DoubleTree by Hilton Utica (Hotel Utica) - Image 1
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DoubleTree by Hilton Utica

4.3
·932 reviews·Utica, United States

Historic 1912 landmark hotel in Utica, blending classic architecture with modern comforts and a renowned on-site restaurant.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed atmosphere.

CrowdLow
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DoubleTree by Hilton Utica (Hotel Utica) - Image 1

DoubleTree by Hilton Utica

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed atmosphere.

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic 1912 landmark hotel in Utica, blending classic architecture with modern comforts and a renowned on-site restaurant.

4.3
(932 reviews)

"A beautiful historic hotel with spacious rooms, though event planning requires meticulous attention to detail."

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TIP

Confirm Breakfast Details

:warning: Website may state free breakfast, but confirm if it's included or only available via the restaurant.

Verify Wedding Inclusions

:wedding: For events, get ALL details, especially chair and furniture arrangements, in writing to avoid surprises.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grand Historic Lobby

Grand Historic Lobby

Step back in time in the beautifully preserved 1912 lobby, a blend of historic charm and modern comfort.

Spacious and Clean Rooms

Spacious and Clean Rooms

Enjoy large, well-appointed rooms with excellent blackout curtains and spotless bathrooms.

Convenient Location

Convenient Location

Perfectly situated for exploring Utica, with easy access to the Amtrak station and Adirondack Railroad.

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Planning Your Visit

Historic Charm Meets Modern Comfort

Experience the grandeur of a 1912 landmark hotel. While rooms offer modern amenities, be prepared for potential quirks of an older building. Check reviews for recent room condition updates before booking.

Wedding Venue Woes & Wins

The DoubleTree Utica is a visually stunning wedding venue. However, potential couples should meticulously confirm all details in writing, as some past experiences highlight coordination issues and unexpected charges.

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed atmosphere.
Crowd
Low
When
Event Weekends
Why
Experience local events and lively atmosphere.
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Will be coming from NJ to spend a weekend in Utica for the IIHF Women's World Championship in April. Looking for advice on how safe the area is for a solo traveler, things to do, hotels to stay at near the arena, etc.

Confirm Breakfast Details

:warning: Website may state free breakfast, but confirm if it's included or only available via the restaurant.

Verify Wedding Inclusions

:wedding: For events, get ALL details, especially chair and furniture arrangements, in writing to avoid surprises.

reddit.com

Was charged for eating in the hotel restaurant, told it would be refunded, it wasn't, and now I'm in limbo and I'm stressed

Request Room Maintenance

:wrench: If you encounter issues like AC or leaks, report them immediately to staff for resolution.

Enjoy the Iconic Restaurant

:forkandknife: Iconic restaurant offers delicious and nourishing food with incredible service.

Tips

from all over the internet

Confirm Breakfast Details

:warning: Website may state free breakfast, but confirm if it's included or only available via the restaurant.

Verify Wedding Inclusions

:wedding: For events, get ALL details, especially chair and furniture arrangements, in writing to avoid surprises.

Request Room Maintenance

:wrench: If you encounter issues like AC or leaks, report them immediately to staff for resolution.

Enjoy the Iconic Restaurant

:forkandknife: Iconic restaurant offers delicious and nourishing food with incredible service.

Parking is Secure

:car: Ample parking is available in a safe, private lot, offering peace of mind.

What Travellers Say

4.3
(932 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The DoubleTree by Hilton Utica offers a blend of historic charm and modern comfort, with spacious rooms and a beautiful lobby frequently praised. However, some guests have encountered issues with room maintenance and inconsistencies in service, particularly concerning event coordination. While the Iconic restaurant receives positive remarks, potential visitors should verify all details, especially regarding amenities and event inclusions.

"Room was large and very clean with nice functional amenities, bathroom was spotless and had clearly been deep cleaned very recently. Blackout curtains were some of the best I've seen on hotels recently. Walkable to the Amtrak station and the Adirondack railroad. Plenty of parking in a safe private lot. Staff were very friendly and helpful.

Lobby is very beautiful and they've clearly put a lot of work into keeping the historic details while offering modern comfort.

Only complaint is that the website said free breakfast but there wasn't a free option available, just the hotel restaurant."

Abigail White

"Gorgeous wedding venue. Horrible coordination/management. I was so in love with the look of everything and the vision that I had in my head. Rachel gave us the initial tour of the venue said that the Chiavari chairs are included in the price. Much later into planning, we find out that we’re $7 per chair. I was LIVID. Rose, whom we dealt with most of the time and had most of our meetings with, was not the nicest person in the world. She was very unprofessional and it was hard to meet with her because she is based out of Rochester. The times we did meet, it was her word over ours. She kept insisting that our wedding should be how she says. She insisted that the hotel lobby furniture would not be moved out of the way during the ceremony/reception and that the tables would be around it. We said absolutely not. She said there’s no way to move them. I showed her a picture from their Facebook page of a wedding with 0 hotel lobby furniture. Safe to say- we had no lobby furniture at our wedding. We were told on the knot website as well as from our meetings, that the lobby can hold 200 people and the upstairs can hold 100. When it came to the day of, they said this was unattainable and it cannot happen. I had to beg for the floor plans so I can make seating arrangements. I cannot tell you how many times I asked for them from Rose and from Jenny, our coordinator at the time. I was making our seating chart the night before our wedding. For the rehearsal, the day before, we asked if there was anyway we can have appetizers made to order so we can just eat right after the rehearsal and leave. They said the restaurant isn’t open that early but they could bring in a chef and waiter/bartender for us and have everything ready. Nothing was ready. We had to wait. Ok, no problem. Rehearsal day, my coordinator calls out she’s in the hospital - no problem. I understand. Another coordinator who I have never met steps in, doesn’t know anything about our wedding, starts to try to control everything. Ok, no problem. Day of our wedding, she calls out. We had no coordinator on the day of our wedding and Rose lives two hours away so she wasn’t there either. Rose initially told us that we could have our music as loud as we want as long as the cutoff is 10:30 pm. That night, my poor mother in law kept getting calls from Rose stating that hotel staff/guests are complaining that our music is too loud and to turn it down. Some people received meals that were cold. Half of our tables didn’t receive their food until 8:30 pm. Dinner was served at 6:30. We paid $7000 for “staffing” yet the “staff” that was on was 3 staff members and 2 of which were Rachel’s nephews that she had to bring on last minute. We had to wait 10 minutes in front of everyone for a knife to cut our cake. We were told that we had to end the wedding, the music everything by 10:30 PM BUT we could move to iconic the restaurant right beside and we can be there until 1 am if we please. 10:00 PM, one of the staff members literally unplugs the DJ’s equipment with no warning. We were under the impression we had until 10:30. Apparently not. We move to iconic and we get kicked out at 11:30. My husband and I went to the check in desk to check in for our suite that we were promised was a part of the package. We stood there for 15 MINUTES going back and forth with the check in guy as he was stating that we do not get a room and we have to pay. I said you can call Rose. He said it will be $300 something. I said no, let me show you the email. He “somehow” found the binder and he said you’re all set. After the wedding, we overheard employees saying that we had more guests that we had counted for which is absolutely not true. We had guests that didn’t even end up showing up. This is just a very unprofessional venue, an unprofessional environment and I do not recommend it to anybody planning a wedding. Too much money spent just to stress yourself out. Not even an apology, not even a partial refund, no one to complain to about Rose since she’s the “boss”."

Pinky B

"Cleanand the staff is amazing. Jordyn and Matt are phenomenal. You can feel that they care about your stay and well being. Iconic has amazing food; nourishing and delicious. Service is incredible every night."

Chemah Rivera

What People Like

Historic lobby charm
Spacious, clean rooms
Excellent blackout curtains

What People Dislike

Inconsistent room maintenance
Event coordination issues
Unclear breakfast policy

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The DoubleTree by Hilton Utica is conveniently located and walkable to the Amtrak station, making it accessible via train. Driving is also an option with ample parking available in a safe, private lot. Reddit

Yes, there is plenty of parking available in a safe, private lot at the DoubleTree by Hilton Utica. Reddit

The DoubleTree Hotel Utica is walkable to the Amtrak station, providing good access to public transportation. Reddit

For those traveling from out of town, arriving by train to the nearby Amtrak station is a convenient option. Driving is also feasible with on-site parking. Reddit

Yes, the DoubleTree in Utica is walkable to the Adirondack Railroad, making it a great base for exploring the region by rail. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While the website may mention free breakfast, some guests have reported that only the hotel restaurant is available, not a complimentary option. It's best to confirm directly with the hotel. Reddit

Standard check-in and check-out times apply. It's recommended to confirm the exact hours with the hotel directly upon booking or arrival. Reddit

The hotel may offer various packages, especially for events or longer stays. Check their official website or contact them directly for current promotions. Reddit

Typically, a valid ID and a credit card are required for check-in at most hotels, including the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Utica. The minimum age is usually 18 or 21. Reddit

Yes, the DoubleTree by Hilton Utica is known as a wedding venue and can accommodate events. It's advisable to contact their events team well in advance. Reddit

🎫 🛏️ Onsite Experience

Rooms at the DoubleTree Utica are generally spacious and well-equipped, featuring functional amenities, excellent blackout curtains, and spotless bathrooms. Some guests have noted issues like non-working AC or leaks, so it's wise to report any problems promptly. Reddit

Information regarding pet policies can vary. It's recommended to contact the DoubleTree by Hilton Utica directly to inquire about their specific pet-friendly accommodations and any associated fees. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned in all reviews, many Hilton properties include fitness centers. It's best to check with the DoubleTree Hotel Utica directly for their available facilities. Reddit

The DoubleTree in Utica offers a blend of historic charm, particularly in its lobby, and modern comfort in its rooms. Staff are generally described as friendly and helpful. Reddit

Room cleanliness can be inconsistent. While some reviews praise spotless bathrooms and recent deep cleaning, others mention issues like black mold or lack of basic amenities like hand soap. Reporting concerns to staff is advised. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The DoubleTree Utica features the Iconic restaurant, which receives praise for its nourishing and delicious food and incredible service. Reddit

Yes, the DoubleTree by Hilton Utica has a restaurant called Iconic, known for its quality food and service. Reddit

Some guests have reported a lack of room service during their stays at the DoubleTree Hotel Utica, even for extended periods. It's advisable to confirm availability. Reddit

The DoubleTree in Utica is centrally located, suggesting that other dining options may be available within walking distance or a short drive. Reddit

The Iconic restaurant at DoubleTree by Hilton Utica is described as serving nourishing and delicious food, with an emphasis on quality and service. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The grand historic lobby of the DoubleTree by Hilton Utica is a prime spot for photography, offering a beautiful backdrop. The exterior also captures the hotel's landmark status. Reddit

The event spaces, particularly for weddings, are visually appealing. However, if planning a professional shoot, it's best to inquire with the hotel about any photography policies or fees. Reddit

Given its proximity to the Amtrak station and Adirondack Railroad, there are opportunities for train-themed photos. The historic architecture of the hotel itself is also a draw. Reddit

The hotel's historic architecture lends itself well to architectural photography, portraiture in the lobby, and event photography. Reddit

The DoubleTree by Hilton Utica is a popular wedding venue, and its visually appealing spaces, especially the lobby, make it a good choice for wedding photography. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting the DoubleTree by Hilton Utica can expect spacious rooms that offer ample space for children to move around. The hotel's convenient location makes it easy to access local attractions. While the hotel itself doesn't have specific kid-focused amenities highlighted, the comfortable rooms and generally friendly staff can contribute to a pleasant family stay.

It's worth noting that while the hotel is historic, it's generally well-maintained. However, if traveling with very young children, it might be prudent to inquire about any potential hazards in older buildings or request a room on a lower floor for easier access. Confirming breakfast options in advance is also recommended to ensure they meet the needs of picky eaters. Reddit

💍 Couples & Wedding Parties

The DoubleTree by Hilton Utica offers a visually stunning backdrop for weddings and romantic getaways, with its grand historic lobby being a particular highlight. The hotel's architecture provides a unique and elegant setting for special occasions. Couples can enjoy the comfortable rooms and the dining experience at the on-site Iconic restaurant.

For wedding parties, while the venue is beautiful, it's crucial to meticulously document all agreements in writing regarding venue capacity, inclusions, and services to avoid misunderstandings. Proactive communication with the event planning team is key to ensuring a seamless celebration. For a romantic stay, consider booking a suite and enjoying the hotel's classic ambiance. Reddit

🚶 Solo Travelers

Solo travelers heading to Utica will find the DoubleTree by Hilton Utica to be a safe and convenient option, especially given its walkability to the Amtrak station and Adirondack Railroad. The hotel's private parking lot offers security for those arriving by car. The staff are generally friendly and helpful, which can add to a sense of comfort when traveling alone.

While the hotel itself provides a comfortable base, solo travelers looking to explore Utica might want to research local attractions and dining options beforehand. The presence of the Iconic restaurant on-site offers a convenient and well-regarded dining choice without needing to venture far. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Significance of DoubleTree by Hilton Utica

The DoubleTree by Hilton Utica stands as a testament to early 20th-century architecture, having opened its doors in 1912. It was originally built as the Hotel Utica, a grand establishment designed to welcome travelers with elegance and comfort. The hotel has witnessed significant historical periods and has been a central part of Utica's social and economic landscape for over a century. Its preservation efforts have maintained much of its original character, making it a landmark that offers a glimpse into the past.

Today, as the DoubleTree by Hilton, it aims to blend this rich history with the modern amenities expected by today's travelers. The lobby is frequently highlighted for its preserved historic details, offering a striking first impression. While the exterior and common areas often evoke a sense of nostalgia, the guest rooms have been updated to meet contemporary standards, though the inherent nature of an older building can sometimes lead to unique room layouts or features.

Travelers often appreciate the hotel's commitment to retaining its historic charm, which sets it apart from more contemporary chain hotels. This unique blend of old and new is a significant draw for those seeking an experience beyond the standard hotel stay. However, as with many historic properties, occasional maintenance or aesthetic quirks may arise, which guests should be prepared for and communicate to the hotel staff if necessary. Reddit

Navigating Event Planning at DoubleTree Utica

The DoubleTree by Hilton Utica is a popular choice for events, particularly weddings, due to its visually appealing historic setting. However, past reviews suggest that meticulous planning and clear communication are crucial for a smooth experience. Several guests have reported discrepancies between initial discussions and final arrangements, including unexpected charges for items initially thought to be included, such as Chiavari chairs.

Coordination and management have been cited as areas for improvement. Some clients have experienced difficulties in meeting with event managers, who may be based remotely, and have felt that their preferences were not always prioritized. It's highly recommended to get all agreements, especially regarding inclusions, capacities, and logistical arrangements, in writing to avoid misunderstandings. This includes details about furniture placement, guest counts, and service timelines.

Furthermore, on the day of the event, ensuring adequate staffing and on-site coordination is vital. Some reviews mention last-minute changes in event coordinators or a lack of readily available staff to manage the flow of the event, leading to delays in service and overall stress. Proactive communication and confirmation of staffing levels with the venue prior to the event can help mitigate these potential issues. Reddit

Guest Room Experiences: Comfort and Concerns

Guest rooms at the DoubleTree by Hilton Utica are generally described as large and functional, offering a comfortable stay for many. A standout feature frequently mentioned is the quality of the blackout curtains, which are noted as being among the best seen in hotels, ensuring a dark and restful environment. Bathrooms are often praised for being spotless and appearing to have undergone recent deep cleaning.

However, guest experiences can vary, and some reviews highlight areas needing attention. Issues such as non-functioning air conditioning, minor leaks requiring buckets, and the presence of black mold on ceilings have been reported. In some instances, basic amenities like hand soap were missing, with guests advised to use body wash instead. The comfort of the beds has also been a point of contention, with some finding mattresses to be less than ideal, particularly for longer stays.

It is advisable for guests to inspect their room upon arrival and promptly report any maintenance issues or missing amenities to the front desk. The staff, particularly individuals like Matt and Jordyn, are often commended for their friendliness and helpfulness, and they are typically responsive to guest concerns. Addressing any problems early can help ensure a more pleasant stay. Reddit

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