This is my second stay at this hotel in the last two years, and it's past time I gave them a review. The Hampton shares a building with the Homewood Suites, but there is clear signage for both. And what a lovely building it is, one of that lovely art-deco made popular in the 1910's/1920's/1930's. At one time it was a newspaper building, the conversion has been amazing.
Registration is on the second floor, and depending on which chain you're using, you will see the appropriate sign - Hampton Inn is to the right; Homewood Suites to your left. Although I had checked in online the day before check-in, I still stopped at the main desk. The young woman on duty was friendly, polite, efficient and made me feel very welcome, even to asking if I'd like a bottle of water, something which was quite welcome after a long drive. The 14th-floor room I'd originally chosen was still being cleaned, therefore I went with a 12th-floor corner room equivalent to the first. (The digital key - due to the switch in rooms - never changed to the new selection, so this is a glitch their IT needs to work on). Overall, check-in took around 5 to 10 minutes.
I was pleased with my second selection. For two individuals staying in the room, there would be plenty of space; for one person it was substantial. Even the bathroom - split into two areas (one for the sink and glass footed shower, one for the toilet area) was especially roomy, which always makes me happy as I dislike the ones where you're sitting on the commode and your knees are ramming into the shower curtain or door! You know I couldn't help but wonder what this room might have been back in the old newspaper days (someone's office perhaps?). The closet was roomy with plenty of hangars, and additional bed linen on the top shelf, as well as an iron and ironing board. There is plenty of drawer space: the chest of drawers with three large drawers (the flat screen TV with a satellite link sits atop this); two nightstands, each with a drawer. I'm pleased to see the number of wall plugs available, as well as the plugs on the desk, and even ports on the lamps so you can hook up your smartphone and have it convenient to you when you're in bed. The desk had plenty of room for my wireless keyboard and the few electronics I brought with me, but there would have been space for my laptop had I brought it. There were two wastebaskets: one under the desk, one in the area of the bathroom with the commode. The room was clean, and although I always bring my own, there was one sealed disinfectant wipe left in the room to wipe down the hard surfaces.
The linen on the bed I checked when I got in the room - it was clean, ironed and fresh appearing, something I always want to see. The TV reception was good throughout the small amount of time I spent in the room. My one complaint regarding the room itself: no personal safe. I was kind of surprised because I thought there was one in whatever room I used back in 2016, but perhaps not. I've been in several hotels since then. But this would be a nice addition.
The public areas are quite nice. You return to the second floor and I don't think anyone would stop you from using the one for the Hampton or the one for the Homewood (the latter has a walled fireplace, pretty nice for a fall day). Both sides are comfortable and relaxing with sofas and comfortable chairs. Yes, I checked out both! The Hampton also has a small "office" area at the rear of the "living room" where you can use the computer to access Word, Excel; print boarding passes; get directions; etc. There was also a small table with seating (I believe 8 chairs) which is likely used by those wishing to have an informal conference.
I did get an opportunity to have the free buffet breakfast before I checked out the next morning. The staff was professional and polite, and I noted that as soon as one container was getting near the end of its' steak and egg contents, someone was there to replace the tray. The usual waffle setup was available, as well as various pastries and breads, three cereal dispensers, fresh fruit, boiled eggs. I wish there had been a bit more of a selection, but hey, it's a small buffet and they did a decent enough job. I also noted they had the little to go bags for those that can't sit and eat. For a weekday, there were plenty of tables to enjoy one's meal; not sure how they accommodate guests for weekends.
The hotel is convenient and within walking distance of many downtown locations, from restaurants to the Aronoff (a block away). One can self-park at one of the numerous lots or garages downtown (you can check out my review for my "meh" experience at 7 W 7th Street Garage), or use the valet parking, available when you pull out front on the Vine Street side.
I will definitely return when I have another event to attend in Cincinnati! They are not only a credit to the Hampton family (with one of the nicest Hampton Inns I have ever stayed at), but the Hilton Family as well. read more