MAINSTAY SUITES CINCINNATI UNIVERSITY - UPTOWN, Cincinnati

The hotel sits near major medical centres and is within 1 km of several local restaurants, including Martino's Restaurant, Fireside Pizza, and Mecklenburg Gardens. Newport Aquarium and Cincinnati Museum Center are also nearby. The immediate area can feel a little rough around the edges, but the property itself has CCTV and a secure key-card entry system. The free on-site parking and electric vehicle charging station make car travel straightforward.

The hotel offers 113 rooms, including suites with a stove, full fridge, and basic cookware. Units come with 1, 2, or 3 beds. Rooms on the side facing away from Reading Road are noticeably quieter, while those overlooking the street may pick up traffic and emergency vehicle noise. The rooms are described as spacious and spotlessly clean, with modern furnishings, comfortable beds, and crisp linens. Bathrooms feature walk-in showers (without a shower door, which can cause water on the floor). Towel hooks are limited, so there is no dedicated place for wet towels. Air conditioning, heating, and tea/coffee facilities are provided.

The breakfast buffet starts early and includes warm dishes, juice, fruit, and bread/pastries - a good value for the price. For those who prefer to cook their own meals, the kitchenettes in the rooms (with stove, full-size fridge, and basic pans) make self-catering easy. A dishwasher is also available in the room. Several restaurants, including Andy's Mediterranean Grille and Hang Over Easy, are within 1 km.

The indoor swimming pool is open year-round and has a shallow end. Sun loungers and beach chairs are provided around the pool area. The fitness centre is equipped for a solid workout. Both the pool and gym are free for guests.

The 24-hour front desk provides an invoice. Accessibility features include wheelchair access, grab rails, raised toilet, lower sink, and visual aids such as Braille and tactile signs. The hotel has CCTV throughout, a security alarm, key-card access, and smoke/fire alarms. Electric vehicle charging is available. Early check-in is available if space permits but will incur a fee. The staff are notably helpful and can provide local tips and information. The on-site laundry is reasonably priced.