Toronto Don Valley Hotel and Suites

The hotel is often chosen for its convenient location and good value, making it a practical option for budget-conscious travelers and those attending events or visiting nearby medical facilities. A signature feature is the presence of both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, which are frequently enjoyed by guests, especially families. While many appreciate the friendly and helpful staff, recurring themes highlight the hotel's age and the need for significant renovations. Guests should manage expectations regarding the property's dated appearance and be aware that some amenities may not always be fully operational. To enhance your stay, it is advisable to confirm the operational status of facilities like the pools and to be prepared for potential additional charges such as parking fees.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities, with the indoor and outdoor swimming pools being a significant draw for many guests, particularly families. While generally appreciated, some reviews mention the pools occasionally being closed for maintenance, filming, or having cold water/air temperatures in the pool area. A fitness center is available, though some equipment may be outdated or non-functional. Guests can typically access free Wi-Fi throughout their stay. Other conveniences include ice machines and vending machines, though these are sometimes reported as broken. Some rooms lack a microwave, requiring guests to use a communal one in the basement laundry room, which can be inconvenient.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is mixed, often reflecting the hotel's age. While some guests find their rooms acceptably clean, others report issues such as dust accumulation, stains on carpets and bedding, and peeling wallpaper. The beds frequently receive criticism for being uncomfortable, with lumpy pillows and sagging mattresses. Noise can be a significant concern, with guests reporting loud sounds from neighbors, hallways, and outside traffic, as well as noisy HVAC units. Some bathrooms are described as dated, with issues like low water pressure, inconsistent hot water, peeling tubs, or broken fixtures. However, some rooms feature appreciated amenities like a private balcony and heated bathroom floors.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options receive varied feedback. The bistro and bar areas are generally well-regarded for their atmosphere and service, with some guests enjoying the food quality, including smash burgers and pork sandwiches. However, the breakfast service often garners complaints, with many guests finding it overpriced, experiencing long wait times, or noting that the food is cold. The breakfast buffet, when available, is sometimes described as lacking variety or quality. Some guests report issues with room service, including orders not being received or incorrect items being delivered. The availability of dining options can also be inconsistent, with the bistro sometimes closed outside of posted hours.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is frequently praised for its convenience, offering easy access to the Don Valley Parkway (DVP) and public transit, making it suitable for reaching downtown Toronto, Sunnybrook Hospital, and various event venues. Guests appreciate being slightly removed from the central business district while still maintaining good connectivity. Parking is available on-site, but it incurs an additional daily fee, which is a common point of contention for guests. Some visitors have noted challenges in finding the main reception entrance, especially at night, due to unclear signage. Accessibility for guests with mobility challenges is a concern, with reports of steep ramps and unreliable elevators that can make navigation difficult.

Staff & Service
The staff generally receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Many guests highlight positive interactions with front desk staff, describing the check-in and check-out processes as quick and efficient. Staff members are often commended for their willingness to assist with requests, such as providing extra towels or addressing room issues, and for their overall professional demeanor. However, some reviews mention isolated instances of rude or dismissive staff, particularly when dealing with complaints or specific requests like early check-in, which may incur an additional fee. Maintenance staff are noted for their prompt response to issues, though some problems persist due to the hotel's aging infrastructure.

Additional Information
A significant and recurring concern mentioned by numerous guests is the presence of bed bugs, with multiple reports of bites and visible insects, leading to considerable distress and inconvenience. Guests should be aware that the hotel has faced ongoing challenges with this issue. The hotel's elevators are frequently cited as problematic, being slow, noisy, or occasionally out of service, which can be particularly challenging for guests with luggage or mobility issues. There are also reports of unpleasant odors throughout the property, including cigarette smoke, cannabis, and a general musty smell. Some guests have noted issues with noise from long-term residents or parties, impacting their stay. The hotel has an early check-in policy that may involve an extra charge, and a parking fee is applied daily.