Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott New Bedford

The hotel offers a memorable stay, distinguished by its direct waterfront access and captivating harbor views, which many guests cherish from their rooms. Its prime location is consistently highlighted, placing visitors within easy walking distance of numerous attractions, dining options, and the ferry terminal. Guests frequently commend the hotel's overall cleanliness, the comfort of its accommodations, and the consistently friendly and helpful staff. The complimentary breakfast and convenient free parking further enhance the experience. This hotel is an excellent fit for sightseers eager to explore the historic downtown, families seeking accessible entertainment, couples desiring a scenic and romantic getaway, and business travelers valuing convenience and comfort. To maximize your stay, consider requesting a room with a harbor view and be aware that breakfast can be busy, so planning your timing might be beneficial.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests appreciate the range of facilities and amenities available, contributing to a comfortable stay. The indoor pool is a popular feature, often described as clean and warm, though some guests found it to be on the smaller side or a bit chilly. A well-equipped fitness center is also available, featuring free weights, treadmills, ellipticals, and bikes, allowing guests to maintain their routines. In-room conveniences are frequently praised, including the presence of a coffee maker, microwave, and refrigerator, adding to the comfort of longer stays. While free Wi-Fi is provided, a notable point of contention among guests is the limited availability of drinking water; the lobby's small cooler often disappears in the evenings, and there are no water refill stations or complimentary bottled water in rooms, leading some to purchase expensive options or rely on tap water.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel generally receives high praise for its cleanliness, with many guests describing rooms as spotless and well-maintained. Most guests find the beds comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, though some have noted issues with pillows being too small or mattresses feeling too soft or hard. While many rooms are described as spacious and quiet, some guests found their accommodations to be on the smaller or more cramped side. The bathroom facilities are generally good, with decent sizing and effective showers, but a few guests reported issues such as small tubs, weak water pressure, or shower curtains that didn't fully extend. Minor maintenance concerns like marks on walls or weathered furniture were occasionally mentioned, and some guests noted a persistent smell in their rooms. One guest reported a severe, isolated incident involving bed bugs, which was concerning. Despite these isolated issues, the overall sentiment regarding room condition and comfort remains largely positive.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast is a significant highlight for many guests, often described as good, excellent, and offering a great variety of options to start the day. The breakfast variety typically includes hot items such as eggs, sausage, and bacon, alongside breads, bagels, fruits, and oatmeal. Guests particularly appreciate the availability of gluten-free options like muffins and bagels, and some noted the presence of vegan sausage. The coffee is frequently praised for being hot and strong. However, feedback on the breakfast is mixed; some guests found the hot items to be cold or unappetizing, and a few expressed disappointment with the overall quality, describing it as mediocre or lacking in tempting choices. There were also instances where items ran out, especially during busy periods, and some found the use of paper plates and plastic cutlery less appealing.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently lauded as a major advantage, offering unparalleled walkability to a multitude of attractions. Guests appreciate being within easy reach of the waterfront, the ferry terminal for trips to Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket, and the vibrant downtown historic district with its numerous restaurants, pubs, art galleries, and museums, including the Whaling Museum. The convenience of free parking on-site is a significant benefit, allowing guests to explore the area on foot without needing their car. Furthermore, the hotel provides quick highway access for those wishing to visit nearby beaches or other regional attractions. While most guests enjoy the scenic harbor views, a few noted obstructed views or expressed minor concerns about the immediate surrounding area, though the hotel itself is generally perceived as safe.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives outstanding commendations for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentive service. Guests frequently highlight the positive interactions with various team members, praising their welcoming demeanor and willingness to go above and beyond. The check-in process is often described as quick, efficient, and smooth, even during busy periods. Staff members are noted for their proactive assistance, such as providing excellent restaurant recommendations, helping with lost items, or accommodating early check-ins when possible. The housekeeping team is also recognized for their cordiality and efficiency in maintaining clean rooms. While the vast majority of feedback is overwhelmingly positive, a very small number of guests reported isolated instances of less helpful or unprofessional customer service, but these appear to be exceptions to the generally high standard of care.

Additional Information
Several practical details enhance the guest experience, though some areas could see improvement. The hotel features an event center attached, which is convenient for guests attending functions. While the hotel generally maintains a clean and comfortable environment, some guests noted that the property has an older style, not having undergone recent brand updates. A few guests reported issues with the refund process or encountered unexplained charges on their bills, which caused frustration. The availability of a washer and dryer is a convenience, but some guests found the single set insufficient for demand. It is important to note that despite some conflicting information, the hotel is generally not considered pet-friendly, which is a key consideration for travelers with animals.