Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Wichita Downtown

I took a blacklight through the room and bathroom and was really impressed. I think this is the cleanest hotel I’ve stayed in. The security staff patrolling the area was reassuring, too. Arriving late, I found the garage a bit confusing at first. It’s closed to the public and you need a code to enter. The garage isn’t connected to the hotel, so unload your luggage at the lobby before parking, or you’ll have to carry it over.

The parking setup is a mess. The garage is separate from the hotel, with no indoor access, so you have to leave it and walk along the street to reach the entrance. I use the Bonvoy app for Marriott stays and usually like checking in early with a mobile key. This time I checked in online and requested one, but got neither a key nor a check-in notification. At the desk, the clerk said this property doesn’t offer mobile check-in or keys, although Marriott’s information says otherwise. If you’re a Marriott member, don’t count on getting the perks.

The beds were so soft and comfortable that I wanted to take the mattress home. Breakfast was clean and pleasant, and it had a waffle maker, which is all I really care about in a hotel breakfast. The price was fantastic, and every staff member I met was friendly. I was in town for the Jonas Brothers show at the arena a couple of blocks away. It turned out to be a longer walk than I expected, though it’s still under a mile, and Uber is an option. The garage isn’t attached, but the front desk explained how to use it clearly and suggested checking in before parking. I also wish I’d brought a swimsuit to try the pool.

The room was spotless, and every employee we spoke with was wonderful from check-in through checkout. I wish I remembered their names so I could give them credit, and the cleaning staff deserve a mention too. We picked this Marriott because it’s close to the performing arts building, and the location couldn’t have worked out better. Century II is a cute three-minute walk from the front door. My small disappointment was the lack of a genuinely dairy-free choice for cereal or coffee. The creamer labeled non-dairy listed dairy as an allergen, so I should’ve brought my own. I’d recommend staying here.