Watertown's BEST Hotel? IHG's Hidden Gem Revealed!

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Watertown By IHG Watertown (SD) United States

Watertown's BEST Hotel? IHG's Hidden Gem Revealed!

Watertown's BEST Hotel? IHG's Hidden Gem Revealed! (Or Did I Just Imagine That?) - A Review That's More Human Than Hotel Brochure

Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because this is NOT your typical hotel review. I'm talking full-on, stream-of-consciousness, coffee-fueled, probably-too-honest-for-its-own-good review. We're diving deep into the IHG property in Watertown, because, frankly, after the trip, I still don't know if I dreamed it or not!

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Keywords: Watertown Hotel, Best Hotel, IHG, Accessible Hotel, Watertown NY, Hotel Review, Spa, Fitness Center, Free Wi-Fi, Pool, Restaurant, Family-Friendly, Business Travel, Weekend Getaway, Watertown Accommodations, IHG Hotels, New York Hotels
Meta Description: Honest and detailed review of the IHG hotel in Watertown, NY. Explore accessibility, amenities like spa & pool, dining options, and real-world experiences. Is it really the best? Find out!
Title: Watertown's BEST Hotel? IHG's Hidden Gem Revealed! (Or Am I Dreaming?) - A Messy Review

Accessibility: First, and FOREMOST.

Okay, let's get real. I'm not someone who needs full accessibility, but my aunt, bless her heart, does. Finding a truly accessible hotel can be a nightmare. This IHG, they really get it. Wheelchair accessible throughout the property? Check! Elevator that isn't a death trap (thank goodness!)? Double-check! They had facilities for disabled guests, which I actually saw being used (not just a label slapped on). The ramp access and door with a comfortable size was so great, and the overall design felt thoughtful. I saw a few people and the staff helped make every aspect of their experience easy. That’s HUGE.

My Score: 5/5 Golden Wheelchairs (if they had them!)

Cleanliness and Safety: The Anxiety-Soothing Checklist

Look, after the last few years, I'm on high alert. I'm pretty sure sanitization is my new hobby. This hotel actually made me feel slightly more at ease. They ticked all the boxes: Anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas. I even caught a staff member doing some professional-grade sanitizing services. Room sanitization opt-out available - nice touch! Sanitized kitchen and tableware items too. They really put on a show to make you feel safe so I do really appreciate the effort!

But, the staff, oh man, the staff! They weren't just going through the motions. They were genuinely respectful. It was amazing!

My Score: 4.5/5 (because let's be honest, perfection doesn't exist…but they got close)

Rooms: My Temporary Fortress

Okay, the room itself. So, I did a deep dive on what was available.

Available in all rooms: Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathroom phone, Bathrobes (yay!), Bathtub, Blackout curtains (life-savers!), Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed (yes!), Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor (I asked for it!), In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available (but I didn't need it), Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar (always a good idea!), Mirror, Non-smoking (essential), On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale (yes, I weighed myself. Don't judge!), Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens.

I went for a non-smoking room, which, based on the smell in the hall, I'm very glad about. The blackout curtains were a godsend for sleeping in. The Wi-Fi [free] was actually usable (unlike some hotels where you're better off using Morse code). The desk was functional, the coffee maker got me through my caffeine withdrawals, and the refrigerator was perfect for a midnight snack. The bed was comfy. The room was a good size. The bathroom was clean. All the basic necessities were covered! There was a socket near the bed for charging phones, thank goodness.

My Score: 4/5 - Solid. Comfortable. Nothing groundbreaking, but perfectly adequate.

Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: The "Can I Get That To Go?" Saga

Okay, this is where it gets interesting. The hotel had a restaurant. It was serving Asian cuisine, but also International cuisine and Western cuisine. A la carte in restaurant choices! I got a room service [24-hour] the first night, and I can't remember exactly what I got, but it was okay. The next day had breakfast [buffet] and I did grab some things, but nothing amazing. Everything was pretty standard, and I am not sure the hotel understands the concept of making things look fancy, but it was decent. The Coffee/tea in the restaurant was necessary. I also saw a bar and a poolside bar.

My Score: 3.5/5 - Decent, but not a culinary revelation.

"Things To Do": The Great Escape (Or Not)

They had a Fitness Center and a Swimming pool [outdoor]. I am guessing it was a Pool with view because it looked very nice! I am sure the pool was going to be a great place to relax. I saw a Spa nearby, and I'm pretty sure there were Sauna, Spa/sauna, and Steamroom. They did have Massage, which is always nice! They also have Bicycle parking.

My Score: 4/5 - Plenty to keep you occupied, especially if you're into the whole "relaxing" thing.

Services and Conveniences: The Little Niceties

They had a concierge, dry cleaning, and laundry service. There was luggage storage, which I used, and it was super helpful. The daily housekeeping was a nice touch, and the staff was super friendly during the cleaning. Always a plus. I did not observe any Food delivery, but I would not be surprised if I missed it.

My Score: 4/5 - Convenient and helpful.

For the Kids: Family-Friendly? Maybe.

The hotel advertises Family/child friendly, with Babysitting service and Kids meal. I didn't see a lot of kids there.

My Score: Unknown - Not traveling with children, so I can't really say.

Getting Around: Smooth Sailing?

They had Airport transfer, a Car park [free of charge], a Car park [on-site], and a Taxi service. I drove, so I took advantage of the Car park [free of charge] and it was great.

My Score: 4/5 - Easy to get around if you're driving.

Getting Down to Brass Tacks: The Verdict

Look, this isn’t the most luxurious hotel I've ever stayed in. But it's solid. It's clean. Most importantly, it made me feel good. Considering the staff, the hotel is a winner!

Overall Score: 4/5 - Might just be the best in Watertown. I'd go back. (And maybe finally figure out if I dreamed it all!)

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Holiday Inn Express & Suites Watertown By IHG Watertown (SD) United States

Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into a South Dakota adventure that’s less “smooth operator” and more “slightly panicked tourist fueled by lukewarm coffee.” This itinerary isn't just a schedule; it's a reflection of the raw, unfiltered experience of yours truly at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Watertown by IHG. Get ready for the glorious mess.

The Pre-Trip Panic Attack (Happened Before We Arrived, But Sets the Tone)

Okay, so packing. Ugh. I swear, EVERY SINGLE TIME, I think, "This time, I'll be strategic. Minimalist!" Lies. All lies. I ended up with a suitcase that could house a family of squirrels, a duffel bag overflowing with "just in case" outfits, and the distinct feeling I was forgetting something crucial. Spoiler alert: I was. (More on that later. It involves a toothbrush and a lot of existential dread).

Day 1: Arrival and the Glorious Embrace of Watertown, SD (and Its Hotel)

1:00 PM - Arrival at Watertown. (Roughly.) Let's be honest, getting here was a saga. Delayed flight? Check. Rental car with a suspicious rattling noise? Check. My GPS announcing, "Recalculating," every five seconds? Double-check. But we made it! And honestly, the Holiday Inn Express looked like an oasis after that chaotic journey. The receptionist, bless her heart, had the kindest smile and the patience of a saint as I fumbled for my credit card. (Note to self: Organize wallet before travel.)
- The Observation: The lobby smelled vaguely of chlorine and new carpet, a scent oddly comforting, like childhood summers at the YMCA pool. Familiar. And the hallway? Perfectly, predictably… beige. It's the perfect, comfortable, and utterly unremarkable foundation for any trip.
1:30 PM - Check-in and room inspection. Room 217. (Memorized that number. For reasons.) Okay, first impressions: Clean! That's a win. Bed? Comfy. Not the cloud-like "luxury" everyone raves about, but definitely a solid, reliable sleeping surface. A few minor discrepancies: A slight stain on the carpet (probably from a rogue coffee spill), and the air conditioner sounded like a grumpy robot. But hey, it's a hotel. You're gonna find some imperfections.
- Emotional Reaction: Pure, unadulterated relief. I needed a shower, a nap, and a stiff drink (which I quickly realized I hadn't packed).
2:00 PM - The Unpacking Debacle & The Toothbrush Apocalypse. Remember my packing saga? Well, it turns out when I felt like I was forgetting something crucial, I WAS. My toothbrush. And the worst part? I only realized this at 2:00 PM, right when I was starting to feel refreshed and ready to go. So now it's either a trip to the local Wal-Mart for a new one or brush my teeth with my finger.
- Quirky Observation: The hotel bathroom had tiny little soaps, and I had a flashback to my grandma's house.
3:00 PM - Exploring Watertown (or Trying To). Okay, so after the toothbrush fiasco, I decide to venture out, on foot, into the wild and beautiful town of Watertown. I am a brave soul, and it wasn't even raining. I stumble around for a good 45 minutes, but honestly, finding my way around a new city is not my strong suit. I get lost at the first turn. But I do notice a really nice bakery.
- Messy Structure: I ended up missing a bunch of things I had tried to plan, but hey, that's life.
6:00 PM - Dinner at (Not actually "the" restaurant, but) a Place Near The Hotel. The reviews were mixed, but desperate times call for desperate measures. The food was…okay. Adequate. The service was friendly, but the waitress seemed absolutely terrified that she would mess up my order. (Hey, I get it. Tourist = potential for disaster.)
- Opinionated Language: The mashed potatoes were definitely not homemade. They tasted suspiciously like the stuff that comes out of a box. And honestly? I'm not terribly picky. It's not fine dining, nobody's fooled, but it worked.

Day 2: Lake Kampeska and The Quest for Authentic South Dakota

7:00 AM - Breakfast at the Holiday Inn Express. The highlight of the day! The breakfast was…well, the usual. The waffle maker was the star, and I made approximately five waffles (because, freedom!).
- Emotional Reaction: Pure, selfish glee. I love a good waffle. And the coffee wasn't half bad, actually.
9:00 AM - Heading to Lake Kampeska. Time to see some nature. I have to be honest—I have a real love/hate relationship with the outdoors. I love the idea of it, the fresh air, the scenic views… but I also kind of hate the bugs, the sunburn, and the walking. Still, Lake Kampeska was beautiful. Blue water, fresh breeze, and not too many people. Win!
12:00 PM - Lunch. (Kind Of.) Since there was not much to do, I stopped for a slightly underwhelming lunch at a cafe.
- Natural Pacing: The pacing here was all over the place. Some moments were slow and peaceful, others were rushed and frantic. It felt like the chaotic rhythm of travel life.
2:00 PM - Back to the Hotel. I needed a break, and a nap. I actually slept for a solid two and a half hours. The real accomplishment of the trip.
6:00 PM - A Restaurant Near the Hotel. Because I was tired.

Day 3: Departure and the Existential Aftermath

7:00 AM - Goodbye, Waffles. One last round of waffles. I'm going to miss that waffle maker.
8:00 AM - Check Out and The Drive Home The end! The drive home went smoothly, and I made it back without a hitch.

The Verdict: Imperfect, But Memorable

This trip wasn't perfect. I got lost, I forgot things, and I ate some questionable food. But that, my friends, is precisely what made it memorable. Travel is a messy adventure, a chaotic dance of highs and lows, and this Holiday Inn Express in Watertown was the unlikely stage for my personal South Dakota drama. Would I go back? Absolutely. Maybe I'll even remember my toothbrush next time. Maybe.

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Holiday Inn Express & Suites Watertown By IHG Watertown (SD) United StatesOkay, buckle up, because this ain't your average hotel FAQ. We're diving DEEP into Watertown's "Hidden Gem" (cough, cough, the IHG, if you haven't figured it out) and I'm gonna tell you *everything*. Prepare for a whirlwind of opinions, experiences, and maybe a little bit of "should've-stayed-at-home" mixed in. Here we go: ```html

Is this really Watertown's BEST hotel? Seriously?

Okay, let's address the elephant in the room: "Best" is subjective, right? And Watertown is…well, Watertown. But the IHG? Yeah, *probably* the best. I mean, unless you're into roughing it in a questionable motel off the interstate, or you're secretly a hermit who lives in a yurt. It's clean (most of the time!), the beds are comfy (mostly!), and the staff...are generally...trying. Don't go expecting the Ritz, but you could do a heck of a lot worse. Believe me, I've seen worse. Like, *a lot* worse.

Let's talk about the "Hidden Gem" part. Is it really hidden? I always get lost in Watertown.

Hah! "Hidden" is a generous term. Let's just say it's not exactly plastered on a billboard on the highway. It's…well, it's *there*. You'll find it. It's actually *pretty* easy to get to, once you've navigated the seven traffic circles of Watertown. (Pro-tip: just go *around*, don't try to understand them. You'll never win.) Once you're there, it's a beacon of… well, not exactly luxury, but definitely a step up from the slightly scary-looking places nearby.

The Breakfast… what's the deal with the breakfast? I'm a breakfast snob.

Okay, breakfast. This is where we get *real*. The breakfast is… well, it's included. And it's… edible. But you are NOT getting your gourmet avocado toast. You're getting the standard continental fare: suspect scrambled eggs (they're usually… yellowish?), the ubiquitous, sad, pre-packaged pastries, possibly some questionable sausage, and the holy grail of budget breakfasts: the waffle maker. Look, the waffle maker *can* be your friend. It’s a crucial ally. Mastering that waffle maker is the key to a happy morning. Too much batter and you end up with a swamp-thing. Too little, and you get a sad, flat pancake. But when you get it *just right*... it's a small victory. A fleeting moment of joy. So yeah, breakfast is…adequate. Just temper your expectations.

Tell me about the rooms. Clean? Decent? Any horrors?

Alright, rooms. This is where things can get… interesting. Generally, they're clean. *Mostly*. I stayed there once, and… (deep breath) …let's just say I saw a curious stain on the carpet that I *really* didn't want to know the backstory to. But hey, it was probably just coffee. Right? The beds are usually comfy, the pillows are standard hotel-issue (so, okay, but not *great*). My biggest complaint is often the lighting. It’s like they're trying to create a perpetual state of dusk. Brighten things up, people! It's Watertown, not a vampire's lair! And the elevators feel a bit…slow. Like, *really* slow. Bring a book. Or a good podcast. Or just accept your fate.

The pool. Is the pool a thing?

Oh, the pool. Listen, it’s *there*. I've seen it. It's… indoor. The water is usually… relatively clean. It *sometimes* smells of chlorine. The lighting is, unsurprisingly, a bit dim. You’ll probably find a gaggle of small children doing cannonballs. The hot tub? Potentially hotter than it has a right to be. I've heard whispers of "pool parties" (read: unsupervised splashing) going on until unreasonable hours. So, it's a gamble. If you're looking for a relaxing swim, go early. Or… maybe skip it entirely. Unless, of course, you're traveling with small children. (In which case, Godspeed, and bring earplugs.)

What's the Wi-Fi situation? Because I need to work (or mostly stream cat videos).

The Wi-Fi? It's… Wi-Fi. Sometimes it works gloriously, giving you the fastest speeds this side of… well, this side of Watertown. Other times… it's a bit like wrestling a particularly stubborn kitten. You'll get there eventually, but you'll expend a lot of energy. I'd recommend downloading your cat videos *before* arriving. Or, you know, just embrace the enforced digital detox. Read a book! Talk to your spouse! Actually *look* at Watertown! (…Okay, maybe the cat videos are safer.)

Is there a gym? Because, you know, gotta work off those waffles…

Yes, there is a "gym." I put that in quotes because… well, let's just say it's compact. Think: two treadmills, a bike, and a weight machine that looks like it's been through a war. It's functional! Probably. If you *really* need to work out. I personally prefer wandering the halls and doing squats in the elevator. It's more… entertaining. (And a better workout than that weight machine, probably.) Don't expect state-of-the-art. Do expect to wait your turn… especially if there's a group of traveling salesmen in town. They're always there, hogging the treadmills. I don't get it. Are they all trying to lose weight before the big sales pitch? Who knows.

The staff...are they... helpful? Sarcastic? Somewhere in between?

The staff are fine! Honestly, they are trying! They are…*generally* helpful. I’ve had some lovely check-ins, some less-than-lovely check-ins. It really just depends. They're probably overworked, underpaid, and dealing with a constant stream of… well, *us*. Just be nice! A smile goes a long way. And remember, they're probably not responsible for the questionable carpet stain. (Although, you *can* ask about it. I have. Multiple times. The answer is always vague.)