Spark by Hilton Orlando near SeaWorld

The location was the one real plus, with lots to do and places to eat nearby. The room itself felt cramped, especially the tiny, awkward bathroom where the toilet and shower were separated. The shower was gross, the water smelled, and the handle was confusing to use. I also found other people's hair on several towels, both the ones in our room and the pool towels. The pool was dirty and cold, and the towels were so small that you'd need three to cover a lounge chair, so bring your own if you plan to tan. The hallways and stairwells smelled bad too. At first the elevator seemed fine, but after more guests arrived its door took about 30 seconds to open. We used the stairs for the rest of our stay. This was the worst hotel I've stayed at in Orlando, though I've seen worse places elsewhere.

Mya at the front desk was kind, helpful, and went out of her way for us. Raul was just as helpful and friendly, and Manager Bryant was a real standout, including when he helped cancel a stay I'd booked by mistake. Our rooms were clean and comfortable, and the service was excellent. The hotel is close to the Convention Center and SeaWorld. Staff like this make me glad I'm a Hilton Honors member. I'll stay here again when I'm back in the area.

I picked this hotel for its location near SeaWorld and the gym listed on its website. When we arrived, there were no gym facilities at all, which was misleading. My husband and I stayed from December 30 to January 5, and the hotel offered a one-night credit after we complained, so we expected to pay for five nights instead of six. I checked with the front desk more than twice during the stay and was told the credit was noted and would be handled at checkout. On January 5, the charges were still wrong. General Manager Mr. Bryant Pompey said he'd email me the corrected amount and process the credit, but he never did. My card was charged the full original price, with no compensation for the advertised gym that wasn't there. I've stayed at Hilton properties for years and never had to write a negative review before. I had plenty of other choices, and choosing this one was a big mistake. I'll dispute the extra night with American Express. Mr. Pompey should have followed up with the corrected charges, but I was neglected. This isn't the level of service I expect from a Hilton franchise, even if it's independently owned and operated.

We came for Universal, and the hotel was only about 10 minutes away. It's listed as being near SeaWorld, but the other parks are close too if that's what you're after. Service was great, with friendly people around at all hours. On checkout day we met Miya, who was especially sweet and helpful. I'd stay here again.