The only highlights of my stay were the staff, who were friendly and courteous, and the breakfast. Unfortunately, everything else was extremely disappointing—and I say that as an IHG Rewards member.
The building is outdated, dirty, and EXTREMELY dimly lit, which made it feel uncomfortable and uninviting. The stairwell areas reeked of marijuana, and the elevators did not work well. The location was not great, and the parking lot was crowded with random vehicles and construction trucks taking up numerous spaces.
Overall, I did not feel comfortable staying here and will avoid this location in the future. Do yourself a favor and stay at the Hampton down the road instead.
CR
Carlos Rayman
Aug 17, 2026
My NUMBER 1 choice of lodging in the Twin Cities! Thank you for all your hospitality! I checked in to Holiday Inn Express Bloomington/MSP Airport on Aug 3 and out on 5th, 2026 and I couldn't have been more pleased! This property truly delivered on the Holiday Inn experience I'd come to know and love over the years. Choosing a hotel can make or break a vacation, or work conference - believe me you! Before I begin, note this: After my stay I phoned to compliment management!
Transportation and Shuttles - Excellent dispatch experience when arriving at Mnps/St. Paul Intl Arpt. - simply phone the front desk and request a pick-up. Shuttle didn't take more than 20min and serves at both terms (I flew with United, so Lindberg). Look for "Hotel Shuttles" on overhead signage. My driver was so friendly and chatted just enough to feel welcomed yet at peace after my flight from Illinois. I wish I recalled is name, he was a nice young man of Somali background. Thank you, sir! You'll see him or the other drivers routinely, so get acquainted. The hotel discontinued it's Mall of America stop, but the driver made an exception - How kind!
Check-in - I checked in rather late in the evening on Monday. After a day of shopping and perusing the Mall of America area, I arrived with bags in tow ready to unpack. The buildings temperature was set to cool 70F, appreciated given the heat wave. The front desk agent was so friendly and helpful, I was assigned room 522. Do note, the keycards seemed to glitch initially but the agent reset with a smile.
My Hotel room - Rm 522 was the ideal location, on the 2nd highest floor of the main wing, end of hallway - yet not sharing the exterior wall or next to elevator/janitor closets. The walls are padded to muffle interior sound, so expect to rest well. Located near the interstate, I did notice the quiet hum, but unphased me. The room was spacious with a elegantly made King bed, love seat, ottoman, Samsung Tv, with a small surface to work. Lighting excellent, with wall sconces and lamps plentiful. The restroom was nearly spotless - only the door has a blemish in the wood. The vanity sparkled and the tub made for revitalizing showers. IHG provides complimentary Dove toiletries like Shower gel, shampoo, lotion etc. Linens were also fluffy and snow white.
Dining - This was the best part. Holiday Inn Express provides the meanest complimentary breakfast, that to me (just me talking) rivals full service hotels like Hilton and Courtyard. Why? Because the breakfast buffet has so many options, from sweet to savory! I recalled, sausages, omelets, hashed potatoes, biscuits and gravy, bacon, pancakes, yogurts, shredded potatoes, and the list goes on! This is the breakfast I dream of and one I'll set my alarm for! Oh, and speaking of dreaming the chains famous Cinnamon Rolls will send you to heaven - I stowed away a plates worth and I apologize to know one! Coffee excellent too, with decaf and tea/HC available 24hrs
Overall, I was so pleased with the value, amenities, dining, and customer service at this IHG hotel in W Bloomington, Minnesota. I paid about $117 CAD ($93 USD) per night. Incredible value and revitalizing 2 night stay. They'll be my first choice, next time in Minnesota. I suggest you try them too!