MainStay Suites Sterling near Dulles Town Center

This hotel primarily serves as a budget-friendly option, often chosen for its convenient location and extended stay capabilities, making it suitable for solo travelers and individuals on work assignments who prioritize affordability and proximity to their destinations. While some guests find it a practical choice for short stays, the overall experience is frequently described as a classic example of "you get what you pay for." The property is noted for its spacious rooms and the inclusion of kitchenette amenities, which are appreciated by those staying for longer periods. However, a recurring theme is the significant disparity between the hotel's potential and its current state, with many guests highlighting a pressing need for extensive repairs and upgrades. To ensure a satisfactory stay, it is advisable for guests to thoroughly inspect their assigned room upon arrival and be prepared for potential maintenance issues, as well as to confirm room availability directly with the hotel, especially if booking through third-party sites.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of amenities designed to support both short and extended stays, though their condition and functionality often vary. Many rooms feature a full refrigerator, a two-burner stovetop, a microwave, and a garbage disposal, providing guests with the convenience of in-room cooking. However, the kitchenettes are frequently reported to lack essential items such as utensils, pots, pans, coffee cups, and dish soap, requiring guests to purchase these themselves. While Wi-Fi is available, some guests experience spotty reception. The presence of a television is noted, but many reviews mention broken TVs, missing remotes, or locked input controls, limiting entertainment options. A gym is on-site, but it is often described as tiny, poorly equipped, and lacking basic maintenance. Additionally, the elevator is sometimes out of service, posing a challenge for guests on upper floors.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Cleanliness and room comfort are significant and frequently criticized aspects of the guest experience. Many guests report encountering dirty rooms, stained upholstery, filthy bathrooms, and pervasive unpleasant odors, including stale carpet, urine, and smoke. Issues such as mold in bathrooms, holes in curtains, and sticky remotes are commonly cited. A major concern for numerous guests is the presence of bed bugs, roaches (both dead and alive), and mice or rats, which severely impacts their sense of comfort and safety. While some guests find the beds comfortable and the sheets clean, others describe noisy and painful pullout beds with blood stains on bedding. Furthermore, rooms often lack basic amenities like shower curtains, toilet paper, and working coffee makers, and some experience no hot water for showers, contributing to a generally unsatisfactory stay.

Dining & Food Quality
Most guests note that the hotel does not offer breakfast, which is a point of contention for some, especially given the budget-friendly price point. While the absence of complimentary breakfast might be expected for this type of accommodation, its lack means guests need to plan for their morning meals independently, which can be an inconvenience. This necessitates seeking out external dining options or fully utilizing the in-room kitchen facilities, assuming they are adequately stocked with the necessary cookware and utensils. The reviews do not provide feedback on any other dining facilities or food quality within the hotel, focusing solely on the absence of a breakfast service. This can be a drawback for travelers who prefer the convenience of on-site meal options, particularly during longer stays or when time is limited.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is consistently highlighted as one of its strongest positive attributes, making it a highly convenient choice for many travelers. Guests appreciate its central position, which provides easy access to various shopping centers, restaurants, and transportation options. It is frequently chosen by individuals on work assignments due to its proximity to their workplaces and is also noted for being a short distance to the airport. The availability of easy parking is another significant advantage, contributing to a hassle-free experience for those traveling by car. While the exterior of the property is generally well-regarded, some guests mention that the entrance can be poorly lit and easy to miss, particularly when arriving at night.

Staff & Service
Feedback regarding the staff and service at the hotel is notably mixed. Many guests praise the friendly and helpful staff, particularly highlighting the attentiveness of certain individuals at the front desk and the housekeeping team. Some appreciate the accommodating nature of the staff in addressing issues and the quick check-in process when it runs smoothly. However, a significant number of reviews describe rude staff interactions, particularly at the front desk, with some guests reporting unresponsiveness to requests for room cleaning, toilet paper, or shampoo. Instances of slow check-in and check-out due to limited staffing are also mentioned, leading to frustrating waits. Overall, while positive interactions occur, the inconsistency in customer service is a recurring theme.

Additional Information
The hotel is frequently undergoing construction or renovation, which can impact the guest experience and the overall ambiance. Guests should be aware that the security door to the building is sometimes broken or ajar, raising concerns about property access and safety. There are also recurring mentions of people smoking directly outside the main entrances, which can lead to unpleasant odors permeating common areas and even adjacent rooms. The hotel is often chosen for extended stays, and while it offers a good rate for this purpose, guests should manage expectations regarding daily housekeeping service, as it is not always provided, requiring guests to request fresh towels or supplies. Some guests note that the hotel's appearance in online photos can be misleading, particularly concerning amenities like a pool which may not exist on the property.