Miami Lodging with luggage storage and grocery nearby, great view

[marci4tony]

Hilton Downtown Miami

 

Are you looking for somewhere to stay the night prior to your cruise with a great view, luggage storage and walking distance to a grocery store and restaurants?

The sticker shock will wear off – you are on vacation.  We came in on the “red eye” and found ourselves with a lot of time on our hands.  The cab ride, for four, from Miami International to the Hilton Downtown was about 45$.  The porter will take your luggage upon arrival, and store it until you can get checked in.  But it is well worth your time and trouble to check in at the front desk when you arrive.  Because there is a lot of cruise traffic at this hotel, there are often early check outs – so put your name and number on the “early check in” listing, and they will call you when your room is ready.  Once you get checked in, the porter will bring your luggage to your room.

We opted for a double queen with a view of the bay.  It was worth the wait.  The hotel is dated, but well taken care of.  The room (on the 9^th floor) was spacious, and clean and very quiet.  The view of the cruise ship channel was outstanding!  (Especially at 4am watching Valliant Lady dock!) The rooftop pool had a great view, and was very relaxing for the afternoon.

Across the street from the lobby to the north is a Publix grocery store. (sunscreen, hair products, etc) While the deli does make remarkable sandwiches, the wait was too excessive for it to be worth it.  An Uber to the famous Marketplace was less than 10$, while a short walk to the north - The Opera House Miami –had the best mac and cheese I have ever had.  Lots of TV’s and football too!

The uber XL ride to the port was about 40$ and incredibly efficient.

The only feedback I had ever seen on this hotel was the slow elevators.  The hotel was very busy, and the wait was not worth mentioning in my opinion.