For my first visit to a Salem-Keizer Volcanoes baseball game, I sought a hotel that split the distance between the ballpark and downtown Salem (read about my visit to the ballpark here). The DoubleTree Hotel Salem in northeast Salem was ideal. It is about 15 minutes from the stadium and 10 minutes to the Oregon State Capitol. Additionally, the hotel is 5 minutes from the Oregon State Fair Expo Center.
One king with sofa bed and sitting area
Traveling with my wife, we opted for a king room. There is plenty of space for a small carry-on suitcase and two computer bags/backpacks. The room is divided into a sitting area with a chest-high wall separating it from the bedroom space. The sitting area is spacious, which allows for someone to sit on the sofa while another person may be working at the desk. The only awkward aspect of the room is the television, which is stationed on a medium-sized dressed between the the bedroom and sitting area. The TV’s location makes it difficult to be viewed wholly from the bed or the sofa.
The bathroom space is unique. The toilet and bathtub-shower combination are separate from the vanity. The sink and vanity are across from the bathroom, but part of the room. The setup is different from most hotel bathrooms, but works well for two people preparing for the day at the same time.
Parking
The DoubleTree Hotel Salem does not offer valet parking. However, it provides complimentary parking to guests. In addition to accessible parking spots the hotel has an electric car charging station.
Amenities
Although I did not use either amenity, the hotel has a heated, indoor pool and a fitness room. The fitness room has Precor fitness equipment, including a treadmill, elliptical machine, and a weights machine.
Dining
As with every DoubleTree location, my wife and I received a fresh, hot chocolate chip cookie while checking into the DoubleTree Hotel Salem. The Press NW Bar & Bistro, which is on the first floor past the front desk, serves a light menu of sandwiches and wraps for lunch (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and dinner (4 to 10 p.m.). Additionally, there is a happy hour with discounted drinks and food from 4 to 6 p.m. every day. The hotel’s signature Wake-up DoubleTree Breakfast Buffet is available in the bistro’s adjoining breakfast room from 6:30-9:30 a.m. during the week and from 7-10 a.m. on the weekends. After browsing the food I skipped the buffet and ate breakfast at a cafe in town. The food on the buffet was OK, but rather basic for $9.95 per person.
Recapping the experience
The DoubleTree Hotel Salem is conveniently located off I-5. Its location makes it a short drive to most attractions around the Salem area. The room was spacious and comfortable. There was ample room to work and relax in separate spaces. The bathroom setup, although unconventional, was great for two people getting ready in the morning. Breakfast may leave a bit to be desired for some people, but it is a convenient option. Overall, the DoubleTree Hotel Salem is a very good hotel for visitors in northeast Salem.
Disclosure: I received a media rate for my one-night stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Salem, Oregon, courtesy of Visit Salem. As usual, all words and opinions are my own.
