Best Western Plus Moncton

Clad in nondescript stone, this peaked-roof Best Western Plus calls to mind a overblown suburban house.Its location just off the highway doesn't add much charm, and the setting isn't the most pedestrian-friendly, but it provides easy car access for sights. Anchored by a handsome reception desk, the contemporary lobby is done up in soft gray, with stylish armchairs arranged in front of a fireplace wall adding a touch of warmth. A corner computer station flanking one side of the main entryway and a snack kiosk on the other provide an extra layer of convenience, which is appreciated by the vacationers and business types who tend to book in here. Unfortunately, not all rooms have modern furnishings, and the fitness center is little more than a tiny room with a couple machines. Still, for those that know and like the brand, this is a reliable spot.

This hotel’s location understandably appeals to leisure and business travelers alike. Situated right off the Trans-Canada, it’s just four minutes from either the airport or Moncton’s downtown core by car. CF Champlain Place Mall, one of the Maritime’s top shopping destinations, is even closer (in theory, it is within a 12-minute walk, but the congested area is difficult to negotiate on foot). Several fast-food joints surround the mall. Tourist attractions such as the Magic Mountain Water Park, Magnetic Hill Zoo, and Casino New Brunswick, can be reached by car in less than 15 minutes. Three-minute drive to Champlain Place Mall (or a 13-minute walk) 

• Four-minute drive to the Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport
• Four-minute drive to Moncton City Hall 
• Eight-minute drive to the Moncton Events Centre
• Nine-minute drive to the Moncton Train Station (Via Rail)
• 12-minute drive to Magic Mountain Water Park
• 13-minute drive to Casino New Brunswick
• 13-minute drive to Magnetic Hill Zoo
• 20-minute drive to Parlee Beach
• 45-minute drive to Hopewell Rocks
• 60-minute drive to Fundy National Park
• 65-minute drive to Kouchibouguac National Park

Rooms here vary in terms of decor, ranging from bland spaces with medium-tone wood furniture and dated orange carpeting to contemporary spaces with wood floors and dark-wood furniture. Decor is largely in neutral tones, with the occasional pop of color in generic artwork. On the bright side, rooms are kept clean and are quiet. Also standard are air-conditioning, coffeemakers, ironing equipment, digital safes, flat-screen TVs, work desks, and free Wi-Fi. Most have microwaves as well, and all except the bottom-tier rooms include mini-fridges; suites add separate living areas with sofa beds -- some with fireplaces. Most units have straightforward bathrooms with shower/tub combos, hairdryers, and ample counter space, plus toiletries. Some upgraded units have feature separate whirlpool tubs.  

All of the features expected of a Best Western Plus are found here. Firstly, all rates include simple breakfast buffets of scrambled eggs, sausage, pancakes, breads and bagels, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee. The spread is sufficient and served in a bright room off the lobby. There is no full restaurant or bar here. A notable perk is the well-sized heated indoor swimming pool with a few surrounding chairs. Although the hotel touts a 24-hour fitness center, the gym is a narrow, tight space, with just a few machines -- including a treadmill and stationary bike -- and free weights. Business travelers can take advantage of the on-site meeting space (audiovisual equipment and catering services are available). Lots of free parking and free property-wide Wi-Fi throughout.