Garner Hotel Auburn - Seattle By Ihg

This hotel offers a notable blend of comfort and value, distinguished by its recent renovation and transformation into a modern, welcoming space. Its signature feature is the consistent delivery of a clean and well-maintained environment, coupled with exceptionally friendly staff who go above and beyond for guests. The hotel is an excellent fit for families attending local events, business travelers seeking a comfortable base, and budget-conscious travelers looking for quality accommodations outside the immediate city center. Guests frequently praise the comfortable beds, delicious breakfast, and convenient free parking. To enhance your stay, consider utilizing the 24/7 lobby coffee station and, if sensitive to noise, inquire about rooms away from the train tracks.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests appreciate the available facilities, though some have mixed feedback. The spa and hot tub are present for relaxation, but some found them overly chlorinated or not functioning optimally. A fitness center is provided, equipped primarily with cardio machines, though some guests noted a lack of weights. Wi-Fi connectivity is generally strong, supporting streaming, but occasional issues have been reported. The hotel offers convenient laundry facilities, though one machine was sometimes out of order and dryers could be slow. A significant highlight is the 24/7 coffee kiosk in the lobby, providing quality beverages at any time. The hotel does not feature a traditional swimming pool.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently commend the hotel's cleanliness, often noting that rooms do not have the typical strong cleaning product smell. Beds and pillows are widely praised for being very comfortable, contributing to a restful sleep, though a few found the mattresses too firm or preferred queen over double beds. A recurring concern for many is the significant train noise, which can be loud enough to shake beds and disturb sleep, particularly on certain sides of the building, despite efforts to mitigate it by closing windows. Hallway noise and the sound of the AC unit cycling on and off were also mentioned. Bathrooms are frequently described as small with limited counter space and small towels. A notable issue for several guests was the lack of consistent hot water in the showers. While some rooms are considered spacious, others are described as small or snug, and many lack an in-room coffee maker.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast receives widespread acclaim for its variety and quality, often described as delicious and fresh. Staff are noted for their diligence in keeping the breakfast area clean and well-stocked. Typical offerings include eggs, sausages, rice, salsa, cereals, oatmeal, fruits, juices, and various pastries such as muffins and bagels. The coffee available from machines in both the lobby and breakfast area is highly rated for its quality and 24/7 availability. While many are satisfied, some guests expressed a desire for additional options like waffles or biscuits and gravy, and a few found the healthy choices limited or breakfast hours too early. Cookies offered at check-in are a popular amenity.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is highly valued for its convenience, offering easy access to major freeways while being sufficiently removed from the immediate downtown bustle. It is strategically positioned for guests attending events at the White River Amphitheater and is close to the outlet mall, Emerald Downs, and the Muckleshoot casino. Many guests find it an ideal midpoint for travel between Seattle and Tacoma, and it provides a reasonable drive to SeaTac airport and Mount Rainier. While some describe the surrounding area as industrial or a bit dated, the hotel itself and its parking lot are generally perceived as safe. The availability of free parking is a significant benefit for guests.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently garners high praise for their exceptional friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Guests frequently highlight their accommodating nature and willingness to assist with various requests, contributing significantly to a welcoming atmosphere. The check-in process is generally described as quick and easy, though minor technical issues were occasionally reported. Housekeeping is noted for its efficiency, ensuring rooms are clean and well-maintained daily with fresh towels. The hotel is also recognized for its pet-friendly policy, making it a convenient choice for guests traveling with animals. Overall, the staff's commitment to providing excellent service is a recurring theme in guest reviews.

Additional Information
The hotel has recently undergone a significant renovation and is now part of the IHG group, which many guests appreciate for its updated and modern feel, contributing to its perceived value. This transformation has been well-received, with the property often exceeding expectations for its category. Guests traveling with pets benefit from the hotel's accommodating pet-friendly approach. For loyalty members, the hotel offers rewards program benefits, though some noted inconsistencies in the points received. A convenient 24/7 coffee station in the lobby provides continuous access to quality beverages, a thoughtful amenity for all guests.