We stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn West Edmonton on Friday, March 14, 2007, for one night. On the next night we were booked in the Mayfield Inn with one of many teams [provincials were occurring in Edmonton that weekend] and we wanted to stay on the Friday night. After calling numerous hotels looking for availability without success, we contacted the Hilton Garden Inn West Edmonton directly and they had a room available.
Unfortunately, since the hotel was full, the only room type available was a king bedded room; we requested a rollaway to be in the room, and it was there upon arrival. We have never stayed at a Hilton Garden Inn hotel before, so we were not sure what to expect.
The hotel is not located in the best area of Edmonton; it is primarily industrial. However, it is located next to large stores, other hotels, and West Edmonton Mall is within sight. We found that the Denny's across the street was a great addition to the location, and provided fast and cheap food.
As soon as you enter the hotel, you can tell why it is rated as Edmonton's best hotel on TripAdvisor; the lobby is well decorated, with high ceilings and marble floors. We arrived early, but luckily our room was ready for us. The front desk staff displayed a polite attitude and a warm welcome.
The room was a little on the small side, however, the beautiful decor made up for it. We were on the second floor, at the end of the hallway. The king size bed was very comfortable, and one of the best beds I have experienced in a hotel. Additionally, the room included a flat-screen television, work desk and office chair, wet bar [including mini fridge, coffeemaker, and amenities], as well as practical lighting. The bathroom was stocked with the regular shampoos and body washes, and the shower pressure was far above what I have experienced elsewhere. Everything was in perfect working order in our room, and throughout our stay, the entire hotel was maintained well in a clean fashion.
The hotel also offered an indoor pool. We never took advantage of it, as the pool had a foul odor. I understand that it is common for such facilities to have an odor, however it was particularly strong. Coin-operated laundry facilities were also available for guest use. Hotel parking was plentiful and there were many empty spaces, even on a night where the hotel is fully booked.
In the evening, a platter of freshly baked cookies is placed on the front desk, which is a very lovely touch, not to mention how good they taste.
The morning of our departure, we called the front desk and asked if it would be possible to have a late check-out. Surprisingly, we were given a one-hour extension for no fee, over an extremely busy weekend. That morning, we also went to the small restaurant in the lobby, as we read that they offer a breakfast. For only $12.00 a person, we were able to dine on the buffet, and special-order with the hotel's chef. Plus, the beverages were included. It was delicious; the omelets were amazing, and it was of exceptionally good value. Additionally, our waitress was very friendly and polite, and truly made our visit extra special. She even gave us a tray to fill up to take with us.
Check out was very easy and painless; we used the Zip-out Check-out system the hotel uses [identical to express check out], where you call the front desk and leave your keys in your room.
The hotel has given us a great impression of the Hilton Garden Inn brand, and the staff at the hotel went out of their way to make our stay enjoyable; whenever you pass by a hotel employee, they always give a smile and a friendly hello. Unfortunately, the night after our stay at the Hilton we transferred to the Mayfield Inn and Suites, which was a complete disappointment and disgrace. We are returning to Edmonton later this week and attempted to book at the Hilton, but to our disappointment it was completely booked. Although the hotel was wonderful, the price was steep; the room was $199.00 plus tax for the single night. However, since it was a busy weekend, the high price was expected. We would certainly return, and highly recommend the Hilton Garden Inn West Edmonton.