Moxy Springfield Downtown

I left about 20 minutes into the cabernet show at their "Subterranean" venue, even though I'd bought my ticket a month ahead for a sold out show. Arriving 30 minutes before it began, I was told there were no tables left and handed a chair from a stack in the corner. For the ticket price at a place that seems classy, that felt lazy and like terrible customer service. The L-shaped room is set up so one side can barely see the "stage," which is really more like a large closet. The tables left me nowhere to put my chair where I could see without blocking other guests or moving things. I found a spot that didn't seem blatantly rude, with a partial view, but after two songs I knew I wouldn't be able to see the show. I love the performers, so I was really disappointed to leave. The whole thing was horrible, awkward, and uncomfortable. Better table and chair placement might have made it sufficient, though the room shape and closet stage would still be a problem. And of course the ticket says "No Refunds."

The rooms are small, but cute and cleverly laid out to make the most of the space. The vibe is hip without trying too hard, and I'm thrilled with my first Moxy stay. If a city I visit has a Moxy, it'll be my first choice. It's pet friendly too, with a flat fee rather than a charge per pet.

The street level bar is a highlight, with huge windows that open onto the sidewalk, and the rooftop bar has a lovely view and big city feel. The burgers are fantastic, the Bloody Marys are delicious and consistent, and all the staff are friendly. This is hands down the most unique hotel I've stayed at, and the vibe is great. My room was space efficient, unusual, and cute, but there were no chairs, and the beds were head to head rather than side by side, so you can only get into each bed from one side. No microwaves or refrigerators either. The lack of a coffee maker was my biggest hang up. I need room coffee to get me to the lobby coffee, so that was a shock. I know, first world problems, but pack lobby appropriate pajamas. Learn the stairs early, too, because the elevator wait can give you gray hair. Those are just quirks. One bigger thing for booking: the west side faces a main road. My room was on that side, and at 1:30 am traffic, modified exhausts, and motorcycles were loud on both Friday and Saturday nights. My sleep headphones didn't help at all. It's not the hotel's fault, and they provide free earplugs, but for a light sleeper like me it's a big deal. If you want a unique experience, this hotel delivers. Light sleepers should plan accordingly.

The rooftop bar's got a great view of downtown, and there are nice social areas with a good food selection. The staff were great. Check-in at the bar was interesting, and the room had a Swedish minimalist feel with all the basics, plus a "stash closet" of other things you might need. We enjoyed our stay.