I have stayed over 500 nights in hotels, and this was absolutely the worst experience ever with a hilton garden inn property. I had a reservation at a reasonable rate (this hotel is usually incredibly overpriced) and I arrived 11 pm to a front desk "karen" who told me "I was downgraded to a smaller standard room at DOUBLE THE RATE. almost $350 for a three star hotel in central jersey??? I asked why wasnt I called about this in advance? then they said I was lying about being a govt. contractor (the rate lsited was "govt on business" which is a term I never saw before, as opposed to "govt employee") and I - guess what - am a govt contractor and have been for 25 years!

not only that, I stayed at this same hotel 30 nights the year before, earning them plenty of money. absolutely incredulous situation.

so I ended up staying an hour away and the hilton desk didnt help either.

avoid this formerly good hotel at all costs!

This Hilton Garden Inn has done complete renovation upgrades starting in 2023. We stay here numerous times throughout the year to aide a family member in Lakewood. The rooms are spacious with plenty of updated amenities to add to your comfort. The staff here is outstanding - to mention a few Cindy & Holly at the front desk are terrific! Restaurant is excellent for breakfast or a light dinner. Chef Cliff makes everything tasty, and Victoria, as your food server, is always making sure you have all you need and with a totally pleasant attitude 😊 The location is an easy on/off the Garden State Parkway either direction! Definitely recommend if you need an overnight or looking for an extended stay. Enjoyable location!!!

The hotel is adequate. However, the employees are amazing! One gave us a fabulous recommendation for the Rainbow Diner. There weren't enough people in the evening, yet the person tending bar (among other tasks) always managed to get us the drinks we needed. (We were visiting difficult family.) I really appreciate great staff.