I stayed at the Holiday Inn Express and Suites in Lancaster, Ohio. The hotel was less than 10 minutes from where I was working on site, so it was a good location. While the blizzard made the drive difficult, and parking annoying, it could have been a lot worse…?

Check-In

Check-in took only a few minutes. ID and card used to book the reservation, and I was given my keys. The worker that night was very nice and accommodating. I also got a text later, asking if I needed anything.

Rooms

My reservation was a two bed queen room. Everything was neatly made, as they’ve always been in my experience. Wardrobe, dressers, mini fridge, and coffee were also in the room. I did make the coffee early in the morning, but unfortunately forgot it right afterward. When I got a chance to taste it, it seemed decent! I’m sure an early bird could easily make use of the packets.

The bathroom was a nice setup, typical again of these hotels. I got fresh towels every day, something I, despite my distaste for waste, appreciate. All the amenities were available, minus toothbrush/toothpaste (which I wouldn’t expect anyway). In fact, there was a makeup removal setup to the side of the sink. Not something I’d need, but certainly could be appreciated by others.

The desk was convenient, nothing to write home about. The chair, though, was uncomfortable. I’m someone who constantly switches the way I’m seated, so the low dip in the middle of it was a nuisance. Especially if I wanted to sit cross legged, which I often do even at desks.

Food

The buffet was nice, when I got a chance to eat at it. This was only two times, thanks to the earliness of my hours. Breakfast started at 6, and I was out the door most days by then. Luckily, Lancaster has a good variety of places to go in the morning.

One novelty of the food was the convenient pancake maker. It’s one press and you can two pancakes! Certainly easier than the twist waffle makers, but I can’t imagine it’s very easy to keep full.

Lots of milk choices, and I had multiple glasses of it. Only one choice for coffee- technically two if you count decaf. Several juices, pastries, baked goods, cereals, meats, and egg dishes. I’m sure most people could eat at least a few things if they have the chance.

There’s a little convenience section across from the main desk. A variety of items are available- but all the breakfast foods require a microwave or milk. Nothing quick to buy on the way out. I did have a strawberry ice cream though! That was enjoyable.

Peculiarities

At about 2AM, on a week night, the fire alarm went off. Everybody (well, not everybody) pulled themselves out of bed and trudged outside. Most congregated at the front of the building, and we waited a good chunk of time. Fire department arrived, inspected everything, and the manager came out to inform us on what happened.

Some leak (or something?) Caused the alarm to go off. It was purely the fault of the hotel’s equipment… This sucked, especially since I had to get up in 3 hours. I would be lying if I said it really ruined my night, though. I slept pretty decently before and after the alarm.

Conclusion

It’s a hotel. A chain, as well. Good breakfast, nice rooms, nice staff. Not a bad pick if you’re going to Lancaster.