Embassy Suites Amarillo- Worth the Splurge?
When booking a hotel for a family vacation there are many factors to consider before making the reservation. It is often difficult to make all parties involved happy and this includes your pocketbook.
During a recent trip to Amarillo, TX we found shelter at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Downtown Amarillo. This downtown hotel offered luxury accommodations with a matching price tag.
The suite featured a living area equipped with a pull out couch, lounge chair, desk with seating and a TV. A nice sized bathroom was adjacent to the kitchenette area with coffee maker, microwave, refrigerator, extra counter space and a sink. The sliding barn door provided privacy for the bedroom that housed a king size bed, dresser, closet, TV, and a nice view.
Due to Covid-19 restrictions and limitations, the afternoon complimentary evening social was unavailable. The free breakfast was still served, only modified by using disposable to-go containers filled by employees as we moved through a cafe-style line.
The free snacks and drinks that should have been offered each afternoon were missed, but we did receive a basket in our room filled with chips, soda, juice, etc. We devoured the complimentary snacks and drinks with only a granola bar and a Diet Coke to spare.
The hotel is located directly across the street from the Amarillo Civic Center. The Civic Center is home to many events, and most importantly to us, the WRCA Ranch Rodeo Finals. Four days of events including trade shows, rodeos, horse shows, a benefit auction and much more, attract cowboys and cowgirls from all over the US and make the Civic Center (and the whole city) a very popular place.
When traveling with a teenager and a preteen, extra room and privacy is a bonus. It becomes almost essential when you add into the equation the amount of hats, boots, clothing, etc. that we brought along, plus the items we purchased while in town. I’m not sure we could have fit in a standard room with 2 queen beds.
The location was nearly priceless. In years past, we have stayed at cheaper places further down the interstate. It has not been an awful experience, but it does take some extra planning. Driving immediately following a large event can also be stressful. Not having to fight the traffic was a relief. Departure times for the entire family were also important when staying elsewhere. On this trip, I was able to relax a bit and get ready for the day at my own pace while the guys went to the horse show early in the morning. When ready, I simply walked across the street and met up with them.
We’ve decided as a family that suffering on vacation is not worth it. If you can swing the expense, then I recommend spending the money for a great place with added convenience. You can’t put a price tag on the memories you’ll make on a family vacation.
