Holiday Inn Express & Suites Bradley Airport by IHG

The fresh coffee was a real highlight. The machine grinds beans for each cup, a thoughtful touch I wouldn't expect at an airport hotel. We also enjoyed the pool. Our room was clean and comfortable, with fresh sheets, a spotless bathroom, and a mattress that made a short night's sleep feel restorative. The front desk agent was warm, capable, and helpful from check-in, and arranged our 4:30 am shuttle without a hitch. Everything worked and the space felt well cared for. We saw the rating before arriving, and although it isn't especially low, our stay was better than a quick scroll might suggest. It lived up to its solid reputation, and we'd happily stay again.

The pool was so harsh on our skin and eyes that we barely got to use it. The room was heavily chlorinated, and when we walked in our eyes burned. We'd asked beforehand about the chlorine level and temperature because we had our four-month-old with us and wanted his first swim to be comfortable. The water was cold, not warm as we'd been told. We only dipped his feet in, and my younger sister lasted about 15 minutes before rushing back to shower because her skin was burning. We chose this place after calling several times to ask about the pool and breakfast. We stayed two days, and on both mornings we went down by 8:30, the cook said the food was gone and offered cereal or oatmeal. A basketball team was staying there, but they hadn't made extra food for all the guests. We booked because breakfast was included, hoping to avoid buying another meal, and paid $350 for two nights without being able to enjoy what was supposed to come with the stay. We don't recommend it and wouldn't return, especially at that price.

The rooms were nice, breakfast was decent, and the staff were kind. The stay was good apart from the indoor pool. There was hardly any ventilation in the pool room, and the chlorine was so strong that our young children were affected. They coughed through the night and had trouble sleeping. When we asked about the smell, we were told chlorine had been added earlier that morning. I was concerned this was unsafe. My understanding is that a pool should sit for 8-24 hours after being shocked with chlorine before anyone uses it, or it can be harmful.

The recent renovation is easy to see, even though the amenities are basic. For a night or two, especially before an early flight, it seems like the best option around when you weigh the price against what you get. There's a comfortable bed, a good shower, breakfast if you want it, friendly staff, and an airport shuttle running around the clock.