Residence Inn by Marriott Pittsburgh Oakland/University Place

This hotel is highly regarded for its spacious rooms featuring well-appointed kitchenettes, making it a standout choice for guests seeking extended stays or the convenience of in-room cooking. Its prime location near major institutions positions it as an ideal fit for university visitors attending events at the University of Pittsburgh or Carnegie Mellon, as well as hospital visitors with appointments at UPMC Magee. Many guests appreciate the modern interior and the overall comfort provided. To ensure a smooth experience, it is advisable to clarify the housekeeping schedule upon arrival, as it is not daily, and to be prepared for the parking situation, which can be challenging.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's kitchenettes are a significant highlight, consistently praised for being well-equipped with a refrigerator, stove, microwave, dishwasher, toaster, and coffee maker, offering guests the flexibility to prepare their own meals. The gym is available for guest use, described as basic but functional, featuring dumbbells and cardio equipment. While there is a pool, some guests note it is small and occasionally not as clean as expected, with limited operating hours. Wi-Fi is available, allowing guests to stay connected throughout their stay.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is mixed. Most guests find the rooms to be modern, updated, and spacious, with many appreciating the comfortable beds and large bathrooms often featuring walk-in showers. However, a notable number of reviews indicate issues with cleanliness, citing instances of hair, stains, dust, and unmade beds upon arrival, particularly in bathrooms. Housekeeping is not daily and must be specifically requested, which has led to frustration for some guests. While many rooms are quiet, some guests have experienced noise from ongoing construction outside or found the air conditioning unit to be loud.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast is a key feature, with many guests praising its variety and quality. Options frequently include eggs, sausage, quiche, waffles, and an oatmeal bar, with some surprising additions like frittatas. Most guests find the breakfast to be good or even excellent, though some describe it as subpar, noting that food can sometimes be cold or greasy. The dining area is often described as small, which can lead to a crowded atmosphere, especially during peak times.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location, making it highly convenient for guests visiting the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University, and Carlow University. It is also ideally situated directly across from UPMC Magee Hospital and close to other medical centers. Guests appreciate its proximity to various restaurants and eateries within walking distance, as well as cultural attractions like the Carnegie Museum and Phipps Botanical Garden. While public transportation is accessible, parking is a frequently mentioned concern; it is often expensive, the garage is described as tight and difficult to navigate, and spaces are limited, sometimes leading to guests having to find alternative street parking.

Staff & Service
The staff receives varied feedback, with many guests highlighting their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism, particularly at the front desk and during breakfast service. Many report quick check-in processes and appreciate the staff's accommodating nature when issues arise. However, some guests have encountered staff members who were perceived as rude, unfriendly, indifferent, or unhelpful, leading to frustrating experiences, especially concerning check-in or room requests. Housekeeping responsiveness is also inconsistent, with some praising it while others report difficulties in getting their rooms serviced.

Additional Information
A significant point for guests to note is the hotel's housekeeping policy, which does not include daily room cleaning; guests must specifically request service for their rooms to be tidied or cleaned. There have been instances where guests were not adequately informed about planned power outages, leading to unexpected inconveniences such as lack of heating or refrigeration during their stay. The hotel's parking garage is known for being very tight and challenging to maneuver, especially for larger vehicles, and spaces are not always guaranteed despite payment.