Crowne Plaza Springfield by IHG

Breakfast was decent, but nowhere near worth $17. When the payment system went down, guests could only charge the meal to their room or pay cash. I also found the room finishes disappointing, with the coating peeling from the toilet seat and bathtub. For all the things that went wrong, the escalator was fixed within a few hours, which I appreciated, though it was a hassle while it was down, especially when I needed to get upstairs to check in with luggage. I had to choose between the stairs and waiting about ten minutes for an elevator. The elevators were unreliable, sometimes passing floors, and it seemed that only one or perhaps two were working. There was an escalator, one bartender, and what looked like just one working elevator while a military event and gala were taking place. With only one bartender, we left for a regular bar instead. Drink prices were far too high for me to stay. Some cost twice what I’d pay at another bar, around Nashville prices, and I might have stayed if they’d been within 30% of normal. Checking in on the second floor was inconvenient for no clear reason. I wanted to like the place, but it felt badly managed. Until they get their priorities and repairs sorted out, I can’t recommend it.

The staff came across as polite and helpful, and the room itself was clean and roomy. But it looks like the property needs updating. I could barely make sense of the lighting switches until morning, and the couch had several large, strange stains. The bathroom ceiling was cracked and peeling, and looked as if it might come down.

Chelsea was especially helpful and gave excellent service on Sunday morning. The breakfast buffet had good choices, and the bar and service were good too. Check-in and checkout were easy, the rooms were fine, and the beds were comfortable. It was straightforward to find and get around. The elevators felt limited for a tall building full of convention guests, and the one escalator being out made getting between floors harder. Still, it was a good stay and a productive KofC convention.

I wish I’d checked out the massage chairs on the first floor. The room was spacious, clean, and good quality, and check-in on the second floor was quick. The elevators came quickly, but with the up escalator out, there was a crowd waiting for them. The bed was much too soft for me, and my back hurt all day. The hotel was farther from the State Capitol and State Museum than I’d have chosen, but it was where our group stayed. Next time I’ll look closer to those places, though this remains a good option.