Days Inn Market Center - Dallas, Texas Hotel Review

My daughter was getting married on Memorial Day at Scarborough Faire just south of Dallas. Having lived in the area years ago, I pretty much knew what area I wanted to stay in, so the search for a decently priced hotel began. I needed 2 rooms, one for us and one for my brother and his daughter, and as I was paying for both I did have a budget. I looked at many places on-line and most hotels in that area were already booked for the holiday weekend. Finally I stumbled upon Dallas Days Inn Market Center at the Dallas visitor's center site. When I tried to book (at $80/night) I was told there was a non-refundable booking fee that did not apply to the room price. As if! So I called the Days Inn 800 number and not only by-passed that booking fee, but got the room for cheaper as well.

First Impressions
The Lobby is very inviting, with a couple of couches and tables filled with flowers. Not too big or too small, and well maintained. A rack full of touristy brochures is placed off the far side of the check-in desk, so as not to detract from the homey feeling of the lobby.

Checking In
Check-in was quick and almost painless... although the night clerk tried to charge my CC after I told him I was paying cash. I also asked him to file a CC for phone calls and room service and such. I was then told I couldn't make a toll call to my daughter because I had paid in cash... Annoying to say the least. I also paid for my brother's room as he had not yet arrived. When he did arrive, I was wandering around downtown Dallas. Scott had no problem getting his key whatsoever.

The Rooms
The Rooms were spacious and clean, with a nice view of downtown Dallas (one of the more breathtaking skylines you'll ever see). The room temperature was just right when we arrived. Ours was a smoking room with 2 queen-sized beds, and there was no evidence of it being so (IE: new bedspread, no marks on the dresser..none of the usual 'smoker's marks'). The maid staff was very friendly and accommodating, leaving extra coffee and sugar when asked. Basic cable was supplied. Microwaves and refrigerators are available in some rooms. There were Coffee makers in every room. The Downside was there was only one end table next to each bed. Quite annoying when HE gets the side with the table, while I have to set my drink, snack, whatever on the floor... the room sported a basic low dresser, which served as the TV stand, and a table for eating which we quickly filled with computer equipment. The bathrooms were a bit small, but clean and adequate.

Restaurant
The Restaurant was newly added to this Days Inn at the time of our stay, and the entrance is just inside the lobby. Free full breakfasts were offered with our room, not just the standard continental fare. The Restaurant manager was handling everything himself... from waiting tables to cooking. I must say he handled it nicely! The food was average but affordable, and, again, since the manager was doing everything himself, I wouldn't judge the cooking during this stay as normal.

Downsides
During reservations I was told by the Days Inn 800 number that the Market Center location had a bar... upon arrival I found they did not. They had, however, applied for a liquor license. I was told by the hotel manager that we could 'bring our own' and use the restaurant bar to gather if we wanted. I am sure the bar is in place and fully operational now.

I was also told by 800 number that we could get a microwave and fridge no problem, but upon arrival I was informed only some rooms had them... but not ours.

The Telephone kept cutting out after a few minutes of conversation... the manager had no idea why and did not fix it.

All 3 elevators broke down during my 6 night stay. I was not offered any kind of compensation after having to walk up and down 9 flights. The Staff is friendly but not real customer service oriented.... they just kind of shrugged and smiled when guests complained. Perhaps I should have shrugged and smiled when it came time to pay....

Other Stuff
Two sets of washers and dryers are available for guest use. Washers were small but adequate, at $1.00 each per load. They also have a vending machine if you need to purchase soap.

The Days Inn Market Center has a nice outdoor pool, very clean, with chaise lounges and chairs surrounding it, but no lifeguard.

Location
The Location of Days Inn Market Center is great... On the edge of downtown Dallas, Approx. 2 minutes from the West End and Deep Ellum, and practically across the street from Medieval Times Dinner Theatre. It is located right off of I-35, so all area attractions are easy to get to. There is also a train nearby which you would think would get annoying, but didn't.

Extenuating Circumstances
I got the impression that the Dallas Days Inn Market Center had been recently purchased and was being renovated. The elevator repairman said all the elevators had been installed the prior week. I think this will become an extremely good spot at a good rate and I would give them another chance if in the Dallas area again.

4500 Harry Hines Blvd
Dallas, TX 75219
(214) 522-6650