I recently stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn Niagara-on-the-Lake from November 2 to November 4, 2025, to celebrate my birthday. They checked my drivers licence so it’s not as though they couldn’t see the date. In addition as a Hilton Honors member, I was disappointed that there was no recognition as an Honours member or my birthday at check-in. Typically they thank you for being a member. Upon mentioning my birthday, I was given some chocolate, which to me felt like asking for a gift.
We travelled with our dog, Ellie Mae and paid an additional $50 plus tax for her to stay with us. At check-in, we received a paper bag labeled for pets, which contained a sheet outlining dog rules and a few waste bags. Not sure why the waste of a paper bag!
Our room 128 was located on the first floor near an exit to the outdoors which was convenient for taking Ellie Mae outside. The bed was comfortable, the wifi worked well, and the room was fine.
Breakfast was included with our stay, and we dined in the restaurant on the morning of November 3. Judith, our server, was really friendly and attentive. However, she was the only server for several tables, and the restaurant became much busier during our meal. Eventually, someone who worked in the office came to assist.
We had breakfast again on the morning of November 4 and there were 2 servers in the restaurant. It didn’t seem as busy as the day before. Having 2 servers allowed for attentive and personalized service. Service is what keeps people returning to a restaurant or bar. Otherwise we could have gone to Tim Hortons for a cheaper breakfast.
I also noted that snacks were outrageously expensive in the small shop near check in $8.00 for a large bag of chips. Water was $1.50 for 500 ml
It wasn't exactly cheap to stay for 2 nights in the off season (just under $600) and I guess I expected more. We have stayed at other higher end NOTL places that are dog friendly within the same price point and have had better experience.
Our stay was positive in a lot of aspects, but the lack of recognition for Hilton loyalty and my birthday, combined with minimal pet amenities and under staffing, left me with mixed feelings about the Hilton Garden Inn NOTL.
