Keene Hotels with Pools

Despite Covid 19 restrictions, my partner and I had to spend some time in Keene, NH, and the Marriott Courtyard was perfectly situated for our needs. Parking is free and close to being on site, and there are many restaurants and bistros in walking distance offering curb side pick up, and the bankers and lawyers we needed were close by. This hotel looks either very new or freshly renovated. However, I find that any in-city chain hotel looks pretty much the same no matter the chain that owns it or the locale. Each place needs to have a somewhat glitzy high-end reception desk staffed by someone with an easy smile; some sort of bar or bistro in the lobby, doubling for that morning coffee and complimentary “breakfast” bar of bagels or muffins. Whether its Keene or Peoria, its about the same. Ditto for the rooms: narrow side to side but a long view through the large window overlooking whatever town you’re in. A mini fridge, maybe some sort of coffee machine, shower with unique soap offerings. This Marriott Courtyard checked all those boxes, and the room had a posh men’s club feel with lots and lots of polished dark wood -- so much so that it felt a little oppressive, despite the large window overlooking a parking lot. Maybe it’s more welcoming on bright days. But…. a 2 queen bed room for two travelers, but only one upholstered comfy chair? We had to take turns being comfortable in the chair to watch the big screen TV or to sit on the rolling desk chair. The mini fridge had a tendency to growl most of the night, somewhat like a tiger with indigestion. The State of New Hampshire seems to take Covid precautions very seriously, as does Marriott. Once rooms are sanitized staff affix a sticker bridging the door and the doorframe, so you are assured no one has been wheezing or sneezing in the room after cleaning. Marriott has nixed the complimentary coffee and pre-wrapped muffin as a precaution. But the food coop behind the Marriott has good coffee, great pastry and doesn’t seem overcautious in letting you get them. Overall, a great location, very decent rooms and serious (maybe over serious?) attention to Covid precautions.

We are Parents of a local college student. One of the breakfast items offered was gluten free/peanut free blueberry muffins for my food allergies. THANK YOU! The pool is clean and pleasant - but a bit cold - both the air and the water. The room was clean and the beds were comfortable. We like that the sink is not in the same room as the toilet and the shower; more practical. The tub has the zip line (drying line) across the top to hang out wet bathing suits. The gentleman that checked us in was very courteous and friendly. We are practical travelers on a budget. We look for cleanliness, quiet, basic comfort, courtesy and a practical meal.

We're off Highway 12 amid Key Road Plaza retailers and casual dining. Keene State College is a five-minute drive, as is the Hannah Grimes Center and Marketplace. The Cheshire Fair is four miles away. Enjoy our fitness center and heated indoor pool. When it's time to work, we have a sunlit conference room and 24-hour business center. Breakfast and WiFi are on us.