Holiday Inn Express & Suites Altoona-des Moines By Ihg

The hotel consistently impresses guests with its overall comfort and convenience, making it a highly suitable choice for road travelers seeking a restful stopover. Its signature features include exceptionally comfortable beds and spacious rooms that provide ample space for relaxation. Guests frequently highlight the great breakfast offerings, which provide a satisfying start to the day, and the generally friendly staff who contribute to a welcoming atmosphere. The presence of a well-maintained pool and hot tub also stands out as a significant draw, particularly for families and those looking to unwind. For business travelers and event attendees, the hotel's quiet environment and convenient location near major interstates are distinct advantages. To make the most of your stay, consider arriving early for breakfast to enjoy the full selection of items, and be aware that occasional noise from other guests or the hallway might occur, though many find the hotel to be quiet overall.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently praise the hotel's recreational facilities, particularly the pool and hot tub, which are often described as clean, functional, and a popular amenity for both adults and children. While some guests noted the pool water could be a bit cool or the hot tub lukewarm, the extended hours for these areas are appreciated. The fitness center is available, though some found it to be small, it generally contains working equipment. Rooms are well-equipped with conveniences such as a refrigerator and microwave, and thoughtful design elements like storage hooks and a bench for luggage. The elevators are generally efficient, though occasional reports of them being slow or temporarily out of service have been noted. Free Wi-Fi is available and easy to access, ensuring guests can stay connected. Other amenities like ice machines are typically well-stocked, adding to guest convenience.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel generally receives high marks for its cleanliness, with many guests describing their rooms and the overall property as very clean. A consistent highlight is the exceptional comfort of the beds and pillows, ensuring a restful night's sleep for most. Rooms are often noted for being spacious and well-appointed, featuring modern touches like blackout shades that effectively block out light and lighted bathroom mirrors. However, feedback on room condition is mixed; while many find rooms well-maintained, some guests have reported issues such as hair found in bathrooms or on bedding, uneven bathroom tiles, or signs of general wear and tear like loose towel bars and caulking issues. Noise levels vary, with some guests experiencing a quiet stay, while others noted thin walls allowing sounds from hallways or adjacent rooms, or knocking noises from water lines.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast at the hotel is a significant draw for many guests, frequently praised for its variety and quality. Most guests appreciate the selection of hot foods, including popular items like a pancake machine and cinnamon rolls, which are often described as delicious and well-stocked. The breakfast area is generally kept clean, and attendants are often commended for their efforts in maintaining stock. However, some guests have experienced issues with items running out, particularly later in the breakfast service, or found the quality of certain items, such as eggs, to be inconsistent. A few guests with dietary restrictions, like gluten allergies, noted limited suitable options. Despite occasional shortcomings, the breakfast is largely seen as a valuable and satisfying inclusion, providing a convenient and tasty start to the day for most visitors.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is consistently highlighted as a major advantage, offering easy access directly off major interstates, making it ideal for road travelers and those attending local events. Guests appreciate its proximity to various restaurants and gas stations, providing convenient options for dining and refueling within a short drive. While some guests note that immediate walkability to dining options might be limited, a wider selection is typically available within a few miles. The hotel is also well-situated for visiting local attractions such as fairgrounds, amusement parks, and casinos. Parking is generally described as ample, convenient, and well-lit, contributing to a sense of security. Overall, the hotel's strategic placement ensures a hassle-free experience for guests navigating the area.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel generally receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Many guests report a welcoming atmosphere from check-in to check-out, with staff often going out of their way to be accommodating and attentive to requests. The check-in process is frequently described as quick and smooth, contributing to a positive first impression. Guests appreciate the overall positive demeanor of the team, which enhances the stay experience. However, some guests have reported isolated instances of less friendly or unhelpful interactions, including perceived hostility or a lack of empathy during specific situations like a fire alarm evacuation. Despite these occasional negative experiences, the overwhelming sentiment is that the staff are dedicated to providing good service.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of certain miscellaneous details that can impact their stay. Some visitors have noted a strong air freshener or deodorizer smell in common areas, which might be a concern for those with allergies. There have been instances of significant disruptions, such as fire alarms leading to hotel evacuations, sometimes due to incidents like burnt food, which can cause inconvenience and lingering smoke odors. While the hotel is generally well-maintained, some guests have observed signs of wear and tear or neglected maintenance issues in rooms and common areas, such as scratched elevator doors or minor fixture problems. Additionally, some guests have reported that their rewards program benefits were not consistently recognized, and there have been isolated reports of unexpected security deposits being requested upon arrival.