Courtyard By Marriott Bloomington Normal

I stayed here for two nights and had a pleasant experience. The staff were friendly and welcoming, and the hotel was clean. They also provide snacks for guests... read more I stayed here for two nights and had a pleasant experience. The staff were friendly and welcoming, and the hotel was clean. They also provide snacks for guests in the lobby, which is a nice touch. My room was comfortable, although there were a few loose fixtures in the bathroom, but nothing too concerning. The plumbing can get noisy in the morning when other guests take showers. The hotel is not located near any restaurants, so it's a good idea to plan your dinner out before returning. They do offer a breakfast counter as well. Overall, this hotel is suitable for short-term business travelers.

I discovered a live roach in my room. I managed to kill it, but I couldn't stop thinking about it all night. If there was one, I thought, there must be countles... read more I discovered a live roach in my room. I managed to kill it, but I couldn't stop thinking about it all night. If there was one, I thought, there must be countless others. I kept the light on near the sink where I spotted it, and it still unnerves me. I left my luggage in the garage because I don't want to risk bringing anything into my house.

**Pros:** - **Friendly Staff:** The employees were polite and attentive, which reflects well on the hiring manager. Kudos to the person responsible for assembli... read more **Pros:** - **Friendly Staff:** The employees were polite and attentive, which reflects well on the hiring manager. Kudos to the person responsible for assembling such a nice team! - **Great Location:** The hotel is conveniently located near a Walmart, gas stations, and various restaurants, with easy access to the expressway for travelers passing through. A definite plus! - **Free Parking:** Unlike many Marriotts that charge for parking, this hotel offers a spacious parking lot at no extra cost. - **Multiple Elevators:** With many elevator banks available, there were minimal waits, allowing for better social distancing—which is particularly appreciated during the pandemic. There were also signs in the elevators encouraging only two people or one family at a time. Thank you for that! - **COVID-19 Precautions:** The staff adhered to safety protocols, wearing masks and regularly cleaning surfaces. They provided hand sanitizer and a basket for used key cards, and the lobby furniture appeared to be almost new. - **Room Amenities:** Our room included the typical microwave, mini fridge, and blackout curtains, which were helpful after a long drive. - **Courtyard Bistro:** Although it was closed during our stay—likely due to low occupancy during winter break in this college town—the bistro typically serves breakfast, coffee, and dinner. - **Comfortable Beds:** The beds were cozy, and there were extra pillows available. - **Pool and Hot Tub:** The hotel boasts a large pool and hot tub, both well-maintained, although they were quite empty due to the pandemic. The clean, blue water was inviting, and I would have liked to take a dip if I hadn’t arrived so late. The price was reasonable for a king-sized room in a safe area. **Cons:** - **Cleanliness Issues:** Unfortunately, the toilet was not up to Marriott standards—it had a ring inside that suggested it hadn’t been scrubbed in weeks, although the exterior was clean. A helpful suggestion: pouring cleaner in and letting it sit could help with that stain. - **Stained Flooring:** There was a stain on the floor between the tiles. It wasn't alarming, but it looked like a bit of bleach could have eliminated it if the cleaning staff had paid more attention. - **Stained Furniture:** The room featured a large, comfy chair; however, the ottoman had a noticeable black stain that resembled old chewing gum. Seeing such grime makes it uncomfortable to relax, which is what staying in a hotel is meant to provide. - **Minibar Lacking Variety:** The fridge in the market kitchen had just one lonely box of macaroni and cheese. While they had several cold beers, it would sell better with more food options available. - **Television Issues:** The flat-screen TV was not a smart TV and the remote control was largely ineffective, with only the power, volume, and channel buttons functioning. We couldn’t navigate to a menu to watch our shows, which was disappointing. A smart TV would enhance the experience, allowing guests to log into their streaming accounts. **Would I Return?** Yes, I would consider coming back, but if I stayed longer than one night, I would likely request a room change upon noticing the issues with the toilet and remote control. It’s not a bad hotel; it’s just that they should pay closer attention to cleanliness and address the stained carpets and furniture.

Listed as 'pet friendly ' and 'breakfast ' the pet fee is $150. Not deposit, FEE. Have to pay for breakfast. They charged me $219 for this lackluster room as we... read more Listed as 'pet friendly ' and 'breakfast ' the pet fee is $150. Not deposit, FEE. Have to pay for breakfast. They charged me $219 for this lackluster room as well as expedias fee of $172. So $391 total for this room for one night. No one knows what they are doing here. No pool. No restaurant as they claim. Not recommended at all! Run!

Room was cool and comfortable upon arrival no need to adjust the temperature. Black out curtains along with a very comfortable mattress made for a great night's... read more Room was cool and comfortable upon arrival no need to adjust the temperature. Black out curtains along with a very comfortable mattress made for a great night's sleep. Staff that I connected with in advance and throughout the stay was great. Thumbs up good place to stay while in the area.