DoubleTree by Hilton Portland, ME

The hotel's distinctive round architectural design sets it apart, offering a unique stay experience. Guests frequently highlight the comfortable beds, spacious rooms, and the consistently friendly and helpful staff. Its prime location, directly across from a major shopping mall and surrounded by numerous dining options, is also a significant draw. This makes the hotel particularly well-suited for business travelers seeking convenience, families on vacation, and large groups attending conferences or events, who appreciate the ample meeting spaces. To ensure a smooth stay, guests are advised to proactively communicate with the front desk regarding housekeeping preferences and any specific amenity needs, as service can vary. Additionally, be prepared for potential delays with the elevators, which are occasionally slow or undergoing maintenance.

Facilities & Amenities
A swimming pool is available, though some guests have noted issues with its cleanliness, including cloudy water and dirty surrounding areas. The fitness center is present, but some describe it as small. The hotel offers an airport shuttle service, which is highly appreciated for its convenience. While Wi-Fi is available, some guests report it is not free or has limited access. The property also features various meeting rooms suitable for events and conferences. Guests can find ice machines and vending machines for convenience, though some ice machines may not always be operational. The hotel's restaurant and bar are on-site, but have experienced periods of refurbishment, leading to limited menus or services.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Most guests praise the comfortable beds and spacious rooms, often equipped with a fridge and microwave, which are convenient for longer stays. However, feedback on overall cleanliness is mixed; while some rooms are found to be spotless, others report issues such as dirty bathrooms with mold, hair, or stains, and unvacuumed carpets. A recurring concern is the inconsistent housekeeping service, with many guests reporting that their rooms were not cleaned daily or that amenities like towels, shampoo, or coffee supplies were not replenished. Some bathrooms are described as small or dated, with issues like peeling paint or low toilets. Noise from adjacent rooms or elevators can also be a disturbance for some, and the lack of blackout curtains means rooms can be very bright in the mornings.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's restaurant and bar offer on-site dining options, with some guests commending the quality of specific dishes. However, a significant point of contention is the breakfast, which is not included in the room rate and is often described as expensive for what is offered. Many guests report that the breakfast buffet food, such as eggs and French toast, is frequently cold or of poor quality, with some even noting issues like gnats near pastries. Room service is advertised but guests have reported it being unavailable or unresponsive. The hotel also charges for bottled water, which some guests find surprising. The complimentary warm cookies provided upon check-in are consistently a highlight and a welcome treat for many.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a highly advantageous central location, directly across from a major shopping mall and surrounded by a wide array of restaurants and retail stores, making it convenient for guests to access amenities on foot. It offers easy access to the highway and is just a short drive from the airport, with a complimentary airport shuttle service available. Ample parking is provided on-site, which is a significant benefit for those traveling by car. While the hotel is outside of downtown, it is only about a 10-15 minute drive to the city center. However, some guests with mobility impairments have noted challenges with accessibility in public restrooms, finding stalls to be inadequately sized for wheelchair users.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness, with many guests highlighting their willingness to go above and beyond to assist. The check-in process is generally described as smooth and efficient. Guests appreciate the quick responses to requests, such as addressing maintenance issues or providing additional amenities, though some have experienced delays or unfulfilled requests, particularly concerning housekeeping service. While the overall sentiment towards staff is positive, a few guests have reported isolated instances of rude or unprofessional interactions at the front desk, and some have encountered billing issues that required resolution. The shuttle drivers are frequently commended for their excellent service.

Additional Information
The hotel is pet-friendly, allowing guests to bring their animals, though finding suitable outdoor areas for pets can sometimes be a challenge. Guests should be aware that the property is undergoing ongoing renovations and construction, which can occasionally lead to noise, closed-off areas, or disruptions to services like elevators. Some guests have reported issues with billing discrepancies, including unexpected charges for breakfast or double charges, and a policy of no refunds for early departures is in place, even if guests decide to leave before their scheduled check-out date. Additionally, the hotel's age is a frequent topic, with many areas appearing dated and in need of more significant updates to meet modern expectations. There have also been reports of a new policy regarding no late check-outs, which may impact travel plans.