The Phoenix Hotel

The room was clean, comfortable, and surprisingly quiet for the middle of the city. Everyone I interacted with on staff was incredibly helpful and friendly, friendlier than some people I've met at five star hotels. This place is a gem. I highly recommend it and will be back.

The WiFi was painfully slow, and you had to pay extra to get faster service. The rooms looked dated, with paper coffee cups but no coffee machine, kettle, or even bottled water. In winter it was too cold, and when the heater in my room didn't work they brought a little portable heater that wasn't enough. The area was crowded with homeless people. It calls itself a 3 star hotel, but I stayed at a 2 star place less than a mile away right before this one, and it was much better and cheaper. I asked for a refund and they approved it, but then said I'd have to get it from the booking agent. The agent said the booking was non refundable, so I feel like I got scammed by them.

We had a great time, and I'm sad to hear the place is closing soon. We stayed for my birthday, and the staff were sweet and accommodating. They gave me champagne, a bottle opener, and a couple of other nice little treats that I took home. They also helped my husband find what he needed and shared some really good nearby food recommendations. Driving in, I was worried because of the location and the bad reviews, but I don't think those reviews are true. The room was super clean. We could walk to the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium for our concert. It was a beautiful little gem, and I'm glad we made a memory there.

We've always loved staying here for its history and vibes, and the staff are kind and easy to talk to. The people who stay here are some of the kindest I've met. Manny the maintenance guy is so great. Sad to hear it will be closing. I'll miss it immensely.