Harrisonburg's Hidden Gem: Unforgettable Stay at DoubleTree by Hilton
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I’m about to spill the tea (and maybe some coffee, knowing me) on Harrisonburg’s Hidden Gem: The DoubleTree by Hilton. Forget those painstakingly perfect hotel reviews, because this is gonna be… well, it’s gonna be ME. I’m talking honest-to-goodness, warts-and-all, stream-of-consciousness ramblings. Think less "expert travel blogger" and more "your slightly chaotic but well-meaning friend."
First Impressions (and the Dreaded Parking Lot):
Okay, okay, let's start with the most important thing: accessibility. Because, let's be real, sometimes you just need to know if the ramp isn't a death trap. I'm happy to report the DoubleTree in Harrisonburg seems to understand the assignment. Ramps? Check. Elevators? Check. They've clearly put some serious thought into making things easy for everyone. Now, the car park [free of charge]… it was a godsend. Nobody wants to wrestle with parking after a long drive, right? (Unless you enjoy that kind of stress, in which case, you do you, boo.)
The Room: My Personal Sanctuary (Mostly)
Entering my room was… a thing. After a long day of… well, stuff, all I craved was a good, solid dose of "ahhhh, peace". The air conditioning in the room was a lifesaver. And hey, the blackout curtains were perfect for a good night's sleep! This is a thing, right? Because honestly, when you travel you just want to sleep.
The Wi-Fi [free]? Another win. I fired up my laptop workspace and got to business. Having a desk allows you to get stuff done. Plus, let's just say the internet access - wireless was a godsend.
But the bathroom… Ah, there's always a catch, isn't there? While the private bathroom was indeed private, the lighting felt like they were trying to recreate the surface of the moon. Also, I had to Google "bathroom phone" just to make sure that was still a thing. It is. Weird. I will give the complimentary tea a hand-it-was appreciated.
The Spa: I Met My Inner Zen (and Forgot My Towel)
Okay, this is where things got… interesting. The Spa. Yes. They had a Sauna, a Steamroom, and a Swimming pool [outdoor]. Listen. I’m not a spa person. I'm usually the person who accidentally wears their shoes into the sauna. But I figured, hey, "treat yourself," right?
So I do, I slip into the bathrobes (heaven!), and make my way to the sauna. Feeling good, I get into the steam room… and promptly forget my towel. Cue the awkward scramble! After that, I found the Pool with view. Let’s just say, the post-sauna dip under the stars was chef’s kiss. Pure bliss, despite my towel-related faux pas.
Food Glorious Food (and My Quest for a Decent Coffee)
Here's where the DoubleTree really shined. Dining, drinking, and snacking were well-covered.
Breakfast was a buffet bonanza! You get Breakfast [buffet], Asian breakfast, Western breakfast. I’m a buffet fiend, so I was in my element. The Coffee/tea in restaurant had to be better, I thought. The Coffee shop was helpful, but I can be really picky when it comes to my caffeine.
Restaurants: There are restaurants, even a Vegetarian restaurant! But I'm a basic person, so I had a great experience overall.
Happy hour: Yes, they had it. Enough said.
Room service [24-hour]: Available, although I didn't test it.
The Gym: I Actually Used It (Once)
Look, I'm not a gym rat. But I dragged myself to the Fitness center and used the Gym / fitness facilities. It was… adequate. The Fitness center was clean, and the machines seemed to work (always a plus.) I didn't get the chance to experience a Body scrub or a Body wrap, but I’m sure there were people who enjoyed it.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
Okay, this is where the DoubleTree earned its stripes. Let’s be real, a hotel’s more than just a bed. It’s the little things that make a difference. And the DoubleTree really nailed it. Here's some quick notes:
- Concierge: Helpful.
- Laundry service: Excellent.
- Daily housekeeping: The room was always spick and span.
- Cash withdrawal: Handy!
- Gift/souvenir shop: Useful for that last-minute souvenir.
- Convenience store: Great for snacks.
Safety and Cleanliness: In a Post-COVID World
The pandemic really changed everything, didn’t it? So how did the DoubleTree handle it? They took it seriously, and it was great to see! I mean, they’re doing everything. It was great to see.
- Anti-viral cleaning products: Good.
- Hand sanitizer: Everywhere.
- Rooms sanitized between stays: Reassuring.
- Staff trained in safety protocol: Definitely noticeable.
- Sanitized kitchen and tableware items: Check.
- Contactless check-in/out: Smooth.
For the Kids (and the Kid in You)
I didn't travel with kids this time, but I saw they had:
- Babysitting service
- Kids facilities
- Kids meal
Things to Do (Beyond Napping by the Pool)
So, what else is there to do? Well…
- Meetings: They host them.
- Indoor venue for special events: Yup.
- Car park [on-site]: Convenient.
Getting Around:
- Taxi service: Plenty available.
- Airport transfer: Available
The Verdict: Worth the Hype?
Look, the DoubleTree by Hilton in Harrisonburg isn’t perfect. But it’s close. It's got a great location and a host of amenities, and the staff were friendly and helpful. The value? Excellent. Did I mention the cookies? (I'm a sucker for a good cookie upon arrival!)
My Opinion:
For the price, the DoubleTree is a steal. It's comfortable, convenient, and caters to a variety of needs. I recommend it, and I'll definitely be back.
Now, for the Sales Pitch (because, well, I'm supposed to):
Tired of the Same Old Hotel Routine? Crave a Getaway That Actually Feels Like a Getaway?
Unforgettable Stay at DoubleTree by Hilton in Harrisonburg is Calling Your Name!
Here's why you should book right now:
- Unwind in Style: Luxurious rooms with free Wi-Fi, blackout curtains, and all the amenities you need for a relaxing stay.
- Spa Day Dream: Melt your stress away in our sauna, steam room, and outdoor pool (trust me, it's divine!).
- Fuel Your Adventures: Indulge in a delicious buffet breakfast, explore local cuisine, or enjoy a cocktail at our bar.
- Convenience is Key: Free parking, a fitness center, and a helpful concierge to make your stay stress-free.
- Safety is Paramount: We're committed to your well-being with enhanced cleaning protocols and attentive staff.
BOOK NOW and receive a special offer:
- Complimentary upgrade to a suite (based on availability)!
- A free welcome drink at the bar.
Don't miss out on Harrisonburg's hidden gem! Book your Unforgettable Stay at DoubleTree by Hilton today! Click here to book now!
Pittsburgh's BEST Homewood Suites? (Robinson Mall Area Review!)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this isn’t your grandma’s pristine travel itinerary. This is DoubleTree by Hilton Harrisonburg, Virginia, through the eyes of someone who desperately needs a vacation… and probably a nap. Let's get messy!
The Harrisonburg Hustle: A DoubleTree Diary
Day 1: Arrival & Immediate Regret (Kidding! …Mostly.)
- 1:00 PM: Arrive at Dulles Airport. The drive is a blur of highway exits and existential dread (did I pack enough snacks?). Google Maps estimates a 2.5-hour drive. Lies. All lies. It's always longer. Always. And why is the air conditioning in my rental car suddenly deciding to channel a desert wasteland? This is not a good start.
- 3:30 PM (ish): Finally… DoubleTree Harrisonburg! The lobby is actually pretty decent. That warm cookie they hand out? Yeah, that’s the only reason I chose this hotel. I’m weak, and the cookie knows it. Check-in is surprisingly painless. Score! Already feeling better. Though, is the carpet slightly… sticky? Nah, I'm probably just tired.
- 4:00 PM: Room exploration. Standard DoubleTree fare. The bed looks inviting. The TV is… well, it’s a TV. The real test is the WiFi. Pray for stable connection, internet gods.
- 4:30 PM: The pool. Oh, the pool. It's indoor, which is nice, because the weather, according to my phone, is going to be indecisive. It’s also filled with… a surprising number of children. Not a dealbreaker, but note to self: pack earplugs. I briefly consider joining them in the splashy chaos, but quickly remember I am an adult who needs a moment of peace.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at the hotel restaurant, The Main Street Grill. The menu seems… ambitious? I order the burger. Always a safe bet. The service is… let's say, "enthusiastic." My waitress, bless her heart, seemed genuinely excited to see me. The burger is pretty good. The fries? Overwhelmingly salty. I secretly wonder if the chef is currently trying to get me to drink a gallon of water.
- 7:30 PM: Crawl back to the room. Collapse on the bed. Watch some mindless TV. Feel the sweet, sweet embrace of exhaustion.
- 8:00 PM: A sudden urge to get ice. The ice machine on my floor is out of order. Sigh. Another minor inconvenience in this already slightly messy day.
- 8:30 PM: Finally back in my room, with ice. Now that's the life.
- 9:00 PM: The cookie is gone, the ice is melting, and I need to sleep.
Day 2: Shenandoah Adventures (And a Near-Fatal Encounter with a Squirrel)
- 7:00 AM: Wake up. The sun is shining. I can't quite bring myself to get out of bed.
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast at the hotel. Buffet. Standard hotel buffet. Waffles are crispy, but the scrambled eggs look suspiciously yellow. I play it safe with the fruit, but the pineapple is a bit… green.
- 9:00 AM: Armed with a map (I still like paper, sue me), I navigate my way towards Shenandoah National Park. The drive is beautiful! The Blue Ridge Mountains are stunning. Until I take a wrong turn and end up on a road seemingly designed for a car the size of a Tonka truck.
- 10:00 AM: Arrive at the park. The ranger (an absolutely delightful woman with a severe hat) gives me a map and a lecture on bear safety. I immediately start picturing myself as a bear snack. I'm not built for bear encounters.
- 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM: Hiking! I chose a relatively easy trail, the Dark Hollow Falls Trail, which promised waterfalls. The hike itself is… nice. The waterfalls are… small but charming. I spend far more time taking pictures than actual hiking. I get a few great photos. One, of a cute little bird, almost distracted me from the trail… almost fell. My adrenaline spiked.
- 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Picnic lunch. Overlook views are worth it. Almost. I eat a sandwich and try not to think about the bears. Or the squirrels. Those cute little fuzzy jerks.
- 2:00 PM: THE SQUIRREL INCIDENT. I'm sitting there, enjoying my chips, when a tiny, furry demon ATTACKS. It leaps onto my picnic blanket, eyes locked on my bag of chips (which I'd foolishly left slightly open), It’s a full-on assault. I scream, I jump, I throw my hands up in terror. The squirrel, unfazed, snatches a chip and darts up a tree, staring down at me with pure, unadulterated victory. I am traumatized. I am defeated. I vow revenge. With a different bag of chips.
- 3:00 PM: Driving back to the hotel. Can't shake the feeling of being mocked by a rodent.
- 4:00 PM: Back at the hotel. Clean up from my squirrel attack.
- 5:00 PM: A brief nap. Needed.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at a local brewery. Brothers Craft Brewing. The beer is fantastic, and the food is even better. The whole place is buzzing with energy. This is the best part of the trip, so far. I order the pizza. I now understand why people rave about it. I might have to go back tomorrow.
- 7:30 PM: Stroll around Harrisonburg. A cute little town. I notice the college students, filled with so much potential, walking around.
- 10:00 PM: Back to the hotel and bed. I contemplate the existence of aggressive squirrels.
Day 3: Departure (and a Last-Minute Cookie)
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast. Same as yesterday, except I avoid the eggs.
- 9:00 AM: Checkout. Smooth and painless. I actually feel slightly sad to leave.
- 9:30 AM: The drive back to Dulles. I can't help but think i forgot something.
- 10:00 AM: I forgot I left my toothbrush. Time to go back and recover the lost item.
- 11:00 AM: This time heading back to the airport. The road feels less daunting.
- 12:00 PM: I make my way into the airport.
- 1:00 PM: Final thoughts. Harrisonburg, you weren't perfect. But you're the place where I had the worst experience with a squirrel and some fantastic food. Goodbye for now.
So there you have it. My DoubleTree adventure, messy, honest, and packed with more caffeine than good sense. This is my life, a work-in-progress. And maybe, just maybe, I'll return to Harrisonburg and face that squirrel… with a bigger bag of chips. Wish me luck. And pass me a cookie, will you? I deserve it.
Escape to Toronto's Hidden Gem: Homewood Suites Oakville!
DoubleTree Harrisonburg: The Good, the Bad, and the Absolutely Undeniable (Honestly)
Okay, spill the beans. Is this DoubleTree *really* a hidden gem? Because I've heard the term tossed around so much it's lost all meaning.
Alright, fine, I'll be honest. “Hidden gem” these days is about as original as saying "the weather's nice." But, *in this case*, I'm going to stick my neck out and say... maybe? Look, it's not like you're stumbling upon a secret speakeasy hidden behind a laundromat. It's a perfectly solid, dependable DoubleTree. But here's the thing: Harrisonburg itself isn't exactly overflowing with super-duper luxurious hotels. And this one? It consistently punches above its weight class. That cookie? A stroke of genius. I *swear* that warm, gooey chocolate chip cookie... it's almost enough to forgive any minor hiccups. *Almost.*
That cookie. Everyone raves about it. Is the hype real? I have trust issues when it comes to free cookies.
Listen, I *get* the cookie skepticism. I considered it a marketing ploy for YEARS. Honestly, I thought the cookie was a bit… *too* hyped. Until the other day, after a three-hour drive in a torrential downpour. I hobbled through the lobby, soaked to the bone, my hair plastered to my forehead. The front desk person, bless their cotton socks, offered the cookie. I took it, figuring, "Might as well." And then... BAM! Warm, melty, perfect. It was like a tiny, edible hug. Seriously, it almost – *almost* – made me forget I’d left my umbrella at the last gas station. The hype? Justified. Absolutely justified. Take extra napkins. You'll need them. You might also need another cookie.
What about the rooms? Are they... you know... *clean*? Because I'm not trying to share my vacation with any tiny, unwanted guests.
Okay, deep breaths. Yes, as far as my (admittedly finicky) standards go, the rooms are clean. I *always* check the corners, under the beds, and between the mattress and the headboard. (I’m probably annoying to room with, I apologize in advance.) I haven’t found anything horrifying. That doesn't mean the room is *perfectly* pristine – I once found a teeny tiny speck of… something… on the bathroom counter. But hey, these things happen. Overall though, the rooms are well-maintained, the beds are comfortable, and the bathrooms are… serviceable. Not spa-level, but perfectly fine for a shower and a place to brush your teeth. My only real beef? The lighting! Bring a brighter lamp if you plan on reading in bed.
Any advice for navigating the hotel itself? You know, parking, the gym, breakfast chaos, stuff like that.
Okay, here’s the lowdown:
- Parking: Generally, you’re good. There’s a decent-sized parking lot. I've only encountered a full lot during a massive JMU graduation weekend. Then you’re on your own. Maybe park down the street? Plan accordingly.
- The Gym: It exists! It's functional! Don't expect a state-of-the-art fitness palace, but you can definitely get a decent workout in. The treadmills are usually free, which is a win.
- Breakfast: Arrive early! The breakfast buffet is… well, it’s a breakfast buffet. There are usually the standard continental options (cereal, pastries, fruit) and some hot items (eggs, bacon, sausage). It can get crowded during peak hours, so be prepared to jostle for space. My tip? Go for the waffles. They're usually pretty good. And try to snag a table away from the family with the screaming toddler, if possible. (No offense to those families, I swear I love kids!)
- Pool Area The pool is not very big. It isn't always open.
The location – is it convenient? Is it walkable to anything interesting? (Besides, you know, the cookie.)
Location, location, location! The DoubleTree is in a reasonably convenient spot. It’s close to shopping, restaurants, and the university. You can walk to a few places, but Harrisonburg isn't really a "walkable city" in the traditional sense. You'll probably end up driving or taking a short Uber/Lyft to most places. I will also add here, that, you know, it isn't exactly situated on a picturesque hilltop overlooking the Shenandoah Valley. It's on a busy road. That's just the reality of it. But it's close enough to everything you need, making it a decent base for exploring the area.
What about the service? Are the staff friendly and helpful? Because a bad attitude can ruin a whole trip.
Generally, yes! I've always found the staff to be friendly and, crucially, *competent*. They seem genuinely happy to help. I once managed to lock myself out of my room at 2 AM (don't ask). The night front desk guy was incredibly patient and calm. He got me sorted out with a new key card, and didn't even make me feel *too* embarrassed about my idiocy. That kind of service is a big deal. Of course, there *are* occasional slip-ups – this is, after all, real life, not a perfectly curated Instagram feed. There was one time I asked for extra towels, and they never materialized. But overall, the service is a definite positive.
Okay, you've given us a lot to think about. Overall, is it recommended? Would you stay there again?
Alright, the verdict. Would I stay at the DoubleTree in Harrisonburg again? Absolutely. Despite any minor quibbles, it offers a comfortable and reliable experience. The cookie alone is a huge selling point. The location is convenient, the rooms are clean enough, the staff is friendly, and the price is usually reasonable. It's not perfect, no hotel is, but it's a solid choice for a visit to the area. You probably won't be blown away, but you also won’t be disappointed. My advice? Go for it. And definitely get two cookies. One for now, and one for later, when you're inevitably craving another bite of that warm, melty deliciousness. You'll thank me later. Trust me.
One Last Thing: What's the most *memorable* experience you've had there? Spill the tea!
Okay, okay, you want the truly juicy stuff? Here it is: It was Thanksgiving, a few years back.Travel Stay Guides
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