted Flakes, turkey and pork sausage patties, eggs, a waffle maker, and bagels. My cousin said the cereal tasted odd, and we were still hungry afterward. A couple of things to know: some rooms connect to another room, so ask when booking if you don’t want one. It worked for us, but may not suit everyone. Also, there aren’t many nearby places that deliver, so get food before heading back to your room. That part isn’t the property’s fault. Luckily, we were only there overnight.

This has been the worst Fairfield I’ve stayed at, and I’ve been here twice. I’ve stayed at six others in eastern PA, and every one was much better. The first-floor room had a broken shower curtain rod and a broken toilet seat. The bed was uncomfortable, and the pillows were lumpy. On the second floor, the room smelled like mildew, the toilet seat was broken, and the toilet had trouble flushing. This franchise needs a major refresh, probably half a million dollars at least, maybe a million given the economy. The owner needs to do better.

The staff were the best part of our stay: friendly, helpful, funny, and great all around. We had a comfortable room, a nice breakfast selection, plus an indoor pool and hot tub. Everything in Hershey was close by too.