I attended a family event in Springfield, MO over the weekend and a portion of us stayed at this hotel. Speaking for myself only, it was a wonderful hotel and was very convenient. Fantastic staff and personnel. It is probably the nicest Holiday Inn Express I have ever to over the years.

This place could use a refresh, and it's getting one as I write. With one other exception, which I'll describe, this hotel is first-rate, with an incredible staff, a sensible breakfast under the circumstances (long on Jimmy Dean sausage sandwich options, which is fine with us), really spacious rooms with comfy beds, and uniformly diligent cleaning and mask-wearing protocols. It's convenient to the interstate, but on the south side of town, a decent jaunt from downtown.

Springfield itself is highly worth a visit. It has three nodes of interest. The courthouse area, another square called Park Central, and a fascinating and reviving C Street (locals name for Commercial Street) neighborhood — once a lively railroad center on the north end.

Also of special note to history buffs: Old Route 66, which was given its name here, winds through town, and there are lots of quirky places to enjoy. One is the very old (but interesting) Birthplace of Route 66 Roadside Park at 1200 W. College St.

I recommend visits to that, Park Central Square, and C St.. Right off Park Central Square is the most unbelievable barber shop you've ever seen. It's the Dapper Barber, on the first floor of the old Sterling Hotel (now apartments). It will blow your mind — whether or not you need a haircut. It's furnished like a turn-of-the (19th to 20th-) Century tonsorial parlor and much more, including a cigar room, pool table, shoeshine place, and even a conference room containing tables made of radiators. The staff wears handmade (by them) leather aprons, and as you are beholding all of this, you can get a good drink! An unforgettable place. Bring your camera!

As for the slight dent in our hotel's otherwise stellar accommodations, the acoustics leave something to be desired. Not only did we hear every step of the person or people staying above us, but on our first night in (when we were the most tired), what sounded like a troupe of Welsh clog dancers kept us from sleeping).

Turns out, it was just excited kids. The front desk expertly and gently settled things down, and the next morning, something extraordinary happened. Under our door was a sweet apology from Mandy, the morning front desk person, plus the gift of some IHG (the Holiday Inn chain name) points. And that wasn't all. The hotel was not full the second night, and Mandy made sure the room above us was not rented. That was exceedingly thoughtful.

It makes me wonder whether all hotels that are only partially full could not do likewise — avoid booking guests, especially those with kids, into rooms above rooms that are occupied. Too difficult for the average desk agent, probably, but it would help ensure a better night's sleep for guests.

No big deal on any of this, and kudos to the staff and most aspects of our stay. Highly recommend both a stay here AND an exploration of Springfield.

Highly recommend this hotel. There was nothing bad to say here. Best sleep ever. Even COVID couldn’t keep their service down. Room very clean and comfortable. Shower and water temp were super enjoyable. We left early but desk clerk was there to take care of us with a hot breakfast and fresh brewed coffee. Lots of good choices for breakfast. Recommend highly