I've started my trek to visit family for Christmas traveling from Tucson to Tacoma. I take my time because Rosie does not like to be in the car for too long. My first stop is Yuma, AZ, and we are staying at the Shilo Inn.
The Vibe
The hotel, while somewhat dated, has a great vibe.
They've decorated for Christmas with a tree and lights and garland and stockings hung around the lobby. In my room there are water stains on the ceiling, peeling wallpaper, and marks left from previous door hardware, but for me it doesn't deter from the vibe as a whole. While parts of the hotel are dated you can tell there has been some refurbishing. The lobby has a nice, large sitting area. The landscaping is grassy with trees, flowering plants, and fountains. All in all, the vibe is cool so I can overlook some of the deficiencies.
Cleanliness
The room felt clean. There were no stains on the carpets. The sheets and towels were pristine. My room was impeccable. I found the entire hotel very polished. Rosie approved.
Amenities
This Shilo was chock full of amenities. I already mentioned the big lobby. They had a number of event spaces for parties, meetings, and whatnot. The pool looked very nice and clean although I didn't use it. From the photo you can see they offered a sauna and steam rooms. There was a gym right off the lobby and a laundry room for guests to use. Vending and ice machines were convenient on every floor, full and working. Shilo is a dog friendly hotel and there were plenty of dog stations around the perimeter of the hotel.
They tout a restaurant and lounge, but they aren't actually connected entities. It is, however, right next door which is super convenient. I've never been to an Angry Crab Shack, but I would definitely go back. Their menu mostly consists of Seafood and boils with some burgers and sandwiches. I ordered a Caesar with grilled shrimp. I though they were a little skimpy on the shrimp to lettuce ratio, so I ordered a side of shrimp. Their custome drink menu looked fun and delicious. I did have an oyster shooter and wine. I was disappointed there was no sparkling wine because that's my jam. The food was really tasty and the vibe was fun.
Back to the hotel amenities. My room had a microwave and refrigerator/freezer. Both looked newer and were in great condition. If you are one of those people who still iron clothes, they had you covered. There was a coffe pot and hair dryer by the sink. The room was also equipped with a desk to work out, a table and chairs, and television. There was also a FULL LENGTH MIRROR, which seem hard to come by in hotels these days, but in my opinion should be standard.
The Staff
I didn't have a lot of interaction with the staff, but what I did was impressive and pleasant. When I was in line at the front desk, the gal at the desk was checking someone else in. Meanwhile, a man to her left was requesting lightbulbs, and a man to her right was locked out of his room and needed a new key (he was a dick). She handled all three tasks simultaneously. I have no idea how. My check in was seamless and quick. This morning I was taking Rosie out and the guy at the desk greeted me with a good morning and asked about Rosie. Very sweet.
Location
I'm only here for an overnight, so not planning anything, but the hotel is in a busy area with plenty of restaurants and stores. Gas stations are conveniently located if you need to fill 'er up before leaving town. I have stayed close to Yuma before and know there is plenty to do there.
If you have time for a day trip, I highly recommend Mittry Lake Wildlife Area. Beware, you'll be driving a ways down a dirt road, but it is so worth it. The dogs loved it there. Bring your paddleboard or kayak. Great spot for birders. Plenty of places to park your camper van for the day, or find your own private oasis. Hit the Visit Yuma site to check out more things to do.
The Flaws
Aside from what I've already mentioned, there was some dirty grout in the bathroom. Wasn't completely disgusting. One thing I thought was weird was they gave me just one washcloth, one hand towel, and two bath towels. I know I'm only one person and a dog, but what if I spilled something? Which I did spill my coffee. What if I'm a night and morning shower person and a body and hair towel person. Seems a little stingy to not have the normal amount of towels even if only one person is staying in the room. If you want to stay competitive, you might want to offer continental breakfast. Not a deal breaker, but they have plenty of space to provide it. Also, no pen and paper pad. What's up with that?
The Verdict
Averaging out the ratings for Vibe, Cleanliness, Amenities, Staff, and Location, the Yuma Shilo Inn gets nine out of ten hotel keys. See below for more pics of the hotel and restaurant and I'd love it if you'd follow me on Facebook and Instagram.
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