The Hilton Garden Inn is one of Carmel, Indiana's more affordable hotel options. It's relatively…read moreclose to Carmel's Arts & Design District and has a handful of restaurants within walking/wheeling distance.
I visited the hotel while participating in an event. It's a four-level hotel. It offers connecting rooms, free parking, free WiFi, digital key, an on-site restaurant (I know the breakfast buffet is now $14), an indoor saltwater pool, fitness center, business center, and is in the middle of a residential area with a mix of apartment communities and businesses surrounding it. There's also a patio with a fire pit.
I checked in around 4pm - after the allowed 3pm. When I'm on this event, I sometimes get in early, however, I was pretty busy in Carmel.
I reserved and received an accessible room, at least by their own definitions. It's accessibility is definitely a bit weak by ADA standards. I am a wheelchair user who was in room 328 and there was definitely barely enough room between the bed and the large dresser. I literally rubbed. If you're in a larger wheelchair or motorized chair, you definitely don't want this room.
That said, bed height was good. This was a room with a bathtub that has grab bars - not ideal but workable (and does meet ADA). I had identified being a wheelchair user in my reservation - so I'm a bit disappointed to be placed in as room where it was difficult (but not impossible) to navigate. If it had been impossible, I'd have requested a change.
The free WiFi works well. You can upgrade to a premium experience for $4.95 a day.
There were handles on the curtain that make it easy for a wheelchair user to open and close them- nice touch. The doorway is relatively light.
Elevators are roomy enough for a wheelchair and multiple guests.
The lobby is nice and dining area comfortable. I had dinner at a surrounding restaurant, however, I did stay in the hotel for breakfast and was pleased.
The main employee I dealt with was friendly and helpful. I had asked for a copy of the city newspaper, however, they didn't have one (they do offer a free USA Today).
Overall, this was a positive experience. While the accessibility for a wheelchair user in my room was somewhat disappointing, it was for the most part workable and other accessibility issues were as expected. I would likely return here, however, I might explore a different room to see if I could get a little more comfortable with navigation.
The hotel seems to be a bit older and could use a bit of a touch-up, however, it was clean, comfortable, and this was a good stay.