Living in LA I have been to San Diego many times. I have never stayed in The Gas Lamp District before as I thought it appeared to be too touristy. It probably is touristy but was alot of fun.
The location of the hotel is right near a lively night life center catering to younger folks of college age but also has several very good restaurants that cater to middle aged folks. The restaurants in the area are pricey for what they are but not outrageous. If you have a car and want to eat at good more moderate restaurants where you are not paying so much for location drive up 5th avenue away from the hotel and the water until you come a few blocks to the end of 5th Avenue which would be University Avenue. There are many very good moderate restaurants over there.
We stayed in the 5th Avenue Lofts part of the hotel which was different and fun. It had a modern feel and was not a typical hotel. The hotel is small and had the feel of a boutique hotel rather than a large Hilton which was great. Pool was very tasteful as were the seating areas and the gym was adequate. Room service was prompt and pretty good for a chain hotel. Staff was very polite and considerate. Our climate control was not working properly. They offered to move us which we declined as it was not a big deal but they did comp our breakfasts during our entire stay which was great of them. Also the room was not made up when we returned one day at 5pm. In response to our phone call they made it up immediately, apologized that the housekeepers were behind and sent us a complimentary cheese plate.
Yes there is noise from the nearby trains. It did not bother us and did not seem to be a problem at night but one could request a quiet room. Hotel parking is very pricey and we parked at a garage a block away for half the price. Also from 6pm Sat through Mon morning you can park on the street without feeding the meter which we also did.
The arm chair in the room was alittle worn but nothing major. The rest of the room was in very good shape. Coffee maker, free waters (not sure if this was because we are Hilton Club Members) and chocolates at night were a nice touch.
The staff really went out of their way to make sure everything was in order. I highly recommend this hotel for anyone visting San Diego and will certainly return.
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