Escape to Baltimore: Luxury & Comfort Await at La Quinta Inn & Suites!
Escape to Baltimore: La Quinta Inn & Suites - Blessedly Comfy or Utterly Forgettable? A Review That’s Honestly Messy.
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because this isn’t your typical travel blog fluff piece. This is real talk about my recent stay at La Quinta Inn & Suites in Baltimore. I’m talking the good, the bad, and the questionable – all served with a healthy dose of my unfiltered opinion. And trust me, it's a wild ride.
(Metadata First, Because Apparently That’s Important Now:
- Keywords: Baltimore hotels, La Quinta Inn & Suites review, wheelchair accessible hotel, free Wi-Fi, pool Baltimore, fitness center Baltimore, breakfast buffet, pet-friendly hotel, Baltimore lodging, Maryland travel, accessible travel, family-friendly hotels, Baltimore Inner Harbor hotels.
- SEO: Aiming for a high ranking on searches related to "La Quinta Baltimore review," "accessible hotels Baltimore," and "Baltimore hotels with free breakfast.")
Arrival & Initial Impressions: That Elevator, Though…
Right off the bat, let’s talk accessibility. La Quinta’s got it handled, mostly. Wheelchair accessible is a big green checkmark – ramps, elevators, the whole shebang. I gotta say, the elevator felt like it came from a different era – slower than molasses in January. Which, if you happen to like watching paint dry, is a win. But honestly, after a long drive, I was ready to just be in the room, so the slow ascent was a bit frustrating. But hey, it worked, and that’s more than some places can say.
The lobby was alright, nothing fancy. Clean enough, but a little… bland. It didn’t scream "luxury," like the title boasts, but it was inviting enough after a long drive. Check-in was a breeze – contactless check-in/out is always a win in my book, especially these days. Shoutout to the always-helpful front desk staff.
The Room: Comfy Sanctuary or Institutional Chic?
Once I finally made it to my room (thanks, slow elevator!), I found a non-smoking haven, thankfully. The air conditioning was a godsend during Baltimore's summer heat. The extra-long bed was a game-changer – I'm a tall gal, and it felt like finally finding a bed that fit me! Blackout curtains were a solid win for blocking out the sunrise (and those city lights). The free Wi-Fi worked like a dream (Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! – HUGE!).
But here’s where it got a little… uneven. The decor? Pretty basic. Not uncomfortable, just…forgettable. A closet, desk, and coffee/tea maker (essential!) were all there and functional. The bathroom, equipped with a shower and separate bathtub was clean and provided ample space. The provided slippers were a nice touch.
I am now going to double down and get a bit more specific even. My biggest problem in La Quinta was the lack of personality in the rooms. Everything was very utilitarian, and there wasn't much in the way of decor. I'd rather be a bit uncomfortable but in a room full of personality.
Cleanliness & Safety: The Sanitization Tango
Look, these days, cleanliness is everything. La Quinta seems to be taking it seriously. I saw evidence of daily disinfection in common areas and staff trained in safety protocol. They even had anti-viral cleaning products. The rooms looked spotless, which is always a huge relief. The room sanitization opt-out available is a nice touch for those who prefer that level of control.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Breakfast Buffets and Questionable Coffee
Alright, let’s talk food. The breakfast [buffet] was included, which is always a win. It was a standard continental spread – waffles, cereal, fruit, etc. Nothing to write home about, but enough to get you going. I have to be honest and say the coffee was, umm, not the best. I would have been happier with my own. They did also have breakfast takeaway service, but honestly? I'm a buffet kinda girl.
The restaurants inside were not great. I got to try the salad in the restaurant, which was rather tasteless. Poolside bar was open when I decided to check it out.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: The Pool, the Gym, Oh My…
The swimming pool [outdoor] looked inviting (especially on a hot day), but I didn't get a chance to jump in. There was a fitness center that I didn’t visit. It looked clean though, from the outside.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
They offered a range of services and conveniences, including laundry service, and daily housekeeping (which was consistently good) and also had a gift/souvenir shop. A convenience store would have been nice.
For the Kids: Babysitting and Family Fun?
I didn’t travel with kids, but I did notice that they have family/child-friendly facilities on site.
Getting Around: Parking, Transfers, and the City
Car park [free of charge] – HUGE! Airport transfer was available, although I didn't use it. They have a taxi service available.
The Verdict: Worth the Escape?
La Quinta Inn & Suites in Baltimore is a solid choice. It’s safe, clean, and offers the basics at a reasonable price. Accessibility is a major win. However, if you’re looking for a luxurious or particularly memorable experience, you might want to look elsewhere. The room decor is a bit blah, and the breakfast isn’t exactly gourmet.
My recommendation: It's a solid option for a quick trip, business travel, or if accessibility is a high priority. I'd stay there again, but I’d also bring my own coffee.
(Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars – Solid, but with room for improvement).
Unbelievable Fort Worth Stay: Fairfield Inn & Suites University Drive!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because you're about to get a raw, unfiltered glimpse into my slightly-off-kilter, hopefully-entertaining stay at the La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Baltimore N / White Marsh. Baltimore, baby! Here we go…
Day 1: Baltimore Blues (and Beige… Oh, so much beige)
1:00 PM - Arrival: Expectation vs. Reality (and a Mild Panic)
Okay, so the website promised "bright, modern rooms." My room? Beige. A whole lotta beige. The air conditioning was blasting like a tundra windstorm, which felt good after the Baltimore humidity nearly choked me. Checking in took a little longer than anticipated, thanks to a delightful chatty Cathy behind the desk who was clearly having a day. Bless her heart, she was doing her best.
- Anecdote: I swear, I saw a small dust bunny roll across the carpet as I was trying to unlock my door. A sign, maybe? A sign that I needed a stiff drink, which I promptly went to grab.
2:00 PM - Room Reconnaissance and Bathroom Battle:
The room was fine. Cleanish. The bed looked promising. I did that thing where I flop down dramatically to test the mattress. Passed the test! The bathroom, however… the lighting was fluorescent, and the water pressure in the shower was more of a gentle drizzle. A drizzle that threatened to leave me smelling faintly of sadness. But hey, free toiletries, right? The shampoo, though? Smelled like a pine forest and regret.
3:00 PM - Exploring White Marsh (Or, The Search for Snacks):
White Marsh. Sounds pristine, right? Well, it's a sprawling suburban landscape of chain restaurants and shopping centers. I was on a pilgrimage. The mission? Find the perfect snack. I wound up at a Target… Yes, Target. Bought a ridiculously oversized bag of chips and a weird-looking energy drink. The clerk asked me if I was "ready for summer" as she scanned my purchase. Lady, I'm just trying to survive a Tuesday.
5:00 PM - Poolside, Kind Of:
Ah, the pool. The pictures looked inviting. The reality? A slightly cloudy, vaguely humid atmosphere. A few brave souls were splashing around. I dip my toes in to test the waters. No such luck, it was freezing! The humidity was too much, so I retreated.
7:00 PM - Dinner Drama: I tried to find a local restaurant. After a 40 minutes drive and a parking nightmare, I settled for an underwhelming chain restaurant. Nothing to write home about (besides the awful service)
Day 2: Baltimore Bound (and Brunch Bewilderment)
8:00 AM - Breakfast Buffet Blowout (or, the Great Egg Heist):
Okay, the breakfast buffet. Surprisingly good. The scrambled eggs were fluffy, the mini-waffles were adorable… and the coffee? Actually drinkable! I saw a guy take five sausage links. Five! I wanted to judge, but then I remembered I'd snuck an extra yogurt from yesterday.
9:00 AM - Check out: smooth sailing, but I was ready to leave.
10:00 AM - Baltimore City Bound!! The hotel was perfect location for going to Baltimore City!
12:00 PM - Inner Harbor Chaos:
Okay, so I'm a sucker for a good harbor. And Baltimore's Inner Harbor? Definitely good. Touristy? Absolutely. But still, the water, the boats, the atmosphere… I was actually having fun.
- Observation: The sheer number of families with screaming toddlers was overwhelming. It sounded as if a whole zoo erupted into a giant toddler rage.
2:00 PM - The National Aquarium, and the Feeling of Underwater Serenity:
The aquarium was amazing. This is the double down!! Jellyfish! Sea turtles! Sharks! And the way the light hit the water… it was mesmerizing. I could have stayed there all day. The sheer serenity of watching the fish swim was incredible. I just stood there, lost in thought, letting the world drift away.
4:00 PM - Historic Fells Point, and the Perfect Pint:
Fells Point, a charming historic neighborhood with cobblestone streets and old pubs. It has the best restaurants, bars. I found a perfect little pub and ordered a beer. I settled into a corner booth, and just watched the world go by. It was sublime.
7:00 PM - Return to Beige… and Reflection.
Back at the motel, surrounded by beige, I felt a weird calm. The trip, with all its flaws, had been good. Baltimore's got grit, character, and some seriously good food. Plus, I have a story to tell.
Day 3: Departure and the Bitter Sweet Goodbye to Baltimore
- 8:00 AM - Last Breakfast, Last Stand: The breakfast buffet. I was starting to feel like a pro. I managed a respectable three sausage links and a waffle, a nice ending.
- 9:00 AM - Check-out and the Final Beige Farewell: One last look at my beige abode.
- 10:00 AM - Head Home: I was sad to leave the city.
So there you have it. My trip to Baltimore, the La Quinta, and its beige embrace. Not perfect, not always glamorous, but definitely worthwhile. I hope I didn't scare you away, but then again, I hope you learned something, and if nothing else, maybe a good laugh. And hey, if you happen to find a perfect, non-beige motel room, please let me know.
Escape to Fremont: Unbeatable Deals at Extended Stay America Suites!
Okay, so, "Escape to Baltimore: Luxury & Comfort Await at La Quinta Inn & Suites!"... Is it REALLY luxurious? 'Cause, let's be real, La Quintas...
Alright, deep breaths. Luxury? Well, "luxury" might be a stretch. Let's call it... *elevated comfort*. Think less Versailles, more... a really well-done, modern Ikea showroom. They've clearly upgraded the usual La Quinta aesthetic. I mean, the lobby *smells* decent, which is already a win. There's that *vague* promise of fluffy towels, a decent-ish TV (which, after a day of driving, is a *necessity*), and yes, the rooms are clean. And the beds? Actually, the beds are pretty darn comfy. I almost missed my alarm one morning because I was *that* comfily cocooned. So, not the Ritz, BUT... surprisingly pleasant. Way better than the roadside motel I stayed in after a… *cough*… particularly disastrous road trip a few years back. Let’s just say the only luxury *there* was the ability to sleep in a bed. And even that felt questionable. This La Quinta? A good solid B+. Maybe a B+ with a hint of cinnamon roll potential (more on that breakfast experience later).
The free breakfast. Tell me *everything*. I need the truth. Is it the same sad continental breakfast of my nightmares?
Okay, brace yourself. The free breakfast is... well, it's free. So, manage your expectations. It's not a Michelin-star experience, obviously. Picture this: a buffet of warmish scrambled eggs (they might be real eggs, they might not be. Embrace the mystery!), possibly some slightly rubbery sausage, waffles, and what I *swear* was instant oatmeal. The fruit selection? Pre-cut melon that had definitely seen better days. But! And this is important: they usually have a waffle maker. And you, my friend, can *control* the waffle. A hot, fresh waffle, smothered in syrup, is a beautiful thing. Even if the eggs are… questionable. The coffee? It’s coffee. It'll get you going. I will say, on one particular morning, they had REALLY good cinnamon rolls. Like, almost, *almost* worth getting up early for. Almost. I grabbed two. Judge me. I’ll take my breakfast victory wherever I can get it. The breakfast area itself? A bit of a zoo during peak hours. Kids running around, people hovering over the waffle maker like it's a holy grail… you get the picture. But hey, it's part of the… *charm*? Let's call it charm.
How's the location? Is it actually *escapable* from the hotel?
Okay, location, location, location! This is where La Quinta actually does pretty well. "Escape" is a good word. It's in a decent area, relatively speaking. It's not *right* downtown, which, honestly, can be a blessing if you're not in the mood for constant hustle. You're not, like, in a creepy industrial park either. It's got easy access to major roads – that's always a big plus for me, because I have a horrible sense of direction and tend to end up driving in circles if things are confusing. There are restaurants and shops nearby, so you're not completely stranded. I remember one evening I was SO exhausted from museum-hopping, I just wanted a quick bite. There was a decent Italian place within walking distance, which was a godsend. And honestly, after a day of screaming kids and grumpy tourists, it's a bit of an escape just *being* in your room, flipping through channels, and ordering takeout. Which leads us to another important point…
Let's talk about amenities. Pool? Gym? Because let's be realistic.
Okay, the amenities. They have a pool. I did not use it. It looked clean, but I’m a germaphobe. I'm more of a "sit in my room and order pizza" kind of vacationer. They have a gym, too. I did not, under any circumstances, go near it. I prefer my exercise in the form of frantic pacing during a stressful work call. So, I can't personally vouch for either. But hey, they *exist*. There's also free Wi-Fi. Crucial. I mean, how else am I going to spend quality time judging other people’s travel photos on Instagram? And the parking? Free. That's always a bonus. Especially when you're comparing this to, say, parking at a Smithsonian museum – I'll spare you the wallet-crushing experience. So, serviceable. Functional. Not gonna blow your mind, but gets the job done. Honestly, the biggest amenity for me? The ability to leave my own messy life behind for a few days and actually *recharge*.
What about the service? Are the staff polite? Or are they just… "hotel staff"?
Okay, the service. This is where La Quinta mostly shines. The staff were genuinely pleasant. I hate whiny, complaining guests and I try not to be one. They seemed to actually *care* about making your stay decent. The front desk staff was friendly, helpful with directions, and handled my various (potentially annoying) requests with grace and a smile. One time, I needed extra towels because, well, I might have spilled a bit too much coffee on myself. They brought them up right away. Another time, I accidentally locked myself out of my room (don't judge, it was early). They came to the rescue, quickly and efficiently. No eye-rolling, no sighs of exasperation. Just competent and helpful. It makes a huge difference, honestly. Makes you feel like you’re not just another check-in. It's a human touch, which is pretty important in a hotel. So yeah, thumbs up on the service.
Okay, the *real* question: would you stay there again?
Hmm... Would I stay at the La Quinta in Baltimore again? Yes, I probably would. It's not the *most* exciting place in the world, but it's a solid, reliable option. The price is right, they provide the basic level of comfort I need, and the staff is great. Plus, that whole cinnamon roll thing... I’d be lying if I said it wasn't a factor. Look, I'm not expecting perfection when I'm travelling. Give me a clean room, a decent bed, a hot waffle, and some friendly faces, and I'm a happy camper. This La Quinta checks those boxes. And let’s be honest, sometimes “escape” just means a break from *your* life’s chaos, and this place gets the job done. So yeah, I’d definitely go back. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm suddenly craving waffles... and Baltimore’s harbor sights.
Post a Comment for "Escape to Baltimore: Luxury & Comfort Await at La Quinta Inn & Suites!"