My friend and I met up in Fargo last summer as part of my quest to visit all 50 states (ND is 49). When planning the trip, I thought we would get in and out of ND as quickly as possible, and then spend some "quality time" at the Mall of America. We were so pleasantly surprised by our entire experience at the Donaldson. The staff (especially Kris and Nathan) were all so friendly and nice, the rooms were super comfortable and tastefully appointed, and the food at the restaurant was pretty darn good, doncha know. The downtown area of Fargo was also very retro-quaint and welcoming, the sky was the bluest blue, and the air was so clean and clear. The next day we left for the MOA in "the cities". That evening we found ourselves homesick for Fargo and the Hotel Donaldson.

Incredible! Can't believe it's in Fargo. Beautifully appointed, this renovation of an old day hotel. Ultra sleek and modern, Bose alarm radio, plasma tvs, Aveda products, halogen lights, blond wood and chrome, feather/down bed accoutrements. Individual artists outfit every room with original works (and we're not talking farm or western art!). Top notch restaurant and cigar bar on the first floor. (and another excellent restaurant down the street is available). Workout room swanky enough to call you from your comfy bed in the early morning. Top-notch and truly continental breakfast (fresh squeezed oj, homemade yogurt, sugared orange rinds, hot fresh scones, hard boiled eggs). Hallway book shelves offering works by local writers. To top it off, while I was there the staff saved a guest from choking and then offered him another day in his room to recover (he really was choking, not just kinda choking).

From the moment I arrived, my expectations were clearly met if not exceeded. The hotel’s atmosphere, décor, quality of furnishings and architecture are truly a site to behold. That said, even the most elegant hotels are nothing without an impeccable staff. I am pleased to say that the Hotel Donaldson staff is a truly valuable asset. From the bartenders, to the front desk staff everyone I encountered provided outstanding service, moreover, they each went above and beyond if a special request was made. In reference to an earlier reviewer who made a comment about parking...my answer is to use their valet parking! Make it easy on yourself. This is truly the best hotel in Fargo, if not the entire midwest.

I've stayed at the Radisson in Fargo, but now that I've found The Donaldson, I won't be staying anywhere else!

It's modern without being cold. It's homey without being kitchy. It's comfortable because it could be my own home.

The people are friendly without fawning & competent without being cold.

The ONLY drawback I could find was the lack of covered parking. I was there in May when it wasn't much of an issue, but I'm not sure how it will be in the winter -- wheeling luggage through ice & slush.

It's a marvelous little hotel with all the amenities. Once you stay at The Donaldson, you'll be disappointed in most every place else.