Having stayed at many hotels throughout the Detroit area (Southgate, Canton, and Madison Heights), I decided to give the Holiday Inn Express. I will note, that I recently stayed another Holiday Inn location (Rolling Hills, IL) for business and because of my past (great) experience with them, I wanted to stay at another.
My main reason for picking this hotel over the over Holiday Inn locations in the Metro Detroit area because of the downtown location and easy access to the casinos (especially Greektown, which is easily access by the People Mover) and highways.
Upon arrival, we were greeted warmly by the valet who immediately took down our information and parked our car. Once inside the newly remodeled lobby, another employee eagerly greeted us to check-in. Check-in was very fast and efficient and the woman behind the desk could not have been any friendlier.
The room was also recently remodeled and painted. It was very warmly decorated with contemporary furnishings, which families and business travelers alike will appreciate. The bed linens were soft, the pillows (both firm and soft available) were fluffy. Our room came complete with a large LCD TV, desk, refrigerator, and comfy chair. The bathroom was also nicely decorated.
Having read previous reviews, many travelers complain of a "90's feel" and "dated' decor... It appeared that the hotel was recently remodeled. There was new paint, carpeting, and furniture throughout the hotel. I believe this hotel was apart of the "refresh" program Holiday Inn has been featuring on it's website and television commercials. It is nicely decorated...Much better then most Best Westerns, Comfort Suites, and other hotels. It appears to even better then most other HIE's pictures I've seen on the website!
However, also having read other reviews (especially on yelp), many travelers mention using "last minute" travel websites to secure a lower price for this hotel. I booked through Holiday Inn, so I cannot confirm or deny if this is correct, but if you want to try, it appears that many others have had success.
For gamblers, Greektown is a short ride on the People Mover, just a short block away. The sidewalk between the People Mover and the hotel is well lit, so walking at night is relatively safe. However at the advice of the hotel staff, it is NOT recommended to adventure far away during the twilight hours.
Other travelers will find easily access to the stadiums, tunnel to Canada, RenCen, Fox Theater, and the other casinos. The hotel advertises a free shuttle service, however, we were informed via sign the service is currently unavailable. We did not intend to use this service, so it did not matter, but if this is something you wish to use, call the hotel. A restaurant and bar is also connected to the hotel... However, it was not clear if they offer room service or not.
My short list of complaints... A man during the check-in process (he was helping another guest) was wearing a dress shirt that was not buttoned until the 4th button without an undershirt... It looked sloppy and unprofessional (after all, who wants to see chest hair everywhere?) but it do not impact customer service. In addition, the fridge in our room was not operational.
Overall, this is a great hotel and next time I spent a weekend, you can be sure I will calling this hotel for reservations. Everything from the great valet service (free with room) to the room to the smiling and friendly employees, this was one of the best hotel experiences I have had!!
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