Hiltons in the US can be a mixed bag. Sometimes great, sometimes quite grungy and in need of updating. I guess that's something which goes with the territory of being such a huge operation. Fortunately, the San Jose Hilton was definitely above average.
I was staying here while attending a convention at the neighbouring San Jose Convention Centre, to which the hotel is directly attached.
Check-in on Sunday afternoon was quick and easy, even though I was slightly early arriving, and I was given a nice large room which met all my preferences, on the 6th Floor.
The room was clean, furniture was in good repair, the bed comfortable, the airconditioning quiet and efficient, and even the window opened (though be warned, you're right under the approach path into SJC here)!
The hotel bar is a little small, but has a good selection of beers on tap (i.e. more than just Bud and one other domestic brew), and friendly service. It was a fine meeting point before heading out for dinner in an evening, or having a nightcap before turning in. I didn't eat in the hotel on this trip, but the food seemed to be above average hotel bar food. When I arrived, the duty manager was running the bar, because there was a catering staff meeting going on. Good to see hotel management getting hands on, and not being out of their depth!
Self-parking is available for those of you who can't stand valet, at $14 per day with unlimited in-out priviledges, though the route down to the carpark is a bit odd and hidden away (it's not off the main foyer).
Given that it's located in a convention centre - and therefore the flow of guests is quite "tidal" - it really needs more than 3 elevators to adequately service all floors. The wait for the elevators could be quite excrutiating at times.
The 1pm check-out time seems quite generous, and is handy if the event your attending finishes at lunchtime on the last day.
There is a small gym, a tiny splashing pool, and a decent sized hot tub on a terrace on the 3rd floor.
My experience of the hotel laundry - actually outsourced to an external laundry in San Jose - was quick and efficient, and got ice cream stains out of my shirt (don't ask).
I had a good stay, and would recommend the Hilton, especially if you're attending a convention, or have business nearby. It's within easy walking distance of all Downtown San Jose business, bars and dining.