Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites Salt Lake City – Downtown

Although this large hotel looks a bit gray and stark from the outside, the inside is warm and contemporary -- if a bit bland. The lobby has an uncluttered look, with beige tile floors and walls combined with brown leather and dark green fabrics for a somewhat earthy look. The vaulted ceiling, revealing the landing to second-floor rooms, as well as generic, abstract paintings and modern, wall-mounted light fixtures make the space feel warm. The adjacent, busy but spacious breakfast area is full of a variety of guests -- families, as well as leisure and business travelers -- and has basic wood-laminate tables and green vinyl chairs. There are several, medium-size meeting rooms decorated with dated carpeting and curtains in dark colors and busy patterns. The indoor pool, which is nicely curved and lined with several windows, is popular but not overcrowded with kids, and is open until midnight. 

Situated on a wide street surrounded by other hotels, car rental agencies, and fast food restaurants, the hotel is within easy walking distance of downtown attractions. Restaurants and shops are in the vicinity, and EnergySolutions Arena -- where the Utah Jazz play -- along with Salt Palace Convention Center, and City Creek shopping center are within a mile, or 20 minutes' walk. Temple Square is about a 30-minute walk away. The University of Utah’s campus and the Salt Lake City Airport are each about 10 minutes away by car. Mountain trails and paths -- including Alexander Basin, Bell Canyon, and Mill Fork Trail -- can be reached in 15 to 30 minutes by car, and the nearest ski resorts are less than an hour away by car.

There is nothing personal about the rooms and suites at the Crystal Inn, though they are spacious and offer convenient features. Decor is mainly brick-red and beige, with some framed floral prints hanging on the walls. Rooms are rectangular and long, each with one large window, a table and chairs, and small couch. Despite lacking style, rooms are clean and comfortable, with wardrobes and nightstands, plush mattresses, free Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, coffeemakers, microwaves, and ironing facilities. Bathrooms are dated and beige, with shower/tub combos and toiletries; dual sinks/vanities are outside in the main room areas. Some suites have private hot tubs and separate bedrooms.

The Crystal Inn has a long list of perks, including free outdoor parking, a shuttle to-and-from the airport, coffee in the lobby, and high-speed Wi-Fi throughout. The free breakfast buffet is another bonus, with hot items like eggs and sausage replenished often. The hotel also has an indoor pool and hot tub, as well as a sauna and a small fitness room with a few cardio machines. Three meeting rooms and standard business services are available -- including a few computers for guest use. The 24-hour convenience store sells snacks, non-alcoholic drinks, and over-the-counter medicines. Pets are allowed for an extra fee. The only things missing are a bar and full restaurant for lunch and dinner.