New York State of Mind | Hampton Inn Albany Western Ave
March 10, 2016
I recently visited Albany, New York. You may not know it, but Albany is the capital of New York state. It ranked 36th on U.S. News and World Report's list of Best Places to Live.
My visit to Albany was a business trip, but I hoped to see a little more of Albany than just my hotel room. I arrived on a Monday, and it was still early in the day, so I decided to visit the New York State Museum. I had watched a vlog by Liv on her YouTube channel, LiveNaturallyLove, about the museum and I wanted to check it out for myself. I have a thing for puppets, and she mentioned that items from Sesame Street, a childhood favorite of mine, were on display at the museum. Also, the building has a Carousel, and it's free to ride. Do I need to say more?
Spontaneous travel fail
I was so excited as I pulled up to the building and parked in the parking lot on the side. As I exited the car and walked towards the museum, I admired the architecture of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. I marveled at the memorial to U.S. veterans. Finally, I arrived at the front door and entered only to see a sign that the museum was closed. The museum is open Tuesday - Sunday. Although I didn't get to see the museum as I had planned, I did wander around the magnificent building that not only houses the museum, but also has a library and archives.
This was my third visit to Albany and my second stay at the Hampton Inn Albany Western Ave/University area, and I love it! I stayed there for four nights on business, and this Hampton had everything I needed. The hotel had a flag change (Holiday Inn to Hilton property) in the summer of 2015, and I am so glad that it is now a Hilton property. I am a Hilton Honors member and typically stay at the Hampton when on business trips.
The lobby area is inviting. There are lounge areas and a business area where you are able to use a computer and printer. The breakfast area is also a wonderful hangout or work spot with an electric fireplace wall and comfortable seating, including booth type seating.
This hotel has a modern, but homelike feel. The rooms have wood laminate flooring in the entry area and bathroom, which I love. The bathroom fixtures are sleek and simple. The door between the bathroom and closet area has a sliding mirrored door that alternates between securing the bathroom and closet area which is an excellent use of space. These are my favorite types of doors second to pocket doors. The sleeping area has carpet. I'm not the biggest fan of carpet, but I do like that the carpet has a modern design. There are ample power outlets in the room, as well as USB port outlets.
The best thing about this Hampton is the people. The staff is friendly and professional. Thank you to Miracle at the front desk for always having a welcoming smile and trying to get me those oatmeal coconut cookies, since I'm not the biggest fan of chocolate chip. This location has started holding a Manager's Reception on Tuesday evenings. The hotel offers free wine, beer, water, and food during the reception. I tried the Cabernet Sauvignon (I'm a red kinda gal), but they also had white wine, Budweiser, and Bud Light for guests drinking pleasure. I was a little disappointed that the only vegetarian option was a salad, but I was glad that they did have a protein option (chickpeas) as a salad addition. Kathy (General Manager) assured me that they are mindful of having a "substantial non-meat-based option" the manager's reception and will have more choices in the future.
Pros:
Updated
Clean
Friendly and professional staff
Manager's reception in addition to complimentary Hampton Breakfast
Close to Maria College, SUNY Albany, and College of Saint Rose.
Cons:
Hmmm...Can't think of any
Updated
Clean
Friendly and professional staff
Manager's reception in addition to complimentary Hampton Breakfast
Close to Maria College, SUNY Albany, and College of Saint Rose.
Cons:
Hmmm...Can't think of any
I will stay here again when visiting the area. If you're looking for a hotel in Albany, I recommend the Hampton Inn Albany-Western Ave/University Area. It won't disappoint.
(also posted to tripadvisor)
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