Red Lion Hotel Kalispell

This hotel is a popular choice for its central location and convenient access to downtown Kalispell, making it an ideal base for sightseers, shoppers, and families exploring the area. Its signature feature is its direct connection to a mall and casino, offering immediate entertainment and dining options. Guests frequently highlight the hotel's complimentary breakfast as a standout amenity, along with the generally friendly and helpful staff. While the property is undergoing renovations, which can sometimes impact facility availability, many find it a good value. For pet owners, the hotel offers a pet-friendly policy, though it's advisable to clarify any associated fees or specific rules upon booking. To enhance your stay, consider confirming the operational status of the pool and hot tub if these amenities are a priority for your visit.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities that cater to various guest needs. Most guests appreciate the indoor swimming pool, hot tub, and sauna, which are popular, especially with families and those looking to relax after a day of activities. However, some guests note that the hot tub can be quite small and occasionally overcrowded or out of order due to maintenance or ongoing renovations. The fitness center is generally well-regarded, providing cardio equipment and free weights, though some wish for a wider array of weight machines. Conveniently, the hotel provides popcorn and coffee in the lobby, a thoughtful touch. An EV charging station is also available, which is a significant plus for electric vehicle owners. The direct connection to a mall and casino offers additional entertainment and shopping opportunities.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is mixed. Many guests find their rooms to be clean and well-maintained, with comfortable beds ensuring a restful night's sleep. However, some reviews mention issues such as stained blankets, hair on surfaces, dust in various areas, or a musty smell in certain rooms. The hotel is noted for being somewhat dated, with some rooms showing signs of wear, including ripped carpets, water-damaged ceilings, or a lack of expected furniture like armchairs. While some rooms have been recently remodeled, others are described as dingy. Noise levels can vary; some guests report quiet stays, while others experience disturbances from hallway noise, stomping from above, or loud heating/cooling units.

Dining & Food Quality
The dining experience, particularly the complimentary breakfast, receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from guests. Many describe it as one of the best hotel breakfasts they have encountered, praising its variety and quality. Options typically include waffles, eggs (scrambled or omelets), sausage patties, potatoes, biscuits and gravy, yogurt, oatmeal, bagels, and muffins. The breakfast area, located in a spacious and attractive atrium with live plants, is often highlighted for its pleasant and relaxing atmosphere. Coffee is generally available and well-received, both at breakfast and in the lobby throughout the day.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently praised as a major advantage. It is situated in downtown Kalispell, offering easy walking access to numerous shopping centers, pubs, and restaurants. The direct attachment to a mall and casino provides immediate convenience for guests. For those exploring the wider region, the hotel serves as a good base for visiting Glacier National Park, which is approximately a 20-minute drive away. Parking is ample and free, adding to the convenience for guests traveling by car. While an airport shuttle service is mentioned, some guests have reported difficulties with its availability or coordination.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel generally receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Many guests highlight individual staff members for their exceptional customer service and willingness to go above and beyond to assist with requests or resolve issues, such as quickly moving guests to a different room if problems arise. However, feedback on the check-in process is mixed; while some experience quick check-in, others report long wait times, particularly during busy periods, or issues with computer systems. A recurring concern among guests is the housekeeping service, with many noting a lack of daily room cleaning unless specifically requested, and some experiencing difficulties in obtaining fresh towels or supplies.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel is undergoing ongoing renovations, which may impact the availability of certain facilities like the pool or hot tub, and can sometimes lead to temporary closures of amenities such as ice machines or specific elevators. It is advisable to inquire about the status of these amenities if they are crucial to your stay. The hotel has a pet-friendly policy, but some guests have reported unexpected damage deposits or additional pet fees at check-in, sometimes without prior notification, and occasional issues with the refund process. The hotel offers complimentary popcorn and coffee in the lobby, which are appreciated touches for guests.