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Summary of reviewsThe Chestnut Residence and Conference Centre at the University of Toronto is a noteworthy option for travelers who value location and affordability. Situated in the vibrant heart of Toronto, it offers guests easy access to many of the city's popular attractions, restaurants, and shopping venues, making it ideal for both leisure and business travelers. The hotel's proximity to public transport enhances its appeal, facilitating exploration of notable areas like Chinatown and Kensington Market. Its central location is hailed as a major advantage, providing excellent value for those seeking a cost-effective stay in downtown Toronto.
A standout feature is the breakfast buffet, which consistently receives praise for its variety and substantial offerings. Guests appreciate the hearty spread and the friendly dining staff, making for a pleasant start to the day. This, coupled with the accommodating service provided by the polite and attentive hotel staff, contributes positively to the guest experience.
Rooms at the residence are described as spacious and functional, catering to visitors who prioritize convenience over luxury. While the decor and furnishings are basic and somewhat dated, rooms are generally clean, with comfortable beds. Guests acknowledge the age of the property but are satisfied with the cleanliness and security offered. The Wi-Fi service, though varied in user experience, is appreciated for its generally good speed and reliability.
Additional amenities include various parking options, with some guests noting the convenience of on-site parking despite occasional challenges regarding cost and vehicle size. Families appreciate the economical meal options and the supportive environment, even though room configurations may not always suit larger groups.
Overall, the Chestnut Residence and Conference Centre represents a pragmatic and budget-friendly choice for those who prioritize location and essential comforts. It encapsulates a no-frills experience that effectively meets the needs of travelers exploring Toronto's vibrant downtown ambiance, providing a comfortable base for their urban adventures. Show more
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Categories
Hotel with EV Charging Stations
Hotel near Ski Resorts
Family Friendly Hotel
Hotel near Nightlife Spots
Business Hotel
Hotel with Parking
EV charging stations
Hotel with Gym
Small Hotel
3-Star Hotel
Room Types
Double Room with Two Double BedsThe spacious double room offers air conditioning, a wardrobe, as well as a private bathroom boasting a bath and a shower. Rooms on the upper floors are reachable by lift. The unit has 2 beds.
Double Room with One Double BedThe spacious double room provides air conditioning, a wardrobe, as well as a private bathroom featuring a bath and a shower. Rooms on the upper floors are reachable by lift. The unit offers 1 bed.
Guest Reviews
6.7
Rated
Location
Chestnut Residence and Conference Centre is ideally situated in the heart of Toronto, making it a prime choice for travelers looking to explore the city on foot. Located behind Toronto City Hall, this centrally positioned hotel offers ease of access to many of the city's most popular attractions and amenities. Guests have praised the convenience of the location, which allows them to reach everything from subway stations to shopping centers like the Eaton Centre within minutes. The close proximity to Dundas Street and St. Patrick Subway Station also makes it accessible for those relying on public transport.
The hotel's strategic location means that visitors can effortlessly explore renowned spots such as Chinatown, Kensington Market, and various museums. The vibrant surrounding area is filled with restaurants, bars, and shopping options, enhancing the experience for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture. The central positioning is not only perfect for leisure travelers wanting to see the sights but also suits those with business engagements in the downtown core or needing easy access to major hospitals.
Guests have repeatedly highlighted the hotel's excellent value for money, especially given its prime downtown location, making it a budget-friendly option without compromising on convenience. Whether visitors are in Toronto for a short stay or planning to embark on trips further afield, such as Niagara Falls, the Chestnut Residence and Conference Centre offers a comfortable and strategically located base to meet their needs.
Breakfast
At Chestnut Residence and Conference Centre - University of Toronto, breakfast is a standout feature that consistently receives positive feedback from guests. The breakfast buffet is praised for its variety and quality, offering an assortment of options to cater to different preferences. Visitors highlight the diverse selection available each day, ensuring that there's something for everyone, from hot options to fresh fruits. The breakfast is described as hearty, substantial, and a great start to the day, with many guests appreciating the generous portions and included value in their stay. Some guests note the friendly and accommodating staff that contribute to a pleasant dining experience. The convenient location of the residence also enhances the breakfast's appeal, making it accessible and enjoyable for travelers on the go. While there are occasional mentions of basic settings or the need for more fresh options, the overall sentiment remains highly favorable, making breakfast a key highlight in the overall guest experience.
Rooms
Chestnut Residence and Conference Centre at the University of Toronto offers a convenient stay right in downtown Toronto. For travelers seeking spacious accommodations, many guests find the rooms to provide ample space, often referencing their size and the comfortable beds. The views from some rooms are notably pleasing, and its proximity to public transport is a definite plus.
However, it's clear that the rooms have a dormitory-like feel, with furnishings and decor that are quite outdated and basic. The facilities might not meet everyone's expectations, as several reviews highlight a lack of amenities like TVs and minibars. Guests noted varying states of cleanliness, often pointing out issues such as musty smells and the need for room renovations.
While the rooms are primarily described as basic and old-fashioned, they are generally clean and serve their purpose for those looking for a functional place to rest. The affordability and location make it a viable option for visitors prioritizing convenience over luxury, especially those planning to explore the Toronto nightlife. Overall, the Chestnut Residence suits visitors who are more concerned with location and basic comfort than with upscale amenities and aesthetics.
Beds
The beds at Chestnut Residence and Conference Centre - University of Toronto have garnered a range of opinions from guests. Many reviewers highlighted the comfort of the beds and noted their satisfaction with a good night's sleep, describing the mattresses as firm yet supportive. Some guests found the beds to be exceptionally comfortable, particularly given the building's history as a university dorm. However, others expressed that the mattresses could be quite hard and likened them at times to sleeping on surfaces as solid as granite.
While some guests appreciated the cleanliness and comfort of the bedding, others pointed out issues with bedding quality, describing it as worn or cheap, with pillows often cited as thin or uncomfortable. The size of the beds was also mentioned, with some guests noting that they were smaller than expected for two adults.
Despite mixed reviews on the beds themselves, guests appreciated the spaciousness of the rooms and the overall value, considering the residence's prime location and accessibility. While the bedding quality varied, many seemed to enjoy their stay nonetheless, especially given the context of the setting.
Cleanliness
Chestnut Residence and Conference Centre, located in the heart of Toronto near Nathan Phillips Square, presents a mixed picture when it comes to cleanliness. Positively, guests affirm that the hotel offers very clean and secure accommodations, with some rooms described as super clean and bright. The breakfast, often praised for being conveniently included, adds a pleasant touch to the stay, and the professional and friendly staff receive commendations for their service.
However, several reviews point out areas of concern. While some rooms were clean, the facilities overall exhibit aging and require updates. Guests frequently mention the outdated condition of the bathrooms and other amenities, which occasionally detract from the overall appearance of cleanliness. Carpets and windows are often described as dirty, and some rooms emit unpleasant musty smells. Moreover, housekeeping services appear to be infrequent, leading to cleanliness issues for some guests.
Despite these shortcomings, the hotel's location and basic cleanliness make it a viable choice for those seeking affordable accommodations in downtown Toronto, especially for visitors who do not mind basic amenities and an older establishment.
Staff
At the Chestnut Residence and Conference Centre - University of Toronto, guests have largely praised the staff for their friendliness and helpfulness. Reviewers frequently described the personnel as kind, attentive, and professional, often noting the warm welcome and accommodating service provided throughout their stays. The reception and front desk staff, in particular, were highlighted for their efficiency and willingness to assist with inquiries and directions. Many guests appreciated the staff's readiness to resolve any issues promptly, creating a pleasant atmosphere. The dining hall staff was also commended for offering extra information about the city and dining operations, enhancing the overall experience. However, a few reviews pointed out instances of less welcoming interactions, particularly with security personnel and during check-in, suggesting some inconsistencies in the warmth of service. Despite this, most guests found the staff to be a standout feature during their visit, contributing positively to their stay at this budget-friendly location.
Wi-Fi
The Chestnut Residence and Conference Centre at the University of Toronto offers a mixed experience regarding its Wi-Fi service. Many guests appreciated the free Wi-Fi, often highlighting its good speed and reliable connectivity, which was sufficient for streaming shows and attending online classes. Some mentioned being able to connect multiple devices, such as smartphones, with ease. However, there were also several guests who faced challenges, including complicated connection processes and unstable service. Reports of the Wi-Fi being unavailable at times or having poor coverage were also noted. Despite some guests having strong and fast internet access, others experienced technical issues that impacted their ability to connect throughout their stay.
Parking
Chestnut Residence and Conference Centre, nestled in the heart of Toronto, offers a range of parking options that have sparked mixed feelings among guests. Many reviewers appreciated the convenience of parking directly on-site or in the underground garage, which provides easy access to the hotel through elevators connecting directly to the lobby. The safety and accessibility of the underground parking is also noted positively, as it is available right beneath the hotel premises, enhancing the overall ease of arrival and departure.
The parking facility accommodates well those with smaller vehicles, although guests with larger vehicles experienced some difficulty due to size restrictions. For those unwilling to pay premium prices, nearby municipal parking offers affordable alternatives that are still conveniently close.
However, some guests have expressed concerns about the cost, highlighting that while parking is comfortable and close to the accommodation, it can be quite expensive compared to alternatives around the area. The fee tends to vary, with guests mentioning paying anything from a moderate nightly charge to rates that they felt were exorbitant. Furthermore, some guests noted confusion around the payment process, which sometimes added to the challenge of navigating Toronto's bustling parking landscape.
Despite varied experiences, the existence of several parking options around the Chestnut Residence remains a valuable amenity for guests exploring the city. The balance between cost and convenience is a key factor for visitors, setting expectations for future stays in this vibrant urban locale.
Family
Chestnut Residence and Conference Centre - University of Toronto emerges as an appealing choice for families planning a stay. Guests consistently highlight the amazing and tasty breakfast options, particularly appreciated by vegetarian families. Budget-conscious parents note significant savings on meals for a family of three to four, estimating a daily savings of 50-100 CAD. While some reviews do not specifically mention family activities, the hotel's good breakfast and central location add to its family-friendly appeal. The clean environment along with the accommodating and familial staff contribute positively to the overall experience. However, some families experienced challenges, such as requiring multiple rooms to accommodate all members, indicating potential room configuration limitations.
3 Star
The Chestnut Residence and Conference Centre, nestled in the bustling heart of Toronto, offers a pragmatic choice for travelers seeking budget-friendly accommodation. While it is primarily a student dormitory, it stands out for its strategic location and affordability in a city known for its steep lodging prices. Guests who prioritize sightseeing over hotel amenities find this establishment fitting for their needs, as the basic and clean rooms provide a restful night without added frills.
Although the property shows its age with an old-fashioned charm, it maintains cleanliness—an essential feature guests appreciate. Staff hospitality is warmly noted, with returning visitors feeling welcome time and again. The complimentary breakfast is an unexpected perk, adding to the excellent value proposition this residence provides.
Perfect for those on a tight budget, it presents as a no-frills experience that meets essential needs. Those drawn to the vibrancy of downtown Toronto will find its central location indispensable, making it a cost-effective option for an urban adventure. While it's not conventionally aligned with typical hotel standards, discerning travelers acknowledge it for what it offers: great value for money and a location that places Toronto's attractions within easy reach.
No, Chestnut Residence and Conference Centre - University of Toronto doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Chestnut Residence and Conference Centre - University of Toronto.
No, Chestnut Residence and Conference Centre - University of Toronto doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Chestnut Residence and Conference Centre - University of Toronto.
Yes, Chestnut Residence and Conference Centre - University of Toronto has a gym.