I attribute the run-down part to the fact that they have a 'waterpark' at this location so lots of kids and families likely stay here.
Lobby and rooms look like they haven't had a re-design since the mid 90's. Not nearly has nice as other Holiday Inn Express locations.
Front desk greeting (when I got in late last night) was far from pleasant. She groaned and said 'You gotta be kidding me!" as she picked up a phone call as I approached the desk. If you're a Priority Club member don't expect a 'goodie bag' or, evidently, a warm reception when you arrive.
Elevator was out of order which was a problem if you're staying on the 3rd floor. The elevator call button panel was completely destroyed and cobbled together with super glue.
The king suite is not much of a suite at all. The room felt small and cramped.
Likely won't stay here next time I'm in town.

This Holiday Inn Express is a newer hotel and has everything you would need (excerise room, kitchenette, indoor pool, comfy bed). We were able to book this through hotwire for $42/night for our early flight the next morning.

We have a three children under 4 and they all loved it. It was really nice having a poolside room because if you wanted to eat something or do anything you didn't have to leave the pool area you could just walk into your room. I actually live 10 miles from the hotel and I went down before I made a reservation and asked if I could take a tour. They said sure and they actually had someone walk with me and show me everything and answer all my questions. The room ceiling sounds like there is no insulation because you could hear children running and jumping. The food was excellent even for the little ones.

My husband and I wanted to treat my 2-year-old son what he calls the "beach pool" so after a little research on nearby inpoor water parks, I discovered the Holiday Inn Express. What led me to the hotel was the great feedback people gave regarding the cleanliness of the hotel. Seeing that I'm somewhat of a neat-freak, this positive attiribute was at the top of my list. I was also very impressed with the manager's response to much of the positive and not-so flattering remarks.

Long story short: the "beach pool" aka indoor water park is specificically for the little ones; probably 10 and under would enjoy it best. The first night there, 12/24, the pool was clean the water temperature balmy. The game room is a little small but again fitting for a certain age group.

The room was clean. I take my own sheets when I travel (told you I was a little weird) but found that I didn't need them. The sheets were very, white and no stains, odors or anything else that would totally ruin my stay. The carpet in the room was decent too.

The bathroom was clean but of course I HAD to disinfect the door knobs, telephone, shower handles, toilet seat, tv remote control, etc; especially with H1N1 lurking about.

The breakfast was OK. You know, your standard breakfast: eggs, cereal, cinnamon rolls, fruit, milk, juice, coffee, and oh yeah meat which we don't eat and that's why it's at the end of my list:)

Overall, we had some nice away time from the big city during the "holiday". I would recommend this hotel for families with little ones looking to kick back and not venture out too much. Oh yeah, if you wanna shop, there's a Burling Coat Factory right behind the hotel in walking distance.

One last thing my husband wanted me to mention: We didn't like that the hotel allowed dogs in the dinning area. We noticed a dog in the dining area during a private dinner. Not sure, but I think that's a public health violation??