Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG
Ottawa45.43222000,
-75.68856600,
235 King Edward Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario(Show on Map)
8.0
Very Good
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1 room2 guests1 room, 2 guests
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Summary of reviewsThe Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG, generally receives positive reviews with some room for improvement in specific areas.
Situated in a strategically central location, this hotel provides guests with easy access to major Ottawa attractions such as Parliament Hill, Byward Market and various museums, shops and restaurants. Its proximity to the O-Train and highways adds to its convenience. While the location is ideal for exploration, some guests expressed concerns about the nearby homeless shelters, which contributed to an unsettling environment, especially at night.
Visitors frequently praise the hotel's complimentary breakfast, highlighting its variety and inclusion of popular items like pancakes and cinnamon rolls. The breakfast area, though occasionally crowded, is well-stocked and maintained by friendly staff. However, some guests noted the limited seating and use of disposable cutlery as drawbacks. Despite occasional critiques about the food quality, the complimentary aspect of breakfast remains appreciated.
The dining experience at the hotel includes a convenient market section for snacks and a well-received lunch service. The hotel's proximity to local restaurants and bars offers ample dining options. However, some guests suggested enhancements, such as adding more menu items.
Room reviews are overwhelmingly positive with guests praising their cleanliness, spaciousness and modern design. The rooms are equipped with large TVs, microwaves and coffee makers, which add to the convenience. Minor issues like occasional lapses in daily cleaning and noisy air conditioning were noted but did not overshadow the overall positive guest experiences.
Cleanliness is a strong point for the hotel with many guests noting the spotless and well-maintained rooms. However, occasional concerns about certain areas like hallways, elevators and the pool area needing more attention were mentioned. Consistent upkeep in shared spaces could enhance the guest experience further.
The hotel staff receives high marks for their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism, contributing significantly to a positive stay. A few instances of unprofessional behavior were mentioned but did not detract greatly from the overall positive feedback.
The hotel provides excellent Wi-Fi services with fast and reliable internet access frequently highlighted. This amenity adds to a convenient and comfortable stay for guests needing consistent connectivity.
The gym, though small, is well-equipped, clean and accessible 24/7, meeting basic workout needs for fitness-minded guests. Occasional mentions of the gym being closed or hard to find were noted but did not overshadow the overall positive reception.
The pool receives mixed reviews with some appreciating its well-maintained nature, especially for children. However, its small size and strong chlorine smell were points of concern. Despite these issues, when accessible, the pool area is generally enjoyed.
Parking remains a mixed experience with the on-site underground parking being described as secure yet tight and cramped, challenging to maneuver, especially for larger vehicles. The additional parking fee and limited spaces were frequent pain points.
For families, the hotel offers spacious suites and a generally clean and kid-friendly environment. However, the surrounding neighborhood's safety concerns and limited family-specific amenities were noted aspects that could be improved.
In summary, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG, provides a comfortable and convenient stay with excellent staff service, clean and spacious rooms and reliable Wi-Fi. While there are some concerns regarding the neighborhood, breakfast area and parking, the positive aspects of the hotel make it a generally favorable choice for travelers. Show more
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Categories
Family Friendly Hotel
This hotel includes an indoor pool and fitness center. It also offers free WiFi and is located in downtown Ottawa which is close to family-oriented activities.
Hotel with Swimming Pool
Features an indoor pool. It is located in downtown Ottawa East, providing easy access to city attractions.
Indoor Pool
Hotel near Ski Resorts
Hotel for Honeymoon
Business Hotel
Hotel with Parking
Accessible Hotel
Hotel with Gym
3-Star Hotel
Hotel with Indoor Pool
Room Types
Standard King RoomProviding free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a walk-in shower and a hairdryer. The spacious air-conditioned double room provides a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private entrance, soundproof walls, a tea and coffee maker as well as city views. The unit offers 1 bed.
2 Queen Standard Room City ViewProviding free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a walk-in shower and a hairdryer. The spacious air-conditioned double room provides a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private entrance, soundproof walls, a tea and coffee maker as well as city views. The unit offers 2 beds.
Standard RoomOffering free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a walk-in shower and a hairdryer. The spacious air-conditioned double room offers a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private entrance, soundproof walls, a tea and coffee maker as well as city views. The unit offers 1 bed.
King SuiteProviding free toiletries, this suite includes a private bathroom with a walk-in shower and a hairdryer. The air-conditioned suite provides a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private entrance, soundproof walls, a tea and coffee maker as well as city views. The unit offers 2 beds.
King Room - Disability AccessProviding free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a walk-in shower, a bath and a hairdryer. The spacious air-conditioned double room provides a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private entrance, soundproof walls, a tea and coffee maker as well as city views. The unit offers 1 bed.
Double Room with Two Double Beds - Disability AccessProviding free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a walk-in shower, a bath and a hairdryer. The spacious air-conditioned double room provides a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a private entrance, soundproof walls, a tea and coffee maker as well as city views. The unit offers 2 beds.
Guest Reviews
8.0
Very Good
Location
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East has a mixed bag of reviews regarding its location. Positively, the hotel boasts a strategic and central spot in downtown Ottawa, making it an excellent base for exploring the city. It is within walking distance to many key attractions including Parliament Hill, Byward Market, museums and various shops, restaurants and bars. The proximity to major points of interest and easy access to transportation options like the O-Train and highways make it a convenient location for travelers.
Despite its superb access to tourist spots, some guests have reported concerns regarding the surrounding area. The hotel is situated near multiple homeless shelters, leading to a noticeable presence of homeless individuals and an environment that some visitors found unsettling and unsafe, particularly at night. This aspect of the location was highlighted multiple times, creating a divide among reviewers about the desirability of the area.
Overall, while the hotel offers excellent geographical convenience, cleanliness and friendly staff, prospective guests should consider the mixed perceptions about the neighborhood when booking.
Breakfast
The breakfast experience at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG, provides a mixed bag of opinions from its guests. Many reviewers appreciate the inclusion of breakfast in the room rate, noting it as a significant perk with a good variety of options. Standout items like the pancakes, cinnamon rolls and bacon receive positive mentions and the daily spread offers items such as yogurt, eggs, cereals, fresh fruits and more, which many found satisfying and convenient.
The breakfast area, although occasionally described as crowded and with limited seating, is often commended for being well-stocked and orderly. Cleaning is reported to be fast and efficient, even during busy times. Staff generally receive praise for their friendliness and attentiveness, which contributes positively to the overall breakfast experience.
However, not all reviews are glowing. Some guests find the breakfast selection lacking in variety and flavor with specific mentions of it being too salty or ordinary. The use of disposable plates and cutlery is a common point of contention, cited for being both wasteful and subpar compared to standard dishware. Additionally, the breakfast room is frequently described as too small to comfortably accommodate all guests, sometimes resulting in long lines and a shortage of seating.
Quality perceptions also seem to fluctuate with some guests noting a decline in standards over time. While many appreciated the hearty and generous offerings, others found the food options to be too basic or repetitive. Despite these critiques, the complimentary nature of the breakfast remains a high point for many, making it a valued part of their stay at the hotel.
Dinner
The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East offers a dining experience that is marked by its convenient market section at the reception, perfect for grabbing small snacks. The lunch service stands out with good food and great service, even though it tends to get busy. The hotel is well-situated, being just a few blocks away from a variety of restaurants and bars, making it easy to explore local dining options. However, it's noteworthy that some guests have expressed concerns about the quality of the food and advised improvements like adding sandwiches to the menu. Additionally, the hotel's proximity to a large homeless shelter has been mentioned with some visitors finding the surrounding area to be less than ideal for evening walks, especially with young children.
Rooms
The rooms at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG, receive consistent praise for their cleanliness, spaciousness and modern design. Guests repeatedly highlight the large, comfortable and well-appointed nature of the rooms, often likening them to what one might expect from a five-star hotel. The rooms are described as airy, bright and offering great views, particularly those on higher floors.
Beyond size and comfort, many reviewers appreciate the quietness and soundproofing of the rooms, contributing to a restful stay. The update and renovation of the hotel interiors have not gone unnoticed with several guests commenting on the modern, fresh and new feel of the room furnishings. The inclusion of amenities such as large TVs, microwaves and coffee makers have been described as thoughtful touches enhancing the overall convenience of their stay.
Despite a few minor issues, such as occasional lapses in daily cleaning and a few isolated complaints about room odors or loud air conditioning, the overwhelming sentiment is positive. The hotel delivers on providing a clean, comfortable and spacious environment, perfect for both short stays and extended visits to Ottawa. The attention to cleanliness and comfort, combined with modern amenities, ensures a satisfying experience for its guests.
Beds
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG, is frequently praised for its incredibly comfortable beds, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a restful stay. With an abundance of positive remarks, guests have often mentioned the high comfort level of the beds, highlighting the availability of clean, fresh linens and impeccable bedding. Many appreciated the cozy and spacious nature of the rooms, complemented by excellent pillows that add to the overall comfort experience.
King-size beds have been particularly noted for their superior comfort with several guests specifically pointing out their large size and plush nature. Even the bedding quality receives numerous accolades, described as fresh and of good quality. The hotel seems to have considered various guest preferences by offering pillow options, including firm and soft varieties, ensuring a personalized sleeping experience.
In summary, the numerous positive comments regarding the beds at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East underscore a consistent guest satisfaction with the comfort and cleanliness of the accommodations. This hotel stands out for providing an excellent night’s sleep, making it a recommended option for travelers visiting Ottawa.
Cleanliness
Guests of the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG, frequently highlight the commendable level of cleanliness throughout the property. Many reviews emphasize that the rooms are spotless, clean and well-maintained, often describing them as modern, spacious and comfortable. Visitors appreciate the availability of bed linens and the fresh, clean smell in the facilities. The hotel itself is often noted as being newly renovated, adding to its overall clean and modern appeal.
Despite these positive remarks, there are occasional concerns about the cleanliness of certain areas. Isolated issues such as dust, mold on bed sheets and dirty towels being left behind have been mentioned. Some guests pointed out specific areas needing improvement, like the hallways, elevators and the pool area. These shared spaces occasionally seemed neglected with reports of unvacuumed carpets, dirty pool water and ant infestations near the elevator.
Overall, the majority of guests find the cleanliness of the rooms satisfactory and appreciate the hotel's efforts to maintain a clean and welcoming environment. The modernity and cleanliness of the property seem to contribute significantly to a positive stay, making this hotel a generally reliable choice for visitors prioritizing cleanliness. Nonetheless, consistency in upkeep, especially in shared areas, could further enhance guest experiences.
Staff
Guest reviews of the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East consistently highlight the performance of the hotel staff. The general consensus is overwhelmingly positive with numerous guests praising the staff for being friendly, helpful and professional. Many noted the staff's welcoming attitude and excellent customer service. Guests appreciated the attentiveness and courteousness displayed by various staff members with specific mentions of the front desk and housekeeping teams standing out for their supportive and polite demeanor.
Despite a few instances of unprofessional behavior, such as reports of rude staff members and unwelcoming reception experiences, the majority of the feedback underscores the staff's friendliness and willingness to assist. Guests frequently described the staff as accommodating with compliments directed towards the hospitable and supportive approach taken by employees. The efficiency and professionalism of the reception and kitchen staff were also commended, as was their ability to communicate effectively in multiple languages.
Overall, the hotel's staff received high marks for their commitment to providing a pleasant and comfortable stay for guests, showcasing a level of service that left a positive impact on many.
Wi-Fi
The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG generally offers excellent Wi-Fi services with many guests highlighting the fast internet speeds and seamless, reliable connections. The high-speed internet was praised for being efficient, allowing tasks such as reading emails and streaming to be performed without interruption. Free Wi-Fi was consistently available, contributing to a positive experience for guests who needed reliable internet access during their stay. While there were occasional mentions of lower speeds, the majority of reviews favorably recognized the quality of the Wi-Fi provided. Overall, the hotel's Wi-Fi services received commendable feedback for contributing to a comfortable and convenient stay.
Gym
The gym at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East receives mixed reviews but generally leans towards the positive. Guests appreciate that it is accessible 24/7 and describe it as clean, modern and well-equipped with good gym equipment. The gym is often noted as being small but functional, offering a minimalist space that meets basic workout needs. Some visitors find the gym terrific and nicely maintained, while others enjoy the convenience of its location on their floor.
Despite these positives, a few reviews mention that the gym facilities were closed or not open during their stay and some guests noted there was no clear signage directing them to the gym. Nonetheless, for those who did use it, the gym was consistently praised for its cleanliness and modernity, making it a valuable asset for fitness-minded guests at the hotel.
Pool
Guests have shared mixed experiences regarding the pool at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East. Many highlight that the pool is small but well-maintained and adequate for children, who seem to enjoy it thoroughly. It's often described as clean and a nice spot to cool off or relax with clean towels readily available. The refreshing yet sometimes cold water was noted as invigorating by some, although others found it less pleasant.
However, the pool has been critiqued for being on the smaller side, making it less ideal for activities like lap swimming. The chlorine levels also seem to be a point of concern with some guests mentioning a strong chlorine smell and water that wasn't up to their expectations of cleanliness. Access to the pool could be problematic at times, as guests mentioned closures for maintenance and high demand requiring advance booking. Despite these challenges, when open and accessible, the pool area was generally appreciated by those who used it.
Parking
The parking situation at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East presents a mixed experience for guests. On the positive side, the hotel offers on-site underground parking, which some guests found to be convenient and secure. A few guests reported no issues with parking and appreciated the direct access under the hotel. However, the parking spaces are consistently described as extremely tight and cramped, making it difficult to maneuver, especially for larger vehicles. Additionally, the parking garage is often full, forcing guests to find alternative parking options, sometimes several blocks away.
Guests should also be prepared for an extra cost associated with parking, as it is not included in the room rate. The fee is typically around $18 per day, which some guests find to be too high and not proportional to the space's quality. The garage itself is often cited as being poorly lit and not always clean, adding to the overall frustration.
While the secure parking facility is an advantage for some, the limited availability and additional costs are frequent pain points. Overall, if planning a stay at this hotel, guests might want to consider the parking logistics and potential additional fees.
Family
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG, presents itself as a mixed bag of experiences for families with children. Many guests appreciated the spacious family suites, which provide ample room for everyone to spread out and relax. The overall cleanliness of the accommodations was a highlight for several visitors, who found the rooms to be well-maintained and equipped with WiFi.
However, there's a consensus that the hotel could improve its family-friendly amenities. Some guests mentioned that the pancake machine, while novel, wasn't especially practical, producing only two pancakes every five minutes. For those traveling with small children, conveniences such as baby cots were available and the environment within the hotel was seen as welcoming and kid-friendly.
On the downside, some travelers voiced concerns about the neighborhood's safety, noting that their children encountered unpleasant items like syringes in the surrounding area. Despite these issues, the hotel itself fostered a positive atmosphere, being described as an amazing family environment and great for children. Many families reported having a good time and enjoying their stay overall, though safety beyond the hotel's premises remains a drawback.
For those planning to visit Ottawa with family, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites offers a generally comfortable stay with some caveats regarding the surrounding area and certain amenities.
3 Star
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG, is a relatively new establishment known for providing a solid three-star experience. The hotel delivers good value for money with clean and comfortable accommodations that often exceed the typical expectations for its rating. Guests appreciate the quality of furniture, which is reportedly better than other Holiday Inn Express locations. The breakfast, though basic, is decent and always included in the price, aligning with standard three-star services.
The hotel staff consistently receive high praise for their friendliness and helpfulness, contributing positively to the overall stay. The location is considered ideal by many, despite being near a shelter and situated in an average neighborhood with limited offerings.
Overall, the hotel is described as offering good and relatively inexpensive accommodations, making it a recommended choice for those seeking a quality stay within a three-star budget. While it has garnered acclaim for its comfort and value, some reviews point out issues such as noise from doors closing and the need for better room cleaning. Nonetheless, the general consensus is that it provides a very good three-star hotel experience.
Business
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG, proves to be a favorable choice for business travelers seeking a functional and convenient stay. The hotel stands out for its business-friendly amenities and services, providing a well-equipped business center, adequate meeting rooms and good WiFi speeds, which allows guests to work efficiently from their rooms. Additional conveniences include free printing and corporate agreements, adding value for corporate guests staying for business purposes.
The location is particularly advantageous, situated within walking distance to markets and malls, which adds a layer of convenience for those needing a break from work or looking for dining options. Despite being slightly removed from the main tourist areas, it remains a good business location with two business centers nearby, making it easy to balance work with leisure activities.
While the hotel excels in many business-related aspects, it does face some limitations. Parking is notably difficult with guests occasionally needing to park off-site. There are also mentions of the business lounge being small with limited business amenities. Although some reviews noted these constraints, overall, the feedback indicates that the hotel represents good value for money for business stays, accommodating well the needs of business travel.
For business travelers prioritizing a smooth and functional stay over luxury, this well-organized, business-friendly hotel remains a recommended option despite its minor shortcomings.
Accessible
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East offers a mix of accessibility features that cater well to guests with disabilities. The hotel is conveniently located near downtown, providing easy access to surrounding accommodations and the main district. Its entrance is equipped with ramps and the establishment includes multiple elevators, making it manageable for those using wheelchairs. Additionally, accessible rooms and bathrooms are available, which previous guests have found impressive and user-friendly.
However, the hotel has some areas that require improvement. Guests pointed out that the elevators, though present, are insufficient to meet the demand and accessible entrances could be enhanced. Despite these shortcomings, navigating the hotel is relatively straightforward, contributing positively to the overall accessibility. Also noted was the presence of hazards such as towels and laundry left in the hallways, which could impede mobility.
While the hotel has made significant strides in offering accessibility, there remain aspects that need addressing to provide a fully seamless experience for all guests.
Indoor Pool
The indoor pool at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG, receives mixed feedback from guests. Many reviews highlight that the pool is a popular feature among children, often described as small but good for kids. The pool is noted to be well-maintained and clean, making it a suitable option for those looking to relax rather than engage in lap swimming.
However, other reviews mention that the pool's small size can be a drawback with some guests describing it as tiny, murky and heavily chlorinated. Despite its limitations in size, the indoor pool remains a notable amenity that appeals primarily to families with young children. Overall, the pool facilities are available and accessible, catering well to children, although some guests find its size and cleanliness could be improved.
Yes, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Indoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG.
No, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG.
Yes, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Downtown Ottawa East by IHG has a gym.